AVID Intermediate
#QUARANTOUR OF CAL POLY
AVID CURRICULUM
The AVID curriculum, based on rigorous standards, was developed by middle and senior high school teachers in collaboration with college professors. It is driven by the WIC-R method, which stands for writing, inquiry, collaboration, and reading. AVID curriculum is used in AVID elective classes, in content-area classes in AVID schools, and even in schools where the AVID elective is not offered.
Writing – many forms, scientific, creative, poetry, rhymes, definitions, vocabulary
Inquiry – pose problems, situations or activities needing thought, application of information and use of knowledge to solve or devise a solution to a problem
Collaboration – work as an ACTIVE participant in a group. Not just a partner, but an active and contributing member of the group.
Reading – methods for different types of reading. Texts, articles, stories, show how to read and attach meaning to different types of reading.
WHAT IS AVID?
AVID is a school-wide system designed to meet the educational and social needs of all students, in particular students who, with support, have the potential to succeed in a rigorous course of study and go on to attend a post-secondary institution. Through AVID, students are prepared to meet four-year college entrance requirements by mastering college preparatory curricula.
The foundation of the AVID system is an elective class the provides academic support for students who aspire to attend a two/four year college or university and who would benefit from daily in-school instructional support in order to be successful in a college preparatory course of study. AVID course content includes instruction intended to improve a variety of skills; tutorials designed to increase higher-level thinking and success in rigorous courses; and motivational activities, guest speakers, and college and career exploration.
Most students can succeed in rigorous courses and get into and through college by perseverance, hard work, and, as the AVID system's names reveals, "individual determination". However, many students need assistance in reaching the goal of going to college. AVID students are placed with a strong group of peers and adults who share a commitment to academic excellence and who work together for student success. In the AVID classroom students find high expectations, encouragement, day-to-day help, a vision of college as an expected and attainable goal, and guidance academic structure to support students as they work to succeed.
WHAT KIND OF COMMITTMENT IS REQUIRED OF AN AVID STUDENT?
The AVID elective class requires hard work and perseverance, and is effective only if participation is voluntary. Students must sign a contract agreeing to:
- Enroll in AVID as an elective class
- Enroll in a rigorous course of study
- Study at least two hours a day and complete all assignments
- Maintain an organized AVID binder that includes class notes, studying material, assignments, and completed work
- Participate in AVID tutorial groups
- Assist teachers and students in maintaining a positive learning environment
- Participate in AVID field trips and activities
- At Rosewood Park School, 8th grade AVID students take the ACT/Explore
- Apply to several colleges and universities in their senior year
WHAT ROLE DO PARENTS AND GUARDIANS PLAY IN AVID?
The involvement of parents and guardians is a priority in AVID. AVID parents and guardians want their children to succeed and are an integral part of the learning team. As part of admission into the AVID program, parents and guardians are informed of the rigorous AVID curriculum and are required to sign a document of commitment to support their student. Parents and guardians are kept informed about program events and expectations through newsletters, telephone calls, and parent meetings. Parent/guardian meetings help build a strong adult peer group through which parents and guardians can encourage one another, share information, and become more involved in the overall school program.
AVID SITE TEAM
| Luis Hernandez | Teacher |
| John Jauregui | Teacher |
| Maria Quezada | Teacher |
UCLA
AVID SITE TEAM
Each AVID school has a team that consists of the principal and/or assistance principal, the AVID site coordinator, AVID classroom teacher(s), subject area teachers, a guidance counselor, the district director, tutor representative, and at times, parent and student representatives. These site team members serve as advocates for AVID students and the AVID program and provide a collegial support group working to ensure the system's success.