ACADEMIC COMPONENT

The academic component of the Youth Opportunities Unlimited (Y.O.U.) program is specifically designed to serve youth-at-risk.  Because this population's needs are so diverse, the curriculum and instructional approaches are flexible and varied in order to meet the needs of individual participants.

Assessment and Placement.   The assessment of the students begins upon their acceptance into the program and continues throughout the summer.  Placement of students in classes is determined by several factors:  previous grade level completed, recommendation from school  counselor,  and results of the pretest.  Students are required to take the Stanford-9 at the beginning of the program to ascertain skill levels, and then again at the end to document academic growth.

Curriculum.   The academic program is based on the Arkansas Department of Education approved Curriculum Frameworks for English Language Arts and Mathematics for the ninth and tenth grades.  Students receive 60 hours of classroom instruction in language arts and 60 hours of classroom instruction in mathematics.  Because of the wide range of learning and achievement differences, certified teachers are supported by tutors to allow for individualized instruction.  The teacher/pupil ratio averages one to seven (1:7).  The use of secondary certified teachers and state approved curriculums allow students to receive high school elective credit for the summer work.

English Language Arts.  The English language arts curriculum covers such basic skills as grammar, reference skills, vocabulary, reading, writing, spelling, and oral communication. Students read different types of literature, complete creative writing projects, and participate in plays.

Reading.  Reading comprehension, vocabulary skills, grasping main ideas, noting details, and drawing conclusions are the main elements in the reading component.  Critical thinking is supported.

Mathematics.   General math, pre-algebra, algebra, and geometry, combined with the Department of Education mathematics framework, provide the core curriculum.  The main focus of the curriculum is understanding and applying basic mathematical concepts through critical thinking, problem-solving techniques, data handling, and the use of formulas.

Study Skills/Computer Workshops/Tutorial Sessions.   During study skills class, students are made aware of the importance and benefits of an education and provided with effective study techniques.  Discussion topics also include test preparation, time management, and efficient notetaking.  Workshops emphasize computer skills as necessary for school and at work.  Tutoring sessions, offered four nights a week, provide students an opportunity to receive one-on-one instruction.  The goal of the sessions is to enhance daytime instruction.