Essential Learning
This section defines what is meant by‘ essential learning’ when it is used in the context of reduced course expectations for students, and the circumstances leading to a student requiring the short-term support of an Essential Learning Plan( ELP). It is important to note that‘ essential learning’ is a different strategy than what is commonly referred to as‘ accommodation’ or‘ modification’. These latter terms describe ongoing support for students with a learning designation requiring an Individual Educational Plan.
What is Essential Learning?
The foundational or minimum competencies and fundamental content knowledge that each student must acquire in a course in order for the student to be successful in future, and for the credits earned upon completion of the course to have academic integrity.
What is an Essential Learning Plan( ELP)?
An ELP is a short-term intervention whereby a student’ s learning requirements are determined by what is defined as essential. This means that for a fixed period of time teachers will communicate through an ELP the minimum assessments expected in order for the student to continue in a course and to earn credits for completion. There are four key aspects of a plan which must be acknowledged by a student in advance of initiating an ELP.
1. Depending on the anticipated duration of an ELP and the timetabled courses difficulty and / or number, a student will be required to reduce their course load as a condition of being permitted to demonstrate only essential learning in selected courses.
2. An ELP is in place for a fixed period of time. What determines this period is the specific subject and grade level of the course. A course which is performance-based or heavily discussion-oriented is limited in its ability to be reduced to essential learning. Further, more advanced courses limit the duration of an ELP due to the content and pace of these courses.
3. Demonstrating only the minimum of learning standards may impact further success when the student moves from essential to regular course expectations or to the next level of study. Gaps in competency and content may require additional support from sources both within and beyond the school.
4. At times, for students taking Grade 10 to 12 level courses, a course can be shortened from four to two credits as an alternative to moving to essential learning; however, the student should be aware that this may impact the number of credits they have towards graduation.
Who Is Supported on an ELP?
A student supported on an ELP will be able to demonstrate an understanding of key concepts and big ideas with fewer or less rigorous requirements for learning
… returning to learn following an extended absence for reasons beyond their control( eg. concussion).
AND
OR
… experiencing health-related issues that impact their ability to be at school full-time.
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