Concert Band 9

Concert Band 9 is for all students who wish to learn how to play an instrument or those who have reached an interim level of proficiency on a band instrument. You must have at least one year experience playing in concert band. Newcomers are welcome to join, but must first take a basic rhythm test in September and pass in order for the course to be granted to the student. They are expected daily dedicated practice in order to catch up with the rest of the ensemble.

Instrument choices include trumpet, clarinet, trombone, percussion, flute, saxophone, bass and many more. Students will learn rhythm, music notation and music reading while having the opportunity to play fun music and perform in concerts and festivals. This is a Performing Arts course – it is mandatory that students participate in all events and performances, within school and outside of school hours. Evaluation will be based on progress, attitude, and participation in music department activities. This is a linear course running yearlong and alternates with Physical Education (PE) 9.

Jazz Band 9

This course is only open to students also enrolled in Concert Band during normal school hours.

This course focuses on intermediate level of jazz band performance. Various styles of jazz will be studied (swing, Latin, funk, rock) through ensembles and solo works. Improvisation and solos will include intermediate techniques based on scales and chords.

Enrolment is limited to standard big band instruments (saxes, trumpets, trombone, piano, bass, guitar and drums); other instruments by Director's permission. Evaluation will be based on progress, attitude, and participation in music department activities.

This course is offered as an addition to Band 9 and will take place after school twice a week.

Fine Arts Rotation 8

A 5 week survey course rotation of Dance, Drama, Indigenous Studies, and Visual Arts.

Art Foundations 11/12

Art 11 is designed for two purposes. The first is to allow students with previous art experience to continue their education in the following visual expression areas of: drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and media arts. The second purpose of this course is to meet the needs of students who are taking art for the first time and need a foundation class. Students should anticipate spending additional time outside of classroom sessions to complete the work assigned. Extra studio time may be arranged.

Art 11/12 & CLC 11/12 Combo

This course is not just for folks who are interested in careers in the arts. This course is for anyone who wants to learn to be more creative in anything from drawing to thinking, it’s for folks who love to express themselves creatively, it’s for folks who are thinking of doing something creative for their capstone project.

Would you rather draw comic than do a research essay?

Would you rather film a movie than present in front of the class?

Would you rather draw an infographic than make a PowerPoint?

Then this is the CLC combo is for you!

We will be explorers of the world, we will create, challenge and take risks!

We will Create artistic works to reflect our personal voice, story, and values

We will explore personal, educational, and professional opportunities in visual arts and related fields

Visual Arts 9

Students in Art 9 will enhance their basic skills. Personal, social, cultural and historical contexts will be explored. Students will experience a variety of basic areas of visual expression including two-dimensional and three-dimensional works.

Studio Arts 11/12 : Drawing and Painting

This course is designed for students who wish to focus on the elements and principles of design with a 2D application, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, graphics and mixed media. Students should anticipate spending additional time outside of classroom sessions to complete the work assigned. Extra studio time may be arranged.

Art Foundations 10

Students in Art 10 will enhance their basic skills. Personal, social, cultural and historical contexts will be explored. Students will experience a variety of basic areas of visual expression including two-dimensional and three-dimensional works.

Studio Arts 11/12: Ceramics and Sculpture

This course is advanced and will involve concentrated exploration in 3D visual expression areas. This will include ceramics and sculpture, and may be supplemented with modeling mixed media. Students should anticipate spending additional time outside of classroom sessions to complete the work assigned. Extra studio time may be arranged.

Media Arts 9

This is an art course that explores the use of computers and digital media in the creation and appreciation of art. Students will be exploring digital photography and digital film production as well as multi-media art projects. Students will learn video editing, camcorder operation, digital camera operation, storyboarding, computer editing, story development, composition, colour theory, and animation techniques. Students must be able to work on their own as well as cooperatively in groups.

Media Arts 10/11/12

Students will develop a rounded portfolio of visual art works in several areas including animation, introduction to photography, web design, photoshop and illustrator, and introductory film design. Work will be inquiry based with room for students to pursue their media arts based goals through mentorship, reflection, critique, and peer review. Students will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of the elements of art, composition, colour theory, and critical reflection.

Photography 11/12

This is a course with no prerequisite designed for the student who has an interest in taking better photographs and using digital SLR cameras. This course will include digital photography, such as the elements and principles of photography, camera techniques, camera controls, and composition. Students will learn how to create a digital workflow in programs such as Lightroom and Photoshop. They will learn to import, export, and digitally enhance and manipulate their photographs. The assignments are designed for students to express their creativity through photography.

Yearbook 11/12

In this year-long course students will be members of the yearbook production team. Students will be responsible for constructing page layouts using a variety of graphic design concepts and tools. Students will acquire knowledge and gain experience with the planning, design, layout production, photography, business management, and other responsibilities involved with the publication of the Frank Hurt Yearbook. Students will be expected to be self-directed and productive, show initiative, be engaged in the many aspects of yearbook production, and maintain a positive and respectful attitude. Students will be required to spend time outside of class taking photos at school events and conducting interviews. This course runs yearlong.

Photography 10

This is a course designed for the student who has an interest in learning to compose and edit photographs. This course will include basic digital and pinhole photography, such as the elements and principles of photography, camera techniques, camera controls, and composition. The assignments are designed for students to express their creativity through photography.

Drama 9

This is a collaborative course which further develops the skills learned in Drama 8. Students explore areas such as improvisation, speech and movement, and begin an increasing exposure to a variety of theatre genres. Personal awareness and self-discipline play an important role throughout the course. The emphasis of this course is on the student's participation in various theatrical activities. The majority of class time will be spent on practical exercises, with students participating 'hands on'. Students will have the opportunity to explore traditional and contemporary Aboriginal perspectives through the use of story telling.

Acting 12

This advanced level drama course combines many of the skills and elements acquired in Drama 8-10 and Acting 11 with a primary emphasis on the further development of acting techniques and styles. Continued development of character and script work are focused on at this level. Personal awareness and self-discipline play a very important role throughout the course. Students will be presented with increasingly challenging projects and numerous performance opportunities. The major part of class time will be spent on practical exercises, with students participating 'hands on'.

Theatre Company 10/11/12

It is highly recommended that students also register for Drama/Acting during normal school hours. For details, please see Ms. Henderson. This ADVANCED class is designed to run as a “Theatre Company”.

This advanced level drama course is for students who are serious about theatre and may wish to pursue a career in the theatre industry. It is a performance based course which examines all aspects of theatre from acting, directing, scriptwriting, set design; set, costume and prop construction; set painting and decorating; lighting, sound, and stage management. Personal awareness and self-discipline play a very important role throughout the course. The major part of class time will be spent on creating and producing drama productions, with students participating hands on. The theory component will constitute approximately one-quarter of the course. All students will be expected to perform as actors and/or technical and running crew on public performances. Students will be required to produce an evening performance(s).

Directing & Scriptwriting 11

Learn the fundamentals of writing and directing through the process of writing a play, casting it and directing it. The play will be produced for an evening performance and all rehearsals will be outside of class time. Students must be self- motivated and self- disciplined to work on their own as they will be responsible for the director’s preparation while working in conjunction with a junior drama course.

Film & Tv Production 11

This is a course with no prerequisite that provides an introductory look at film and television productions for students in grade 11 and 12. The areas covered include: camcorder operations, lighting, audio film editing, storyboarding, story development, introduction to directing, acting for the camera, production responsibilities, and film appreciation.

Acting 11

This advanced level drama course combines many of the skills and elements acquired in Drama 8-10 with a primary emphasis on the further development of acting techniques and styles. Continued development of character and script work are focused on at this level. Personal awareness and self-discipline play a very important role throughout the course. Students will be presented with increasingly challenging projects and numerous performance opportunities. The major part of class time will be spent on practical exercises, with students participating 'hands on'.

Directing & Scriptwriting 12

Learn the fundamentals of writing and directing through the process of writing a play, casting it and directing it. The play will be produced for an evening performance and all rehearsals will be outside of class time. Students must be self- motivated and self- disciplined to work on their own as they will be responsible for the director’s preparation while working in conjunction with a junior drama course.

Film & TV PRoduction 12

There is no prerequisite for this course. Film and Television Production 12 is a course where students build on the skills and knowledge in video production. The areas covered include: camcorder operations, lighting, audio, film editing, storyboarding, story development, acting for the camera, film appreciation, animation, and special effects editing. Students may also have the opportunity to be part of school based broadcasts.

