Graduation policy guide

B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide i Table of Contents Introduction ................................................................................................... 1 British Columbia’s Policy for Student Success .................................................. 3 Provincial Curriculum ..................................................................................... 6 Assessment................................................................................................. 10 Student Progress Reporting ......................................................................... 13 Graduation Requirements ............................................................................ 15 Career Development ................................................................................... 20 Appendix 1 .................................................................................................. 23 Curriculum Overview ................................................................................... 23 Appendix 2 .................................................................................................. 31 Other Means of Obtaining Credit toward Graduation ........................................ 31 Appendix 3 .................................................................................................. 35 Graduation Awards and Credentials .............................................................. 35 Appendix 4 .................................................................................................. 37 Options for Schooling .................................................................................. 37 Appendix 5 .................................................................................................. 40 Graduation Program Policies and Associated Ministerial Orders ........................ 40 August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide i INTRODUCTION The B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide This guide focuses on the curriculum and assessment requirements in Grades 10, 11, and 12 and the related policies for the B.C. Graduation Program. The guide provides a common understanding among educators, students, parents, post-secondary institutions, business, and government of the policies of the B.C. Graduation Program. The B.C. Graduation Program sets the requirements to exit the K-12 education system and ensures that students are graduating from secondary school as educated citizens, with the knowledge, competencies, and skills they will need to transition successfully into higher education, training, or the workforce. This guide also contains information about the Adult Graduation Program, available to students aged 18 and older. A complete summary of all policies within this guide is included in Appendix 5: Graduation Program Policies and Associated Ministerial Orders. What’s New for 2021/22 ➢ The Grade 12 Literacy Assessments (English and French) will be implemented in the 2021/22 school year. ➢ Students, families, teachers and staff should plan for a full return to the classroom in September for the 2021/22 school year. Any adjustments to this will be based on guidance from public health and in accordance with the K-12 Education Recovery Plan and the Provincial COVID-19 Health & Safety Guidelines for K-12 found at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/k-12/administration/programmanagement/safe-caring-and-orderly-schools. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 1 PROVINCIAL CURRICULUM Policy for Student Success Educated citizens who thrive in a rapidly changing world British Columbia (B.C.) has a great education system, and we can make it even better. We have a renewed and clear mandate – to enable every learner to maximize their potential – which fuels our passion and vision that B.C. has educated citizens who thrive in a rapidly changing world. Guided by evidence-driven and innovative practices, advancements in technology, and evolutions within the labour market – both locally and globally – B.C. is dedicated to maintaining its position as a global leader in education by pioneering systemic changes that prepare students for an exciting new world. This preparation is critical to building a strong, sustainable, and prosperous economy for all British Columbians. B.C. schools must do everything possible to prepare all students for their future. While B.C. student success has been good, it is inconsistent. Significant differences in student outcomes exist among Indigenous and vulnerable learners, and other significant differences exist between schools across the province. To address these gaps, we will be guided by the international evidence on best practice and adopt an approach of continuous improvement and capacity building with educational leaders. This policy aims to align our education system’s vision, our legislated mandate, and the work of all boards of education and independent school authorities to further student success. Our Mandate – the Educated Citizen As specified in the Statement of Education Policy Order, the purpose of the B.C. school system is to enable learners to develop their individual potential and to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to contribute to a healthy society and a prosperous and sustainable economy. To achieve this purpose, we have a collective mandate to develop the “educated citizen,” which is defined as having: • Intellectual Development – to develop the ability of students to analyze critically, reason and think independently, and acquire basic learning skills and bodies of knowledge; to develop in students a lifelong appreciation of learning, a curiosity about the world around them, and a capacity for creative thought and expression. • Human and Social Development – to develop in students a sense of self-worth and personal initiative; to develop an appreciation of the fine arts and an understanding of cultural heritage; to develop an understanding of the importance of physical health and well-being; to develop a sense of social responsibility, acceptance and respect for the ideas and beliefs of others. • Career Development – to prepare students to attain their career and occupational objectives; to assist in the development of effective work habits and the flexibility to deal with change in the workplace. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 2 PROVINCIAL CURRICULUM British Columbia’s Policy for Student Success Focus all talents, efforts, and resources on improving student success. Our success will not just be measured by the amount of investment, legislative changes, the number of programs, or the amount of new construction, but rather on how well all students are succeeding in life, regardless of their background or where they live in B.C. – this is our foundation for a prosperous, shared, and sustainable economy. This commitment depends on using evidence to make decisions, having the courage to adjust and improve programs and policies that are not optimal for students, enabling equity of access to quality education for every student, aligning investments that clearly demonstrate better outcomes, and leading through innovative approaches. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 3 PROVINCIAL CURRICULUM Continuous improvement on student success will be guided by the following principles: Quality teaching and leadership – Great teachers and educational leaders have always been the key to student success. The critically important role of teachers in a student’s life will be constantly evolving to adapt to the rapidly changing context in children’s lives. Teachers will act as guides and coaches for learning for all students, including those with diverse learning needs. School leaders and teachers will focus on practices proven to achieve results, including expe riential learning and technology in their classrooms, personal learning opportunities for every student, robust assessments, and time allocated for collaboration with other educators and professional development. Student-centred learning – Students benefit from more flexibility and choice of how, when, and where their learning takes place. This requires maintaining provincial -level consistency in policy design and funding allocation, while enabling the most flexibility as possible to organize and deliver programs within schools. This will become increasingly important as B.C. takes a more inclusive approach to education, ensuring all students – regardless of ability or background – benefit from a learning environment tailored to maximize their potential. It also means offering a greater variety of pathways to graduation and more opportunities for hands-on learning. Future orientation – Because the pace of social, economic, and environmental change is increasing, there is a greater need to enable all students to have essential skills, adaptability, global competencies and citizenship, and ultimately successful transition to employment. Our education system will enhance our efforts to prepare all students for lifelong learning, encourage the use of technology, and be prepared for graduation with practical expectations informed by employers and post-secondary institutions. High and measurable standards – Having a modern and well-developed curriculum that reflects our values and expectations for skills, knowledge, and competencies will be effective for students only if it is complemented by rigorous and consistent learning standards and province-wide assessments. Evidence and international best practice conclude that using information on learning outcomes, especially feedback to learners from assessments, is critical to student success. British Columbia will endeavour to maintain our already high standards on learning outcomes, with a focus on literacy and numeracy, which evidence indicates offers all learners, regardless of background, the best opportunity to succeed in life and contribute to prosperous economy. Healthy and effective learning environments – We will foster inclusive learning environments where all students feel that they are safe and belong – physically and emotionally – and where all students are inspired to explore their personal strengths and interests. To offer healthy learning environments where students, families, and educators can focus on supporting students to achieve their learning outcomes, we will continue to enhance the construction of modern learning environments, enable flexible and virtual learning delivery, and enhance our efforts on physical literacy and best practices on nutrition. