Programs & Services

Adult Basic Education (ABE)

DCDAL offers online instruction for the remediation of basic math, reading, and writing skills to adults (16 years of age and older) who have officially withdrawn from school.  The goal for participants is to increase their skills to obtain employment, access vocational training, enroll in college, support their children’s education, and/or become more engaged within the communities they live.  This program prepares students for the required skills levels they need to qualify and be successful in the the GED® Preparation program and/or the James H. Groves Adult High School program.

The GED®preparation program offers online instruction in the subject areas covered by the GED® tests: science, social studies, reasoning through language arts, and mathematical reasoning. Students who complete this course will be prepared to take the GED® test. With the GED® credential, students may advance in their employment, join the military, or enroll in college level courses or other specialized training programs.

It is expected that students will work consistently on a weekly basis to complete coursework in all areas of the GED® Preparation program which include:

• Lessons/Assessments in Essential Education
• Readings/Skills Checks in the Civics Course
• Writing Assignments in the COA5 Writing Course

Questions?  Please contact Theresa Gray at 1-302-883-0420 / theresagray@dcdal.org

Click here for detailed accessibility information for our ABE/GED Preparation Programs.

James H. Groves Adult High School

DCDAL’s online format offers students an independent and flexible way to complete the courses required for a James H. Groves High School diploma. DCDAL is the online center for the James H. Groves Adult High School.  The James H. Groves Adult High School is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Individuals enroll at DCDAL by registering to attend an in-person placement test and orientation session. A program counselor will review your previous high school transcript(s) and create an individualized graduation plan. After successful completion of the placement test and orientation, students will be enrolled in online courses based on their individualized graduation plan. After a student completes all of the online assignments in a class, the student will be scheduled to complete an in-person final exam to earn the course credit.

Graduation Requirements

The courses offered through DCDAL translate into credits/units that can be applied towards a James H. Groves High School diploma. To graduate from our program, students must earn 24 units of high school credit.

Required credits include (subject to change):

*Including 1 unit of credit in US History/**Including 1 unit of credit in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry/***Including 1 unit of credit in Biology

The workload for an online Groves course is often more demanding than in a traditional classroom because each course is equivalent to two full semesters of course work although offered in shorter time frame. Students may earn two credits or more per semester. Students may earn the necessary credits in several ways:

• Students may transfer credits earned in other states and other accredited schools to DCDAL. Students who have not participated in Groves before should have all relevant transcripts sent to DCDAL and speak with a  counselor to determine how many additional credits are needed.
• Students attending other Groves sites may earn additional credits by taking DCDAL Groves courses.
• Students may earn a total of 10 units of credit by meeting the requirements for the CEA3 (Certificate of Educational Attainment.)
• Credits may be awarded for approved employment or training experience.
• Credits may be awarded upon completion of approved vocational or apprenticeship courses.
• Veterans may be granted credit based on military training and service.
• Higher education courses will be awarded credit as designated by Delaware Department of Education policy.
• Certain community service experience may be approved for a unit of credit.
• Credits may be earned through participation in approved internship programs.

Course Listing

English

Business Communications A

This course presents an overview of oral and written communication skills with an emphasis on the business environment.  Principles and effective practices in communication with the integration of technology will be applied to specific assignments which will incorporate critical listening, speaking, and thinking skills for everyday use.   ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Business Communications B

This course presents an overview of oral and written communication skills with an emphasis on reading and interpreting text especially within the business environment.  Principles and effective practices in communication with integration of technology will be applied to specific assignments which will incorporate critical listening, speaking, and thinking skills for everyday use.  ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Composition Writing A

This course presents the specific skills necessary for enabling the student to write clear and coherent essays in the informative and argument style. The ultimate outcome of this course will be the production of three multi-paragraph essays based on three rhetorical strategies. The focus of this course will be to use the writing process and to produce writing that is appropriate to task, audience, and purpose. This course also includes vocabulary development and a grammar review. Technology will be used to produce and publish writing.  ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Composition Writing B

