The emphasis of Canyon's Honors/Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Programs are: (1) in-depth coverage of subject matter; (2) critical analysis of related higher level thinking skills; and (3) fostering student responsibility for self learning and independent study.
Myth: AP course are too stressful!
Reality: Yes, AP classes are rigorous. But collaborative environments, subjects that students care about, additional support, and experienced classmates help ease the transitions.
Myth: AP courses have too much extra work!
Reality: Yes, you will have to work hard. But connecting coursework to what matters right now, AP courses make the hard work worth it.
Curriculum that Matters
Canyon’s AP program is a three-year program designed to give students the rigor of college in a high school setting. Students have 18 AP courses to choose from. These offerings directly connect a student to what they want to do now and with their future. In addition to the rigor of an AP class, students have the opportunity to score well on an AP Exam and earn college credit.
Skills vs. Transactions
AP course tend to move beyond rote and transactional learning. In AP, students tackle concepts and skills that will stay with the student long after the course is through.
A Part of a Community
AP courses tend to involve more discussion. This is good. Not only do students learn by doing, but also they have the opportunity to develop community. AP students get to share and speak out. The student’s perspective is valued and is considered additional source material to the collective knowledge. Students help drive AP classes and students learn to sharpen their skills by learning the academic language needed to express their opinions before they get to college.
Be Your Best
An AP class brings out the best in students. Students might even surprise themselves by doing things they never thought possible. Students will engage in college-level work in high school. AP students get to take risks in an environment that is inclusive and comfortable. AP classes help students build confidence in addition to college credit.
For more information on the AP curriculum, visit the AP Website
Honors/Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Courses
