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Summer Dip

Summer Acceleration

Why would I do it?

Students accelerate courses over the summer in order to:

  • Fulfill graduation requirements that they haven't met yet

  • Fulfill prerequisites for a different course they want to take

  • Free up time to take more rigorous/challenging/specialized courses

What science classes do people accelerate?

Some students who took Environmental Science in 9th grade decide to accelerate Biology over the summer so that they can take Chemistry in 10th grade. This route also requires taking the Biology Keystone exam over the summer, but allows a student sooner access to more advanced courses. 

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Some students who took Biology in 9th grade decide to accelerate Chemistry over the summer so that they can take AP Chemistry/AP Biology in 10th grade. This is a large step forward, as AP Chem/Bio are both significantly more rigorous than an academic or honors class  (especially for a 10th grader). If choosing this path, though, a student frees up much more extra time in their schedule during their 11th and 12th grade years for more advanced science classes.

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Some students accelerate Physics over the summer in order to take AP Physics the following year. AP Physics is a considerable step up from Physics in rigor, but for students interested in the field, this acceleration can be worth the extra work. 

How do I do it?

Acceleration Request forms are available in the School Counseling Office; for the 22-23 academic year, they are due by April 13, 2023. If your request is approved, more guidelines will be given to you.

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Once approved, there are three methods for acceleration:

  • Online courses through Methacton's summer school provider BVA

  • Private tutoring (not offered for science)

  • Courses through a College/University (often Montgomery County Community College)

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See this link for more details on each option.

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Final Thoughts

The acceleration process can be confusing at times. Be sure to communicate with your counselor and to keep track of your deadlines, so that any confusion can be cleared up before it becomes a problem.

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And remember. This is high school, not college or the workplace. Push yourself, but also cut yourself some slack. Make the course decisions that are right for you, not for anyone else. 

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