Oklahoma Project FAITH in student success : college prep leader's guide and tool kit for conducting workshops for students in grades 11-12 : faith communities and American Indian tribes helping students succeed.

              Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit •
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success
College prep leader’s guide
and tool kit for conducting
workshops for students
in grades 11-12
Faith Communities and
American Indian Tribes
Helping Students Succeed
This project is funded in part by a Fund for the Improvement of Post-Secondary Education (FIPSE) grant (PR Award #P116B030991). Additional
funding is provided by Oklahoma GEAR UP. The U.S. Department of Education awarded Oklahoma with a state GEAR UP grant totaling $20.5
million in August 1999 and $20.6 million in August 2005. The grants have been matched by more than $47 million from state and partner
resources. With the addition of the 2005 multi-year, federal grant, Oklahoma’s GEAR UP program will ultimately receive more than $45.6 million in
federal funds by 2011. GEAR UP receives 49 percent of total funding from the federal government and 51 percent from other organizations.
The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, in compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246
as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and other federal laws and regulations, do
not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, handicap, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices
or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid and educational services. This publication, printed by
the State Regents, is issued by the State Regents as authorized by 70 O.S. Supp. 2001, Section 3206. 100 copies have been printed at a cost
of approximately $1,853.25. Copies have been deposited with the Publications Clearinghouse of the Oklahoma Department of Libraries.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all the information supplied in this publication at the time of printing, however, changes
may occur and will supersede information in this publication.
• Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit •
Contents
5 Notes to leaders
7 Conducting a student workshop
How to conduct a student workshop – step-by-step
9 How to get students to your workshop
11 Sample announcement
12 Sample invitation
13 Sample letter
15 How to present the program
16 Sample icebreakers
17 Family sensitivity and the value of being the first in the family to
go to college
21 Handout: Income realities
23 Handout: What’s that degree worth?
25 Handout: Salary comparison
27 Myth vs. reality of preparing and planning for college
29 Terminology
31 Handout: College glossary
35 Differences in colleges
39 Handout: What to look for when choosing a college
41 Different avenues to pursue to get to college
43 Helping students with career exploration
45 Why you should make good grades and take the right classes
49 Worksheet: Where am I going? College prep worksheet 8–12
51 Study skills handouts
77 How to work with your school counselor
79 Worksheet: Working with the counselor
81 Differences in financial aid
83 How to search and apply for financial aid
87 Handout: The search for financial aid
• Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
93 College costs and saving for college
95 Handout: Estimated costs for students at Oklahoma public
colleges and universities
97 Planning for college – A year-by-year guide
99 Handout: Planning for college – A year-by-year guide
103 Handout: Senior planning checklist
105 Goal setting
107 Handout: How to set goals
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit •
Notes to leaders
Congratulations! You have agreed to participate in
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success. This program
is designed to help you teach students and parents of your
group how to get ready for college and how to get help in
paying for a college education.
This tool kit has been designed to walk you step-by-step
through the process. All the materials you need to successfully
conduct the training are included in this workbook or have been
provided ­separately.
At least one week before your training date, make sure
you have enough copies of the handout materials to
provide for each participant. Additional copies can be
ordered by ­contacting:
Edra Thrower
Project FAITH Coordinator
Phone: 405.225.9198
Fax: 405.225.9230
E-mail: ethrower@osrhe.edu
Tell her the name of the handout you need and the number of
copies. Give yourself enough time to have them shipped to you.
Most of the handout materials are also available on Oklahoma
higher education’s Web site:
www.okhighered.org
• Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit •
Conducting a student workshop
Working with young people can be a real challenge. You know
that. It’s probably part of the reason you are choosing to
conduct this workshop for them. This workshop will help you
channel some of that youthful energy into a focus on preparing
for college. Also, you know that a college education will help
your students get the future they want. This is why working
with students on college prep is such an important endeavor.
The following is a work list to follow to ensure you have a
successful student workshop.
• Pick a time and place that is convenient for students to
attend. Schedule a block of time that includes a time for
students to visit socially.
• This workshop can be conducted by more than one person.
If you are working with a team of presenters, hold a
meeting prior to the workshop to discuss how to conduct the
workshop.
• Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit •
How to get students
to your workshop
There are many different ways to tell students about your
workshop. These may include posting flyers on bulletin
boards, sending letters or invitations, reminding students at
every meeting your group sponsors, placing a notice in your
organization’s bulletin or having your organization’s leader
announce the workshop during worship. You may even think of
other ways to spread the word, such as asking everyone to tell
at least one other person.
We have provided a sample invitation, letter and announcement
on the following pages. Use these samples as a guide to
create the materials that will work best with members of your
organization.
10 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 11
Sample announcement
You CAN Go to College!
It Just Takes Some Planning
To get the job and future you want, you need a college
degree! That being said, you may be from a family
where no one has ever attended college before and don’t
know the steps to take to get into college. Well, someone
has to be the first... so why not you? Getting into college
doesn’t require perfect grades or an athletic scholarship.
You just need a PLAN that includes taking the right
courses, making the right grades and studying hard.
Learn about financial aid opportunities, what grades you
should make, what classes you should take, how to work
with school counselors and more at the [Insert your
group’s name here] Project FAITH in Student Success
workshop.
WHEN:
[Insert date(s) and time(s) here]
WHERE:
[Insert place here, including room number, if necessary.
Be sure to include directions, if needed.]
WHO:
[Insert name and title of workshop leader or leaders]
Call [insert phone number] to sign up or for more
information. [You may want to include a place where
they can sign up if they have no access to a telephone.]
This can be printed in your organization’s bulletins and
newsletters or on individual flyers. Also, you can use this as
your script for verbal announcements during meetings and
worship.
12 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Sample invitation
You CAN Go to College!
It Just Takes Some Planning
You are invited to attend a special workshop
on how you can go to college.
Learn about financial aid opportunities,
what grades you should make,
what classes you should take,
how to work with school counselors and more at the
[Insert your group’s name here] Project FAITH in Student
Success workshop.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success
Presented by [Your group’s name]
[Date(s) and time(s)]
[Place]
Call [Phone number] or see [Name]
for more information and to sign up.
The invitation can be printed on postcards and mailed out or
handed out during meetings.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 13
Sample letter
Your organization’s letterhead
You CAN Go to College!
It Just Takes Some Planning
Date (insert date)
Dear Student:
Today, anyone who wants to can go to college. All it
requires is to make the right plans and to take the right
steps.
[Your group’s name] wants to help you learn the things
you need to know to help you prepare for a college
education. That is why we are offering the Oklahoma
Project FAITH in Student Success workshop.
By attending this workshop, you will learn about the
differences in colleges, ways to get to college, why you
should make good grades and take the right classes,
how to work with school counselors and teachers, what
financial aid is available and how to apply for it, and lots
more.
The workshop will be held [Date(s) and Time(s)] at
[Place]. Leader(s) of the workshop will be [Name(s)].
To sign up or get more information, call [Phone number]
or see [Name] at [Location].
Sincerely,
Your signature
This should be printed on your organization’s letterhead.
14 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 15
How to present the program
Beginning the meeting
Welcome everyone
Welcome participants and thank them for taking an interest in
their future.
Introduce yourself and any other presenters
Introduce yourself and tell them how a college education has
made a difference in your life or in the life of someone you know.
Go over instructions for the day
The following rules should be observed by everyone attending
the session:
• There is no such thing as a silly or stupid question.
• Always show respect to the person speaking.
• Stay on topic with questions and answers.
• Sensitive questions should wait until after the session.
• Have fun.
Tell them what they should expect to learn in the workshop
• Family sensitivity and the value of being the first to go to
college
• Myth vs. reality of planning for college
• Different terms or words they will need to know
• Differences in colleges
• Ways to get to college
• How to work with teachers and counselors
• What financial aid is available and how to apply for it
• Ways to save for college
• A year-by-year planning guide from 5th to 12th grade
Start with an icebreaker
Chances are, your participants probably know each other since
they belong to the same organization. However, it is always
good to learn something new about someone you know, and an
icebreaker will help everyone feel more comfortable in this new
learning situation. You may have your own favorite icebreaker;
if not, we have provided two options.
16 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Sample icebreakers
Goal
To make the participants feel welcomed and to be at ease.
Materials needed
• Blank paper or notepads (not provided)
• Pencils (provided, make sure they are sharpened)
Getting started
Icebreaker #1: What’s in a Name?
Have each participant introduce themselves and have them
give a word starting with the first letter of their first name that
describes them and briefly explain why. Example: Lucky Larry or
Dancing Donna.
Icebreaker #2: Pocket Personality
Participants must produce one object from their pocket, purse,
wallet or body (jewelry, belt, etc.) that has meaning for them
and explain its significance to the group.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 17
Section 1
Family sensitivity and the
value of being the first in the
family to go to college
Goal
To address concerns of students who have parents or family
­members
who did not go to college.
A family who has never had anyone attend college faces many
challenges. This section will identify those challenges and
problems and help family members realize that being the first in
the family to go to college is a good thing.