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 4 Adult Graduation Program By focusing all talents, efforts, and resources on improving student success, our goal is that all students receive the support they need to graduate on time with their Dogwood Diploma. However, because of personal circumstances, some students need more time to finish their graduation requirements or re-enter the school system as adults to complete their Dogwood Diploma. Recognizing that some adults are not able to complete the 80-credit requirements for the Dogwood Diploma, B.C. also offers an alternative pathway – the B.C. Adult Graduation Diploma, or the “Adult Dogwood” – for learners 18 years of age and older. The Adult Dogwood requires 20 credits of study, some of which may be obtained through post-secondary courses and recognition of learning through work experience and employment. Whether they are pursuing the Dogwood Diploma or the Adult Dogwood, or upgrading for post-secondary or employment, all adult learners should have access to high-quality adult education programs that meet their diverse needs and aspirations. Education programs for adult learners in B.C. will be guided by the following principles: 1. Flexibility: Adult learners can complete the Adult Dogwood as a flexible graduation option. Adult education programs have flexible delivery options through different learning centres, schools, or online learning to meet adult students’ needs. 2. Equity: Adult learners with diverse needs – for example, Indigenous learners, learners with disabilities, and English language learners – all have access to the necessary supports to achieve equitable educational outcomes. 3. Accountability: Adult learners are supported to complete required courses successfully and as soon as possible, to achieve their career goals. 4. High-quality: Adult education programs meet high standards that are recognized by employers and post-secondary institutions. Students are eligible to enter the Adult Graduation Program at 18 years of age. Students under the age of 18 may not enter the Adult Graduation Program and should not be prematurely encouraged to pursue the Adult Dogwood. School staff should ensure that their students on the Adult Graduation Program understand the requirements for graduation and provide them with guidance in planning and course selection. When a school-aged student (aged 18 or 19) is contemplating switching from the B.C. Graduation Program to the Adult Graduation Program, the school should ensure the student and their parent or guardian are fully informed of the implications, including the differences between the Dogwood and Adult Dogwood credentials and the prerequisites needed for post-secondary study. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 5 PROVINCIAL CURRICULUM PROVINCIAL CURRICULUM The provincial curriculum is set by the B.C. Ministry of Education and defines what students are expected to learn at each Grade level and in every subject area. Boards of education and independent school authorities may develop additional individual courses to be offered within their own schools using the Board/Authority Authorized Courses and First Nation Authorized Courses Policy. As of July 2021 First Nations schools may now develop First Nation Authorized courses in accordance with the Board/Authority Authorized Courses and First Nation Authorized Courses Policy. Embedded within B.C.’s curriculum are the following benefits for students: More courses and more choice for students to explore their passions and focus on their interests. Opportunities to learn about Indigenous knowledges and perspectives. Increased opportunities for hands-on and experiential learning. Opportunities to develop the core competencies needed for lifelong learning. Opportunities to develop into an “educated citizen.” The process of researching, reviewing, piloting, and updating the curriculum is ongoing and iterative, and is a key element of continuous improvement in the education system. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 6 PROVINCIAL CURRICULUM Indigenous Knowledges and Perspectives Greater emphasis on Indigenous ways of knowing reflect the First Peoples Principles of Learning in the curriculum. These learning principles will: • Support students in re-examining Canada’s history with a view to better understanding First Peoples’ role and place in its evolution. • Help young people challenge stereotypical portrayals of First Peoples. • Contribute to reconciliation by helping students gain an understanding of the contributions of First Peoples to Canadian society. B.C.’s Curriculum Structure B.C.’s curriculum has been designed with common components: a) Core Competencies, b) Big Ideas, and c) Learning Standards. A. Core Competencies Core Competencies are foundational to the curriculum structure and underpin all areas of learning. They are directly related to the educated citizen and, as such, are what we value for all students in the system. There are three categories of Core Competencies: 1. Communication – the abilities that students use to impart and exchange information, experiences, and ideas to explore the world around them. 2. Thinking (Critical and Creative) – the abilities that students use to generate new ideas and concepts and to examine their own thinking and that of others. 3. Personal and Social (Cultural Identity, Personal Awareness, and Social Responsibility) – the awareness and understanding that students have about the facets that contribute to a healthy sense of oneself; facets include maintaining physical and mental health, self-regulating complex emotions, managing relationships, caring for our planet, and considering the connections between self, others, and the world. B. Big Ideas Big Ideas consist of generalizations, principles, and the key concepts important within an area of learning. Big Ideas represent what students will understand at the completion of their Grade in each area of learning. These concepts extend beyond a single Grade and help build a broad base for a student’s future understanding. C. Learning Standards: Learning Standards contain two distinct elements: 1. Curricular Competencies, which are explicit statements of what is expected at each Grade level in each area of learning. Curricular Competencies are the skills, strategies, and processes that students develop over time and apply to their ongoing lifelong learning. Curricular Competencies are unique to each area of learning. Students are expected to be able to demonstrate (do) the Curricular Competencies. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 7 PROVINCIAL CURRICULUM 2. Content, which is the essential knowledge that students must learn at each Grade level. Students are expected to know the content. These elements are all woven together to form the curriculum structure in the following manner: • Understand the Big Ideas and concepts that can be transferred to other settings. • Know the content of each of the subject areas. • Demonstrate (do) and apply the Curricular Competencies within each area of learning. For detailed descriptions of the curriculum for each of the major subject areas in Grades 10-12, see Appendix 1. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 8 PROVINCIAL CURRICULUM B.C.’s Course Structure Successful learning includes having highquality and engaging learning opportunities that can be tailored to meet the needs of all students. Not all students learn successfully at the same rate, in the same environment, and in the same ways. Consequently, courses are not based on the amount of time spent working with the material, but rather on the actual learning achieved. All courses are structured to easily allow for different teaching methods so that all students are able to access, and be successful in, any course. To further support successful learning, the provincial curriculum will be regularly reviewed and updated to improve the content. This process will include a review of course enrolments and a set of criteria for retiring those courses not used. The Ministry will continue to focus resources on updating provincially created courses. Boards of education and First Nation Approving Bodies will have access to the BAA/FNA processes respectively to provide students with locally relevant course options, including courses that are no longer within the provincial scope. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 9 ASSESSMENT Classroom Assessments Classroom assessments continue to be the primary source of information about student learning. Feedback from ongoing assessments in the classroom can be immediate and personal, helping students identify areas of growth and set new learning goals. Classroom assessments are led by teachers using a variety of assessment methods. Provincial Graduation Assessments There are three Provincial Graduation Assessments: the Grade 10 Numeracy Assessment, the Grade 10 Literacy Assessment, and the Grade 12 Literacy Assessment. Purpose The Provincial Graduation Assessments ensure that all students have the literacy and numeracy skills developed across the provincial curriculum. The Provincial Graduation Assessments align with the curriculum and reflect international trends for large-scale assessments where there is a focus on the competencies required for students to be successful in the modern world. The Provincial Graduation Assessments inform both student learning and system-level performance. The three assessments measure the extent to which students are literate and numerate and provide students with information about their proficiency relative to the provincial curriculum. The Provincial Graduation Assessments also provide information to ensure public accountability, monitor student progress, and ensure that students meet curriculum requirements. The Provincial Graduation Assessments measure the application of numeracy and literacy skills to realistic situations, learned across the course of the students’ education, requiring them to employ the knowledge and skills considered to be essential for future success. The assessments look at students’ ability to apply their knowledge and skills and to analyze, reason, and communicate effectively as they examine, interpret, and solve problems. