Essential Knowledge

What is Essential Knowledge?

You may notice that the MC2 checklist is broken up into two portions: phase work and the Essential Knowledge (or EK). When viewed through the lens of traditional public schooling, the Essential Knowledge portion of the checklist is analogous to your traditional "subjects". They are "one and done." The Essential Knowledge checklist includes items for the Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Designed World, Arts and World Language competencies.

In order to graduate, each MC2 learner must earn all required competencies and portfolios in the EK portion of the checklist. There is not a set amount of EK credit that is required per phase, and finishing the EK portion of the checklist is viewed as a continuous process through the 4 phases. Similarly, the EK checklist can be completed in any order or combination. This flexibility allows students to tackle areas of interest and make interdisciplinary connections with each project. Additionally, all of the EK can be earned in any combination of the four types of Learning Opportunities.

Required EK: STEM subjects

Required EK: Humanities

EK Competencies and Portfolios

EK competencies: Each competency includes a "competency statement" that each learner must show proficient understanding in to earn credit for the competency. This can be earned through one of four ways: Studios, Treks, Internships and Personal Projects. (competency statements included in additional resources at the bottom of the page)

EK portfolios: Each subject on the Essential Knowledge checklist has several specific portfolios. For example, required Science credit is broken up into the Earth & Space, Biology, Chemistry and Physics portfolios. Within each of these portfolios are sets of required competencies that each learner must receive credit for. In order to have a portfolio checked off a learner must first earn all competencies in the portfolio and then write and submit an EK Portfolio (template included in additional resources at the bottom of the page). These EK Portfolios are a written defense in which each learner must document, defend and account for their understanding of each competency within the portfolio.