Materials needed
• Your Official Guide to Preparing for College, 11th – 12th Grade
• Income Realities handout
• What’s That Degree Worth? handout
• Salary Comparison handout
Discuss
Ask participants if they have parents or family members who
may not want them to go to college. Ask participants if they
know why their parents or family members feel this way.
Ask them to share. Please share the following reasons if the
participants do not cover them:
• Parent says, “My son has a job and without his income we
can’t make ends meet.”
Why you should still go to college: It can be hard for
­families
who depend on money from a child’s job, but the
long-term rewards of a college education will mean more for
the family in the long run.
• Parent says, “My daughter will not be the same person if she
goes to college.”
18 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Why you should still go to college: Growth and change
are natural and are not always bad things. Parents should
understand that their child will be the same person but will be
better equipped to succeed in the world. Most first-generation
college students report that they want to go to college to gain
respect, to bring honor to their family and to help their families
financially.
• Parent says, “I’m afraid my son won’t fit in at college.”
Why you should still go to college: Many support groups
are available to college students, such as associations made up
of students with similar faith, ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Advisors and counselors are available to help students find these
groups. Support from parents is very important to the success of
a student in ­college.
Don’t let fear hold you back.
• Parent says, “Our family has always made their living by working
with their hands at a good trade. I want my son/daughter to
come into the family business with me.”
Why you should still go to college: A college education can
help a family business grow by finding different ways to make
the business successful. Just because you want to go to college
does not mean you will not join in the family business.
Address the benefits of going to college.
Here are some reasons for getting a college education:
• It will be easier to get a job. Most companies want workers who
have college degrees, and there are more jobs available for
college graduates than for those without college degrees.
• People without college degrees are more likely to be unemployed
at some point in their lives.
• A person who has a college degree will make $1 million
more over his or her lifetime than someone without a college
education.
• College opens the door to more pleasant working conditions.
Many of the jobs open to college graduates are in offices.
• People with a college education have been shown to live
happier, healthier lives. In fact, studies have shown that college
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 19
graduates are healthier, live longer, are smarter consumers
and have more varied interests than those who don’t go to
college.
• College provides the satisfaction of personal growth. You
can explore new subjects, meet many different people and
participate in activities you might not otherwise experience.
Class activity
Go over income handouts with students.
Share the information from the Department of Labor comparing
education attainment and income. Ask each student where
he or she would like to be on the graph. If students think an
annual income of $18,000 is enough, show them how $18,000
really isn’t very much money. Devise a budget to show students
where the money will go. For example, car payment, insurance,
rent, phone, lights, water, food, doctors, entertainment, etc.
Have students research the cost of these things. To help with
this activity, pick up an apartment guide that shows listings and
prices. Also, bring in the want ads to show the cost of cars. Find
out what this new information means to your students. Remind
students that the earning amounts vary from state to state,
depending on the cost of living for that state. For example,
$18,000 buys even less if you live in an expensive city like New
York City, Dallas, San Francisco or Los Angeles.
20 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 21
HANDOUT
Income realities
Chart 1
average annua l earnings
$80,000
$70,000
$60,000
$50,000
$40,000
$30,000
$20,000
$10,000
0
ANNUAL earnings
1975
2005
1975
2005
1975
2005
1975
2005
1975
2005
Less than
high
school
graduate
High
school
graduate
Some
college/
associate
degree
Bachelor’s
degree
Advanced
degree
Chart 2
lifetime earnings
$5 million
$4.5 million
$4 million
$3.5 million
$3 million
$2.5 million
$2 million
$1.5 million
$1 million
$.5 million
0
LIFETIME earnings
Less than
high
school
grad
High
school
grad
Some
college
Associate
Bachelor’s
Master’s
Doctorate
Professional
22 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 23
HANDOUT
What’s that degree worth?
Degree area Average starting
salary
Change from
the year before
Chemical engineering $54,256 +4.3%
Electrical engineering $52,009 +2.5%
Computer engineering $51,496 -2.0%
Computer science $51,292 +2.6%
Mechanical engineering $51,046 +4.1%
Aerospace engineering $50,701 +9.0%
Industrial engineering $49,541 +1.8%
Accounting $43,809 +3.9%
Information sciences $43,732 -0.8%
Civil engineering $43,462 +4,0%
Economics/finance $42,802 +5.1%
Business administration $39,448 +3.2%
Marketing $37,832 +6.0%
Liberal arts $30,337 +4.2%
Source: National Association of Colleges and Employers
24 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 25
HANDOUT
Salary comparisons
Associate or
bachelor’s
Hourly
wage
Accountant $21.05
Computer
programmer $25.91
Architect $24.80
Zoologist & wildlife
biologist $21.85
Forensic science
technician $17.88
Film & video editor $16.24
Pharmacist $32.81
Physical therapist $27.89
Education, training &
library occupation $15.00
Registered nurse $20.49
Moderate on-the-job
experience
Hourly
wage
Bank teller $9.07
Data entry keyer $10.10
Landscaping &
groundskeeper worker $8.82
Veterinary assistant $8.23
Security guard $9.89
Camera operator $10.99
Pharmacy
technician $9.80
Physical therapist
aide $9.21
Child care worker $6.90
Nursing aide $8.13
Source: Oklahoma Employment Outlook 2012
26 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 27
Section 2
Myth vs. reality of preparing
and planning for college
Goal
To dispel some of the common myths about going to college.
Materials needed
None
Discuss
Share the following with the participants. After you read each
Myth and Reality, ask the participants if they have any questions
or ­comments.
At the end, ask if they can add any myths to the
list. Encourage other participants to answer the myths with the
reality.
• Myth 1
We don’t have much money, and my parents can’t save
enough to send me to college.
• REALITY 1
Saving even a few dollars a week when you are in elementary
school can add up over time to help cover the cost of college.
There are also many financial aid programs available to help
families pay for college. [Tell them you will discuss this with
them in more detail in another section.]
• Myth 2
The papers to fill out to go to college are too hard to
understand. I could never fill them out by myself.
• Rea lity 2
Help in filling out paperwork is available from many areas.
Check with your school counselor or the admissions office at
the college you are interested in attending.
28 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
[It would be a great service to your members if you, as the
­College
Opportunity Liaison, could arrange a time to fill out
­financial
aid paperwork as a group.]
• Myth 3
I am good at sports and will get an athletic scholarship to go
to college.
• Rea lity 3
Only a small number of athletic scholarships are available
each year, and even if you are one of the talented few who
obtain one, you are still going to need good grades to stay
eligible to play and to be successful in college classes. Do
not depend on getting an athletic scholarship as the
only way for you to go to college.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 29
Section 3
Terminology
Goal
To help participants become familiar with some of the words
used in academic settings.
Materials needed
• Glossary (Make sure you have enough copies for everyone in
your workshop and that you have read over the list and are
familiar with all the terms.)
Getting started
Pass out copies of the glossary. A master copy for you to
reproduce has been provided on the following pages of this tool
kit. Tell them the glossary is also available online at:
www.okhighered.org/student-center/online-resources/glossary.shtml
or www.OKcollegestart.org/Financial_Aid/Glossary_of_Acronyms_and_Terms.aspx.
Discuss
Like all professions, education has certain terms it uses that you
may or may not be familiar with. We have put together a list
of these words to help you in planning and preparing for your
college education.
This list includes some of the more common words you will
need to know while preparing for college. For example:
• Concurrent enrollment: This is a program that allows
eligible high school students (juniors and seniors) to take
credit-earning college courses. This means they can earn
college credit by taking certain classes in high school.
• Credit hour: Credit given for attending one lecture hour of
class each week for 15 weeks or equivalent. Most college
classes are three credit hours, meaning their total meeting
time for a week is three hours.
Have them look over the list and ask questions about any term
they do not understand.
30 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 31
College glossary
Academic advisor: The person at a college or university
who helps students decide what classes to take, what major
to pursue, etc. An advisor is similar to a high school guidance
counselor.
Admission requirements: Students wanting to attend an
Oklahoma college or university must meet certain requirements,
such as achieving a specified ACT or SAT score or combination
of high school grade point average and rank in class, taking
specified high school courses, etc. to be considered for
admission.
Advanced Placement (AP) courses: Courses that allow
students to take college-level course work in high school. Many
Oklahoma colleges and universities award college credit to
students who successfully complete these courses and pass the
corresponding AP exams.
Associate degree: Degree given upon completion of two years
of full-time study or the equivalent. Most associate degrees
are awarded by two-year colleges, although some four-year
universities also offer associate degrees. Some associate
degrees transfer to four-year universities; others are for career
preparation.
Bachelor’s degree: Degree given upon completion of four
years of full-time study or the equivalent.
Class rank: Ranking of a student within a high school
graduating class based upon his or her high school grade point
average.
College: A higher education institution that generally offers
associate, or two-year, degrees but does not offer bachelor’s- or
graduate-level programs.
College catalog: A booklet, published by an individual college
or university, that contains detailed descriptions of course and
degree offerings, fees, academic policies and requirements for
graduation.