This course presents the specific skills necessary for enabling the student to write a clear and coherent argument research paper.  The ultimate outcome will be the production of a research paper in a specific content area based on a Delaware state content standard.  A focus will be to use the writing process and to produce writing that is appropriate to task, audience, and purpose. Course work incorporates grammar, sentence structure, research, and critical thinking.  This course also includes vocabulary development and a grammar review.  Technology will be used to produce and publish writing.  ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Journalism A

This course presents an overview of the field of  journalism: the basic skills of collecting, interviewing, reporting, and writing. The principles of critical reading,  writing, listening, viewing, and speaking are incorporated with emerging technologies. Students will examine the history and evolution of journalism as well as explore careers in the field. They will learn how to analyze and use graphics and art in diverse media and formats to convey information and news events for specific audiences. Finally, they will evaluate ethical aspects in the field of journalism.   ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Journalism B

This course presents a hands-on application in the field of journalism: the basic skills of collecting, interviewing, reporting, and writing. The principles of critical reading, writing, listening, viewing, and speaking are incorporated with emerging technologies. Students will examine the history and evolution of journalism as well as explore careers in the field. They will learn how to analyze and use graphics and art in diverse media and formats to convey information and news events for specific audiences. Finally, they will evaluate ethical aspects in the field of journalism and develop a final newspaper project that incorporates stories and graphics.  ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Literature A

The course presents an overview of the different types of literature: essays, ovel/novelette, and biography/autobiography. The principles of critical
reading, writing, listening, viewing, and speaking are incorporated along with works of authors representing a multicultural perspective which are included to present a world-view.   ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Literature B

This course presents an overview of oral and written communication skills with an emphasis on reading and interpreting text especially within the business
environment. Principles and effective practices in communication with the integration of technology will be applied to specific assignments which will incorporate critical listening, speaking, and thinking skills for everyday use.  ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Mathematics

Algebra I Applications A

This course will help students develop an understanding of algebra by solving problems progressing form the concrete to the abstract using physical models, equations, and graphs to generalize number patterns and to describe, represent, and analyze relationships among variable quantities. The student will be able to recognize problems requiring quantitative answers and use mathematical tools to:
⋆ methodically assign an identifier (variable) to that quantity.
⋆ translate known or given information into a number sentence.
⋆ solve number sentences for an unknown quantity by either algebraic manipulation or graphing.
⋆ check the derived solution for satisfactory results.
Using these concepts, students will link algebraic formulas, patterns, and functions to solve real life problems. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Algebra I Applications B

This course will help students develop an understanding of algebra by solving problems progressing from the concrete to the abstract using physical models, equations, and graphs to generalize number patterns and to describe, represent, and analyze relationships among variable quantities. The student will be able to recognize problems requiring quantitative answers and use mathematical tools to:

• methodically assign an identifier (variable) to that quantity.
• translate known or given information into a number sentence.
• solve number sentences for an unknown quantity by either algebraic manipulation or graphing.
• verify the solution for accuracy.

Using these concepts, students will link algebraic formulas, patterns, and functions to solve real life problems. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Algebra II Applications A

In this course, students apply properties of real numbers to expressions, equalities and inequalities including absolute value inequalities. Students will investigate the relationships between linear equations and their graphs extending their knowledge of linear functions to quadratic functions.

In today’s global society, there is a greater need for advanced math skills. To meet this need students are required to take Algebra II. As students practice communication both in writing and orally of the concepts taught, they will improve their ability to think mathematically and perform effectively in real world situations. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Algebra II Applications B

In this course, students apply properties of Real Numbers to expressions, equalities and inequalities including absolute value inequalities. Students will investigate the relationships between linear equations and their graphs extending their knowledge of linear functions to trigonometric functions.

