Welcome students! Introduce today’s lesson: by the end of this session, you’ll understand graduation credit requirements, explore different course categories, and draft your own four-year plan. Encourage questions and engagement.

Display this slide and walk through each category and required number of credits. Emphasize total credit goal and why each area matters for graduation.

Explain core vs. elective courses and highlight advanced options (AP, Honors). Ask students for examples of electives they enjoy or might try.

Introduce the paired exploration. Remind students to reference the handout. Circulate to support discussions and clarify any surprises in requirements.

Distribute the planning template and guide students through setting up each grade level. Encourage them to think about electives or AP classes they might add.

Invite 2–3 volunteers to share one element of their draft plan. Highlight how they balanced required credits with personal interests. Remind students about next steps with counselors.

Reiterate the importance of planning ahead, using available resources, and staying on track. Encourage students to ask questions outside of class.