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 10 ASSESSMENT Policy Requirements for Provincial Graduation Assessments Boards of education and independent schools are required to ensure students participate in Provincial Graduation Assessments. The Provincial Graduation Assessment requirements for all students are as follows: Students must complete both the Graduation Numeracy Assessment and Graduation Literacy Assessments as a requirement for graduation. Students cannot receive equivalency for the Provincial Graduation Assessments. In Grade 10: • Students are expected to write the Grade 10 Numeracy Assessment and the Grade 10 Literacy Assessment. In Grade 12: • Students are expected to write the Grade 12 Literacy Assessment. (Beginning in the 2021/22 school year.) There will be an opportunity for students to re-write the Provincial Graduation Assessments to improve their achievement level. Until graduation, students may write a Provincial Graduation Assessment up to three times: the original attempt and two re-writes. The best outcome for each of the Provincial Graduation Assessments will be recorded on the student’s transcripts. The assessments will be scored on the following scale: Provincial Graduation Assessments Emerging Developing Proficient Extending The student demonstrates an initial understanding of the concepts and competencies relevant to the expected learning. The student demonstrates a partial understanding of the concepts and competencies relevant to the expected learning. The student demonstrates a complete understanding of the concepts and competencies relevant to the expected learning. The student demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the concepts and competencies relevant to the expected learning. A student’s best proficiency level for the Provincial Graduation Assessments will appear on the student’s transcript. However, for the Grade 10 Literacy Assessment and the Évaluation de littératie de la 10e année – Français langue première, the student’s transcript will only indicate “RM” (“requirement met”), and not a proficiency level. Guidelines – Provincial Assessment Adjudication Adjudication is the official process that helps ensure that students with demonstrated needs for supports within educational settings have access to the same supports during the Provincial Graduation Assessments. In B.C., adjudication allows the supports that are currently provided to students in the classroom setting (extra time and speech-to-text or text-to-speech software) to also be provided during the August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 11 ASSESSMENT Provincial Graduation Assessments. Supports may be accessed by students on Provincial Graduation Assessments if the required supports: • are routinely used and provided for classroom based assessments (tests and assessments), which may be reflected in report card comments; and • have been recommended by the School Based Team (rather than an individual teacher, administrator, or other school staff member); and • have been recommended in consultation with a B.C. Association of School Psychologists (BCASP) certified school psychologist or B.C. Registered Psychologist (who may be part of the School Based Team); and • are documented in an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or Student Learning Plan (SLP) and show use over time. In addition, if use of the supports began during the secondary years, documentation is required in the form of: • Standardized academic achievement results or a psycho-educational assessment report, and/or relevant reports from outside agencies that document the need for specific supports; and • Report cards, School Based Team minutes, and/or other school records indicating the student’s need for specific supports. For more information on adjudication, please see the Handbook of Procedures for the Graduation Program. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 12 STUDENT PROGRESS REPORTING Policy Boards of education are required to provide parents with a minimum of five reports throughout the school year describing students’ progress in all areas of learning. Reports are provided at least five times a year (including a final summative report): three formal written reports and two informal reports. The Interim Student Progress Reporting Guidelines for Grades K-9 do not apply to Grades 10-12. Formal written reports: Must include letter grades and percentages, and written comments when deemed appropriate. Must indicate students’ level of performance in relation to the learning standards set out in the curriculum for each course or subject and Grade. Should contain a description of student behaviour, including information on attitudes, work habits, effort, and social responsibility. Provincial transcripts will contain letter grades, percentages, and course credits. As well, the student’s results from the three Provincial Graduation Assessments will be recorded on the transcript. Graduation Numeracy and Literacy Assessments are reported on students’ transcripts using a proficiency scale, except for the Grade 10 Literacy Assessment for which students’ transcripts will indicate only “requirement met.” Students with Diverse Abilities or Disabilities (Special Needs) and English Language Learning and French Language Learning (ELL/FLL) Students Teachers must prepare written student progress reports for all students, including students with diverse abilities or disabilities and ELL or FLL students, as directed by the Board of Education or Independent School Authority. For students with diverse abilities or disabilities who are not working toward the learning standards or learning outcomes of the curriculum but rather toward individualized goals or objectives in an IEP, reporting to parents will be in relation to these specific individual goals. If letter grades are used, it should be stated in the body of the student progress report that the grade is given in relation to the individualized goals and objectives and not in relation to provincial or BAA/FNA curriculum standards and Core Competencies. The same reporting procedures will be used for ELL or FLL students who are not following the learning standards of the provincial curriculum or BAA/FNA curriculum. Where an ELL or a FLL student is following the learning standards or outcomes of the provincial curriculum or a local program, regular reporting procedures are used to show progress. Provincial Letter Grades Order Letter grades and their meaning are defined in the Provincial Letter Grades Order for use in student progress reports. Letter grades are used for all courses, as follows: The student demonstrates excellent or outstanding performance in relation to expected learning standards for the course or subject and Grade. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 13 STUDENT PROGRESS REPORTING The student demonstrates very good performance in relation to expected learning standards for the course or subject and Grade. The student demonstrates good performance in relation to expected learning standards for the course or subject and Grade. The student demonstrates satisfactory performance in relation to expected learning standards for the course or subject and Grade. The student demonstrates minimally acceptable performance in relation to expected learning standards for the course or subject and Grade. (In Progress or Incomplete) The student, for a variety of reasons, is not demonstrating minimally acceptable performance in relation to the expected learning standards. An “I” letter grade may only be assigned in accordance with section 3 of the Order. The letter “I” is used to alert parents and may be used at any time during the school year on informal or formal reports. The underlying principle is that parents and students should be alerted to a problem as soon as teachers detect it. Teachers must be prepared to identify what the problems are and specify plans of action to help students achieve the learning standards. An “I” may be communicated in a variety of ways, including through a written plan, verbally by telephone, or in a direct meeting involving teacher, parents, and students. (Failing) The student has not demonstrated, or is not demonstrating, the minimally acceptable performance in relation to the expected learning standards for the course or subject and Grade. The letter grade “F” may only be assigned if an “I” (In Progress) letter grade has been previously assigned for that course or subject and Grade. (Withdrawal) According to the policy of the board, and upon request of the parent of the student or, when appropriate, the student, the principal, vice principal, or director of instruction in charge of a school may grant permission to a student to withdraw from a course or subject. (Standing Granted) Although completion of normal requirements is not possible, a sufficient level of performance has been attained to warrant, consistent with the best interests of the student, the granting of standing for the course or subject and Grade. Standing Granted may be used in cases of serious illness, hospitalization, late entry or early leaving, but may only be granted by an adjudication process authorized by the principal, vice principal, or director of instruction in charge of the school. Standing Granted may not be used for Career-Life Connections. (Transfer Standing) May be granted by the principal, vice principal, or director of instruction in charge of a school based on an examination of records from an institution other than a school as defined in the School Act. Alternatively, the principal, vice principal, or director of instruction in charge of a school may assign a letter grade based on an examination of those records. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 14 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Students must earn the minimum number of credits required to fulfill one of the four ways to graduate in B.C. Policy I. B.C. Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma) The B.C. Certificate of Graduation, or Dogwood Diploma, is awarded to students who successfully complete the provincial graduation requirements. To graduate, students require at least 80 credits total. Of these 80 credits: • 52 credits are required from the following: – Physical and Health Education 10 (4 credits). – Science 10 (4 credits), and a Science 11 or 12 (4 credits). – Social Studies 10 (4 credits), and a Social Studies 11 or 12 (4 credits). – A Math 10 (4 credits), and a Math 11 or 12 course (4 credits). – A Language Arts 10, 11, and a required 12 course (4 credits required at each Grade, 12 credits total). – An Arts Education 10, 11, or 12 and/or an Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies 10, 11, or 12 (4 credits total). – Career-Life Education (4 credits), and Career-Life Connections (4 credits). • At least 28 credits must be elective course credits. • At least 16 credits must be at the Grade 12 level, including a required Language Arts 12 course and the Career-Life Connections course. In addition, students must also complete three Provincial Graduation Assessments: • • • Grade 10 Literacy Assessment; Grade 10 Numeracy Assessment; and Grade 12 Literacy Assessment. (Beginning in the 2021/22 school year.) II. For French Immersion/Francophone Dual Dogwood French Immersion students can earn both a British Columbia Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma) and a Diplôme de fin d’études secondaires en Colombie-Britannique. To graduate with both diplomas, French Immersion students must meet the graduation requirements for the Dogwood Diploma and, of these 80 credits, they must earn: • At least 16 credits at the Grade 12 level (including a Français langue secondeimmersion course at the Grade 12 level). • Français langue seconde-immersion 10 (4 credits). • A Français langue seconde-immersion course at the Grade 11 level (4 credits). • Français langue seconde-immersion 12 (4 credits). • At least 12 credits in Grade 10, 11, or 12 courses that are in French with at least 4 of these credits at the Grade 11 or 12 level. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 15 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS In addition, French Immersion students must also complete four Provincial Graduation Assessments: • • • • Grade 10 Numeracy Assessment (English or French); Grade 10 Literacy Assessment; Grade 12 Literacy Assessment; and Évaluation de littératie de la 12e année – Français langue seconde-immersion (beginning in the 2021/22 school year). Francophone students can earn both a British Columbia Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma) and a Diplôme de fin d’études secondaires en Colombie-Britannique. To graduate with both diplomas, Francophone students must meet the graduation requirements for the Dogwood Diploma and, of these 80 credits, they must earn: • At least 16 credits at the Grade 12 level (including a required Language Arts 12 course). • An English Language Arts course at the Grade 10 level (4 credits). • An English Language Arts course at the Grade 11 level (4 credits). • A required English Language Arts course at the Grade 12 level (4 credits). • A Français langue première course at the Grade 10 level (4 credits). • A Français langue première course at the Grade 11 level (4 credits). • Français langue première – Français langue et culture 12 (4 credits). In addition, Francophone students must also complete five Provincial Graduation Assessments: • • • • • Évaluation de numératie de la 10e année; Grade 10 Literacy Assessment; Évaluation de littératie de la 10e année – Français langue première; Grade 12 Literacy Assessment; and Évaluation de littératie de la 12e année – Français langue première (beginning in the 2021/22 school year). III. B.C. Adult Graduation Diploma (Adult Dogwood) Students who are 18 years of age or older have the choice of pursuing graduation through a Dogwood Diploma or an Adult Dogwood Diploma. Students must be 18 or older to enter the Adult Graduation Program and become an “adult learner.” To receive the Adult Dogwood, adult learners must complete a minimum of three courses after they have entered the Adult Graduation Program. Courses can be taken through the B.C. school system or as part of Adult Basic Education (ABE) programs at post-secondary institutions. To graduate with an Adult Dogwood, learners must have: • A required Language Arts 12 course (4 credits); • A Math 11 or 12 course (4 credits); and • At least three additional Grade 12 electives, or a Grade 11 Social Studies course and two additional Grade 12 electives (4 credits each). BAA and FNA courses do not meet this requirement. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 16 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Students on the Adult Graduation Program are eligible to receive graduation credit at the Grade 12 level for both Career Life Education and Career Life Connections. These courses should be reported using the course codes CLE 12 for Career Life Education and CLCG12 for Career Life Connections; both course codes are restricted for use only on the Adult Graduation Program. Courses and credits can be counted from the B.C. school system and post-secondary systems provided they have met the criteria for equivalency. Adult learners may also get credit recognition for current or past work skills or competencies or for post-secondary courses they have completed. Adult learners are not required to complete the Graduation Numeracy or Literacy Assessments. IV. International Student Graduation Credit To earn a Dogwood Diploma, international students must meet all graduation requirements and demonstrate competence in one of Canada’s two official languages. There are several specific conditions that pertain to international students. They must earn credit for courses from a British Columbia-certified teacher as stated in the International Student Graduation Credit Policy. No equivalency review or challenge process is permitted for these courses. V. Students Transferring from Another Jurisdiction Students who transfer to a B.C. school from another jurisdiction and begin the B.C. Graduation Program in Grade 11 or 12 must still meet all graduation requirements. Regardless of when students transfer, they must write the Grade 10 Numeracy Assessment and the Grade 12 Literacy Assessment (and the Évaluation de littératie de la 12e année, if applicable) to graduate. However, students who begin the B.C. Graduation Program in Grade 11 or 12 are not required to write the Grade 10 Literacy Assessment to graduate. Francophone students transferring from another jurisdiction are also not required to write the Évaluation de littératie de la 10 e année – Français langue première to graduate. Completion Certificate B.C. School Completion Certificate (Evergreen Certificate) The School Completion Certificate, or Evergreen Certificate, is intended to celebrate success in learning and accomplishments of students with diverse abilities or disabilities (special needs). To be eligible for a School Completion Certificate, the student must be designated in one of the 12 Inclusive Education categories and have an IEP with replacement curriculum. The Evergreen Certificate does not represent graduation and therefore is not equivalent to a B.C. Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma). It represents the completion of personal learning goals as identified in the student’s IEP. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 17 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Graduation Requirements (Dogwood Diploma) Summary of Graduation Requirements: Dogwood Diploma Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12 Required: minimum 52 credits English Language Arts Choose two 2-credit courses:  Composition 10  Creative Writing 10  Literary Studies 10  New Media 10  Spoken Language 10  EFP Writing 10  EFP Literary Studies 10  EFP New Media 10  EFP Spoken Language 10 Choose one 4-credit course: Choose one 4-credit course:        English Studies 12  English First Peoples 12 Mathematics Choose one 4-credit course: Choose one 4-credit course: (Grade 11 or Grade 12)  Foundations of  Foundations of Mathematics and Pre-calculus 10  Workplace Mathematics 10 Science Required 4-credit course:  Science 10 Composition 11 Creative Writing 11 Literary Studies 11 New Media 11 Spoken Language 11 EFP Literary Studies and Writing 11  EFP Literary Studies and New Media 11  EFP Literary Studies and Spoken Language 11            Physics 11 Life Sciences 11 Chemistry 11 Earth Sciences 11 Science for Citizens 11 Environmental Science 11       Physics 12 Anatomy and Physiology 12 Chemistry 12 Geology 12 Environmental Science 12 Specialized Science 12 Choose one 4-credit course: (Grade 11 or Grade 12)  Explorations in Social Studies 11  Francophone History and Culture 11  B.C. First Peoples 12  Contemporary Indigenous Studies 12  Comparative Cultures 12  Comparative World            August 2021 Foundations of Mathematics 12 Apprenticeship Mathematics 12 Pre-calculus 12 Calculus 12 Geometry 12 Statistics 12 Computer Science 12 Choose one 4-credit course: (Grade 11 or Grade 12)       Social Studies Required 4-credit course:  Social Studies 10 Mathematics 11 Pre-calculus 11 Workplace Mathematics 11 History of Mathematics 11 Computer Science 11 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide Religions 12 Economic Theory 12 Human Geography 12 Physical Geography 12 Urban Studies 12 20th Century World History 12 Asian Studies 12 Genocide Studies 12 Political Studies 12 Law Studies 12 Philosophy 12 Social Justice 12 18 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Summary of Graduation Requirements: Dogwood Diploma Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12 Arts Education/ ADST Choose 4 credits at either Grade 10, Grade 11, or Grade 12 Career Education Required 8 credits in Career Education (Grade10, Grade 11, or Grade 12) Physical and Health Education (PHE) Required 4-credit course:  Arts Education (see Table on page 28)  Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies (ADST) ( see Table on page 29)  Career-Life Education  Career-Life Connections (including 30 hours of work experience or career-life exploration)  Physical and Health Education 10 Electives: minimum 28 credits Depending on the school’s offerings and student’s choice, the number of electives in each Grade level will vary. The 28 elective credits in Grades 10-12 can come from the following options: • Ministry-developed or Ministry-approved courses • External Credentials • Post-Secondary (“dual”) credit • Independent Directed Studies (IDS) • Board/Authority Authorized (BAA)/First Nation Authorized (FNA) courses Elective Courses Grade 10: 2-5 electives Grade 11: 3-5 electives Grade 12: 6-8 electives* • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Total: 80 credits required for graduation * at least 16 credits must be at the Grade 12 level, including a required Grade 12 Language Arts course. Graduation Program Assessments Required for Graduation August 2021   Grade 10 Numeracy Grade 10 Literacy B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide  Grade 12 Literacy Beginning in the 2021/22 school year. 19 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Career Development Policy – Career Development and Work Experience Career development is one of the goals of the public education system, shared by schools, family and community. Education programs in B.C. schools should help prepare students for successful employment when they leave the school system. Students need opportunities to explore and research a multitude of education and career pathways, and they need to develop the knowledge and the personal and social competencies to manage their career and life transitions. Required Courses and Training All students are expected to meet the career development learning standards in their Career-Life Education (CLE) and Career-Life Connections (CLC) courses and to complete 30 hours or more of career-life exploration before they graduate. When students complete secondary school, they should have developed the following: • Competencies to be self-directed, responsible individuals who can set and meet career goals. • Knowledge of a range of career choices, and actions needed to pursue those choices . • Employability skills required to work effectively and collaboratively in a workplace. To fulfill the career-life exploration requirements for CLC, all students must provide evidence that they have completed any one of the following: • 30 hours of more of a work placement; • 30 hours or more of volunteer or community