In today’s global society, there is a greater need for advanced math skills. To meet this need students are required to take Algebra II. As students practice communication both in writing and orally of the concepts taught, they will improve their ability to think mathematically and perform effectively in real world situations. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Geometry Applications A

This course presents the skills needed to use geometry (the study of the size, shape, and position of objects in space) in real life situations. The focus of this module is to use geometry and spatial sense to solve problems in the physical world. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Geometry Applications B

This course presents the skills needed to meet the state standards as they relate to geometry. The students will discover, learn, and apply the following geometric skills and consider them in real world situations: solid figures, introduction to trigonometry, deductive reasoning, classification of shapes, and use of more complex formulas. Students will have several opportunities to review and use concepts learned in algebra. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Math Skills for Everyday Life A

This course will enable students to feel at ease using  mathematics to make important decisions for individuals, companies, and governments. The course will show students how mathematics can be used to analyze many different important situations in real life. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Math Skills for Everyday Life B

This course will enable students to feel at ease using mathematics to make important decisions for individuals, companies, and governments. The course will show students how mathematics can be used to analyze many different important situations in real life. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Science

Biology A

The purpose of this course is for students to master State Science Standard Six: Life Processes. As they investigate life processes, students will gain knowledge that can be applied to improving the health and well being of themselves and their families. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Biology B

The purpose of this course is for students to master State Science Standard Seven: Diversity and Continuity of Living Things. As students gain knowledge about the diversity of life and how these differences are transmitted to future generations, they will be able to apply this to improving the health and well-being of themselves and their families. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Earth Science A

This course allows for students to explore aspects of the diversity of Earth Science through the study of Earth, space and ecology. Students will discover the delicate relationship among Earth and other bodies in our Solar System. Students will explore the physical characteristics of our Solar System. The student will also explore how humans are an integral part of Earth’s natural system and how human activities can alter the stability of our environment and how this affects our lives at home, in the community and in the work place. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Earth Science B

This course is for students to explore Earth’s systems through the study of rocks, minerals, plate tectonics, and technology. Students will discover the relationship among Earth’s systems. The content will assist the learner in identifying Earth’s composition, atmosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere. Interactions among these spheres have resulted in ongoing changes to the systems. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Environmental Science

This course is designed as an introduction to ecology  concepts and the environmental problems that affect the health and vitality of Planet Earth. Using a systems methodology, students will apply concepts from biology, earth science, and physical science. Students will make connections while studying the interaction of species and their environment. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Fundamentals of Chemistry

This module is designed to investigate the processes by which materials are changed. It includes the relationship of matter and energy to the expanding world of chemistry and the use of Scientific Inquiry to solve problems involving chemistry. The learning will gain experience using scientific laws, tools, tables, graphs, and computers to compare and contrast the effects of chemistry on our environment. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Physical Science

In this module the students will study how the flow of energy drives processes of changes in all biological, chemical, physical, and geological systems. They will read, discuss and analyze findings on how energy is stored in a variety of sources and transformed into other energy forms which influence many facets of our daily lives. Newton’s three laws of energy will be introduced to build understandings of diverse physical and biological systems. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Social Studies

American Government

American Government covers the needs, types, and factors that influence government. It also covers the rights, responsibilities, and duties of an American citizen. It examines how public policy is formulated/implemented and its impact on our daily lives. This course includes the study of the United States Constitution and the American political system. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Financial Literacy A

The purpose of this course is for students to gain financial literacy knowledge for real life application. This will enable them to become informed financial citizens and to plan, and reach, their personal finance goals. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Financial Literacy B 

The purpose of this course is for students to gain financial literacy knowledge for real life application. This will enable them to become informed financial citizens and to plan, and reach, their personal finance goals. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Principles of Economics

This course presents an overview of basic principles of microeconomics, economic systems, macroeconomics, and international trade. This course is concerned with the relationship that exists between business and consumers and seeks to explain the functional differences of economic systems and the values associated with them. It is also concerned with the understanding of worldwide transactions. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

