Lesson 4.3 - Choosing Classes, Earning Credits
At-a-Glance:
Overview
Estimated Time: 2 Class Periods
Unit: High School In Focus
Lesson: 4.3
Theme: Choosing Classes, Earning Credits
Students explore the opportunities and challenges associated with taking Honors, Dual Credit, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses in high school. Through a discussion of risk and reward, students examine how challenging courses can support future educational and career goals. Students then complete a SWOT Analysis to evaluate their personal strengths, potential obstacles, available supports, and opportunities as they consider advanced coursework that aligns with their interests and aspirations.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson students will:
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Explain the benefits and challenges of Honors, Dual Credit, and Advanced Placement courses.
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Compare advanced course options available through their high school course guide.
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Evaluate their readiness for challenging coursework by completing a personal SWOT Analysis.
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Identify advanced courses that currently align with their interests, strengths, and future educational goals.
Indiana Standards
PCC-2.3 – Identify the courses, experiences, and achievements necessary to prepare for future career goals.
PCC-4.1 – Use career information and resources to support career exploration and planning.
PCC-4.2 – Develop and maintain a personal career portfolio.
PCC-5.2 – Demonstrate the ability to locate, interpret, and apply information from career and educational resources.
Before You Begin:
Student Materials
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Device with internet access
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High school course guide
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"SWOT Analysis" sheet
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Writing materials (pen or pencil)
Teacher Preparation
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Print copies of the "SWOT Analysis" sheet.
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Review the differences between Honors, Dual Credit, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, including eligibility requirements, weighted grades, and opportunities to earn college credit.
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Become familiar with the advanced course offerings listed in your school's high school course guide and prepare a list of available Honors, Dual Credit, and AP courses to support students during the activity.
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Prepare several everyday risk versus reward scenarios to introduce the lesson and encourage class discussion.
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Be prepared to help students recognize both the supports available to them and the challenges they may need to overcome when considering advanced coursework.
Lesson Flow
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Hook / Warm-Up (Risk vs. Reward Discussion)
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Mini Lesson: Honors, Dual Credit, and Advanced Placement Courses
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Exploring Advanced Course Options
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Completing the SWOT Analysis
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Partner Discussion and Reflection
Student Work Products
Students will complete:
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"SWOT Analysis" sheet
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Selection of three advanced courses that currently align with their interests and goals
External Resources
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High school course guide
Teacher Tips
Emphasize that advanced coursework is an opportunity—not an expectation—and that students should select courses that provide an appropriate level of challenge while supporting their long-term goals. Encourage students to view the SWOT Analysis as a planning tool rather than a measure of ability. Help students recognize that everyone has strengths they can build upon, obstacles they can overcome, and resources available to support their success.