Dance 9 Beginner

Taking a deeper dive into several genres of dance. Students will be able to differentiate several dance genres and will learn how to curate dance routines in those genres. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Dance 10 Beginner

Taking a deeper dive into several genres of dance. Students will be able to differentiate several dance genres and will learn how to curate dance routines in those genres. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Bhangra 10

Students will be able to explore the elements of the Bhangra Dance genre while tying in the cultural history rooted in this style. There will be an introduction on how to use Bhangra equipment and how to incorporate it into their dance. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Dance 11 Intermediate

Taking a deeper dive into several genres of dance. Students will be able to differentiate several dance genres and will learn how to curate dance routines in those genres. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Dance 12 Intermediate

Taking a deeper dive into several genres of dance. Students will be able to differentiate several dance genres and will learn how to curate dance routines in those genres. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Dance Company 8-12

It is highly recommended that students also register for Dance during normal school hours. This is the dance team and auditions will be held in September. This is a year-long advanced class which is designed to run as a “Dance Company”. For details, please see Ms. Pow.

This is an advanced level dance class which will focus on technique, choreography, and pedagogy. In this course students will work at a high level to continue to develop and perfect skills learned in previous courses and on dance teams. They will take weekly technique classes. They will further develop choreography and teaching skills as well as, learn to create and perfect dances for competitions and shows. These skills will enable students to stretch and experiment by using dance as a means of expression and communication.

Teams will include Bhangra, Junior Hip-Hop, and Senior Hip-Hop.

dance 10 Intermediate

Taking a deeper dive into several genres of dance while focusing on technique. Students will be expected to differentiate several dance genres and will be required to curate their dance routines. Introduction to freestyle and creative expression with their choreography. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Bhangra 11

In this course students will learn principles of choreography and will have the chance to choreograph on their own. This is a chance for students to really let their creativity shine through. Students will prepare pieces for practice and performance.

Pre-requisite: Previous dance experience.

Dance 11 Advanced

Taking a deeper dive into several genres of dance while focusing on technique. Students will be expected to differentiate several dance genres and will be required to curate their dance routines. Introduction to freestyle and creative expression with their choreography. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Dance 12 Advanced

Taking a deeper dive into several genres of dance while focusing on technique. Students will be expected to differentiate several dance genres and will be required to curate their dance routines. Introduction to freestyle and creative expression with their choreography. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Bhangra 9

Students will be able to explore the elements of the Bhangra Dance genre while tying in the cultural history rooted in this style. There will be an introduction on how to use Bhangra equipment and how to incorporate it into their dance. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Dance 10 Choreography

In this course students will learn principles of choreography and will have the chance to choreograph on their own. This is a chance for students to really let their creativity shine through. Students will prepare pieces for practice and performance.

Pre-requisite: Previous dance experience.

Bhangra 12

Students will be expanding on their knowledge of the elements of the Bhangra Dance genre while tying in the cultural history rooted in this style. There will be an advanced integration of Bhangra dance equipment and how to incorporate it into their dances. Students will be collaborating together to create and build chorography for small group and class wide pieces. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection. Pre-requisite: Previous dance experience.

Dance 11 Choreography

Students will be able to explore the elements of the Bhangra Dance genre while tying in the cultural history rooted in this style. There will be an introduction on how to use Bhangra equipment and how to incorporate it into their dance. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Dance 12 Choreography

Students will be able to explore the elements of the Bhangra Dance genre while tying in the cultural history rooted in this style. There will be an introduction on how to use Bhangra equipment and how to incorporate it into their dance. Performances and competitions are an important element to this performance based course and participation will be an integral curricular element. Please keep this in mind during selection.

Entrepreneurship and Marketing 10

This exciting course is designed to introduce students to the world of business.

Topics such as marketing, accounting, economics, finance, human resource management and entrepreneurship are introduced. The course involves analyzing and discussing concepts and cases currently occurring in the world. Practical projects and applications will be an integral part of the course.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in business, then this course is for you!

Accounting 11

Are you planning on owning a business? Do you want to understand how to manage your money better? Accounting provides an introduction to basic accounting concepts. Students will learn how to complete a set of books for a service business including financial reports and also be introduced to analyzing financial statements.

Entrepreneurship 12

An entrepreneur is someone who can identify a business opportunity, develop a business plan to start the business, and successfully manage it so it is profitable. Students learn what skills are needed to be an entrepreneur, how to generate an idea for a business, how to deal with legal and ethical issues in business, how to research and write a business plan that would encourage others to invest, and how to apply marketing, accounting, and computer skills to implement a venture. Teamwork and networking are emphasized.

A background in at least one other business course is recommended; however, students bound for any career path will find something useful in this course.

Computers 10 (Introduction to Coding)

Financial Accounting 12

This course builds on the principles learned in Accounting 11. It is primarily self directed with teacher mentorship. Students will use both manual and computerized methods to record, post and summarize transactions. Students will also develop skills in analysis and prediction using a variety of financial reports.

Computer Science 12

This course is designed for students who are highly motivated and are interested in learning about computer programming. Students will be introduced to fundamental programming concepts and will learn these concepts through either Python, Java or C++. It is recommended that students have a strong background in math & computers, and is a self-motivated and independent student. It is recommended that students have access to a computer at home, although it is not a requirement. Recommended prerequisites: Math 10 or 11 Principles (C or better). Students who do not meet the recommended prerequisites are asked to see the instructor before signing up for this course.

Game Development 11

Love playing video games on your personal device, computer or console? Always thinking about what you would do in your own game. Love to create and manipulate bitmap images and animation? Want to program and create your own game? Are you a hard-working, dedicated team player who's willing to work under immense pressure and tight deadlines? Ready for a challenge? Well, Game Development 11 is the course for you! In this course you will learn not only how to program a computer game, but the process of creating an original computer game from the ground up. In this course, you will work in teams of up to three people. Each person has a unique and important role - they are the game designer, the digital media artist, and the programmer. You will have an opportunity to experience each roll as you will be creating three different games throughout the semester. Successful students in this course are independent, hardworking disciplined students who work well with others. It is recommended that you have taken Computer 10 achieving C+ or better. Strong math and programming skills are recommended. If you have not taken Computer 10, you must speak with Mr. Emmanuel prior to registering for the course. 

Marketing and Promotions 11

This is a practical, activity-based course providing students with opportunities to examine the nature and role of marketing in a local and a global context. Learn how marketing helps businesses determine and meet customer needs (marketing research); how businesses offer, promote and deliver products (promotions and pricing); develop effective ways to meet customer needs (products); and explore the nature of the world economy (place). This course will involve several projects where we explore past successes and failures in business as well as critically evaluate and predict future successes and failures. Pre-requisite: Previous dance experience.

Economics 12

Career Education 8

In Career Education 8, students continue to reflect on, self-assess, and set goals in personal competency development and determine their strengths and preferences as they explore career-life concepts such as identity, leadership, personal planning, and transferable skills. Students are introduced to increasingly diverse experiential learning opportunities and ways in which family, mentors, and community networks support their continued career-life development.

Career Life Connections 11/12

Career-Life Connections is a required course for graduation. In addition to completing the capstone project, CLC focuses on applying personal career-life management knowledge, skills, and strategies to the one’s own personal life journey, and includes:

• deepening career-life concepts and thoughtful self-knowledge to inform personal life-long learning choices and post-graduation plans
  
• using self-advocacy and employment marketing strategies, such as creating one’s own effective public profiles
  
• employing developed social capital, such as leadership and collaboration skills, to cultivate community networks
  
• engaging in a substantive experiential learning opportunity of 30 hours or more that is intended to expand and/or deepen student exposure to career-life possibilities, such as service learning, volunteerism, employment, fieldwork projects, entrepreneurship, and passion projects
  
• designing, assembling, and presenting a capstone to an audience, celebrating the learning journey and next steps toward preferred futures.
  

Career Education 9

Students participate in Take Our Kids to Work Day in November. They also have guest speakers, like The White Hatter. Additionally, over the course of the year, there are interactive, engaging assignments to help students decide their future career path.

Work Experience

Work Experience 12A – WEX 12A – provides students with the knowledge and skills to be successful in the world or work. The course links classroom knowledge and activities to skills and attitudes that are required in the workplace. This course involves approximately 1 month of classroom work followed by 90 hours of work experience, after school, evenings and weekends. Benefits: Receive 4 Ministry authorized credits of 100 hours WEX 12A; Gain valuable experience with workplace situations and equipment; Obtain references and contacts that will assist with future job searches and scholarship opportunities. If you are currently working, you may be able to use your current job for work experience.

Career Life Education 10

Career-Life Education is a required course that focuses on gaining a clear understanding of career-life development knowledge, skills, and strategies for life’s journey into adulthood, and includes:

• exploring career-life possibilities for adult life, such as roles, opportunities, and community resources
  
• examining ways to publicly represent ourselves both face-to-face and in digital environments
  
• practising inclusive and respectful interactions for various community and work-related contexts
  
• connecting and engaging with supportive community members
  
• researching post-graduation options and planning resources, such as labour market trends, budgeting tools, and workplace safety guidelines.
  

Geography & CLC Combo

This CLC course is combined with Human Geography 12 and Physical Geography 12. It is intended for students interested in the geography field who would like to learn more about careers in the industry while also exploring related topics for their capstone project.

