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Ridgeback Ramp-Up Academic Literacy

The Ridgeback Ramp-Up: Academic Literacy Toolkit offers ready-to-use resources designed to help high school students build the skills, habits, and confidence needed for a successful transition to university. The Toolkit focuses on practical, transferable academic literacy skills that students can apply across subjects and learning environments, supporting both immediate classroom success and long-term academic growth.

Students will learn to:

  • Solve problems by noticing challenges and finding ways to fix them.
  • Use basic learning tools and strategies to stay organized and confident.
  • Utilize effective study techniques to navigate real-world school situations.

 Teachers can:

  • Download and distribute the eBook and slides.
  • Use the resources to guide discussions.

 

Resources

Use our Teacher Guide for further recommendations.

Recommended sequence for classroom use:

  1. Read the related chapter in the eBook/PDF for full context.
  2. Start with the Overview Slide Deck to introduce all skills at a general level.
  3. Use the individual slide deck for each skill to guide teaching and activities.
  4. Facilitate discussions and practice exercises.

 

Ridgeback Ramp-Up: Academic Literacy eBook Read online PDF
Teacher Guide Read online PDF
Overview Slide Deck Google Slides PowerPoint
1: Passport to University Google Slides PowerPoint
2: Adulting 101 Google Slides PowerPoint
3: Developing a University Mindset Google Slides PowerPoint
4: Studying for Success Google Slides PowerPoint
5: Making the Most of Your Classes Google Slides PowerPoint
6: Notes That Help You Learn Google Slides PowerPoint
7: Learning Happens Outside of Class, Too Google Slides PowerPoint
8: Doing Your Own Work Google Slides PowerPoint
9: Self-Advocacy Google Slides PowerPoint
10: Leveraging University Services Google Slides PowerPoint
Need help accessing the Toolkit? Contact us at ridgebackrampup@ontariotechu.ca