32 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Community College: Also known as a “two-year college,” a
community college grants associate degrees for transfer to four-year
institutions or for career preparation. Community colleges
usually offer flexible class schedules with smaller class sizes.
They are known as open door institutions because performance
standards (standardized test scores or combination of class rank
and grade point average) are not required for admission.
Commuter college: A college at which students live off
campus and travel to campus for classes.
Comprehensive university: See research university.
Concurrent enrollment: A program that allows eligible high
school students (juniors and seniors) to take credit-earning
college courses.
Credit hour: Credit given for attending one lecture hour of
class each week for 15 weeks or equivalent. Most college
classes are three credit hours, meaning their total meeting
time for a week is three hours. To calculate tuition, multiply
the number of credit hours for each class (three) by the cost of
tuition per credit hour.
Full-time student: An undergraduate student enrolled in
at least 12 credit hours or a graduate student enrolled in at
least nine credit hours, or the equivalent, in one semester or
academic term.
Graduate student: A student working toward a master’s or
doctoral degree.
High school grade point average (GPA): Average of all
grades earned in the 9th through 12th grades.
Higher education center: Institution with flexible admission
standards that provides higher education opportunities to
citizens in the areas surrounding the centers. The center works
with various colleges and universities to provide undergraduate
and graduate courses, and students can earn an associate,
bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Independent (private) colleges and universities:
Accredited colleges and universities that offer associate,
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 33
bachelor’s and/or graduate degrees in traditional subject areas.
Private colleges and universities are not supported by state
taxes and are not for profit. They receive the bulk of their
revenues from tuition, donations and grants.
Major: An academic subject area, such as economics or
geology, in which students take many courses and choose to
earn a degree.
Minor: An area of interest studied at the same time as a major.
It requires fewer courses than a major.
Part-time student: A student who is enrolled in a certain
number of course credits or hours which are less than full-time.
For an undergraduate student, this is usually less than 12
credits or hours. For a graduate student, it is usually less than
nine credits or hours.
Prerequisite: A course which a student must take before he or
she can enroll in another (usually more challenging) course.
Regional university: A university that offers bachelor’s
and master’s degrees, and, in some instances, associate or
professional degrees. While regional universities focus primarily
on instruction, they are also responsible for extension and
public service, as well as some research. They tend to have
mid-sized student populations and campuses.
Research university: Also known as a “comprehensive
university,” a university that grants bachelor’s, graduate and
professional degrees and offers a wide variety of courses and
degree programs. Along with instruction, research institutions
also focus on research, extension and public service. Research
universities usually have large student bodies and expansive
campuses.
Residential college: A college at which students may live on
campus in dormitories or apartments.
Semester: Calendar system used by colleges and universities.
Classes and grade reports are divided into two periods in the
spring and fall, each lasting about 16 weeks, and one period in
the summer, usually lasting eight weeks.
34 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Standardized test (ACT or SAT): Test used by colleges and
universities to evaluate applicants’ academic skills and abilities.
The standardized tests most widely used by colleges and
universities are the ACT and SAT. Oklahoma state colleges and
universities rely primarily on the ACT.
State (public) colleges and universities: Colleges and universities
that receive funding from state taxes to pay part of operating costs.
Subject area test: Standardized tests given by ACT in math,
science, reading and English. Public colleges and universities
look at these test scores when helping students enroll in
courses.
Technical branch: Institution that has a special emphasis
on education and training in technical fields. Some technical
branches offer academic courses and programs, but not all
institutions offer two-year programs that lead to an associate
degree.
Trimester: Calendar system used primarily by the state’s
technical branches. Classes and grade reports are divided into
three periods, each lasting about 10 weeks.
Tuition: Payment that students make to cover costs of their
classes at state and private colleges and universities. Other fees
may be also required.
Two-year college: An institution that grants associate degrees
for transfer to four-year institutions or for career preparation.
Two-year colleges usually offer flexible class schedules with
smaller class sizes. They are known as open door institutions
because performance standards (standardized test scores or
combination of class rank and grade point average) are not
required for admission.
Undergraduate student: A student working toward an
associate or a bachelor’s degree or a certificate.
University: A higher education institution that usually offers
four-year degrees, as well as degrees beyond the baccalaureate
level (i.e., graduate and professional degrees). They may also
offer associate degrees.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 35
Section 4
Differences in colleges
Goal
To point out the differences in two-year colleges and regional
and comprehensive universities.
Materials
• Different college recruiting materials from the different types
of colleges. You can download pages off the Internet or
contact admissions offices at the colleges close to you.
• What to Look for When Choosing a College handout
• Paper and pen or pencil
Web site
• List of colleges in Oklahoma:
www.okhighered.org/student-center/college-univ/list.shtml
www.OKcollegestart.org/Explore_Colleges/_default.aspx
www.collegeboard.com
Discuss
Use the college recruiting materials to show examples of the
differences in colleges.
There are two basic types of post-secondary education
institutions:
• Two-year: Community colleges and technical branches
• Four-year: Colleges and universities
Community Colleges and Technica l Branches
• Less than four years in length
• Usually takes two years to complete a degree program
Community colleges
• Grant associate degrees for transfer to four-year institutions
or for career preparation.
• Offer extensive night and sometimes even weekend class
­schedules
with smaller class sizes.
36 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
• Known as open-door institutions because, in most cases,
­admission
requirements are less strict than four-year colleges
or universities.
• Cost to attend is usually less than any other type of college.
Ask participants to list community colleges they know of
or have experience with.
Examples: Tulsa Community College and Northern Oklahoma
­College
in Tonkawa
Technical branches
• Focus on education and training in technical fields.
• Some offer academic courses and programs, but not all offer
two-year programs that lead to an associate degree.
• Cost to attend varies due to type of program – for example,
lab fees for a degree in air conditioning and refrigeration
technology are probably more expensive than lab fees for a
degree in ­hospitality
services.
Ask participants to name the two technical colleges in
Oklahoma.
Examples: OSU Technical Branch -- Okmulgee and OSU -- Oklahoma City
Colleges and uni versities
• At least four years in length
• Usually takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree program
Regional universities
• Offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and sometimes
associate or professional degrees.
• Focus mainly on instruction.
• Also responsible for extension and public service and some
research.
• Have mid-sized student populations and campuses.
Ask participants to name some regional universities.
Examples: Northeastern State University in Tahlequah and
Oklahoma Panhandle State University in Goodwell
Comprehensive universities
• Grant bachelor’s, graduate and professional degrees.
• Offer a wide variety of courses and degree programs.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 37
• Also focus on research, extension and public service.
• Usually have many students and large campuses.
Ask participants to name the two comprehensive universities
in Oklahoma.
Examples: Oklahoma State University in Stillwater and the
University of Oklahoma in Norman
Independent or private colleges
• Accredited colleges and universities
• Offer associate, bachelor’s and/or graduate degrees in
traditional subject areas.
• Are not supported by state taxes and are not for profit.
• Receive the bulk of their revenues from tuition, donations and
grants.
Ask participants to list some of the independent colleges
and ­universities
they might know.
Examples: Oklahoma City University and The University of Tulsa
Ask participants to briefly discuss what college might be
best for them to attend.
Additional activities
Have each student write a list of features that are important in
choosing a college. Discuss as a group.
Pass out the recruiting materials from the different colleges
(that you either downloaded off the Internet or ordered earlier).
Have students review the materials and see which colleges
match their important features (from list written earlier) best.
Discuss as a group.
Pass out the What to Look for When Choosing a College
handout. Compare this list to the important features the
students originally listed. See if the students missed anything
and if their priorities are in order.
38 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 39
handout
What to look for
when choosing a college
Here are some characteristics you should
consider when choosing the right college for you.
Size
• How many students are enrolled?
• What is the average class size?
• Geographically, just how large is the campus?
• How big is the library?
Academics
• Does the school offer the degree program I am interested in?
• What are the entrance requirements for this school, and do I
meet them?
• Do they have tutoring services available if I need them?
Location
• Do I want to live on campus or with my family?
• Would I prefer to go to college in the city or in a more rural
setting?
• Does the community surrounding the college have sports,
shopping, concerts, movies, etc., that interest me?
Campus life
• Does this college offer the extracurricular activities that
interest me?
• Does this college have groups or clubs that I am interested in
joining?
• Does this college have fraternities and sororities that interest me?
Cost
• Can I afford this college?
• What campus-based financial aid opportunities are available?
40 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 41
Section 5
Different avenues to pursue
to get to college
Goal
To explain alternative ways for students to obtain a college
degree.
Web sites
Army www.goarmy.com
Navy www.navy.com/education
Air Force www.airforce.com
(Must register on the site to get information.)
Discuss
There are many advantages of attending college right after high school:
• College costs are usually less.
• Students are still in the “study” mode.
• Younger people usually have less responsibility and have
more time to study.
However … not everyone who earns a college degree goes
straight from high school to college, but everyone who wants
a college degree can get one. The advantages of attending
college at a later stage in life are:
• Better knowledge of what is desired from a college degree
– better job, etc.