Career-Life Connections is a required course for graduation. In addition to completing the capstone project in relation to geography, CLC focuses on applying personal career-life management knowledge, skills, and strategies to the one’s own personal life journey.

Students will earn 12 credits in 2 blocks for this 3 in 2 combo course. Therefore, students will also explore the world through various lenses with a focus on how humans affect the environment and how the environment affects humans. Students will develop Geographical Thinking, the ability to read data and make inferences, and oral and written communication skills. Students will learn various elements in relevance to human geography (Issues surrounding population, migration, culture, urban and rural environments) and physical geography (Tectonic forces, Gradational forces, weather and climate, and environmental issues).

Outdoor Ed Co-Op

A Co-op is a program that integrates a student's academic studies with related work experience. The name "Co-operative Education" reflects the cooperative relationship between the school, the employer, the parents, and the students in realizing the programs objective. A Co-op program also will allow for a more authentic work placement where students will attend TWO job placements, for three consecutive weeks each at two times in the semester. Some placements may include in health care, law offices, banks, museums, restaurants, grocery stores, accounting offices, sporting organizations, and engineering and architectural firms. Further, a co-op will allow the co-op teachers to plan for comprehensive trips and events that will not negatively impact upon the curriculum (or other classes), as students will be in one cohort (class) for the entire semester.

Who is it for?

A Co-op is designed for students interested in enhancing their resume and career path contacts with on the job training in varied fields, while, at the same time, fulfilling their graduation requirements. Whether or not a student is intending to go to post-secondary or directly into the work force, this program is for them!

Benefits

• 22 Credit Program (you will receive 22 credits for the semester, instead of the usual 16) - all happening in 4 blocks – one entire semester
  
• Cohort of approximately 30 students
  
• Same teacher and classmates for all the courses
  
• TWO 3-week work placements
  
• Receive on the job training
  
• Gain connections in the work force for after graduation
  
• Providing valuable experience for your resume
  
• Increase self-confidence and self-reliance
  
• Develop successful work attitudes
  
• Learn resume and cover letter writing
  
• Learn about Work Safety and Labour Relations
  
• Leave No Trace Certification
  
• Wilderness First Aid training and CPR training
  
• Other possible certifications as well
  
• Weekly field trips and outdoor experiences
  

Courses (22 credits)

Environmental Science 11 – 4 credits

Outdoor Education 12 – 4 credits

CLC 11/12 - 4 credits

WEX 11A or 12A – work experience #1 – 4 credits

WEX 11B or 12B – work experience #2 – 4 credits

Community Involvement Experience – 2 credits

Environmental Science 11 covers ecosystems, biodiversity and nature cycles with a focus on human impacts and how to maintain and restore these systems in a sustainable way.

Outdoor Education 12 covers a variety of physical activities and field trips in outdoor settings. Activities may include, but are not limited to: hiking local trails, biking the seawall, canoeing around Deer Lake, snowshoeing Grouse Mountain, ice skating, bowling etc. Outdoor science activities such as inter-tidal zone investigations, water testing at Bear Creek and Burns Bog tours will also be included.

Career-Life Connections (CLC) is a required course for graduation. In addition to completing the capstone project, CLC focuses on applying personal career-life management knowledge, skills, and strategies to the one’s own personal life journey.

Community Involvement Experience would involve a community project that will be determined by students at the beginning of the course.

Come join this Co-op and gain valuable experiences and connections that could impact your entire life!

Anatomy & Physiology 12, CLC 11/12 Combo & Community Engagement

This CLC course is combined with Anatomy and Physiology 12 and a community engagement project. It is intended for students interested in the health industry who would like to learn more about careers in the field in addition to exploring related topics for their capstone project.

Career-Life Connections (4 credits) is a required course for graduation. In addition to completing the capstone project in relation to anatomy & physiology, CLC focuses on applying personal career-life management knowledge, skills, and strategies to the one’s own personal life journey.

Anatomy & Physiology 12 (4 credits) will allow students to have insight into cellular biology and body systems. Students will explore how their body works, and how things can go wrong. Competency will be built through activities and assignments such as student-designed labs, dissections, research-based presentations, and creative projects.

Community Engagement Project (2 credits) may be involving an Senior Care Facility or elementary schools – project to be determined by students at the beginning of the course.

Students would be receiving 10 credits for 2 courses, rather than the typical 8 credits. They will also be given the opportunity to be involved in a project related to health care within the community. This project can be used as part of your Capstone Project.

Art 11/12 & CLC 11/12 Combo

This course is not just for folks who are interested in careers in the arts. This course is for anyone who wants to learn to be more creative in anything from drawing to thinking, it’s for folks who love to express themselves creatively, it’s for folks who are thinking of doing something creative for their capstone project.

Would you rather draw comic than do a research essay?

Would you rather film a movie than present in front of the class?

Would you rather draw an infographic than make a PowerPoint?

Then this is the CLC combo is for you!

We will be explorers of the world, we will create, challenge and take risks!

We will Create artistic works to reflect our personal voice, story, and values

We will explore personal, educational, and professional opportunities in visual arts and related fields

Outdoor Science 3 in 2 Combo

Environmental Science 11, Outdoor Education 12, & CLC 11/12 Combo

This 3 for 2 Combo course offers CLC with Outdoor Education 12 and Environmental Science 11. Students will earn 12 credits in 2 blocks. It is intended for students passionate about the environment and outdoors.

Environmental Science 11 covers ecosystems, biodiversity and nature cycles with a focus on human impacts and how to maintain and restore these systems in a sustainable way.

Career-Life Connections is a required course for graduation. In addition to completing the capstone project, CLC focuses on applying personal career-life management knowledge, skills, and strategies to the one’s own personal life journey.

Outdoor Education 12 - Covers a variety of physical activities and field trips in outdoor settings. Activities may include, but are not limited to: hiking local trails, biking the seawall, canoeing around Deer Lake, snowshoeing Grouse Mountain, ice skating, bowling etc. Outdoor science activities such as inter-tidal zone investigations, water testing at bear creek and Burns Bog tours will also be included

Humanities 8

Humanities 8 Grade 8 students are assigned to the same teacher for both English and Social Studies in a combined all-year course (one timetable block in each semester). Important portions of the History content lend themselves to the development of English skills while literature and writing enhance Social Studies learning. Some lessons and units that lend themselves to integrated study will be integrated while other lessons and units will be developed separately. Humanities develops competency in reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing, representing and researching. All of these skills are applied to literature, geography, history and current events.

The course stresses an active approach to learning through cooperative learning, critical thinking, inquiry, and creative problem solving, while investigating our interaction with the physical and social environment. In addition, students participate in reflecting, assessing and setting goals for their own learning.

The content and topics of the course may include the following:

English Component: Reading, writing, oral communication, viewing, representing, grammar, mythology, Aboriginal literature, non-fiction, short stories, novels and poetry.

Social Studies Component: Geography, including maps, graphs and charts; Middle Ages in Western and Eastern Europe and the Middle East; European Renaissance and Reformation; European exploration and conquest; Middle Ages in India, China, and Japan; as well as pre-contact indigenous civilizations.

English 10 Literature Studies and Spoken Language: First Peoples’

Students will learn how to communicate in meaningful ways through speaking in various forms such as speeches, First Peoples story-telling, Ted Talks, podcasts, video essay, spoken word poetry, debate, and discussion. Students will consider target audience when exploring the different uses of voice. The writing process will be emphasized when preparing students for different forms of public and recorded speech. 

This course also involves a more in-depth study of literature revolving around various themes, authors, genres, and periods as explored through a variety of engaging texts such as short stories, poetry, novels, graphic novels, drama, and non-fiction. Students will increase their literacy skills through close reading, develop as global citizens, and develop higher-level thinking skills. They will also be able to evaluate the reliability, and quality of sources they explore. Students will engage in critical thinking as they create coherent, purposeful compositions while developing their writing skills. Students will compose narrative, expository, persuasive, and opinion pieces while engaging in the writing process of planning, drafting, and editing.  

*This course, BC First Peoples 12 (Social Studies), or English Studies 12 - First Peoples satisfies the Indigenous Course requirement for graduation.

English 11: Literary Studies

This course involves a more in-depth study of literature revolving around various themes, authors, genres, and periods as explored through a variety of texts such as short stores, poetry, novels, graphic novels, drama, and non-fiction. Students will increase their literacy skills though close reading of text, expand their development as global citizens and continue to develop higher-level thinking skills. 

English 11: New Media

We are exploring texts that take other less traditional forms, such as podcasts, blogs, video games, film and television, and music. We will consider how various media forms are analyzed, and learn how technology and these new forms of media impact our everyday lives. This course will provide you with the skills necessary to navigate our constantly evolving digital world, and to examine more than just the texts that live on the bookshelf. Finally, this course will give you the opportunity to strengthen and demonstrate your written and oral communication skills through the creation of your own digital and print media. This class has a strong focus on technology use. You do not have to have taken New Media 10 to take New Media 11. This course will delve into different material at a higher level of analysis. This is a writing and analysis course and offers the same academic expectations as the other 11 English Language courses. 

