Independent Studied Program (ISP) Certificate Requirements

The ISP Certificate is for that student who desires to go above and beyond the basic graduation requirements and pursue a rigorous, focused plan of study.

Freshman and sophomores will be encouraged to take honors or even AP classes, if appropriate. They will have opportunities to explore college and career pathways and to seek learning experiences outside of the classroom by participating in educational field trips. By the end of sophomore year, when they meet with their counselors, students should decide on a focused plan of study in one of the ISP areas of focus, to be completed in the junior and senior years.

The senior portfolio will record/provide evidence of the following requirements:

1.) 4.0 credits in a concentration area—Students will provide copies of their 4th marking period report card for the 11th grade and 3rd marking period report card for the 12th grade, or an unofficial copy of the most recent transcript, proving completion of the required courses. A credit check form is available in Counseling Services to help students keep track of requirements.

2.) Journal Reflection—For each course in the area of focus, students will submit a one page paper which links the content and concepts taught in the class to the career of choice.

3.) Field Experience Hours in the area of focus—Students will complete 15 hours of work committed to exploring or providing service to the career of choice. Copies of the field experience forms should be in the senior portfolio, as well as a one page reflection on the work completed. Depending on the experience, SSL hours could be earned toward those required for graduation.

4.) Senior Portfolio Presentation before a review committee - This culminating presentation will contain a visual aid and oral component.

Rubrics for ISP Students

INDEPENDENT STUDIES PROGRAM
CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS

                                                               

House Requirement* – 4.0 credits from the following courses**
Biological and Physical Science (BAPS)

Chemistry†, AP Chemistry†, Physics†, AP Physics†, Environmental Science†,   AP Environmental Science†, AP Biology†, Anatomy and Physiology†, Earth Science, Forensic Science, Environmental Guided Research†, Cellular Physiology†, Genetics†, Marine Biology†, Internship

Cultural and Political Studies (CAPS)
Modern World History, AP World History†, AP Human Geography†, AP Literature†, AP Language & Composition†,  Russian History, Comparative Religion, AP Art History, AP Psychology, Psychology, Ancient and Medieval History, Sociology, Philosophy, Law, Comparative Religion, Economics, Debate, Peace Studies, Foreign Language (level 3 or above), Internship
Music/Arts/Media Studies (MAMS)
Band, Orchestra, Chorus, Guitar, Jazz Ensemble, Journalism, Theater, TV Production, Photography, AP Art History, Studio Art, AP Studio Art†, Creative Writing, Yearbook, Media Literacy, Debate, Literature as Film, Web Design, Internship

Technology & Math Studies (TAMS)

Computer Programming†, Discovering Programming†, Web Design†, Computer Graphics†, AP Computer Science†, Analysis of Algorithms†, Materials Science†,  Statistics†, AP Statistics†, AP Calculus AB & BC†, Multivariable Calculus†, Digital Electronics†, Engineering Design and Development†, Internship

Original Studies

Discuss with counselor or magnet coordinator your career of choice to develop the 4.0 credits required

*Not all courses will be offered every year.  New courses may be added as well. 
**Courses must be completed during their junior and senior year.
†Prerequisite required
††Includes programs offered at PHS and through MCPS, such as:
-- Thomas Edison High School of Technology
-- Fire/EMT Academy
-- Project Lead the Way (Engineering Academy)
-- AP/Honors Course
-- Internships
-- College/Career Research and Development

 

 

 
Last Updated June 18, 2009
MCPS HOME | ABOUT MCPS | SCHOOLS | PARENTS | STUDENTS | STAFF | COMMUNITY
© 1995-2006 Montgomery County Public Schools. All rights reserved.
Contact | Privacy Policy | Nondiscrimination/ADA | Get Adobe Acrobat Reader | Get RealPlayer | Montgomery County