• More focused as an adult
• Some employers will pay for college if it is related to job
­responsibilities
Here are some non-traditional ways of earning a college degree:
• Attend college part-time
Some students will begin working right after high school and
attend college part-time by taking a few classes during the day or
at night. It takes longer to earn a degree this way, but if it is the
only way to get a college education, the time invested is worth it.
42 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
• Military service
Some students will enter military service right after high
school to help earn money to pay for college. They will either
enlist with the regular service or sign up with a National
Guard unit. Both ways can provide students with funds to use
for college after their term of enlistment is finished or while
they serve in the Guard. Students should check with their
local recruiter to find out what opportunities are available.
Also, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education
and participating Oklahoma state system institutions have
signed an Advanced Standing Agreement with the U.S. Navy
to award college credit for specific technical education and
training courses and job experience successfully completed
while serving in the U.S. Navy.
• Career technology centers
High school and adult students at participating technology
centers can earn college credit from state colleges and
universities through Cooperative Alliance Agreements. The
benefits of pursuing a degree through an alliance agreement
include:
¡ Students can begin working on a degree while still in high
school.
¡ College credit is awarded immediately upon successful
completion of the course.
¡ Admissible students may enroll in any state college or
university and transfer courses depending on the degree
program.*
* The receiving college or university has the authority to determine the
eligibility of those courses as applied toward the desired degree plan.
Have participants discuss what might be the best path for them
to go to college.
Additional activities
• If you as a leader have a college degree, share the path you
took to college.
• If you as a leader do not have a college degree, share with
the students if any of these paths might work for you now.
• Ask students what avenue they intend to pursue.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit �� 43
Section 6
Helping students
with career exploration
Goal
To provide resources to help students look at different careers.
Materials needed
• Income realities handout (page 21)
• What’s that degree worth? handout (page 23)
• Salary comparisons handout (page 25)
Web sites
• www.okcrn.org
• www.acrnetwork.org
• www.stats.bls.gov/oco
• www.OKcollegestart.org/career_center/_default.aspx
Discuss
Why explore careers?
• One of the MAIN reasons students drop out of college is that
they do not know what they want to do for a career.
• It allows you to make better choices about your ­future.
The
more knowledge you have about what a job is really like and
what education is needed, the more you can fit the job to
your personality, interests and abilities.
When should I begin looking at different jobs?
Experts recommend you begin in middle school to gather
information on different jobs you may want to do.
Isn’t that too early? What if I change my mind?
Career exploration is a process. This means that it takes most
people a long time to decide what they want to do. You might
change your mind many times before finding the right career
… and that’s okay. That’s also why it’s good to start exploring
early.
44 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
How do I go about it?
There are two main ways to find out about careers.
One is to gather all the information you can find on careers you
may be interested in. You can check out books from the library
or do searches on the Internet. OKcollegestart.org helps you
identify and prepare for a career that suits your skills, values,
interests, and personality.
Other information you will want to find out includes:
• What type of education will I need to work in this job?
• Where do I get the education or training?
• Will this job be needed in the future?
• How can I advance in this job?
• What are some of the day-to-day jobs I will have to do?
• How much will I make doing this work?
Another way to find out about a particular career is to find ways
to actually do work in a job you are interested in. You can:
• Volunteer with groups doing the type of work you are ­interested
in.
• Work at part-time jobs in the area.
• “Shadow” or follow someone around who does the type of
work you think you might want to do.
• Do an internship in the area. This means you will work in the
area usually without pay, but you may be able to get school
credit for it.
• Take a vocational class in high school in the area you are
interested in.
Talk with the school counselor about career search ­opportunities
available at your school.
Additional activities
• Have students review the handouts and decide on a career
they would like to research. Ask students to find out what
degree is required for the desired job and how much
education it will take to fulfill the degree requirements.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 45
Section 7
Why you should make good
grades and take the right
classes
Goal
To explain the grades, classes and tests needed to go to
college.
Materials needed
• Your Official Guide to Preparing for College, 11th – 12th Grade
• Where am I going – College Prep worksheet (8 – 12)
• Study skills handouts
Web sites
• www.okhighered.org/student-center/jrhigh-highscl/courses.shtml
• www.okhighered.org/student-center/jrhigh-highscl/grades.shtml
• www.OKcollegestart.org/Plan_for_College/_default.aspx
• www.act.org
• www.collegeboard.com
Discuss
To attend an Oklahoma state college or university you must
take certain classes in high school and take the ACT exam.
Please open Your Official Guide to Preparing for College,
11th – 12th Grade. Find the “Where to Start” table. This is
a list of the classes all students must take to be able to go to a
state college.
These classes will not only help you prepare for college, but
also give you a valuable knowledge base for entering the job
market after high school.
Look under the “Other” section. You will need two units from
this section. These can be from any of the units listed previously
or computer science or foreign language. Please note that 2009
graduates may have two lab science and three other courses.
46 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
There are also some additional suggestions, but not
requirements, including an additional unit in math and
laboratory science, plus two additional units in speech or music,
art or drama.
If you look [hold up guide and point] at the “Grades To
Make” section, you will notice the grade point average
you must have to attend a state ­college
or university.
Please note that to attend either Oklahoma State University or
the University of Oklahoma, a student must have a 3.0 GPA.
Also note the scores required on the ACT or the SAT.
For the regional universities such as Northeastern,
Southwestern or Central Oklahoma, a student must have a 2.7
GPA and rank in the top 50 percent of his or her class.
Also note that to attend a community year college, students
do not need to make certain scores, but they should take the
required high school classes, graduate from an accredited high
school and take the ACT exam.
It is not unusual for students to start at either a community
college, or a regional university and later transfer to OU or OSU
after ­obtaining
an associate degree.
The final score on college entrance exams
College entrance exams
Admissions or college entrance exams are necessary to enter
almost any U.S. college or university. These tests are important
because, when combined with high school grades, they are
used as a predictor of success during that first year of college.
Two college entrance exams most used are the ACT and the
SAT. Oklahoma uses the ACT for college entrance.
ACT
The ACT assessment is a standardized college entrance
examination that measures knowledge and skills in English,
mathematics, reading and science reasoning. Students take the
ACT assessment, a 175-minute exam, in four parts: English (75
questions), mathematics (60 questions), reading comprehension
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 47
(40 questions) and science reasoning (40 questions). Each
section is scored from 1 to 36 and scaled for slight variations in
difficulty. Scores on the multiple-choice tests are based on the
number of questions answered correctly. There is no penalty for
guessing. The composite score is the average of the four scaled
scores.
SAT
The SAT assessment is a standardized college entrance
examination that is used most predominantly by colleges and
universities along the East and West coasts.
SAT Reasoning test ™
The SAT Reasoning Test is a measure of the critical thinking
skills needed for academic success in college. The SAT
Reasoning Test assesses how well students analyze and solve
problems. It consists of 70 minutes (two 25-minute sections
and one 20-minute section) of critical reading questions; 70
minutes (two 25-minute sections and one 20-minute section) of
math problems; and a 60-minute writing section, which includes
multiple choice questions and a short essay. In addition, there
is one 25-minute unscored section, known as the variable or
equating section.
SAT sub ject tests ™ (formerly SAT II: Subject Tests)
Subject Tests are required by some institutions for admission
and/or placement in freshman courses. SAT Subject Tests
are one-hour, multiple-choice tests that measure how much
students know about a particular academic subject and how
well they can apply that knowledge. Subject Tests fall into
five subject areas: English, history, mathematics, sciences,
and languages. They help colleges compare the academic
achievement of students from different schools where course
preparation and academic backgrounds may vary widely.
PSAT/NMSQT
(Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)
The Preliminary SAT®/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test
is a standardized test that provides firsthand practice for the SAT
Reasoning Test. It also gives you a chance to enter National Merit
Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) scholarship programs. The PSAT/
48 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
NMSQT measures critical reading skills, math problem-solving
skills and writing skills. The most common reasons for taking
the PSAT/NMSQT are to receive feedback on your strengths and
weaknesses on skills necessary for college study; to see how
your performance on an admissions test might compare with
that of others applying to college; to enter the competition for
scholarships from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation
(grade 11); and to help prepare for the SAT.
Additional activities
A plan for college, 11th - 12th grade students
• Hand out the Where Am I Going – College Prep worksheet (8 – 12).
• Have the 11th graders look at what they have already taken
and use the worksheet to decide what to take next year.
• Have 12th graders look up admission requirements for each
type of college. Ask the students to compare the admission
requirements with their personal transcripts. Discuss what
each student will need to do in order to attend the school of
his or her choice.
Study skills and good learning habits
• It’s not just taking or passing courses that prepares students
for college. The key to student success is learning the subject
matter in those courses. We have provided several handouts
on study skills (see the following pages). Please copy and
utilize any or all you feel appropriate.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 49
worksheet
Where am I going?
College prep worksheet (8–12)
Following the College Prep Course Curriculum can help you be successful in college.
Use this worksheet to map your academic plan for the future.
11th-grade students: Use this worksheet to decide what you will take in school next
year. 11th – 12th grade students: Use this worksheet to see how your curriculum
matches up to entrance requirements at the colleges you are considering attending.
