THE P.O.W.E.R. SYSTEM – P.O.W.E.R. Learning is the only first-year experience text that applies a consistent and motivating organizational framework – Prepare Organize Work Evaluate Re-think – in every chapter!

CHAPTER OPENING SCENARIOS – Each chapter begins with a short vignette, describing an individual grappling with a situation that is relevant to the subject matter of the chapter. Readers will be able to relate to these vignettes, which feature students running behind schedule, figuring out a way to keep up with reading assignments, or facing a long list of French vocabulary words to memorize.

CAREER CONNECTIONS BOXES – Shows students how to apply their acquired skills to the real world. Topics addressed in these sections include narrowing career choices, applying for jobs, and developing workplace listening skills.

SPEAKING OF SUCCESS BOXES – Profiles a Canadian who has dealt with, either professionally or personally, the topic at-hand in the chapter, and describes how they overcame the challenge.

TRY-IT BOXES – Encourages students to think critically and apply the chapter content to their personal lives. These activities are keyed to one or more of the steps in the P.O.W.E.R. framework.

P.O.W.E.R. PORTFOLIO – An ongoing scrapbook helps students draw connections between experience and learning. The P.O.W.E.R. Portfolio goes beyond developing a resume, stressing reflection, as much as accomplishment. This feature culminates into an ongoing project throughout the text.

CONFERENCE BOARD OF CANADA’S EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS PROFILE – Helps students make the connection between first-year experience skills and employability skills.

CASE STUDIES at the end of every chapter! These case studies (The Case of ... ) are based on situations that students might themselves encounter, and to which the principles described in the chapter can be applied. Each case provides a series of questions that encourage students to consider what they’ve learned and to use critical thinking skills in responding to these questions.