English Studies 12

English 12 Studies is a mandatory course which all students must pass in order to graduate. English Studies 12 is designed for all students and provides opportunities to refine communications, think critically and creatively about the uses of language, explore texts from a variety of sources, deepen understanding of ourselves and others, gain insight into the diverse factors that shape identity, appreciate the importance of self-representation through text, contribute to Reconciliation by building greater understanding of the knowledge and perspectives of First Peoples, and expand understanding of what it means to be educated Canadian and global citizens. 

English 9

Literature Studies 10/Creative Writing 10

Do you enjoy being creative and expressing your ideas through writing? In Creative Writing 10, we will do just that. We will complete a variety of creative writing projects and explore the type of writing and topics that most interest you, such as poetry, short stories, screen/television/stage plays, and anything else that can be built with words. This course will require you to take creative risks as you develop your own voice and style as a writer, and you will be expected to share some of your writing with the class in workshop discussion groups; through this collaboration you will become a better editor, communicator, and writer. If you are looking for the freedom to express yourself creatively while strengthening your reading, writing, and analysis skills, then this is the course for you. 

This course also involves a more in-depth study of literature revolving around various themes, authors, genres, and periods as explored through a variety of engaging texts such as short stories, poetry, novels, graphic novels, drama, and non-fiction. Students will increase their literacy skills through close reading, develop as global citizens, and develop higher-level thinking skills. They will also be able to evaluate the reliability, and quality of sources they explore. Students will engage in critical thinking as they create coherent, purposeful compositions while developing their writing skills. Students will compose narrative, expository, persuasive, and opinion pieces while engaging in the writing process of planning, drafting, and editing.  

English 11, Focused Literature, First Peoples: Indigenous Horror

With its background rooted in rich folklore, unique perspectives/principles, and historical contexts, Indigenous horror is all at once familiar and fresh, offering stories that break through traditional horror tropes and clichés. From short stories, to novels, to films, this course will explore First Peoples principles, storytelling, mythologies, history and more through the lens of dark, gothic Indigenous horror fiction. Parental discretion is advised, as the course will deal with mature subject matter.

*This course, BC First Peoples 12 (Social Studies), or English Studies 12 - First Peoples satisfies the Indigenous Course requirement for graduation.

English 11: New Media - Film Studies

After taking Film Studies 11, you will never watch movies the same way again (and that’s a good thing)! In this course the major texts we study are films, and you will learn how to “read” them on the screen. You will be encouraged to develop and share your opinions of the movies watched in class, enrich your understanding of film as an art form, and strengthen your critical thinking skills as the course progresses. Assignments will include projects, formal compositions, and informal personal reflections.

We will cover a variety of topics in this course, starting with common filmmaking techniques and how directors use them to manipulate us. Other units include: film structure (how Inception and (500) Days of Summer tell their stories), unreliable narrators and point of view (the flawed heroes of Logan, Snowpiercer, and Die Hard), and what your eyeballs and eardrums are actually doing when you “read” a movie (the auditory and visual magic of Baby Driver and Mad Max: Fury Road). This class will aid you in strengthening your communication and analytical skills through the analysis of films and filmmaking. Film Studies 11 will leave you with the skills necessary to competently interpret visual texts and impress (or annoy) others with your fine-tuned critical thinking skills. Prepare to see, hear, and think differently!

Please note that due to the varied content and frequency of films screened in this course, maturity and regular attendance are required.  

English Studies 12 First Peoples

English First Peoples 12 is an engaging and thought-provoking chance to explore First Peoples literature in depth. It is grounded in the First Peoples Principles of Learning and designed for all students, Indigenous and non-Indigenous. The course focuses on the experiences, values, beliefs, and lived realities of First Peoples, including oral story, poetry, song, performance, film, and prose. A key feature of the course is its focus on authentic First Peoples voices.

*This course, English Studies 11 - Indigenous Horror, or BC First Peoples 12 (Social Studies) satisfies the Indigenous Course requirement for graduation.

Literature Studies 10 /New Media 10

We are leaving (most) of the dusty traditional books behind, and exploring texts that take other less traditional forms, such as podcasts, blogging, social media, Ted Talks, film, television, and music. We will consider how various media forms are analyzed, and learn how technology and new media impact our everyday lives. This course will provide you with the skills necessary to navigate our constantly evolving digital world, and to analyze more than just the texts that live on the bookshelf. And finally, this course will give you the opportunity to strengthen and demonstrate your written and oral communication skills through the creation of your own digital and print media. 

Do you love to read and discuss stories? This course also involves a more in-depth study of literature revolving around various themes, authors, genres, and periods as explored through a variety of engaging texts such as short stories, poetry, novels, graphic novels, drama, and non-fiction. Students will increase their literacy skills through close reading, develop as global citizens, and develop higher-level thinking skills. They will also be able to evaluate the reliability, and quality of sources they explore. Students will engage in critical thinking as they create coherent, purposeful compositions while developing their writing skills. Students will compose narrative, expository, persuasive, and opinion pieces while engaging in the writing process of planning, drafting, and editing.  Please note that the academic expectations and the amount of writing that students will do in this course are no different than in any of the other English 10 options. 

Literature Studies 10 and Composition 10

Do you love to read and discuss stories? This course also involves a more in-depth study of literature revolving around various themes, authors, genres, and periods as explored through a variety of engaging texts such as short stories, poetry, novels, graphic novels, drama, and non-fiction. Students will increase their literacy skills through close reading, develop as global citizens, and develop higher-level thinking skills. They will also be able to evaluate the reliability, and quality of sources they explore. Students will engage in critical thinking as they create coherent, purposeful compositions while developing their writing skills. Students will compose narrative, expository, persuasive, and opinion pieces while engaging in the writing process of planning, drafting, and editing.

English 11: New Media - Horror Genre

Food Studies 9

Eat your way through the day! Create dishes from breakfast all the way through to dinner and dessert. Develop skills in food preparation, examining food and nutrition principles, working collaboratively as a group and much more. Use the skills you learn in class to design and create dishes of your choice.

Food Studies 12

Is there a food genius in you? Prepare entrées and desserts using a variety of ingredients that will impress everyone. Expand your culinary palette through exploration of food from all around the world! Prepare and design complex recipes and extend your knowledge of food preparation techniques. Use the design process to prepare dishes of your choice.

Pastry Arts and Baking 11

Pastry Arts and Baking 11

Bring the bakery to the classroom! This course is designed for students with a special interest in baking and pastry arts. Explore both sweet and savoury baking. Build practical skills while learning baking theory, time management and much more. Topics may include cookies, pastries, yeast breads, candy making, pies, cakes and cake decorating.

Textiles 9

This is an introductory course for students interested in hands-on learning, working with fabric and learning how to sew. Students will go through the design cycle to create various sewing projects by hand and machine, using simple patterns.

Culinary Arts 11

Culinary Arts 11 introduces students to the profession of cooking under the guidance of a Red Seal Chef Instructor. Culinary Arts teaches and develops the basic skills in food production. Students will learn the basics of knife skills, measurement, and cooking techniques. Students will learn recipes in Baking, Entrees, Sandwich and Salads. In Culinary Arts 11 students will have the opportunity to take Food Safe Level 1 and earn a certificate. This will help students gain employment in the Culinary Industry. Students will gain hands on skills and learn some of the theory behind the dishes they like to eat.

Pastry Arts and Baking 12

Take your baking skills to the next level with this advanced baking course. Topics could include bread making, sourdough, candy making, multicultural baked goods, laminated doughs and seasonal favourites!

Textiles 10

This is an introductory course for students interested in hands-on learning, working with fabric and learning how to sew. Students will go through the design cycle to create various sewing projects by hand and machine, using simple patterns.

Food Studies 11

Is there a food genius in you? Prepare entrées and desserts using a variety of ingredients that will impress everyone. Expand your culinary palette through exploration of food from all around the world! Prepare and design complex recipes and extend your knowledge of food preparation techniques. Use the design process to prepare dishes of your choice.

Culinary Arts 12

Culinary Arts 12 builds on the skills learned in Culinary Arts 11. Culinary Arts 12 Students will build on the foundational skills. Culinary Arts teaches and develops the basic skills in food production. Students will learn the basics of knife skills, measurement, and cooking techniques. Students will learn recipes in Baking, Entrees, Sandwich and Salads. Students in Culinary Arts will students will have the opportunity to take Food Safe Level 1 and earn a certificate. This will help students gain employment in the Culinary Industry.

Students in Culinary Arts 12 will be responsible for menu planning, recipe development and leadership within their working groups. Students will be learning the basic tasks of an entry level cook: making stocks, soup & sauce preparation, making baked goods, roasting meats, frying, short order cooking, bread making, and sandwich and salad making.