If you are enrolled in Oklahoma’s Promise, you must take the following high school
coursework to meet program requirements.*
College prep courses curriculum What I have taken What I will take next year
Units Course Units Course Units Course
4 English: Grammar, literature,
composition
3
Lab science: Biology, chemistry,
physics, or any certified lab
science; general science courses
with or without a lab do not
qualify**
3
Math: Algebra I, Algebra II,
geometry, trigonometry, math
analysis, calculus, Advanced
Placement statistics
3
History and citizenship skills:
Including one unit of American
history and two units from the
subjects of history, government,
geography, economics, civics
and/or non-Western culture
2
Foreign or non-English
language (two years of
the same language) OR
computer technology: Courses
in programming, hardware and
business computer applications
such as word processing,
databases, spreadsheets and
graphics. Keyboarding or typing
classes do NOT qualify. (One
foreign language and one
computer course will not meet
this requirement.)
1 Additional units from any of
the above
1 Fine arts (music, art, drama) or
speech
* Students graduating from a high school not accredited by the Oklahoma State Board of Education or
a recognized accrediting agency must also achieve a composite ACT score of 22 or higher.
** Students graduating high school in 2007, 2008 and 2009 may have two (2) lab science units and
two (2) additional units.
50 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 51
STUDY SKILL S handout
Spending study time wisely
• Plan to study. Make studying one of the most important
things you do each day.
• Use time available in class to study or begin an assignment.
By doing so, you can ask your teacher for help if you do not
understand something.
• Make a weekly schedule. Schedule time for studying and
homework, as well as for other activities such as school
activities, chores and fun.
• Find study times that work best for you. Pick a time
when you are alert. Remember, the more alert you are the
better you will concentrate.
• Plan short study sessions. By doing so you will be
motivated and alert.
• Take study breaks. Take a break when you find yourself
losing concentration on your work. After a few minutes of
relaxing by doing something like getting a drink or stretching,
you can get back to your work feeling refreshed.
• Have study times throughout the week. Don’t try to get
everything done in one night. Try to study a little at a time
each day. Learning is improved when you split a big job into
smaller jobs. It will make studying for tests easier, and it will
also give you time to ask your teacher questions if you don’t
understand something.
Choose from the following list of positive study behaviors when
setting goals for yourself.
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Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 53
In class
• Listen carefully to the teacher and ask questions when you
don’t understand.
• Avoid talking to friends during class instruction.
• Practice taking better notes.
• Write down assignments and due dates carefully.
At home
• Set a “study time” separate from homework time.
• Study more frequently, for shorter time periods. (Four half-hour
study sessions are much better than one two-hour
session.)
• Study the most difficult subject first.
• Use “active” study techniques (recite, write, make study
review cards, etc.).
• Review class notes each night by reciting or writing marginal
notes or questions (to increase retention).
• Get organized each night for the next day (file papers, check
schedule, calendar and weekly goals).
Time management
• Make a study schedule over the weekend for the following
week.
• Begin to study at the time designated.
• Study earlier in the day (before dinner) whenever possible.
• Use some weekend time for studying if unable to do so
during the week.
• Use a calendar for recording due dates and setting “weekly goals.”
• Break large assignments into smaller parts and set deadlines
for finishing each part. Use the calendar.
study ski lls HANDOUT
Positive study behaviors for
11th – 12th grade students
54 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Study environment
• Study in a quiet place
• Have a study routine. Study the same subject in the same
place at the same time each day.
• Organize desk, drawers and papers. (Use folders if you have them.)
• Remove visual distractions from your study location.
• Provide good lighting. Straining will make you tired faster.
• Have everything needed for homework or study nearby
(paper, ruler, tape, stapler, dictionary, etc.).
• Put up a bulletin board to post a calendar, schedule and other
important information.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 55
Do you spend your time well? Time is expensive. If you use
it all on unimportant things, you are cheating yourself. It is a
valuable ingredient of life. Learn to use your time wisely and
make it count. For one day, keep a record of how you spend
your time.
Write down each activity you did that day and how it helped
you or someone else (see example).
study ski lls handout
Time-tracking log
Wasting time is like stealing from yourself. How did you actually
spend your time? What did you learn about yourself? Are you
spending enough time on the things that are important to you?
Time-Tracking Chart
ACTIVITY TIME BENEFIT TO ME OR OTHERS
Read Othello 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Research for book report
56 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 57
study ski lls handout
Find a place and get organized
A good place to study
• Find a quiet place.
• Make sure the lighting is good.
• Use a table or desk.
• Find a chair that forces you to sit up straight.
• Use the same good location each time you study.
• Don’t be afraid to ask a family member for help if you need it.
Get organized
• Designate a place to write down all assignments and the due
dates.
• Write down test dates.
• Check off completed assignments.
• Write down special instructions.
• Ask questions if you do not understand.
• Don’t wait until the last minute
to begin an assignment or study
for a test.
58 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 59
At home
Pack all homework, books and notebooks in book bag or
backpack.
Bring lunch or lunch money.
Place any signed papers in travel folder.
Eat a good breakfast.
Before school I need to:
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
At school
Before packing to leave, check homework assignment sheet.
Bring home any materials, books, notebooks or other
materials you will need to complete your homework
assignments.
Ask teacher about any upcoming tests or projects (when it
is due, what it covers).
Put in my book bag any notices handed out to go home.
I need to remember to:
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
study ski lls handout
Reminder checklists
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Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 61
Name_ _______________________________________________
Check if accomplished
This week, I:
Studied in a quiet place.
Used a study schedule (to plan several study sessions for an
upcoming test).
Made or used a weekly schedule (to plan/keep track of long-term
assignments).
Eliminated distractions while studying (turned off the radio
or television).
Recorded homework assignments on a pad or on one page
in my notebook.
Completed all homework assignments.
Organized my schoolwork (using folders, cleaning out my
book bag/desk/locker).
Studied earlier in the day.
Added additional “study time”
after homework was finished.
Used “active” study techniques
(reciting, making flashcards,
taking notes, listing and making
up test questions).
study ski lls handout
Weekly self-evaluation
62 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Complete the following statements.
Something new that worked well for me this week was:
_____________________________________________________
I tried hard to:
_____________________________________________________
I have begun to see positive results in:
_____________________________________________________
I feel good about:
_____________________________________________________
I have put more effort into:
_____________________________________________________
This week, my goal is to:
_____________________________________________________
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 63
Name_ ______________________________ Date_____________
This past semester, my grade for this class was:______________
I earned it because:
I turned in all my class assignments on time.
I came to class prepared to learn.
I participated actively and cooperatively during class discussions.
I studied effectively for tests.
I did not complete all assignments.
I handed work in late.
I frequently was unprepared.
I did not contribute in a positive way to class discussions.
I did not study effectively for tests.
Other: _____________________________________________
I would like to improve my grade(s) to:_____________________
In order to improve my grades, I will:
1._ _______________________ 6._________________________
2._ _______________________ 7._________________________
3._ _______________________ 8._________________________
4._ _______________________ 9._________________________
5._ _______________________10._________________________
study ski lls handout
Report card evaluation
64 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 65
study ski lls handout
Study log
Week of
“Active” study techniques include:
• Making lists of related information
• Making a study review card
• Making and using a set of flashcards
• Writing questions I think will be on the test
• Drawing a map, sketch, chart or other diagrams
• Reciting important information by explaining or describing in
my own words
Day Subject/topic Active techniques
66 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 67
study ski lls handout
Daily checklist
Week of
My daily checklist M T W TH F
I carefully copied down my homework
assignments.
I brought home everything I needed to
do my assignments.
I started my homework at __________
time.
I put 100% effort into completing my
homework carefully and neatly.
I placed my finished homework in my
school bag.
Week of
My daily checklist M T W TH F
I carefully copied down my homework
assignments.
I brought home everything I needed to
do my assignments.
I started my homework at __________
time.
I put 100% effort into completing my
homework carefully and neatly.
I placed my finished homework in my
school bag.
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Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 69
study ski lls handout
Get the most from
reading assignments
Give a brief explanation of the reading:
Main idea/key concepts in the reading:
1. ___________________________________________________
2._ __________________________________________________
3._ __________________________________________________
4._ __________________________________________________
Important terms to be familiar with:
1._ ________________________ 6._ ______________________
2._ ________________________ 7._ ______________________
3._ ________________________ 8._ ______________________
4._ ________________________ 9._ ______________________
5._ ________________________ 10._ ______________________
Questions to consider:
1._ __________________________________________________
2._ __________________________________________________
3._ __________________________________________________
4._ __________________________________________________
5._ __________________________________________________
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Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 71
study ski lls handout
Are you ready for the test?
Topic of test_______________________________________________
Five main ideas about the topic (important concepts, key ideas,
causes, results, important events or people):
1._ ______________________________________________________
2._ ______________________________________________________
3._ ______________________________________________________
4._ ______________________________________________________
5._ ______________________________________________________
Important terms or vocabulary words related to the topic:
1._ _________________________ 6._ _________________________
2._ _________________________ 7._ _________________________
3._ _________________________ 8._ _________________________
4._ _________________________ 9._ _________________________
5._ _________________________ 10.___________________________
On a piece of paper, write at least 10 questions you think will
be asked on the test.
