Experiential education

Grades 11-12; 1 credit; full year
Prerequisite: Completion of one or more AP class (or equivalent) in the area of study, approval of a subject specialist and completion of an application process

In the first semester, students meet four times a cycle. During semester II, students meet with the class teacher once a cycle and otherwise work independently on individual projects.

This course is designed to allow students to pursue a topic of choice at the college research level. Initially, students study the concept of knowledge and the research process. Introductory units are designed around metacognition and critical thinking. Students also develop their academic writing skills and have exposure to academic debate and presentations. The remainder of the course allows students to further develop their research skills and writing. Individuals develop a thesis, which they investigate from a research basis under the guidance of a subject specialist mentor. The culmination of the class is a public presentation, an individual research paper and a self-reflection on the process.

*This is a research-intensive course.
*This is a reading-intensive course.
*This is a writing-intensive course.

Grade 12, ½ credit or full credit, semester I and/or II
Prerequisite: Design and Engineering and application with approval from department
This course provides the opportunity for students to utilize the materials, technology and expertise available in the MILL to develop their design/engineering ideas. Students apply their knowledge of design thinking practices and work with the MILL co-teacher to plan and carry out a design project focused on their passions. Ongoing dialogue with other apprentice students and the MILL co-teacher enables students to develop new making/design skills throughout the year. 

*This is a research-intensive course.

Grade 12; ¼ credit per semester; full year
Prerequisite: Application during spring of Grade 11

This is an advanced leadership course available to Grade 12 students. During spring of Grade 11, students apply by individual interview and group interview and are selected by a small committee. The goal of the program is to explore, develop and practice leadership skills for life. Throughout the course, students learn counseling, conflict resolution, public speaking strategies, mentoring and group facilitation skills, and then practice these skills in their Grade 9 advisories. Peer leaders work alongside Grade 9 advisors to plan and facilitate meaningful sessions. Through their work, peer leaders help to build character, confidence and resilience, by contributing to the overall well-being of the student body. This course is open to students who have completed at least one year of high school at ASL. 

Grade 12; ½ credit; semester II

Teaching Apprenticeship allows high school students the opportunity to experience first-hand the theories and best practices associated with teaching young children. Students work with a lower school teacher three periods per cycle and participate in formal class meetings once per cycle. Ongoing dialogue with the other student teachers and lower school mentor teachers enables students to reflect on and research primary school pedagogy, theories and practices. As the semester progresses, students collaborate with their fellow student-teachers and their mentor teacher to develop and implement their own lesson plans.