service; • 30 hours or more of paid student employment; or • 30 hours or more of fieldwork, entrepreneurship, or projects focused on an area of deep interest. Students must secure school approval that their career-life exploration experience meets the CLC requirement. Students should determine the relevance and eligibility of an experience while enrolled in CLC, with guidance from their teacher-mentor, to ensure clear linkages to personal interests and goals for post-graduation. For students who choose school-authorized paid or unpaid work, volunteering, and/or community service placements as their career-life exploration, boards of education must follow procedures to ensure students are covered by WorkSafeBC during their placement. For more information about the career-life exploration requirements for CLC, please refer to the Career Education 10-12 Guide. CLE and CLC comprise a total of 8 credits that may be distributed across the graduation years, to allow for flexibility of delivery to suit student interests and needs (e.g., CLE and CLC are both 4credit courses that can be delivered in a single 4-credit option, or as two 2-credit options). CLE and CLC do not have designated Grade levels; students can begin their Career-Life courses in Grade 10, 11, or 12, depending on their own needs and interests during these years. The curriculum has been designed to be as flexible as possible to accommodate differences in school structures and grade groupings. Students will typically complete their capstone in their final year. As part of CLC, students must have their career-life exploration component documented and must identify and reflect on the employability skills and competencies they used or developed. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 20 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Elective Courses and Training Students may also seek additional elective graduation credits for work experience and/or training beyond the 30 hours of career-life exploration required by CLC as listed above. All students participating in elective work experience courses must have an in-school orientation to prepare them for the workplace, including instruction on worksite safety awareness. The orientation may also include topics such as employability skills, education skills for specific work placements, worker rights and responsibilities, and employer expectations. In addition, students aged 14 and older can opt to participate in other work experience programming and earn elective credits. These courses may include Youth Work in Trades programming, other industry training/work programs approved by the Industry Training Authority of BC (ITA), or individual situations in which students' paid employment coincides with their career/educational pathway. • Work Experience courses are 4-credit Grade 12 courses with most of course time spent at work placements (outside school). All participating students must complete an in-school orientation to prepare them for the workplace. The orientation includes instruction on worksite safety awareness, the transferability of workplace skills, workers’ rights and responsibilities, and employers’ expectations. • Youth Explore Trades Skills 10-12 provides students with the opportunity to explore a variety of trades (such as carpentry, plumbing, design and drafting, and electronics and robotics) within a high school setting. Both 2-credit and 4-credit options are available, depending on course duration and the successful completion of the course. Students can earn up to a total of 8 credits in Youth Explore Trade Skills providing they are completing different modules. • Youth Explore Trades Sampler is an ITA-authorized suite of courses delivered by postsecondary institutions and other ITA-authorized trainers. It is restricted to three courses (12 credits) as part of these delivery partnerships. With over 300 hours of learning, this program enables students to gain practical skills and complete certifications that employers in the trades sector are seeking. The program is an effective way for students to prepare for apprenticeship programs such as Youth Train in Trades (TRN) and Youth Work in Trades (WRK). • Youth Work in Trades program allows students to earn up to 16 credits toward graduation and be credited for work-based training hours toward future ITA apprenticeship training requirements. This program includes up to 480 hours of work-based training, with some accompanying assignments and employer evaluations. The program is open to students aged 14 to 19, and the work must be paid and in an ITA-recognized trade. • Youth Train in Trades (formerly Skills Exploration) is a dual-credit program (4 credits each), offered through partnerships between school districts and post-secondary institutions with onsite training at either location. Participating students are registered as youth apprentices with the ITA. Students who successfully complete the TRN program can earn up to 12 credits toward graduation and additional post-secondary credentials. • Workforce Training Certificates 12 is a pilot program that allows short, industry-recognized courses (e.g., FOODSAFE, WHMIS, First Aid) to be “bundled” to allow students to receive credit for their learning. In addition, short courses being offered by CompTIA, Microsoft, and other online technology courses help students access employment in the tech sector: 1- to 4-credit options are available, depending on course duration (30 hours of instruction is August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 21 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS approximately 1 elective credit, upon successful completion). Up to 12 credits toward graduation can be earned through this pilot. Workplace Safety This applies only to students seeking specific work experience and/or training beyond the 30 hours required for graduation. The goals of work experience are to help students prepare for the transition from secondary school to the world of work and to help students connect what they learn in the classroom with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed in the workplace. Elective work experience courses, either Work Experience 12A and 12B or locally developed options, are monitored by schools and go beyond the career-life exploration component required by CLC. To be reported as a Ministry-authorized Work Experience 12A or 12B course, the work experience placement must be supported and monitored by the school and commonly consists of school-arranged, non-paid placements. All students participating in elective work experience courses must have in-school orientation to prepare them for the workplace that includes instruction on worksite safety awareness. Boards of education and independent school authorities must follow procedures (see bottom of linked page) to ensure students who participate in work experience and/or school-arranged community service are covered by WorkSafeBC. Before a work experience placement is arranged, the board must establish guidelines for the conduct, supervision, evaluation, and participation of students in the work experience placement. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 22 APPENDIX 1 Curriculum Overview B.C.’s curriculum maintains a focus on sound foundations of literacy and numeracy while supporting the development of citizens who are competent thinkers and communicators and who are personally and socially competent in all areas of their lives. The curriculum honours the ways in which students think, learn, and grow and prepares them for a successful lifetime of learning in which change is constant. On the curriculum website, each area of learning includes: • An introduction providing specifics about features, structure, and important considerations. • Goals and rationale providing the context as well as connections to the development of educated citizens. Please see each individual area of learning for further details. The courses listed under each curricular subject area below represent the entire listing of available Ministry courses. Individual schools determine which courses they will offer during any given school year. All courses listed are 4 credits unless otherwise indicated in the Course Registry. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 23 APPENDIX 1 English Language Arts and English First Peoples Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the English Language Arts and English First Peoples curriculum is available on the curriculum website. English Language Arts/ English First Peoples Curriculum Composition 10 Creative Writing 10 Literary Studies 10 New Media 10 Spoken Language 10 EFP Literary Studies 10 EFP New Media 10 EFP Spoken Language 10 EFP Writing 10 (Composition and Creative Writing) Composition 11 Creative Writing 11 Literary Studies 11 New Media 11 Spoken Language 11 EFP Literary Studies and New Media 11 EFP Literary Studies and Spoken Language 11 EFP Literary Studies and Writing 11 (Composition and Creative Writing) English Studies 12* English First Peoples 12* Composition 12 Creative Writing 12 Literary Studies 12 New Media 12 Spoken Language 12 * One of these two 4-credit courses is required for graduation. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 24 APPENDIX 1 Français langue première Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Français langue première curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Français langue première Curriculum Études littéraires et artistiques + Expression orale 10 Études littéraires et artistiques + Nouveaux médias 10 Études littéraires et artistiques + Production écrite 10 Études littéraires et artistiques + Expression orale 11 Études littéraires et artistiques + Nouveaux médias 11 Études littéraires et artistiques + Production écrite 11 Français langue et culture 12* * One 4-credit course required for graduation. Français langue seconde-immersion Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Français langue secondeimmersion curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Français langue seconde-immersion Curriculum Français langue seconde-immersion 10 Communication orale 11 Études du cinéma et de la littérature francophones 11 Langue et culture de la francophonie 11 Médias et communication numérique 11 Français langue seconde-immersion 12* Communication orale 12 Études du cinéma et de la littérature francophones 12 Langue et culture de la francophonie 12 Médias et communication numérique 12 * One 4-credit course required for graduation. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 25 APPENDIX 1 Indigenous Languages Information about existing Indigenous Language courses in B.C. and the process for developing new Indigenous Languages courses is available on the Ministry website. Indigenous Languages of British Columbia Curriculum Gitxsenimx ~ Gitxsanimax 5 to 12 (2014) Halq’eméylem 5 to 12 (2007) Heiltsuk 5 to 12 (2002) Hul’q’umi’num’ 5 to 12 (2007) Kwak’wala 5 to 12 (2010) Liqwala/Kwakwala 5 to 12 (2008) nsíylxcən 5 to 12 (1999) Tsek’ene 5 to 12 (2006) Upper St’at’imcets 5 to 12 (1998) Xaayda Kil / Xaad Kil Grades 5 to 12 (2017) Nte?kepmxcin 5 to 12 (2008) Nuučaan̓uɫ 5 to 12 (2009) Secwepemctsin 5 to 12 (1999) SENĆOŦEN 5 to 12 (2012) Shashishalem 5 to 12 (2001) Sim’algaxhl Nisga’a 5 to 12 (2001) Sm’algyax 5 to 12 (2000) St̓át̓y̓emcets 5 to 12 (2020) Mathematics Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Mathematics curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Mathematics Curriculum Foundations of Mathematics and Pre-calculus 10 Workplace Mathematics 10 Computer Science 11 Foundations of Mathematics 11 History of Mathematics 11 Pre-calculus 11 Workplace Mathematics 11 Apprenticeship Mathematics 12 Calculus 12 Computer Science 12 Foundations of Mathematics 12 Geometry 12 Pre-calculus 12 Statistics 12 August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 26 APPENDIX 1 Science Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Science curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Science Curriculum Science 10 Chemistry 11 Earth Sciences 11 Environmental Science 11 Life Sciences 11 Physics 11 Science for Citizens 11 Anatomy and Physiology 12 Chemistry 12 Environmental Science 12 Geology 12 Physics 12 Specialized Science 12 Social Studies Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Social Studies curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Social Studies Curriculum Social Studies 10 Explorations in Social Studies 11 Histoire et culture francophone 11 (Francophone History and Culture 11) 20th Century World History 12 Asian Studies 12 B.C. First Peoples 12 Comparative Cultures 12 Comparative World Religions 12 Contemporary Indigenous Studies 12 Economic Theory 12 Genocide Studies 12 Human Geography 12 Law Studies 12 Philosophy 12 Physical Geography 12 Political Studies 12 Social Justice 12 Urban Studies 12 Second Languages August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 27 APPENDIX 1 Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Second Languages curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Second Languages Curriculum American Sign Language 5-12 Core French 5-12 German 5-12 Italian 5-12 Japanese 5-12 Korean 5-12 Mandarin 5-12 Punjabi 5-12 Spanish 5-12 Arts Education Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Arts Education curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Dance Curriculum Drama Curriculum Dance Choreography 10 Drama 10 Dance Company 10 Theatre Company 10 Dance Foundations 10 Theatre Production 10 Dance Technique and Performance 10 Dance Choreography 11 Dance Company 11 Dance Conditioning 11 Directing and Script Development 11 Drama 11 Film and Television 11 Dance Technique and Performance 11 Theatre Company 11 Theatre Production 11 Dance Choreography 12 Directing and Script Development 12 Dance Conditioning 12 Choral Music 10 (Concert Choir, Chamber Choir and Vocal Jazz) Contemporary Music 10 Instrumental Music 10 (Concert Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band and Guitar) Dance Foundations 11 Dance Company 12 Music Curriculum Drama 12 Dance Foundations 12 Film and Television 12 Dance Technique and Performance 12 Theatre Production 12 Theatre Company 12 Choral Music 11 (Concert Choir, Chamber Choir and Vocal Jazz) Composition and Production 11 Contemporary Music 11 Visual Arts Curriculum Art Studio 10 Photography 10 Studio Arts 2D 10 Studio Arts 3D 10 Art Studio 11 Graphic Arts 11 Photography 11 Studio Arts 2D 11 Studio Arts 3D 11 Instrumental Music 11 (Concert Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band and Guitar) Choral Music 12 (Concert Choir, Chamber Choir and Vocal Jazz) Composition and Production 12 Contemporary Music 12 Art Studio 12 Graphic Arts 12 Photography 12 Studio Arts 2D 12 Studio Arts 3D 12 Instrumental Music 12 (Concert Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band and Guitar) Cross-disciplinary and Interdisciplinary Arts Media Arts 10 Musical Theatre 10 Media Arts 11 Musical Theatre 11 Media Arts 12 Musical Theatre 12 Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 28 APPENDIX 1 Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Business Education Curriculum Entrepreneurship and Marketing 10 Home Economics and Culinary Arts Curriculum Information and Communications Technologies Curriculum Technology Education Curriculum Culinary Arts 10 Computer Studies 10 Drafting 10 Family and Society 10 Media Design 10 Electronics and Robotics 10 Food Studies 10 Web Development 10 Metalwork 10 Textiles 10 Power Technology 10 Technology Explorations 10 Woodwork 10 Accounting 11 Culinary Arts 11 Marketing and Promotion 11 Food Studies 11 Tourism 11 Interpersonal and Family Relationships 11 Textiles 11 Computer Information Systems 11 Computer Programming 11 Digital Communications 11 Graphic Production 11 Media Design 11 Automotive Technology 11 Drafting 11 Electronics 11 Engineering 11 Metalwork 11 Robotics 11 Woodwork 11 Accounting 12 Child Development and Caregiving 12 Computer Information Systems 12 Culinary Arts 12 Computer Programming 12 E-Commerce 12 Fashion Industry 12 Economics 12 Food Studies 12 Digital Media Development 12 Entrepreneurship 12 Housing and Living Environments 12 Business Computer Applications 12 Financial Accounting 12 Tourism 12 Art Metal and Jewellery 12 Automotive Technology 12 Drafting 12 Electronics 12 Graphic Production 12 Engine and Drivetrain 12 Media Design 12 Engineering 12 Specialized Studies in Food 12 Textiles 12 Furniture and Cabinetry 12 Industrial Coding and Design 12 Machining and Welding 12 Mechatronics 12 Metalwork 12 Robotics 12 ROVs and Drones 12 Woodwork 12 August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 29 APPENDIX 1 Career Education Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Career Education curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Career Education Curriculum Career-Life Education Career-Life Connections (includes Capstone and 30 hours of career-life exploration) Work Experience and Apprenticeship Training Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Work Experience and Apprenticeship Training curriculum is available on the Ministry website. (Note: Work Experience, Youth Work in Trades, and Youth Train in Trades may be used to fulfill the Applied Design Skills and Technology portion of the graduation requirements.) Work Experience and Apprenticeship Training Ministry Authority: Work Experience 12A Work Experience 12B Workforce Training Certificates 12 Youth Train in Trades* (formerly Accelerated Credit Enrolment in Industry Training) ITA Authority: Youth Explore Trade Skills 10-12A (formerly Skills Exploration 10-12 A/B) Youth Explore Trade Skills 10-12B (formerly Skills Exploration 10-12 A/B) Youth Work in Trades 11 (formerly Secondary School Apprenticeship) Youth Work in Trades 12 (formerly Secondary School Apprenticeship) Youth Explore Trades Sampler 12A* Youth Explore Trades Sampler 12B* Youth Explore Trades Sampler 12C* * Industry Training Authorized / Post-Secondary Course Offering Physical and Health Education Information on the overall purpose, intention, and goals of the Physical and Health Education curriculum is available on the curriculum website. Physical and Health Education Curriculum Physical and Health Education 10 Active Living 11 Fitness and Conditioning 11 Outdoor Education 11 Active Living 12 Fitness and Conditioning 12 Outdoor Education 12 August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 30 APPENDIX 2 Other Means of Obtaining Credit toward Graduation Besides successfully completing Ministry courses in B.C., public and independent school students can earn credits toward graduation in a variety of ways. The following credit options align with the principles of personalized learning, flexibility, and choice for students and help provide inclusive opportunities for students to follow their interests and passions as part of their learning. Policy – Board/Authority Authorized (BAA) and First Nation Authorized (FNA) courses BAA/FNA courses offer the means to fulfill elective graduation requirements, and there is no limit to the number of these courses that may be used to satisfy the 28 credits of electives required for graduation. However, BAA courses developed by schools and approved by boards of education or independent school authorities need to align with Ministry curriculum and structure. FNA courses, developed for First Nations schools to offer locally relevant courses, are approved in accordance with the FNAC Process. BAA/FNA courses are not eligible for the Adult Graduation Program requirements, but students on a School Completion Certificate Program may take BAA courses. Grade 12-level BAA/FNA courses count toward the 16 Grade 12-level credits required for graduation. Grade 11-level BAA/FNA courses that align with Ministry Grade 11 Arts Education or Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies curriculum may be used to satisfy the graduation requirements for Arts Education and/or Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies. BAA/FNA courses can include courses that: • Meet the Arts Education and/or Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies graduation requirement (Grade 11-level BAA/FNA courses only). • Prepare students with diverse abilities or disabilities (special needs) through skill instruction to be successful across a wide variety of subjects and settings . • Address the cultural and academic literacy needs of English Language Learners (Schools developing BAA ELL courses must follow the ELL Course Guidelines). BAA/FNA courses may not include: • Remedial courses designed to help students succeed in meeting the learning standards of Ministry courses (e.g., Prep for Provincial Math 12). • Courses with significant overlap of learning with Ministry courses; that is, courses that are: – Modified, adapted, or partial versions of Ministry courses. – Hybrids of two or more Ministry courses (e.g., a Literary Aspects of Social Studies course that combines the learning standards of Ministry English Language Arts and Social Studies curriculum). August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 31 APPENDIX 2 Policy – Earning Credit through Equivalency, Challenge, External Credentials, Post-Secondary Credit and Independent Directed Studies Students learn in a variety of ways, some of which takes place outside of British Columbia or outside of the regular secondary school program. Schools will grant credit toward graduation for learning that has been assessed and matches or exceeds provincial, national, or international standards. There is no limit to the number of credits that may be awarded through equivalency, challenge, independent directed studies, dual credit, or external credentials. Equivalency Courses taken