Ask your teacher about the test and check off which of the following
you should include in your review.
Class notes Past quizzes and tests Text readings
Teacher review Handouts/worksheets Other
What is the format of the test?
True - False Labeling
Essay Short answer (multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, matching)
How many study sessions do you plan to have? ____________
Which days do you plan to study?______________________________
What study strategies do you plan to use in preparation for the test?
1._ _________________________ 3._ _________________________
2._ _________________________ 4._ _________________________
72 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Test-taking tips
• Look over the entire test before you begin.
• Make note of anything you don’t want to forget.
• Follow all directions.
• Answer all questions.
• Budget your time.
• Read questions carefully.
• Answer the easiest questions first.
• Ask questions if you are confused.
• Double check your work once you are done.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 73
study ski lls handout
Active study strategies
you can use
• Reciting important information
• Making study review cards
• Using study review cards
• Drawing maps, sketches or other diagrams that can be useful
• Making a list of related information
• Using a timeline
74 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 75
study ski lls handout
Improving your study skills
Below are some methods you can use to help improve your
study skills. Try them out and find some that work best for you.
• Write down important content on index cards. For
example: definitions and words, ideas, descriptions, math
equations or computation, and things that have a particular
sequence.
• Outline material that is covered in class or will be used in
the next class.
• Use the study guide if one is provided. Use a highlighter to
mark important items covered in class.
• Rewrite the chapter summary at the end of each chapter
covered.
• When studying for a test, alternate studying your
notes from the front to back and then back to front.
Your brain tends to remember the first thing you read and
forget the last.
• Don’t wait until the last minute. Waiting until the last
minute usually causes you to make errors. Budget your time
so you don’t have to panic.
• Get organized. Buy a calendar or planner to mark important
assignment due dates and school activities. If you write it
down and check it daily you won’t forget!
• Divide and conquer. If you have a big workload, don’t try
to do it all at once, divide it into smaller assignments.
76 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 77
Section 8
How to work with
your school counselor
Goal
To help students feel comfortable with the guidance counselor
and to know what questions to ask.
Materials needed
• Your Guide to Preparing for College, 11th – 12th Grade
• Working with your counselor worksheet
Discuss
High school guidance counselors know what it takes to help you
get ready for college. They can help you pick a college, remind
you of testing requirements and deadlines and write letters of
recommendation. It’s important for you to get to know your
counselor. Counselors are there to help you.
Together, you and the guidance counselor can find colleges that
are a good match.
Questions to ask guidance counselors
• What basic academic courses should I take if I want to go to college?
• How many years of each academic subject does the high
school require for graduation?
• What elective courses do you recommend for college-bound
students?
• Can students who are considering college get special help or
tutoring?
• What activities can I do after school and over the summer to
help me get ready for college?
• How much homework is expected of students preparing for
college?
• What do different colleges require in terms of high school
grades and ACT or SAT scores?
78 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
• Are there any special scholarships or awards that I should
know about now, so I can work toward them?
The guidance counselor may also be an expert on available
financial aid, which we will talk about next.
Can anyone else here think of other questions you may
want to ask a guidance counselor?
Be sure to take notes on the worksheet provided so you can
­remember
what was said and talk it over with your parents at a
later time.
Student activity
Add your own questions for the counselor on the worksheet
­provided.
Remember to take it with you to the meeting.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 79
WORKSHEET
Working with your counselor
Counselor’s name:______________________________________
Time, date, place of meeting:_____________________________
Questions to ask guidance counselors
• What basic academic courses should I take if I want to go to
college?
• How many years of each academic subject does the high
school require for graduation?
• What elective courses do you recommend for college-bound
students?
• Can students who are considering college get special help or
tutoring?
• What activities can I do after school and over the summer to
help me get ready for college?
• How much homework is expected of students preparing for
college?
• What do different colleges require in terms of high school
grades and ACT or SAT scores?
• Are there any special scholarships or awards I should know
about now, so I can work toward them?
80 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Additional questions for counselors
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Counselor concerns
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 81
Section 9
Differences in financial aid
Goal
To make students aware of the different types of financial aid.
Materials needed
• Your Guide to Preparing for College, 11th – 12th Grade
• Funding Your Education brochure
• OSRHE Grant and Scholarship Program booklet
Web site
• www.okhighered.org/student-center/financial-aid
• www.OKcollegestart.org/Financial_Aid/Types_of_Aid/Types_of_Aid.aspx
Discuss
There are several types of financial aid, including scholarships,
loans, grants and work study. The high school counselor also
has information on the different types of financial aid available.
Most colleges and universities have entire offices devoted to
financial aid services. Contact the college or university you are
interested in attending for more information on financial aid.
Scho larships
A gift of money (that does not have to be repaid) given to
recognize student achievement, skills and talent. A scholarship
may be based partly on financial need. Scholarships can come
from private companies, charitable foundations, religious
organizations or civic groups.
Loans
The federal government has several different types of loan
programs for college students and their parents. These loans
must be paid back. They include:
82 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
• Federal Direct Loans made by the federal government
directly to students and parents through colleges.
• Federal Perkins Loan Program funded by the federal
government and awarded by the college or university. These
loans have low-interest rates and are repayable over a long
period of time.
• Federal PLUS Program provides low-interest federal loans
to credit-approved parents of eligible undergraduate students.
Repayment begins 60 days after loan funds are paid. These
loans are available from banks, lending institutions and
participating direct lending schools.
• Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan Program provides
low-interest federal loans to eligible students through banks,
lending institutions and participating direct loan schools.
It is based on need, and the interest is paid by the federal
government for qualifying students while they are enrolled
at least half-time. Repayment begins after the student leaves
school.
• Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program provides
low-interest federal loans which are not based on need, and
the student must pay the interest while in school. Repayment
begins after the student leaves school.
Grants
Financial aid that does not need to be paid back, usually
awarded based on need, but can be awarded for good grades,
special skills, talent, heritage or other criteria. An example is
the Federal Pell Grant, which is based on need and may be
used for tuition, room and board, books, or other educational
costs, and requires no repayment.
Work Study
A federal government-supported program coordinated through
campus financial aid offices that provides jobs for students
with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay
education expenses. The program encourages community
service work and work related to each student’s course of study.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 83
Section 10
How to search and apply for
financial aid
Goal
To help students understand how to search and apply for financial aid.
Materials needed
• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application
• Are You Looking for Money for College? brochure
• OSRHE Grant and Scholarship Programs booklet
• Search for Financial Aid handout
• SAMPLE scholarship applications
Web sites
• www.fafsa.ed.gov
• www.pin.ed.gov
• www.okhighered.org/student-center/financial-aid
• www.OKcollegestart.org/Financial_Aid/_default.aspx
Discuss
State grants and scho larships
The state of Oklahoma has several scholarships programs to
help you pay for college. More information can be found out
about state scholarship programs in the State Regents’ Grant
and Scholarships Program booklet [hold up booklet].
Federa l Financia l Aid
The federal government has made it easy to apply for
federal financial aid. By filling out one application – the Free
Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA – you can
apply for grants, loans or work study. This application must be
filled out during your senior year and requires information from
the parents’ income tax forms.
You can apply by filling out the paper application, of which you have
a copy [hold up application], or you can apply online in seven
simple steps.
84 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
If you need help in filling out the application, ask your
school counselor, contact the institution you are interested in
attending.
Remember, you cannot get federal financial aid without
filling out the FAFSA.
More information on financial aid is available in Your Official
Guide to Preparing for College, 11th – 12th Grade. [Hold up and
open to the Financial Aid section.]
Student activities
Searching for financial aid
Have students review the Search for Financial Aid handout and
conduct scholarship searches using the methods below.
• Log on to OKcollegestart.org and conduct an online
scholarship search that reflects your specific interests and
abilities.
• Check for scholarships sponsored by local
organizations such as your faith-based organization; your
parent’s place of employment; and civic and community clubs
such as the American Legion, YMCA, 4-H Club, Elks, Lions,
Masons, Kiwanis, Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, and the
Girl or Boy Scouts.
• Talk with the high school counselor about local and/or
college and university sources of financial aid.
• Contact the admissions or financial aid offices at the
schools you are interested in attending. A listing of
financial aid offices in Oklahoma colleges and universities can
be found at www.okhighered.org under the Student Center or
www.OKcollegestart.org.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 85
Filling out scholarship applications
Many students graduating from high school do not know how
to properly complete scholarship applications. This exercise will
introduce students to SAMPLE scholarship applications and give
them practice to complete ACTUAL scholarship applications with
confidence.
Pass out copies of the SAMPLE scholarship applications and go
over filling the application out with students (step-by-step).
86 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 87
HANDOUT
The search for financial aid
• Call the financial aid office and check the Web site of the college or
university you are interested in attending. Check possible scholarships or
grants and find out what you should do to apply. Put the deadline date on
your calendar!