Although Culinary Arts 12 students will be in classes mixed with Culinary Arts 11 students, Culinary Arts 12 students will be require to demonstrate advanced culinary techniques, and in general take on a leadership role in the kitchen. Students will be required to volunteer at least one extracurricular event through the school term. Students will be encouraged to further their training by working outside of school in the culinary industry.

Textiles 11/12

This is an introductory course for students interested in hands-on learning, working with fabric and learning how to sew. Students will go through the design cycle to create various sewing projects by hand and machine, using simple patterns.

French 8

In this course, students will develop their communication skills in French in meaningful real-life situations which relate to their personal interests. Students will be involved in many activities such as presentations, dialogues and skits and will complete theme-based individual and group projects on topics such as sports, personality types, snack foods, travel, shopping, and Canadian mysteries. This course also teaches the basic grammatical principles that allow students to continue French at higher levels or prepare them for the study of another language. Come join the fun!

Note: According to the BC Ministry Language Education Policy, it is mandatory to study a second language for four consecutive years (grades 5, 6, 7 and 8). In Surrey, that language is French. Although most students will have had regular French instruction in Grades 5 to 7, some may not have had the same level of exposure. The French 8 course takes this into account, providing new information and challenges while allowing for those with limited French experience to participate and succeed.

French 11

Students will continue to develop their abilities to interact with confidence in French and to express themselves with increasing proficiency and style in written composition. Students are introduced to a variety of literary genres, and fictional stories to expand their reading skills. Through various activities, research and projects, this course invites students to discover ethnic foods and cultures, share childhood memories, reflect on their ideal life (housing, city, family, transportation) . Vive les différences!

Introduction to Spanish 10/11

Intro Spanish 10/11 is an introductory course focusing on listening, reading, speaking and writing skills. This means that students who have not taken a language prior to grade 10 have another chance to start learning Spanish! The focus in this course is the purposeful use of Spanish to perform real life tasks, to share ideas, and to acquire information. In addition to studying the culture and traditions of Hispanic people, the following themes will be explored: greetings, school life, food, friends, and family.

spanish 12

This advanced language course is intended to refine skills learned in the three previous levels of Spanish. There is an in-depth study of the language and literature of the Spanish-speaking world, and composition styles are developed and polished.

French 9

French 9 builds upon the basics learned in French 8. The course will continue to develop oral communication skills, while also increasing the emphasis on writing and reading. Students will be expressing opinions and preferences on topics such as sports and fitness, pop culture of the 60s, 70s and 80s, fashion, and music. They will also develop their understanding and appreciation of other cultures by exploring the lifestyles of various French-speaking peoples around the world. Creative expression in French is encouraged through individual/group projects and presentations. C’est chic!

French 12

In this course, students will further polish their composition style by applying more sophisticated grammar and vocabulary. Reading skills are developed through exposure to various fiction, non-fiction and authentic materials. Creative expression and projects will focus on exploring such themes as French artists, Paris, international travel, becoming an adult, the future of the planet, and other contemporary issues of interest to the students. The class is conducted primarily in French to help the students develop the highest possible degree of fluency. The final unit involves studying the famous French novel : "Le Petit Prince". La crème de la crème! 

Spanish 10

This course builds on material covered in Spanish 9. Students will further develop speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. They will be introduced to the culture, traditions and daily lives of people from a variety of Spanish cultures including Spain and Mexico. A number of other interesting themes will be explored such as shopping, home life, sports, and technology.

Punjabi 10

This is an introductory course for students who have little or no background in the Punjabi language. This course aims to teach students the fundamentals of Punjabi language and to develop communication skills (speaking, understanding, reading and writing) in Punjabi. In this course Punjabi culture and history will also be explored through music and movie segments. Grade 10-12 students are welcomed in this course. Successful completion of this course qualifies a student to enter Punjabi 11, a language which satisfies most University program's admission requirements.

French 10

Students will continue to increase their abilities to communicate in French through listening, speaking, reading and writing. Grammar points become more complex and students learn how they are used as a tool to help them communicate in an effective and more sophisticated manner. Students will take part in a variety of possible real-life situations in French such as role-playing survival situations in a Francophone country, reflecting on their aptitudes, and planning for future education and career goals. C’est magnifique! 

Spanish 9

This is an introductory course focusing on listening, reading, speaking and writing skills. Successful completion of French 8 is strongly recommended, as language learning strategies taught in French will help ensure success in learning Spanish. The focus in Spanish 9 is the purposeful use of Spanish to perform real life tasks, to share ideas, and to acquire information. In addition to studying the culture and traditions of Hispanic people, the following themes will be explored: greetings, school life, food, friends, and family.

Spanish 11

This course will strengthen and build on skills developed in Spanish 9 and 10. In addition to studying the histories and geographies of various Spanish-speaking countries, the following themes will be explored: travel, sports and health, clothing and shopping, pastimes, legends and literature.

Punjabi 11

Punjabi 11 will strengthen and build on the skills and materials already acquired in the language. Students will continue using Punjabi to exchange opinions through discussions, describe and narrate with some supporting details using a wide range of vocabulary and expressions through journal writing and reflections. Students will also explore the Punjabi culture through field studies of art galleries, grocery stores, restaurants and the Punjabi market.

Students will study specific themes related to leisure, ethnic foods and cuisine, advertisements and travel.

Successful completion of Punjabi 11 provides the minimum language entrance requirements needed for most university programs.

Mathematics 8

In Math 8 the seven years of elementary school provided students with a solid background in the basic concepts of arithmetic, providing the foundation for success in the high school mathematics program. The new curriculum places an emphasis on some skills that students will continue to develop. They must be able to: reason, analyze, understand, solve problems, communicate their thinking, make connections, and reflect on their work. The content that will allow students to develop these skills includes: numbers and number operations, patterns and relationships (algebra), shape and space (measurement and geometry), statistics and probability, and financial literacy and problem-solving.

Workplace Math 11

This pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for entry into the majority of trades and for direct entry into the work force. Students wishing to attend a technical college or a trade school should choose Apprenticeship and Workplace Mathematics 11. Topics include algebra, geometry, measurement, number, statistics, and probability.

Foundations of Math 12

This pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in programs that do not require the study of theoretical calculus. Students wishing to study the social sciences, humanities, fine arts, or who are undecided should choose Foundations of Math 12. Topics include financial mathematics, geometry, measurement, number, logical reasoning, relations and functions, statistics and probability.

Calculus 12

This course is highly recommended for students planning to take a calculus course at the post-secondary level. The course content includes the study of limits, derivatives and their applications, and integrals and their applications.

Mathematics 9

Mathematics 9 continues on from Mathematics 8. Topics covered in Mathematics 9 include rational numbers, powers and exponents, scale factors and similarity, polynomials, algebra, linear relations, linear inequalities, and geometry.

Foundations / Pre-Calculus Math 10

Foundations of Mathematics & Pre-Calculus 10 provides a more theoretical focus than the other pathways, to prepare students for advanced studies in mathematics. Students intending to study mathematics, science, and/or engineering at the post-secondary level should take this course as it is the prerequisite for both Foundations of and Pre-Calculus Math 11.

Pre-Calculus 11

This pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical thinking skills identified for entry into post-secondary programs that require the study of theoretical calculus. Students wishing to study math, science, engineering, medicine, or commerce should choose Pre-Calculus Mathematics 11. Topics include algebra and number, measurement, relations and functions, and trigonometry.

Foundations of Math 10

Foundations of Mathematics & Pre-Calculus 10 provides a more theoretical focus than the other pathways, to prepare students for advanced studies in mathematics. Students intending to study mathematics, science, and/or engineering at the post-secondary level should take this course as it is the prerequisite for both Foundations of and Pre-Calculus Math 11.

Foundations of Math 11

This pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in programs that do not require the study of theoretical calculus. Students wishing to study the social sciences, humanities, fine arts, or who are undecided should choose Foundations of Math 11. Topics include geometry, measurement, number, logical reasoning, relations and functions, and statistics.

Physical Education 8

Students will develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to incorporate physical activity into regular routines and leisure pursuits and to live an active, healthy lifestyle. Students will understand the benefits of active living; perform activity-specific motor skills while participating in a variety of games, dance, gymnastics, and outdoor activities. They will demonstrate appropriate social behaviour, etiquette, fair play and leadership skills related to physical activity.

Active Living 11/12

The aim of this course is to enable all students to enhance their quality of life through active living. This can be achieved by improving physical competence, maintaining personal fitness, developing effective leadership and sports management skills in the school and community. Through participation, students will develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to incorporate physical activity into regular routines and leisure pursuits in order to live an active, healthy lifestyle.

Athletic Leadership 10-12

This course was locally developed for students in grades 10-12. The course will run outside of the regular timetable and will focus directly on athletic events and games at the school. Students will gain a variety of leadership skills focused in sport such as; learning how to score keep, line courts, officiate, keep track of team and player statistics while also being given opportunities to demonstrate in a service education role to fulfill graduation requirements. Athletic Leadership also creates credit granting opportunities for students who do not play on athletic teams but would still like to take part in an active role in the athletic community at the school.