outside of B.C. may be eligible for equivalency credit if they closely match the content of provincial curriculum for Grades 10, 11, or 12. Courses taken outside of the B.C. school system may qualify for equivalency credit if: • Sufficient content has been covered to enable the student to be successful in further learning in the content area. • The student provides documentation that the learning standards of the course were successfully completed. Unique equivalency rules apply to most international students. For details, refer to the International Student Graduation Credit Policy. Students may also be granted equivalency credit based on previously acquired knowledge and skills. Adult students who hold valid trades and occupational qualifications may be able to demonstrate, through copies of examination specifications, detailed course outlines, instructors’ reports, documented on-the-job training or work experience, and/or portfolios, that they have completed sufficient content to enable them to be successful in further learning in the content area. Students may receive credit for language learning acquired outside the regular classroom through equivalency credit for the following Ministry-developed language courses and courses developed using the Ministry-approved language templates: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • American Sign Language Arabic Croatian French German Gitxsenimx~Gitxsanimax Halq’eméylem Heiltsuk Hul’q’umi’num Italian Japanese Korean Kwak’wala Liqwala/Kwak’wala August 2021 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Mandarin nśiylxcәn, Nte?kepmxcin Nuučaańut Punjabi Russian Secwepemctsin SENĆOŦEN Shashishalem Sim’algaxhl Nisga’a Sm’algyax Spanish Tsek’ene Upper St’át’imcets Xaayda Kil/Xaad Kil. B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 32 APPENDIX 2 External Language Certificates External Language Certificates are used to recognize learning in all languages other than those noted above or to grant credit in these languages for documented learning that may not meet the criteria for equivalency. In all cases, the learning must be documented by an education authority. A student who presents appropriate documentation will be eligible to receive credit for all other languages not listed above. Acceptable External Language Certificates are: • Documentation from other Canadian provinces and territories (see the External Language Certificate codes in the online Course Registry). • Documentation from international educational jurisdictions. Challenge With some exceptions, all students can undertake a free challenge process to assess their prior learning for any Ministry-developed Graduation Program course. Students can challenge a course if they are currently enrolled in the school district, registered as a home schooler, or enrolled in the Online learning school where the challenge is being requested. Students may not challenge a course they have previously passed, completed, or for which they have been granted equivalency credit. Prior to engaging in a challenge process, schools will review any documentation of prior learning presented by the student to determine if credit can be awarded through equivalency. The challenge process must assess students on all Curricular Competencies, Content, and course learning standards of Grades 10, 11, and 12 courses. Examples of challenge assessment strategies include hands-on demonstrations, oral performances, interviews, written examinations, or presentations of a collection of work. Awarding credit through challenge will be based on the same standards used for students who have taken the course through enrolment. A challenge is considered successful when a student has achieved at least a grade of C- and 50 percent. External Credentials The External Credentials program allows students in Grades 10 through 12 an opportunity to earn credit toward graduation for documented learning completed through Ministry-accredited external organizations (e.g., Royal Conservatory of Music, Cadets, driver education, external sports programs). The Ministry of Education has the sole authority to set standards for approval of external credentials and assessments. The Ministry provides an official list of these approved credentials and assessments to schools. This list is published in the Ministry’s online Course Registry. Some external credentials can be used to meet specific graduation requirements and others as elective courses. Grade 12-level external credentials count toward the required number of Grade 12-level credits needed to meet graduation requirements. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 33 APPENDIX 2 Post-Secondary Courses for Credit (Dual Credit) Dual credit programs and courses allow students to earn high school and post-secondary credits at the same time. School districts and their post-secondary partners may offer a variety of dual credit options. Opportunities have included trades, technology, health and human services, business, sport and exercise, and arts and science. Students who provide their school with a recognized post-secondary institution transcript showing their successful completion of a for-credit course leading to a credential receive elective course credit at the Grade 12 level. Independent Directed Studies (IDS) Students can initiate their own area of learning and receive credit toward graduation. IDS credits may be awarded by boards of education, independent school authorities, and First Nations Approving Bodies to students who have successfully completed independent work based on the content of Grades 10, 11, or 12 Ministry-developed courses or BAA/FNA courses. IDS credits may be used only to satisfy elective requirements. The maximum value for a single IDS course is 4 credits, and there is no limit to the total number of IDS credits a student can earn. Grade 12 IDS credits can count toward the minimum 16 Grade 12 credits needed for graduation. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 34 APPENDIX 3 Graduation Awards and Credentials Policy – Graduation Credentials for Francophone and French Immersion Students The Province of British Columbia recognizes Francophone students have the right to be educated in French. The Province also provides French Immersion programs so that students may reach high levels of proficiency in French, one of Canada’s official languages. Proficiency is recognized with a graduation certificate in French. B.C. students enrolled in a Francophone education authority and students enrolled in French Immersion programs are entitled to be issued B.C. graduation certificates in French and English, provided they meet specific requirements: • Francophone students can earn two certificates, one in French, and one in English. Francophone students will earn both a Diplôme de fin d’études secondaires en Colombie-Britannique and a British Columbia Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma) if they meet the graduation requirements as set out in the Graduation Program Order. • French Immersion students can earn both a British Columbia Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma) and a Diplôme de fin d'études secondaires en Colombie-Britannique. They will earn both if they meet the graduation requirements as set out in the Graduation Program Order. French Immersion students who earn a Diplôme de fin d'études secondaires en Colombie-Britannique receive a French Immersion program designation on their transcripts. Students should write Provincial Graduation Assessments in the language of their instruction. School principals may allow individual students to write in either English or French, rather than the language of instruction, if the principal deems this to be in a student’s best interest. Policy – Provincial Scholarships Program The Provincial Scholarships Program recognizes student achievement and encourages students to pursue post-secondary education. There are four scholarships in the Provincial Scholarships program: B.C. Achievement; District/Authority; B.C. Excellence; and, Pathway to Teacher Education. To be eligible, students must satisfy these core requirements: • Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (landed immigrant) and have that on record with the school at which they registered for Grade 12. • Must be a B.C. resident. • Must be a student enrolled or registered, as follows, in the school year for which the scholarship is awarded: – enrolled in a British Columbia public school (including Online Learning schools); or – enrolled in a Group 1, 2, or 4 British Columbia Independent School; or – enrolled in a Continuing Education Centre; or August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 35 APPENDIX 3 • – registered with a public, independent, or Online Learning school in B.C. as a homeschooled child. Must graduate and complete all requirements between September 1 and August 31. (Note: for the purposes of the Provincial Scholarships Program, students who complete requirements during the summer, by August 31, are part of the preceding cohort of graduates.) – Schools must report all student information (including marks for repeated courses when students attempt to upgrade) to the Ministry by August 31; information provided later may not be considered. In addition to these core eligibility requirements, there are specific requirements for each scholarship. For more information, see the Ministry’s Provincial Scholarships Program webpage. Policy – Student Credentials The Student Credentials Policy describes the credentials that are awarded to students who meet B.C. graduation requirements. The policy provides guidelines for entitlement and sets out guidelines on the transcript of grades and the calculation of honours standing. Student credentials are a student entitlement and may not be withheld from students for administrative reasons such as “fees not paid.” The credentials include: • British Columbia Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma) – issued upon successful completion of the provincial graduation requirements. • British Columbia Adult Graduation Diploma (Adult Dogwood) – issued upon successful completion of the provincial adult graduation requirements. • British Columbia School Completion Certificate (Evergreen Certificate) – awarded to a student with diverse abilities or disabilities (special needs) who has an Individual Education Plan and who meets the goals of their educational program other than graduation. Guidelines include: • Transcript of Grades (Grades 10, 11, and 12) – provides prospective employers and post-secondary institutions with relevant information about students’ Graduation Program results. • Honours Standing – a student is entitled to receive a transcript of their grades marked with the phrase “Achievement with Honours” where the student has successfully completed the graduation requirements and obtained a grade point average of greater than 3.0. