Cambridge Advanced Program of Studies (CAPS)
In the 2012-2013 school year, Keys Gate Charter High School will be offering a Cambridge Advanced Program of Studies for grades 8, 9, and 10. The Cambridge/AICE Program is an internationally-recognized, pre-university curriculum which offers a rigorous and relevant program of studies and is sponsored by Cambridge University in England.
The Cambridge Program
The Cambridge Program offers an international, pre-university curriculum and examination system that emphasizes the value of a broad and balanced study for academically able students.
The Cambridge curriculum aims to encourage the skills of independent research and investigation, the use of initiative and creativity and the application of knowledge and skills. A range of assessment techniques is used. Emphasis is placed on the use of externally marked examination papers by the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and on compulsory practical work where appropriate.
An important principle of this examination system is that students are rewarded for positive achievement - what they know, understand, and can do - rather than being penalized for an accumulation of errors. This requires students to demonstrate a high level of literacy and the ability to organize knowledge and ideas to produce reasoned, written responses.
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is a two-year curriculum that provides a strong preparation for higher-level courses such as Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) and A.P. For the many courses students are required to sit for an external examination administered by the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). Upon successful completion students receive individual subject certificates.
For more information on the curriculum available through the Cambridge Program please refer to the Cambridge Information Session presentation given at KGCHS.
Cambridge Student Profile
A Cambridge student is one who:
Is comfortable in an environment where scholarship is the norm
Has a love of learning
Continually challenges herself/himself
Enjoys enhancing his/her critical thinking skills, using information learned in the classroom to develop a deeper level of understanding
Makes academic achievement a high priority and is willing to set aside other priorities to meet this goal
Believes hard work and effort, in tandem with intellectual ability, is the determiner of academic achievement
Is self-motivated
Is comfortable advocating on his/her behalf
Works well independently and in groups
Has good time-management skills
What are the CAPS admission requirements?
Admission to the CAPS will be based on the following:
1. Minimum B average in middle school
2. FCAT Reading & Mathematics 3 or higher
3. Satisfactory Teacher Recommendations
4. Writing Sample (Required for ALL students)
5. Exemplary Attendance and Discipline Records
How to Apply
Please contact Christina Vanorden, CAPS Coordinator, at cvanorden@keysgatecharterhigh.org to to learn more.