Physical Education 9

Physical Education 9 consists of: Active Living: Identify the benefits of active living; evaluate goals of personal fitness and activity programs; participate in personal fitness and activity programs; explain the effects that nutrition, fitness and physical activity have on body systems; select personal stress management and relaxation activities, and demonstrate a functional level of fitness.

Personal and Social Responsibility: Demonstrate positive behaviours that indicate: self-respect and self-confidence; respect for individuals; and identify qualifications for specific careers related to physical activity.

Recreational Leadership 10

The aim of this course is to enable students to investigate their own set of values and attitudes, learn leadership skills and experience the practical application of leadership skills within the school. It will enable students to develop relationships, communication and organizing skills, as well as cooperative and responsible attitudes.

All components will be completed in the course, in addition to a variety of field studies that will promote teamwork and leadership skills. Students are also trained as table officials for volleyball and basketball games.

The course is open to mature, energetic students who are currently in grade 9 and are seeking leadership opportunities in their grade 10 year.

Weight Training 11/12

This course will allow students to explore the components of physical fitness and nutrition in conjunction with the principals of weight training. You will be provided with a solid foundation of basic skills and concepts related to human anatomy and physiology. As you progress through the course, you will be able to perform workouts in a safe and time efficient manner. You will determine when and how to make needed changes in program intensity. Upon completing the course, you will find that you have developed a sense of confidence in your weight training skills and knowledge, along with the tools to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Physical Education 10

Physical Education 10 consists of: Active Living: Demonstrate a commitment to active living; maintain personal fitness and activity programs using training principles; analyze effects that nutrition, fitness, physical activity and exercise have on body systems; plan and lead warm-up and cool-down activities; apply the principles of first aid; and identify recreational programs that promote a healthy lifestyle. Personal and Social Responsibility: Demonstrate appropriate social behavior while working cooperatively with others; apply leadership skills in relation to physical activity; and identify existing careers in the community related to physical activity.

Recreational Leadership 11/12

Recreation Leadership 11/12 will allow students to explore skills, strategies, and provide practical opportunities to develop, enhance, and apply collaborative skills in physically active, leadership settings. Students will explore group dynamics and components of leadership while implementing a variety of recreational activities. They will study, prepare and participate in school and community recreational leadership activities and events such as physical education class mini-lessons, intramurals, tournaments, and play days.

To co-ordinate and implement events, students will be provided a safe environment and solid foundation of skills from the personal and social responsibility domain, team building and leadership skill training, and planning and management strategies. They will then extend into the community via elementary school and community-based programs.

Service hours for community and school activities are required. This course runs all year long, backed with a study block, allowing students to provide service to the school for the entire year.

Fitness & Conditioning 11/12

This course has been developed to support and encourage students’ safe and effective participation in weight training. Weight training is a continually growing individual fitness endeavor which, when performed properly, has numerous health and social implications. Students will gain hands-on weight training techniques, knowledge of principles of training, safety procedures, and adaptations to training and supplement use to develop an individual weight training program and implement the plan to reach personal goals. Students will be creating fitness programs and will apply the five factors of wellness to their individual situation and suggest ways to improve in these areas. In the area of nutrition, students will investigate various diseases that are diet-related and can be improved with exercise and dietary changes. Contemporary issues impacting the health industry will be analyzed to promote personal awareness and safety.

Science 8

Science 8 is a survey course of the four major domains of science: Biology (cells and the immune system); Chemistry (KMT and the structure of the atom); Physics (light) ; and Earth Science (plate tectonics).There is an emphasis on scientific inquiry, ethical, cooperative behavior, and the development of safe investigative procedure which relate to scientific principles, technology, and research.

Science for citizens 11

This course is intended primarily for students who do not intend to continue their studies in Science past grade 11 or continue directly to post-secondary. Universities do not accept this course as a Science 11 credit however it is accepted for graduation. The activities in this course are designed to develop the critical processing of information. Practical issues relative to society, science and technology form the basis of the course.

Students may learn about the following:

evidence-based decision making through science

personal and public health practices, including First Peoples traditional health and healing practices

impact of technologies

personal safety and awareness

workplace safety

certifications

practical applications of science in the workplace

impacts of technology in the workplace

applications of materials science

beneficial scientific innovations

natural hazards and responses

human impact on Earth’s systems:

natural resources

effects of climate change

actions and decisions affecting the local and global environment, including those of First Peoples

Chemistry 11

It is recommended that a grade of C+ or better has been achieved in Science 10 prior to taking this course. Students will need to use algebraic skills to solve chemistry problems, and will thus benefit from a proficiency in math. Chemistry 11 is an introductory laboratory course concerned with the description, classification and theory of matter.

The following topics are the basis for Chemistry 11: introduction to chemistry; lab safety; scientific communication; atoms, molecules and ions; mole concept; chemical reactions; stoichiometry; atomic theory; solution chemistry; and organic chemistry. Extensive scientific vocabulary exists for all topics.

Physics 12

A strong background in mathematics will help to ensure success in this course. Students should have completed Pre-Calculus 11 before taking this course. Physics 12 is an advanced course for those who plan to continue studying science at a post-secondary institution. This course will help students develop analytical, experimental and modelling skills through inquiry, student-led labs and problem solving.

The following topics will be studied: experiments and graphical methods; kinematics; special relativity; dynamics; energy; momentum; equilibrium; circular motion; gravitation; electrostatics; electric circuits; and electromagnetism.

Earth Science 11

No Description

Science 9

Science 9 is a survey course of the four major domains of science: biology (reproduction); chemistry (atoms, elements, and compounds); Physics (electricity) ; and Earth Science (natural systems and matter cycles).There is an emphasis on scientific inquiry, ethical, cooperative behavior, and the development of safe investigative procedure which relate to scientific principles, technology, and research.

Life Sciences 11

Life Sciences 11 involves the study of evolution, of ecology, and of diversity of life. There is some virtual lab work. Topics in zoology include both invertebrates and vertebrates, and those in botany cover mosses to flowering plants. The course emphasizes the adaptation of plants and animals to their environment.

Chemistry 12

Chemistry 12 is a problem-centered laboratory course involving more advanced concepts. Experimentation and problem solving are major parts of the course.

The following topics are the basis for Chemistry 12: reaction kinetics; equilibrium, solubility of ionic substances; acids, bases, and salts; and oxidation-reduction reactions.

It is recommended that students have C+ or better in Chemistry 11 and Mathematics 11.

Environmental Science 11

This university accepted grade 11 science course is suited for students who are passionate about the environment and sustainability. This class will be taught through a combination of in class learning and hands on outdoor experience with the concepts taught. Students will also take action in sustainability and conservation.

Students passionate about the environment should consider taking the Outdoor Science 3 for 2 Combo

Students are expected to learn about the following topics:

abiotic characteristics: aquatic, atmospheric, edaphic

levels of biotic diversity

ecosystem complexity: roles, relationships, population dynamics

energy flow through ecosystems

matter cycles through and between living systems

succession

First Peoples knowledge and other traditional ecological knowledge in sustaining biodiversity

benefits of ecosystem services

human actions and their impact on ecosystem integrity

First Peoples ways of knowing and doing

resource stewardship

restoration practices

Geology 12

Geology 12 is a course which explores local and regional geology. This course meets the Science 11 credit requirement.

The following topics are the basis for Geology 12: earth materials - introduction to geology, minerals, igneous rocks and processes, sedimentary rocks and processes and metamorphic rocks and processes; earth minerals, - mineral, rock and energy resources; time and the fossil record; internal processes and structures - plate tectonics, seismology, isostasy, earth's interior and structural geology; surficial processes - weathering and erosion, running water, glaciers and ground water; comparative planetology.

Completion of Earth Science 11 is an asset to students taking this course; however, it is not a required prerequisite.

Science 10

In Science 10 students will extend their understanding of the major fields of science including biology, chemistry, physics and earth science. Students will be expected to demonstrate scientific literacy and competence in the use of technologies specific to investigative procedures and research. The following topics are the basis for Science 10: genes, chemical processes, energy transformation, and formation of the universe.

Anatomy and Physiology 12

Anatomy and Physiology 12 investigates the processes and structures which make up the human body. The course will examine structures at the cellular level (biochemistry, cell biology) and organ systems (including digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, immune, and nervous systems). Students will need to demonstrate how small-scale changes at the chemical and cellular level can impact a human being. At the conclusion of the course, students will understand through inquiry, labs, and projects how the human body maintains homeostasis. Chemistry 11 is recommended to be taken before Anatomy & Physiology 12.

