From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Sophomore is a term used in the United States to describe a student in the 2nd year of study (generally referring to high school or university study).[1][2] The word is also sometimes used in the United States as jargon for the second album released by a musician or group, the second movie of a director, or the second season of a professional athlete.[3]
[edit] Etymology
The etymology is from Greek, sophisma ‘clever device’ from sophizesthai ‘to devise, become wise’, and the original English spelling was "Sophumer".[4] It was not until 1726 that the spelling was established in America as "sophomore."[citation needed]
[edit] Education
[edit] High school
In the United States, the 10th grade is usually the second year of a student's high school period and is referred to as sophomore year. High school sophomores are expected to begin preparing for the college application process, including reducing and focusing their extracurricular activities.[5] Most students reach the age of 16 while sophomores, and so the year is considered a watermark for independence, closely connected with the acquisition of a driver's license in most states. Whereas it was once primarily taken by students in the 11th grade, the PSAT, a college preparatory exam taken across the U.S., is now most commonly taken during a student's sophomore year. Students at this level are also considered to be developing greater ability for abstract thinking.[6]
[edit] College
In the U.S., colleges generally require students to declare an academic major by the end of their sophomore year.[7] College sophomores are advised to begin thinking about career options and to get involved in volunteering or social organizations on or near campus.[8]
[edit] See also
[edit] References
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Student in the United States |
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