Revised 4/2002

Growth Area Subject Guide

One of the most important responsibilities of the ES is to evaluate the progress of student learning towards the LVCA student standards. This is done at minimum every 20 school days when the ES writes the learning record and checks the standards in each growth area in which learning has occurred.

Often a student may be taking a course and the learning that takes place shows progress towards student standards in more than one growth area. For example, if a student reads from a science text, he may be showing progress towards student standards in both reading/writing and science. The ES must use his/her professional judgment to determine where the learning best applies. The name of the class does not solely determine where progress is being made.

The following course titles will help ESs and high school students choosing to earn Carnegie units to meet LVCA Charter School graduation requirements.  

  • Reading/Writing: English, Language Arts, Literature, Composition, etc.
  • Understanding and Functioning in the World (aka Life Skills): Computer/Typing, Health, Physical Education, Driver's Education, Nutrition, Life Choices, Leadership, First Aid, Personal Finance, Family Studies, Consumer Life Skills, Career Exploration, and Community Service.
  • Appreciate the History of Mankind: History, Economics, Geography, etc.
  • Political Process: Government, Civics, Political Activities
  • Applying Math Principles and Operations: Arithmetic, Math, Algebra, Geometry, etc.
  • Applying Scientific Concepts and Skills: Science, Physical Science, Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, etc.
  • Special Interests, Talents, and Abilities (Electives): Art, Music, Foreign Language, Vocational Education, and any other electives, plus overflow subjects from any other growth area.

For high school students, there may be a question about whether the course should go in "Special Interests" or "Understanding and Functioning in the World". The ES should note that the "Understanding and Functioning in the World" area has only a few specific courses included, but the "Special Interests" area is very general. It is important to be sure that subjects are listed in correct areas to avoid any unnecessary last minute changes before graduation.