Physics 11

It is recommended that a grade of C+ or better has been achieved in Science 10 and Foundations of Math and Pre-Calculus 10. Physics 11 is an introductory course that focuses on the investigation of physical relationships and developing mathematical models to describe physics concepts.

Students are expected to know the following:

vector and scalar quantities

horizontal uniform and accelerated motion

projectile motion

contact forces and the factors that affect magnitude and direction

mass, force of gravity, and apparent weight

Newton’s laws of motion and free-body diagrams

balanced and unbalanced forces in systems

conservation of energy; principle of work and energy

power and efficiency

simple machines and mechanical advantage

applications of simple machines by First Peoples

electric circuits (DC), Ohm’s law, and Kirchhoff’s laws

thermal equilibrium and specific heat capacity

generation and propagation of waves

properties and behaviours of waves

characteristics of sound

resonance and frequency of sound

graphical methods in physics

Outdoor Science 3 in 2 Combo

Environmental Science 11, Outdoor Education 12, & CLC 11/12 Combo

This 3 for 2 Combo course offers CLC with Outdoor Education 12 and Environmental Science 11. Students will earn 12 credits in 2 blocks. It is intended for students passionate about the environment and outdoors.

Environmental Science 11 covers ecosystems, biodiversity and nature cycles with a focus on human impacts and how to maintain and restore these systems in a sustainable way.

Career-Life Connections is a required course for graduation. In addition to completing the capstone project, CLC focuses on applying personal career-life management knowledge, skills, and strategies to the one’s own personal life journey.

Outdoor Education 12 - Covers a variety of physical activities and field trips in outdoor settings. Activities may include, but are not limited to: hiking local trails, biking the seawall, canoeing around Deer Lake, snowshoeing Grouse Mountain, ice skating, bowling etc. Outdoor science activities such as inter-tidal zone investigations, water testing at bear creek and Burns Bog tours will also be included

Social Studies 9

The Social Studies 9 curriculum timeline spans from 1750-1919.

SS9 uses the six historical thinking concepts (with particular focus on cause and consequence and continuity and change), inquiry based learning, and Indigenous perspectives as foundational skills. Students will critically analyze and understand how ideas and ideologies have profoundly influenced societies and events, how unequal access to power changes individual and societal relationships, and the process of creating a collective identity. Students will further gain knowledge about how beliefs about the physical environment (the natural world) influence political, social, legal, and economic change.

Topics include, but are not limited to, various social, political, economic, and technological revolutions; the continued impacts of imperialism and settler colonialism on Indigenous Peoples in Canada and around the world; patterns of migration and population growth; the physiographic regions of Canada; nationalism and the creation of the modern nation state; local, regional, and global conflicts; and discriminatory policies, laws, attitudes, and historical wrongs.

Black Studies 12

What were the experiences of Black people in colonial Canada? When was slavery abolished in so-called Canada? What is the historical context of current systems of oppression and anti-Black racism? How can we challenge racial injustice and acknowledge Black identities, resistance, contributions, and excellence?

Black Studies provides all students with the opportunity to understand oppressive systems, examine how a diversity of Black peoples affected change in colonial British Columbia and Canada, explore complex contemporary Black identities, and reimagine their place and the futures on these lands. Students will gain a more complete and inclusive understanding of a diversity of Black homelands and the colonial roots of what today is known as Canada through examining social, cultural, political, legal, economic, and environmental systems that have altered Black ways of knowing and lived experiences.

The implementation of a diversity of curricular competencies provides students with opportunities for vital class discussions, inquiry projects, readings, films, guest presentations, and educational excursions. Black Studies provides learners with the skills and knowledge to critically question and investigate past and present Black contributions, representation, and acts of resistance on the northern lands of Turtle Island.

Law Studies 12

Law Studies is an academic inquiry course designed to allow all senior students an opportunity to explore the key areas of Canadian law including criminal law, civil law, family law, and Indigenous law. The main units of the course include: Basic Founding Principles of Law; Human and Civil Rights including Indigenous Law and Perspectives; Family Law, Tort/Contract Law; and Criminal Law. Using these units, students will work to understand Canada’s correctional system, legislation concerning children and youth, and structures for global dispute resolutions such as the International Criminal Courts and the International Court of Justice. The structures and powers of the federal and provincial courts, the Constitution of Canada, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the role of the judiciary are also addressed in Law Studies.

Students of Law Studies will explore several big ideas including understanding that legal rights and responsibilities allows citizens to participate more fully in society, and that laws can maintain the status quo and can also be a force for change. Students will also comprehend how a society’s laws and legal framework affects many aspects of people’s daily lives, and develop an understanding that laws are interpreted and these interpretations many evolve over time as a society’s values and worldviews change. Using inquiry and critical thinking skills, Law Studies engages students to ask essential questions, analyze various issues and make reasoned judgements, and communicate their findings and decisions and in various assignments and projects.

Human Geography 12

Is Human Geography the course for you? Human geographers have a special way of looking at the world. When they investigate global phenomenon such as civil wars, they are interested in finding out “how” and “why” of the event. Those who study human geography explore the relationship between humans and our environment from the personal to the global scale. They search for knowledge to help create a more just and equitable world. The aim of this course is to transform you into active, global citizens and help you gain expertise in local knowledge.

The course explores the linkages between cultures and places, cities and globalization, nature and society, and research and methods skills. Regarding the study of place in Human Geography, you will investigate Indigenous understandings, knowledge, and relationships that have evolved out of a close and respectful relationship with nature. You will also engage with geographic tools such as GIS and satellite images and photos to identify physical and human characteristics of various communities. A focus on a diversity of geographical perspectives will allow you to see beyond the Westerncentric lens that views some practices by certain cultural groups as unusual (i.e., using moss for diapers). Instead, the course will focus on multiple perspectives and ascertain how such practices often came from a reciprocal and holistic connection the natural environment.

Human Geography draws conclusions about the variation and distribution of geographic phenomena over time and space by looking at essential questions such as the following: Why do some companies move the manufacturing of certain goods from one country to another? How are these company practices exploitative to humans and the environment? What geographic, political, social, and economic impacts will issues, such as the building of the Keystone Pipeline, have on Indigenous groups and other stakeholders? Why are many people willing to risk their lives on overcrowded boats or by crossing treacherous deserts to start a new life in another country? Why does population composition matter especially in nations with aging populations? How have government schemes of population control, such as China’s One Child Policy, impacted the social, cultural, and demographic composition of a country? How does normalized violence, sexism, and misogyny inform dowry and honour killings in India, Pakistan, and Canada? Why is there a rise of suicides among farmers in India? How does religion influence political conflicts in areas such as the Middle East and Eastern Europe? How does racism and colonialism play into Indigenous Peoples’ segregation in every part of the globe? What would decolonization and reconciliation look like in Canada? By working through these key questions this course will help you gain the tools to assess the validity of geographical data or images, make reasoned ethical judgments about controversial actions in the past or present, and aid you to determine whether we have a responsibility to respond to inequality and environmental degradation in our world.

Social Studies 10

Spanning from 1919 to the present, Social Studies 10 (SS10) builds on themes and skills developed in grade 9.

Using the six historical thinking concepts (with particular focus on primary evidence and ethical dimension), inquiry based learning, and Indigenous perspectives and knowledge, students will engage in a diversity of critical topics. These include injustice and human rights, colonization and genocide, First Peoples and Canada’s political and economic systems, ideology and civic engagement, cooperation and conflict, and the interconnection between human populations, the environment, and globalization.

In SS 10 students will critically analyze and understand how local, national, and global conflicts have lasting effects on the contemporary world, and how the development of political organizations are influenced by economic, legal, social, ideological, and geographic factors. Students will also understand and assess how political decisions and change are influenced by interactions between individuals, groups, and institutions, and how developments in Canadian society can be viewed in diverse ways depending on one’s worldview and one’s identity as Indigenous or non-indigenous.

Social Justice 12

Do you believe in human rights, equality, and justice for all? Then this course will provide you with the opportunity to understand how we can move towards an equitable world. Social Justice will encourage you to become a lifelong advocate for social action and a leader for social change. This course is also a must for those continuing onto any type of postsecondary school (college/university), let alone for being an active citizen. It is highly recommended that students taking Social Justice are mature, independent, hardworking, and have a strong social conscience.

You will begin with examining your own beliefs and values and gain new understandings through critical theoretical perspectives such as intersectionality, feminism, anti-racism, and queer theory. As such, you will realize that individual worldviews shape and inform the understanding of and participation in social issues. The roots of past and present social injustices will be examined and understood. In Social Justice topics include, but are not limited to, racism, colourism, queerphobia, sexism, misogyny, heteronormativity, poverty, disability, human rights, and the role of government, non-governmental organizations, and individuals in taking action. You will engage in meaningful discussions and critical inquiry of these pertinent issues that will provide direction and hope to make the necessary changes in our lives and world.

Throughout the course, you will comprehend that social justice initiatives work to transform individuals and systems, the ways that social justice issues are interconnected, and how the causes of social injustices are complex and have lasting impacts on societies.