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 36 APPENDIX 4 Options for Schooling In B.C., children between the ages of 5 and 18 attend Kindergarten to Grade 12 programs at either an elementary or secondary school. Parents can choose to enroll their child in either a public or independent school that offers these programs. There are approximately 350 independent schools and about 1,600 public schools. Public Schools B.C. is divided into 60 school districts which administer publicly funded education until the end of Grade 12 in local areas or, in the case of Francophone education, across the province. B.C.’s public Kindergarten to Grade 12 education system is managed by local boards of education with elected trustees who ensure that schools provide a high-quality education for students and who provide leadership and encouragement, meeting both community aspirations and provincial guidelines. Trustees also cooperate with the community and social service agencies to deliver noneducational support services to students. Boards of education focus on: • Implementation of provincial and local education programs. • School finance and facilities. • Student access and achievement. • Teaching performance. • Accountability to parents, taxpayers, community and the Province. The Province has the statutory and constitutional right to determine public education policy for the province; boards of education represent the public interest by governing school districts in accordance with legislation and in response to local and provincial values and pri orities. The Ministry of Education sets policies for B.C.’s public school system, ensuring that students have a quality education, provided in a cost-effective manner. It sets standards and directions for the education system, provides leadership and encouragement to all educational agencies in the province, and co-operates with provincial agencies to deliver non-educational support services to students. The Ministry provides a high-level focus on: • Finance and facilities. • Program direction, development, and implementation. • Student access and achievement. • Teaching performance. • System evaluation and public accountability. Independent Schools B.C.’s independent schools offer an alternative to public school education. Their programs range from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Parents and students often choose these schools for their specific philosophical, religious, or educational approach. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 37 APPENDIX 4 Independent schools are regulated under separate legislation, the Independent School Act. Independent schools follow their own specific procedures, policies, funding guidelines, and teacher certification. Independent schools have a responsibility to register with the Ministry of Education and to provide the Ministry with appropriate information, and the Ministry has a responsibility to ensure that these regulations and policies are implemented. First Nations Schools First Nations schools are funded by the federal government and operated by local First Nations. First Nations schools in B.C. are supported by the First Nations Education Steering Committee (FNESC) and the First Nations Schools Association (FNSA). Most First Nations schools are outside of the Province’s jurisdiction. Some choose to also become B.C. certified independent schools. B.C. works in partnership to help build capacity in the First Nations school system. B.C. has: • Consulted on changes to provincial education legislation, policy, standards, and funding. • Shared expertise, learning resources, and bulk purchasing opportunities. • Given on-reserve schools access to B.C. graduation assessments, the Dogwood Diploma, and the Adult Dogwood Diploma. To fulfill commitments in the British Columbia Tripartite Education Agreement (BCTEA), the Ministry has been working directly with the FNSA to deliver assessments and to graduate students in First Nations schools under federal jurisdiction. Homeschooling Policy – Homeschooling Policy Homeschooling is an alternative method of teaching offered outside the B.C. education system. Typically, a family member delivers the entire educational program to children at home. Homeschooling in B.C.: • Is not supervised by a B.C.-certified teacher. • Is not required to meet provincial standards. • Is not inspected by the Ministry of Education. For complete details, including related procedures, please see the current policy online. Offshore Schools The B.C. Offshore Schools Program makes it possible for schools in other countries (offshore schools) to offer the B.C. curriculum to international students. To qualify as a B.C. offshore school, specific standards must be met. For example, schools must employ B.C.-certified teachers, maintain adequate facilities and undergo regular inspections. Getting into a Canadian university or post-secondary program is more straightforward for students who have a graduation diploma from B.C. Through the B.C. Global Education Program, international students can complete B.C. curriculum in English and earn a Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma). The program is available at schools in B.C. (onshore schools) and in some other countries (offshore schools). August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 38 APPENDIX 4 Other Pathways to Graduation Alternate Education Program Policy – Alternate Education Program Alternate education programs focus on the educational, social, and emotional issues of students whose needs are not being met in a traditional school program. An alternate education program provides support and responds to students’ individual needs through different ways of instruction, specialized program delivery, and enhanced counselling services while still offering both the Graduation Program and the Adult Graduation Program. For complete details, including related procedures, please see the online learning website (online learning). Online Learning Policy – Online Learning – General Online learning lets students learn at a distance from their teacher via the Internet or a blend of some classroom instruction. It offers flexibility and opportunity for students to learn outside of the traditional classroom setting or schedule. Students must meet the same standards and follow the same curriculum as in public schools. For complete details, including related procedures, please see the current policy online. French Immersion Program Policy – French Immersion Program French Immersion programs provide the opportunity for non-Francophone students to become bilingual in English and French. Instruction of the basic curriculum is given entirely in French during the first years, depending on late or early French immersion, and English is still taught in most elementary programs to some extent. Once students have a firm base in French, instruction in English language arts is added, and instruction in the English language gradually increases. Students continue learning certain subjects in French so that proficiency is achieved in both languages by the end of Grade 12. French Immersion programs must parallel the regular English program in structure and content. For complete details, including related procedures, please see the current policy online. Francophone Program The Francophone Program provides the opportunity for Francophone students to learn both French and English Language Arts in a Francophone environment and develop their identity as Francophone individuals. The Francophone Program is offered only by the Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique (CSF – School District #93), a public school district present in many locations throughout the province. The program is available only to students whose parents qualify based on Section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Instruction of all curriculum is given entirely in French, except for English Language Arts. The Francophone Program parallels the regular English program in structure and content. For further details, please see the applicable policies online or visit the CSF website. August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 39 APPENDIX 5 Graduation Program Policies and Associated Ministerial Orders Ministerial Orders • Board Authorized Course Order • British Columbia Adult Graduation Requirements Order • Educational Program Guide Order • Provincial Graduation Assessment Order • Student Progress Report Order Policy Authority Board/Authority Authorized Courses Policy • The School Act, Sections 85 (2)(i) and 168 (2)(b) Career Development Policy • Ministerial Order 237/11, the Work Experience Order Earning Credit through Equivalency, Challenge, External Credentials, PostSecondary Credit and Independent Directed Studies Policy • Ministerial Order 302/04, the Graduation Program Order Elective Work Experience Courses and Workplace Safety Policy • Ministerial Order 237/11, the Work Experience Order Graduation Credentials for Francophone and French Immersion Students • Ministerial Order 302/04, the Graduation Program Order Graduation Requirements Policy • Ministerial Order 302/04, the Graduation Program Order International Student Graduation Credit Policy • Ministerial Order 302/04, the Graduation Program Order Large-Scale Assessment Policy • The School Act, Section 168 (2) • Ministerial Order M60/94, the Student Learning Assessment Order • Ministerial Order 164/96, the Student Credentials Order • Ministerial Order 302/04, the Graduation Program Order Related legislation: • School Act, section 17: Teachers' responsibilities • School Act, section 168 (2)(d)(d.1): Jurisdiction of minister • School Act, section 174: Appointment of Boards of Examiners Student Credentials Policy • Ministerial Order 164/96, the Student Credentials Order • Ministerial Order 302/04, the Graduation Program Order • Ministerial Order 320/04, the British Columbia Adult Graduation Requirements Order August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 40 APPENDIX 5 Policy Authority Student Reporting Policy • Ministerial Order 192/94, the Provincial Letter Grades Order • Ministerial Order 191/94, the Student Progress Report Order • Ministerial Order 190/91, the Permanent Student Record Order • Ministerial Order 295/95, the Required Areas of Study Order • Regulation 265/89, the School Regulation Career-Life Connections and WorkSafeBC Coverage • Ministerial Order 237/11, the Work Experience Order Other Related Policies • Alternative Delivery in the Physical and Health Education Curricula Policy • Alternate Education Program Policy • Online Learning - General • Homeschooling Policy • Provincial Scholarships Program Policy • Recognition of Post-Secondary Transition Programs for Funding Purposes Policy • Special Education Policy August 2021 B.C. Graduation Program Policy Guide 41