US History A

This course is a study of United States History from 1820 to the Industrial Revolution. This course presents the student the opportunity to take a closer look at the events that led to the Civil War and the Reconstruction Period after the war. This study also explores the great immigration period and shows how the newcomers altered American culture and brought with them a work ethic that contributed to America’s Industrial Revolution. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

US History B

Part B of the US History course covers the growth of the United States from the Age of Imperialism to the present. Students will explore life in the United States during World War I, the Great Depression, and World War II. They will explore how the Cold War changed national thinking and how the Civil Rights Movement affected the American way of life. Students will discover how technology has changed employment and life patterns in the United States and the world and examine the rise of global interdependence. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

World Geography

In this course, students will gain knowledge of geography that will enable them to analyze both physical features and the cultural aspects of our world. Through the use of the five themes of geography, students will identify and locate major places, cultures, settlements, and physical features. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

World History A

This course is a study of World History from 1300 to 1914.  Students will explore historical developments that have affected the political, social, cultural, and economic circumstances of the world and how these events have impacted present society. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

World History B

This course is a study of World History from 1800 to the present. Students will explore historical developments that have affected the political, social, cultural, and economic circumstances of the world and how these events have impacted present society. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Health

Health

In this course, students will explore the following topics: alcohol and other drugs, community and environmental health, injury prevention, emotional health, nutrition, personal and consumer health, physical activity, family health and sexuality, and tobacco. As the students examine information they will be expected to: analyze the positive and negative effects of behaviors, obtain information about choices, advocate for healthy practices, and transfer what they have learned to improve their well-being and the well-being of their family. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Career Pathways

Community Service/Work Experience

• Credits may be awarded for approved employment or training experience.
• Credits may be awarded upon completion of approved vocational or apprenticeship courses.
• Veterans may be granted credit based on military training and service.
• Higher education courses will be awarded credit as designated by Delaware Department of Education policy.
• Certain community service experience may be approved for a unit of credit.
• Credits may be earned through participation in approved internship programs.

Please contact the Groves/Transition Coordinator for more information.

Computer Programming A

This course describes the skills and training required for careers in computer programming as well as the work ethics required in a computing environment.  The use of enterprise systems, number systems, data types, and functions used in computing will be covered.  In addition, computer programming, including programming languages, types of programming paradigms, and program structures will be explored.  This course also exposes learners to web programming, creating web pages in HTML, using program structures in JavaScript, and how to program with JavaScript. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Computer Programming B

This course covers various phases of SDLC such as analysis, design, development, testing, and implementation.  In addition, software development methodologies, how client requirements are gathered and analyzed, various types of project plans, design using unified modeling languages (UML), coding, types of testing, quality control, and maintenance of software systems are described.  This course also covers various security threats and risks and the methods to mitigate them. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Computing for College & Careers A

This course covers basic computer hardware and software and productivity applications such as word processing software, spreadsheet software, and presentations software. The role of the Internet and emerging technologies in a business environment will be addressed and various career opportunities will be covered. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Computing for College & Careers B

This course covers advanced concepts such as computer networks, complex operations in spreadsheet and database programs, and the process of creating a website. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Principles of Human Services A

This course covers the various career pathways in human services, such as counseling, mental health services, and consumer services. In addition, the course covers workplace skills, such as a positive work ethic, integrity, budgeting basics, self-representation, and teamwork. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Principles of Human Services B

This course covers the various career pathways in human services, such as childcare, family services, and personal care services. In addition, the course covers various workplace skills, such as customer service and Internet and information technology skills. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Principles of Law, Public Safety, Corrections, & Security A

This course covers the history and development of criminal law in the United States, court procedures, the role of law enforcement agencies and private security in public safety, and the role of fire fighters and emergency responders. It also covers the ethical and legal responsibilities and working conditions in law enforcement and security. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Principles of Law, Public Safety, Corrections, & Security B

This course covers communication skills, math skills, and work ethics. It also covers job acquisition skills, career advancement skills, and other important professional skills and qualities required at the workplace. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Psychology A

