A full year has passed since your child entered high school. They may be fully settled into the new routine and enjoying the freedom that high school presents. Many experts claim that sophomore year is a vital time for students to focus on their studies. It isn’t uncommon to see a single decision or temptation alter your child’s course entirely.

Parents may be so focused on establishing firm boundaries and enforcing consequences that academics take a backseat. However, you should always be aware of what your child is learning in school. This can be key to helping them focus more on their studies and pursue higher education later in life.

If you’ve been wondering what your child should be learning during their tenth-grade year, look no further. These basic benchmarks can give you an idea of what their daily classes should look like.

English and Language Arts

A good English teacher will continue to shape your child’s reading level and literacy skills this year. They should be learning and practicing important skills such as citing their own evidence, outlining arguments, and researching their own papers. Their ability to read more difficult texts across a variety of genres increases, as does their vocabulary.

Math

Math classes can vary drastically, but it’s likely that your child will be studying either Algebra II or geometry this year. It’s often up to the student which course they pursue after Algebra I is complete. Some may prefer to do both of their algebra classes back-to-back, while others need a little respite from algebraic equations.\

Science

Science courses will vary based on your child’s school and their personal preferences. They may study anything from physical science to a biology or chemistry course. The emphasis here is often on collecting data, analyzing the results, and writing a comprehensive lab report. No matter what class your student takes, you will often see an overlap between their science, English, and math courses. Education becomes more comprehensive during these high school years.

Social Studies

Because most sophomores have already taken a geography course, your child may move on to American history or economy and government. The goal for high school social studies is to help the children develop a holistic view of world affairs. They should know how the United States was formed, as well as all of the major events that led up to the present day. Government and economy will also help them to understand and explore their own role in the democracy.

Electives

It’s important that your student start to explore some of their other interests during the sophomore year. Elective credits are just as important as mandatory classes, with options ranging from art to physical education to foreign languages. Your child may be able to take extra science classes, an SAT prep course, or a home economics class. This is a great time to find out what they really like and to impress colleges with their vast interests and skills.

The sophomore year is a pivotal year in the high school experience. Many children will need some guidance to develop their own interests and to stay involved in their academics. Parents can help by first understanding what their child should be learning and studying.

Don’t forget to take an active role in helping your child choose classes and study smarter for their classes this year. It could be an essential part of preparing them for college in just a few short years.