Physical Geography 12

Why is Physical Geography an exciting course? It helps to explain the natural and human phenomenon that we see in our everyday lives. Essential questions such as these are focused on and discussed: Why is our province prone to a megathrust earthquake? How will this affect us and our immediate environment? Why has the landscapes of North America been shaped the way it has? How do these landscapes affect us and our environment? How are billabongs vital to our ecosystem? Why have Metro Vancouver’s weather and climate patterns changed over time? How can we use our natural resources while maintaining a sustainable environment?

To better understand our world, Physical Geography incorporates data from a variety of sources, and works to help you understand the impact natural processes have on the landscape and human settlement. The course also critically identifies how human activities, and our resource use affects the environment, and interprets how the interactions between humans and the atmosphere impacts local and global weather and climate.

Geographical thinking, inquiry, and place-based learning are utilized throughout the course so that you develop critical thinking skills and acquire hands-on experiences. For instance, activities may include a nature walk to Bear Creek Park to examine the four spheres and five themes of Geography; a trip to Burns Bog to discover the importance of an ecosystem that is right in our back yard; or trip to Whistler, with many stops along the way, to understand the importance of the land and its resources to Indigenous Peoples. Physical Geography focusses on assessing the significance of places by identifying the physical and/or human features that characterize them; these are understood from Indigenous and Euro-Canadian world views.

Key to this course is your ability to make reasoned ethical judgments about controversial actions in the past and/or present, and whether we have a responsibility to respond today in the 21st Century. Students are encouraged to have had an assessment of a C+ or higher in Social Studies 10 and have the prerequisite study skills.

Genocide studies 12

This course is not an option for this year’s course selection as it is offered every second year. Genocide Studies will be offered as a course selection for the next school year. Consider taking another senior Social Studies course this year and Genocide Studies next year.

How are genocides humanly possible? What choices do people make that allow collective violence to happen? How do people make distinctions between “us” and “them”? Genocide Studies addresses these and other difficult but essential questions through critical discussions, historical thinking, concept based learning, and inquiry skills. The aim of Genocide Studies is to develop your abilities to assess the credibility and justification of past and current genocides and how the “norms” of society and the actions of individuals and/or groups have significant impacts on genocides. A goal of Genocide Studies is to enhance your skills in making reasoned ethical judgments about actions taken, or not taken, and to assess the varying macro and micro causes and responses to genocides.

Genocide Studies begins with working to understanding the origins of the term “genocide”, the economic, political, social, and cultural conditions of genocide, the stages and characteristics of genocide, and the strategies used to commit genocide. The course then moves on to comprehend the how genocides are recognized and responded to, what responses are available in regards international law and enforcement, and that the intentional destruction of a peoples and their culture is not inevitable; that attempts of genocide can be disrupted and resisted.

Genocide Studies explores a wide range of genocides from ancient to modern times, in all parts of the world. Contemporary documentary and historical and dramatic films, symposiums, and applicable fieldtrips will be utilized to foster deeper knowledge and meaning.

This course is a must for those continuing onto postsecondary school (college/university), let alone for being an active global citizen. It is pertinent that students taking Genocide Studies are mature, independent, hard-working, and have a strong social conscience.

BC First Peoples 12 (Indigenous-focused course required for graduation)

Did you know the Government of Canada determines who is legally Indigenous? That reserves and residential schools were created to remove First Peoples from their land and destroy their culture, language, and traditions? Did you know that most Indigenous ancestral lands in BC were taken by the government without the required treaty agreement? That honouring First Nation’s cultures does not include wearing a headdress or a Pocahontas Halloween costume? Did you know that Indigenous Peoples have been resisting colonization and its effects since settlers arrived on these lands today know as Canada?

BC First Peoples (BCFP) will provide insight into these and other necessary questions. This course is a must for all students as it focuses on our shared history, present reality, and amplifies Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) voices and experiences. BCFP also fulfills the new Indigenous-focussed coursework graduation requirement.

In BCFP you will gain the understandings needed to participate in today’s process of decolonization and reconciliation. Using inquiry skills, historical thinking, experiential and place-based learning, Indigenous perspectives and knowledge, and local community and Elder/Knowledge Keeper collaboration, you will gain an understanding about the historical and contemporary foundations of what are currently known colonial BC and Canada. The course will focus on Indigenous Peoples since time immemorial to the present-day.

Emphasis will be placed on the diverse and rich forms of Indigenous cultural values, worldviews, and expressions, particularly through oral tradition, art, and literature. Through sharing holistic and relational understandings of the land, you will better understand the connectedness and the reciprocal relationship of Indigenous People’s sense of place, identities, world views, and languages, and why the land back movement is vital for all.

BCFP will further engage you in knowledge about the fight for self-governance, self-determination, land rights, and cultural revival. You will learn about the historical and current injustices. BCFP examines the impact of white European colonizers on political, legal, social, cultural, and economic aspects of Indigenous lives and how First Peoples challenge and resist Canada’s ongoing colonialization. As such, you will comprehend the roles and responsibilities of settlers as “guests” on these lands. You will learn that change is needed and possible.

*This course, English Studies 11 - Indigenous Horror, or English Studies 12 - First Peoples satisfies the Indigenous Course requirement for graduation.

20th Century World History 12

How do the decisions and actions of the past impact the present? Why do people continue to abuse their power over others? How do authoritarian regimes succeed to form governments? Why do we have a responsibility to respond to global injustices? How have human rights movements changed (and continue to change) our world? 20th Century World History will answer all these essential questions and more.

This course is a must for those continuing onto post-secondary of any type as you will gain pertinent skills and knowledge that will help you with the transition to post-secondary school. Using contemporary documentary, historical, and dramatic films, relevant fieldtrips, and symposiums/conferences, 20th Century World History concentrates on the period between 1900 and 2000 while focusing on present-day issues. The course explores a wide range of subjects, from global conflicts, civil wars, revolutions, independence movements, Indigenous rights, genocide, social and cultural developments, to consumerism. To dive into the content, the six historical thinking concepts, inquiry skills, creative thinking, and concept-based learning are utilized.

20th Century World History’s aim is to develop your abilities to question the past and to appreciate the contested nature of historical knowledge. The course examines how nationalist movements can unite people in common causes or lead to intense conflict between groups. It also focusses on how the development and proliferation of communication and transportation technologies led to profound changes in personal and national identities. In addition, it investigates the breakdown of imperialist and colonial structures and the rise of new political and economic systems.

In short, 20th Century World History will help you understand why the world is the way it is in the 21st Century. It is highly encouraged that students taking this class are mature, independent, hard-working, and have a strong desire to learn.

Psychology 12

Have you ever wondered why humans are the way they are? Psychology serves as an introduction to the field of psychology and is for those students who have a keen interest in the social sciences and behavioral psychology. It will provide you with an understanding of the origin and application of major theories, studies, and discoveries throughout history.

Psychology focusses on a variety of topics including some of the following: how the brain functions, mental health and stress, perception, personality types, altered states of consciousness, learning, memory, and intelligence, human development through the lifespan, motivation and emotion, personality theory, mental illnesses, therapy, and social psychology. Class topics will be introduced through a variety of media, including television shows, movies, research, and experimental case studies. You will discover a great deal about human behavior, and most importantly about yourself.

Asian Studies 12

This course is not an option for this year’s course selection as it is offered every second year. Asian Studies will be offered as a course selection for the next school year. Consider taking another senior Social Studies course this year and Asian Studies next year.

How has colonialism impacted Asia? To what extent has the physical and human resources of Asia allowed for it to develop into distinct political, cultural, and economic regions? How has Asia’s complex and rapid growth led to environmental issues?

In Asia Studies we will look at diverse and complex issues that impact the world’s largest continent. Consisting of over 50 countries, Asia is one of the most diverse parts of the world. We will begin the course by understanding the borders, resources, trade, climate, and density. In the course, we will examine environmental and population problems, especially in the economic powerhouses of China and India. We will understand the impacts of WW2 in Asia, and the rapid post-war economic growth and development in Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. This focus will include the impacts of American colonialism on countries such as the Philippines.

We will also examine various human rights issue in Asia. For instance, the caste system and untouchables in India, the Umbrella Protests in Hong Kong, honour killings, throughout the region, communism in Vietnam, genocide in Tibet, the state of North Korea, and the 1984 Sikh Genocide. You will also have opportunities to explore topics that you are interested in through inquiry.

Finally, we will examine the impacts Asians have had in BC and the treatment of Asians by analyzing the Komagata Maru Incident, Japanese Canadian Imprisonment, Chinese Head Tax and Exclusion Act, the 1907 Anti-Asian Race Riots, and present-day incidents of anti-Asian racism. Take this course if you have an interest in understanding the social, cultural, political, legal, and environmental issues of Asia, the global contributions and accomplishments of Asians, and the past and present social injustices against Asian communities in Canada.