• Visit www.OKcollegestart.org, www.okhighered.org or call the Student
Information hotline at 1.800.858.1840 for scholarship information. There
is no charge for this service. Some private companies charge a fee for this
same service and information. Remember, it is available at no charge from
the State Regents.
�� Apply for local scholarships.
• Network. Tell everyone (including the high school counselor) that you
are looking for scholarships. Check for scholarship opportunities with
your parent’s place of employment, any organization that you or your
parents belong to, or your religious organization. Also, look for scholarship
opportunities in your local newspaper.
• Use books and computer programs with scholarship information. If at all
possible, utilize the Internet. Your high school guidance office and/or the
library will have books that list numerous scholarship opportunities.
• When searching for scholarships, beware of “scholarship scams.”
Only use services that are FREE. Do not give anyone your personal
information. If you are willing to do the work, you can find the same
information yourself.
• Remember, applying for scholarships can be frustrating. You may not get a
response when you write to an address taken from a scholarship book or
computer search. If you do get a response, you may find that the deadline
has passed or that there is no longer funding for the scholarship. Apply for
more than one.
• Buy a calendar or planner. Mark it with due dates and deadlines of
applications for grants and scholarships.
• Stay organized! Make copies of everything!
• Exhaust all avenues for scholarships and grants before applying for loans.
Also, remember that many students who are not able to get scholarships
often are able to get need-based financial aid.
• Plan early so you don’t panic!
88 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Don’t make these mistakes!
• Hurrying through the application process – Take your time.
Be sure your application forms are complete and accurate before
submitting them.
• Not being able to trace your mailings – Be sure to send all
financial aid applications and related correspondence by certified
mail.
• Underestimating or overestimating financial aid eligibility
– If possible, apply to a school that you would like to attend
but would need financial aid. After talking with the financial aid
office, you may be surprised to find you are able to attend a more
expensive school. If a satisfactory financial aid package cannot be
arranged, be sure that you have also applied to a school where
you meet the admission requirements and where you can afford to
go without or with little financial aid assistance.
• Taking the first financial aid package offered – Compare
financial aid packages at similar schools and determine the best
financial aid package for you. Don’t take the first deal that you
are offered if it does not meet your needs. Ask schools if they can
“beat the other schools’ deals.” Be assertive and patient.
• Selecting colleges on the basis of their “sticker” price
– ­Because
of the way financial aid is packaged (expected family
contribution stays constant, no matter how much a school costs), it
may not cost you any more to attend an expensive college than a
lower-priced school.
• Taking out a personal loan or charging a credit card – More
attractive financial arrangements may be available from the federal
government, commercial organizations or the schools themselves.
Both the Perkins and the subsidized Stafford Loans charge no
interest or principal repayment until after the student graduates,
leaves school or attends on less than a half-time basis (home
equity loans and credit cards may charge interest immediately).
• Being too quick to accept a college’s offer for aid – Be
careful never to miss a deadline, but don’t respond before the
deadline. Keep your options open. You may be able to use other
offers to get a better deal at the school you want to attend.
• Starting too late to look for aid – It’s never too early to start,
but it can be too late. Ideally, by the time students are in the
10th- or 11th-grade, parents and students should have already
begun the process.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 89
This scholarship program has been established through the SBC Pioneers to
assist Oklahoma students in obtaining their education goals. The recipients
of this scholarship will receive a $500 cash award to be used at an eligible
Oklahoma career technology center, two-year college or four-year university.
Genera l Scho larship Information
• This scholarship is a one-time award worth $500 and is paid in equal
portions for fall and spring semesters.
• The family income of applicants may not exceed $50,000.
• The scholarship is open to first-time freshmen only with at least a 3.0
high school grade point average.
• Applicants must be Oklahoma residents.
• Recipients must enroll full-time at an eligible Oklahoma postsecondary
institution.
• Preference will be given to students with a strong volunteer and
leadership background.
• Recipients agree to allow SBC Pioneers to use photos, likenesses and
name for publicity purposes.
First Name MI Last Name
Mailing Address City State Zip Code
Phone Social Security Number Date of Birth
samp le scho larship ap lication
The Frances Koop Parsons/
SBC Pioneers Memorial
Scholarship
90 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
High School_______________________Year of Graduation____________
Grade Point Average _______
(Must be at least a 3.0. Please attach an official transcript.)
Career Goal_____________________________________________________
List Academic Awards and Honors
(Attach additional pages if necessary.)
_______________________________________________________________
List Organizations and Leadership Positions
(Attach additional pages if necessary.)
_______________________________________________________________
List Community Service Activities
(Attach additional pages if necessary.)
_______________________________________________________________
Family Income____________(Adjusted gross income may not exceed
$50,000.)
* Parents, custodial parents or legal guardian must submit a copy of
the official federal income tax return form filed for 2006 or 2007. This
information will be kept confidential and will be destroyed upon verification
by the program administrator.
Student Signature ____________________________
Date _______________________________________
Application deadline is March 15, 2008. Mail completed application and
appropriate documentation to:
The Frances Koop Parsons/SBC Pioneers Memorial Scholarship
Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education
PO Box 108850
Oklahoma City, OK 73101
Phone 1.800.858.1840 or 225.9239 in the Oklahoma City area
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 91
App lication for 2007-08
The Ruby N. Courtney Writer’s Scholarship offers financial assistance to students
interested in writing and/or literature at the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma
State University. Recipients of this scholarship award must be Oklahoma residents,
be enrolled full-time, be in good academic standing, and have completed 30 credit
hours. Scholarship recipients will receive a $500 cash award.
Last Name First Name MI
Mailing Address City State Zip Code
Phone Major
Number of Credit Hours Earned
Cumulative Grade Point Average
Brief ly describe your career goa ls
(Attach additional pages if necessary.)
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Writing Samp le
Applicants must include a 2-3 page writing sample.
Transcripts
Attach transcripts from any higher education institution you have attended.
Submit your completed application to the Ruby N. Courtney Writer’s
Scholarship Coordinator at Oklahoma State University or the University of
Oklahoma. Application deadline is March 15, 2008.
samp le scho larship app lication
Ruby N. Courtney
Writer’s Scholarship
92 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 93
Section 11
College costs and
saving for college
Goal
To illustrate the current costs of a college education and help
students understand the need and benefit of saving money for
their college education.
Materials needed
• Oklahoma College Savings Plan brochure
• Estimated costs for students at Oklahoma public ­colleges
and
universities handout
Web sites
• www.ok4saving.org
• www.okhighered.org/student-center/college-cost/estimated.shtml
• www.OKcollegestart.org/Financial_Aid/College_Cost/How_Much_Does_College_Cost_.aspx
Note to leader(s)
We realize saving for college is a sacrifice for any family, but
­especially
for low income. Please use your discretion as to
whether this section is appropriate to discuss with children from
your organization.
Discuss
When to Start Saving
The time to start saving is now, if you can. Talk to your parents/
guardians about setting aside money for college.
If you and your family can save $10 a week at 4 percent
interest for 17 years, you’ll save $12,663.44. That’s a good
start! Another good way to save for college is by opening an
account with the Oklahoma College Savings Plan. You can start
94 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
saving with as little as $100. [Hold up College Savings Plan
brochure and ask if they would like to take one home to
their parents.]
Student activity
Hand out the college costs handout. Caution your students to
not become overwhelmed or discouraged. Remind them of all
the financial aid help that is available.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 95
Expenses Research
Universities
Regional
Universities
Community
Colleges
Technical
Branches
Tuition $3,423.00 $2,825.56 $1,790.50 $2,332.50
Mandatory fees $2,126.10 $943.91 $688.27 $760.00
Academic service fees $670.47 $120.91 $65.72 $166.65
Room and board* $6,126.50 $4,189.20 $4,051.05 $5,020.00
Books and supplies $1,025.00 $947.91 $979.90 $1,336.21
TOTAL $13,371.07 $9,027.49 $7,575.44 $9,615.36
The estimated cost of attending Oklahoma colleges and universities
is calculated below for full-time resident undergraduate students
enrolled in 30 semester credit hours during the 2007-08 academic
year. Costs for room and board and books and supplies are based on
FY2008 estimated costs.
2007-08 Estimated costs for resident students
at Oklahoma pub lic co lleges and uni versities
HANDOUT
2007-08 estimated costs
for students at Oklahoma
public colleges and universities
The estimated cost of attending Oklahoma colleges and universities is
calculated below for full-time non-resident undergraduate students
enrolled in 30 semester credit hours during the 2007-08 academic
year. Costs for room and board and books and supplies are based on
FY2008 estimated costs.
Expenses Research
Universities
Regional
Universities
Community
Colleges
Technical
Branches
Tuition $12,692.25 $8,180.92 $5,276.03 $7,012.50
Mandatory fees $2,126.10 $943.91 $688.27 $760.00
Academic service fees $670.47 $120.91 $65.72 $166.65
Room and board $6,126.50 $4,189.20 $4,051.05 $5,020.00
Books and supplies $1,025.00 $947.91 $979.90 $1,336.21
TOTAL $22,640.32 $14,382.85 $11,060.97 $14,295.36
* Note: Room and board estimates are based on a student living in a
traditional dormitory with a roommate and participating in a 20-meal-per-week
plan. Many institutions offer a wide variety of room and board plans, and
costs may differ from average reported above.