This course traces the history of psychology and examines key psychological theories. Participants will discuss human development and explain how the nervous and endocrine systems affect human development and behavior. The course will include a study of various theories related to language development and acquisition as well as the influence of heredity, environment, society and culture on human behavior. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Psychology B

This course explores the established theories of cognitive, psychosocial, and moral development. Students will identify the factors that influence interpersonal relationships, recognize the origins and effects of violence, and describe prevention and treatment options for addictive behavior. Abnormal behavior and different types of psychological disorders will be studied, as well as the history of psychological counseling and therapy and the strategies used for problem solving and coping with stress. An overview of the career opportunities in psychology will be included. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Web Technologies A

This course provides students with opportunities to explore careers in web technology, the uses of web technology, and emerging trends in web technology. It also covers principles of design and creation of graphics. Additionally, this course covers Internet protocols, web development tools, client-server processing, and web page creation using HTML and style sheets. Finally, this course covers website design and the web development process. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Web Technologies B

This course covers the creation of desktop publishing and multimedia projects. It also covers legal and ethical issues related to the Internet and website design. In addition, this course covers web page creation using JavaScript. It also covers DHTML and XML. The course additionally coves how to gather requirements from the client, plan out website development, create a wireframe, and create and publish a website. Finally, the course covers web maintenance and web administration. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

World Language

Spanish I A

This course is designed to develop a solid foundation for students who desire to master a foreign language for academic and workplace success. The learning process is supported by a wide range of activities that allow students to acquire language skills in speaking, listening, reading, writing, as well as vocabulary and sociocultural skills. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Spanish I B

This course is designed to develop a solid foundation for students who desire to master a foreign language for academic and workplace success. The learning process is supported by a wide range of activities that allow students to acquire language skills in speaking, listening, reading, writing, as well as vocabulary and sociocultural skills. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Spanish II A

This course is designed to develop a solid foundation for students who desire to master a foreign language for academic and workplace success. The learning process is supported by a wide range of activities that allow students to acquire language skills in speaking, listening, reading, writing, as well as vocabulary and sociocultural skills. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

Spanish II B

This course is designed to develop a solid foundation for students who desire to master a foreign language for academic and workplace success. The learning process is supported by a wide range of activities that allow students to acquire language skills in speaking, listening, reading, writing, as well as vocabulary and sociocultural skills. ½ CREDIT – 60 HOURS

• Groves does not require (1) credit of Physical Education.
• All courses may be used as elective courses.

Questions?  Please contact Frank Dunkerley at 1-302-883-0420 / franksunkerley@dcdal.org

Click here for detailed accessibility information for our James H. Groves Adult High School Program.

Career Counseling Program

Students have the ability to meet one-on-one for individualized workforce development services with DCDAL’s ABE/Career Counseling Coodinator.  DCDAL works to cultivate relationships with local employers to create employment opportunities for students in search of competitive employment.   Students can participate in an online career counseling class and also receive a plethora of in-person services (i.e.-resume creation, interview preparation, and application completion assistance) available to all students while enrolled and post-graduation.  **All unemployed ABE students are automatically enrolled in the Career Counseling Program upon enrollment in the program.

Employment opportunities, job fairs, and other related events are shared with students through various platforms which include the school’s learning management system (MyDCDAL) and the site’s Facebook page.  DCDAL also coordinates special events to provide students and their families with information and resources that are relevant to career awareness and workforce development

Questions?  Please contact Theresa Gray at 1-302-883-0420 / theresagray@dcdal.org

College Transition Program

College transition services are available to currently enrolled students and graduates/GED® recipients of DCDAL. Current information on post-secondary opportunities, financial aid, and the admissions process is included in the resources provided.  DCDAL is also an Accuplacer approved site and has license for A+ Advancer online, an Accuplacer preparation software program.  Students may also meet one-on-one with the program coordinator to discuss post-secondary options and to develop an individualized plan for enrollment.

Questions?  Please contact Frank Dunkerley at 1-302-883-0420 / frankdunkerley@dcdal.org