96 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 97
Section 12
Planning for college –
A year-by-year guide
Goal
To present a calendar of steps to be taken from 5th grade to
senior year to prepare for college.
Materials needed
• Your Official Guide to Preparing for College, 11th – 12th Grade
• Planning for College – A Year-By-Year Guide handout
• Senior Planning Checklist handout
Web site
• www.okhighered.org/student-center/jrhigh-highscl
• www.okcollegestart.org/Plan_for_College/High_School_Planner/High_School_Planner.aspx
Discuss
Certain steps must be taken from 5th grade on to help
students prepare themselves to enter college. [Distribute the
Planning for College – A Year-By-Year Guide handout to
your ­students.]
[Go over the steps for 11th - 12th grade students.]
Remind students they can create an online planner at
OKcollegestart.org.
Student activity
Pass out the Senior Planning Checklist handout. Have seniors
post it where they can see it all year. Encourage your seniors to
check off accomplishments as they are achieved. Go ahead and
give 11th graders a copy so they can be ready for their senior
year.
98 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 99
5th Grade
• Develop good study habits and study hard.
• Start saving for college.
• Watch the GEAR UP programs, The Plan (for college) parts I and II.
• Read and work the GEAR UP Student Activity Booklets.
6th Grade
• Continue studying hard.
• Continue saving for college.
• Talk with someone who has gone to college.
• Watch the GEAR UP programs, The Plan (for college) parts I and II.
• Read and work the GEAR UP Student Activity Booklets.
7th Grade
• Keep studying hard.
• Continue saving money.
• Start thinking about different jobs that interest you.
• Watch the GEAR UP programs, The Plan (for college) parts I and II.
• Read and work the GEAR UP Student Activity Booklets.
8th grade
• Keep studying.
• Keep saving money.
• Watch the GEARing UP for College DVD.
• Enroll in Oklahoma’s Promise if your parents earn $50,000 or
less per year. You can fill out an application online at www.
okpromise.org.
• Take the Educational Planning and Assessment System’s
(EPAS) EXPLORE test to evaluate your skills in English, math,
reading and science reasoning and to help you begin the
process of career and educational exploration.
• Decide which high school or Advanced Placement (AP)
courses will better prepare you for college. AP courses allow
you to take college-level courses while in high school. Once
you complete the course, you must pass an AP exam to
receive college credit.
HANDOUT
Planning for college –
A year-by-year guide
100 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
9th Grade
• Study on.
• Save on.
• Sign up for Oklahoma’s Promise if you did not apply during
the 8th grade. You can fill out an application online at
www.okpromise.org. Find out about college entrance
requirements.
• Start a plan for college by taking the courses that prepare
you for college-level course work. Meet with your counselor if
needed.
• Get involved in extracurricular activities that help develop
teamwork, leadership and commitment.
10th Grade
• Study, study, study.
• Save, save, save.
• Last opportunity to enroll in Oklahoma’s Promise. The
deadline is June 30. You can fill out an application online at
www.okpromise.org.
• Take core courses required for college entry.
• Take the EPAS PLAN test to evaluate your skills in English,
math, reading and science reasoning and to help you review
your progress toward educational and career goals.
• Investigate your options of taking AP courses as well as
participating in concurrent enrollment, which allows juniors
and seniors to enroll in college courses if they meet certain
requirements.
• Sign up for a practice exam to prepare for the Preliminary
SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/
NMSQT), which will determine your eligibility for a National
Merit Scholarship.
• Make a list of reasons why you like different colleges and
universities – compare degree programs, location, cost, etc.
11th Grade
• More studying.
• More saving.
• Take core courses required for college entry.
• Explore opportunities to earn college credit while in high
school.
• Take the PSAT/NMSQT and the ACT or SAT exams.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 101
• Research financial aid options and deadlines for applying.
• Attend a college day/night event in your area.
• Narrow your choice of colleges and universities you would
like to attend and visit the campuses.
12th Grade
• Have we mentioned studying?
• Have we mentioned saving?
• Take core courses required for college entry.
• Explore opportunities to earn college credit while in high
school.
• Take the ACT or SAT several times to improve your score.
Colleges use these scores to make admissions, guidance and
placement decisions.
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
as soon as possible after Jan. 1. You can complete this form
online at www.fafsa.com.
• Attend a college day/night event in your area.
• Research financial aid options and deadlines for applying.
• Decide which college you would like to attend and submit
­admission
and financial aid applications.
102 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 103
HANDOUT
Senior Planning Checklist
September
Narrow your college choices to three.
Contact admissions offices to schedule campus visits.
Begin your private scholarship search if you haven’t already.
Be mindful of application deadlines.
Attend College Fairs. Check with your College Opportunity
Liaison and school counselor for fair dates.
Schedule ACT/SAT exam
October
Apply for admission to selected college if have not already.
Begin compiling information for private scholarship
applications.
November
Request financial aid information (grant and scholarship)
from the schools you have applied to. Make sure the
information explains available aid, application procedures
and deadline dates.
Obtain a Free Application for Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA).
December
Submit applications for private and institutional (college)
financial aid. Keep a copy of all completed scholarship
applications and information just in case you need to
reference it at a later date.
January
Collect W-2 forms and begin completion of Federal tax
returns used to complete financial aid applications. Mail as
soon after January 1 as possible. Remember the FAFSA can
be completed online as well.
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Take the ACT/SAT again if you haven’t already. Remember,
by taking it again you may increase your score.
February and March
Check on college financial aid application deadlines as well
as scholarship applications if possible.
Promptly respond to any requests for information from
college admissions and financial aid offices.
After Apri l 1, make sure you ….
Respond to offers of admission in a timely manner.
Keep up-to-date on paperwork for admission, financial aid,
housing, etc.
Make sure final transcripts are sent to the college you plan
to attend. (May)
Call admissions office to verify that all information is
complete.
Finalize your budget for the academic year and determine
how you will fund your educational expenses (scholarship,
financial aid or working).
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 105
Goal
To help students learn how to set and achieve goals.
Materials
• How to Set Goals worksheet
• Paper and pen or pencil
Web site
• www.careerplanning.about.com/od/settinggoals/a/setting_goals.htm
Discuss
Goal-setting activities are a great way for you to learn. The
learning process is continuous for everyone. Goal setting helps
you focus on what is good and important to learn for leading a
happy and productive life.
Learning how to live a goal-directed life will involve lessons in
planning ahead, seeking to achieve, outlining thoughts in detail,
self-discipline, character and motivation.
Goa l seting for young peop le
• A goal is “reasonable” when you can see the whole process
needed to achieve it.
• You will experience progress when you set measurements of
your goal. It is also a way to monitor your forward movement
toward your goal and will keep you motivated.
• Goals can provide strong motivation and direction. When
goals are carefully thought out, understandable, with
reasonable objectives, you will maintain a sense of realism
and the hope of attaining the goal.
• People with dreams are likely to attain them.
• A dream can only become a goal if you write it down and
develop a plan of action.
Section 13
Goal setting
106 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
• When a goal is exciting to you, you are energized. You
are excited at the prospect of achieving it because it is
meaningful to you.
• When you set impossible goals, you will become frustrated
and discouraged. Keep your goals challenging, motivating and
attainable!
• If your goals are your own, you will have the desire and
commitment to achieve them.
• Achieving the goal is not as important as who you become in
the process.
• Every step you take in attaining your goal is as important as
the last.
• The difference between a wish and a goal is that a wish will
probably never happen.
Student activities
Pass out the How to Set Goals worksheet. Have students
complete the goal-setting activities.
Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12 • Tool Kit • 107
handout (GRADES 11-12)
How to set goals
Goals should be:
Specific
Measurab le
Attainab le
Rewarding
Time ly
• When goals are specific you can clearly see what you want to
achieve. Be sure to write the goal down.
• You must have a way to measure your progress as you work
toward your goal.
• If your goal is attainable, you see a realistic way and
reasonable chance to achieve it.
• The reward of achieving a goal is exciting! Have clear reasons
for wanting to achieve your goal. Write your goal down, and
if possible, keep it with a picture that you have drawn or cut
out of a magazine. When you become discouraged, look at
your goal and picture. This should remind you of what you
want to achieve.
• Your goal should have a time limit.
108 • Tool Kit • Oklahoma Project FAITH in Student Success for Students in Grades 11-12
My goals
(Once this is complete, hang it up where you can see it
everyday.)
1. Define the goal.
My goal is:
_ _________________________________________________
_ _________________________________________________
2. Decide the steps needed to accomplish it.
The actions I will take to achieve my goal are:
_ _________________________________________________
_ _________________________________________________
3. What are the possible obstacles and how will you
handle them?
The obstacles to achieving my goal are:
_ _________________________________________________
_ _________________________________________________
4. Give yourself a time limit.
I will have accomplished my goal by:
_ _________________________________________________
_ _________________________________________________