Course Descriptions
The Arts
ADA20 Dramatic Arts - Grade 10 Course Type: Open, Prerequisite: None, Credit Value: 1.0
This course requires students to actively explore dramatic forms and techniques, using their
own ideas and concerns as well as sources selected from a wide range of authors, genres, and
cultures. Student learning will include identifying and using the principles of space time, voice,
and movements in creating, sustaining, and communicating authentic roles within a drama.
Students will assume responsibility for decisions made in the creation and presentation of the
drama, and will analyse and reflect on the experience.
ADA3M Dramatic Arts - Grade 11 Course Type: University/College Preparation, Prerequisite: Grade 9 or 10 Dramatic Arts, Credit Value: 1.0
This course requires students to create and perform dramatic presentations that deal with a variety of issues from the past and the present. Students will analyse, interpret, and perform works of drama from various cultures, including Western plays from around 1900. Students will also do research on different acting styles and conventions for their presentations, create original works, and analyse the functions of playwright, director, actor, producer, technician, and audience.
ADA4M Dramatic Arts - Grade 12 Course Type: University/College Preparation or Open, Prerequisite: Dramatic Arts, Grade 11, Credit Value: 1.0
This course requires students to experiment with forms and conventions in dramatic literature,
and to create/adapt and present dramatic works. Students will do research on dramatic forms,
conventions, themes and theories of acting and directing from different historical periods, and
apply their knowledge of these in analysing and interpreting dramatic literature, including
Canadian works and works from various cultures in the late twentieth century. Students will also
examine the significance of dramatic arts in various cultures.
AVI20 Visual Arts - Grade 10 Prerequisite: None, Credit Value 1.0
This course emphasizes learning through practice; building on what students know; and
introducing them to new ideas, materials, and processes for artistic thinking and
experimentation. Student learning will include the refined application of the elements and
principles of design, incorporating the creative and design processes, and the relationship
between form and content. Students will also learn about the connections between works of art
and their historical contexts. Course objectives may be achieved either through a
comprehensive program or through a program focused on a particular art form (e.g., drawing, painting).
AVI3M Visual Arts - Grade 11 University/College Preparation, Prerequisite: Grade 9 or 10 Visual Arts, Open, Credit Value 1.0
This course provides students with opportunities to further develop their skills and knowledge in
visual arts. Students will explore a range of subject matter through studio activities, and will
consolidate their practical skills. Students will also analyse art works and study aspects of
Western art history, as well as Canadian art forms and art forms from various parts of the world.
AVI4M Visual Arts - Grade 12 Prerequisite: Visual Arts Grade 11, University/College Preparation or Open, Credit Value 1.0
This course focuses on the refinement of students' skills and knowledge in visual arts. Students
will analyse art forms; use theories of art in analysing and producing art; and increase their
understanding of stylistic changes in modern and contemporary Western art, Canadian
(including Native Canadian) art, and art forms from various parts of the world. Students will
produce a body of work demonstrating a personal approach.
AWQ3M Photography - Grade 11 University/College Preparation, Prerequisite: Any High School Arts or Social Science course, credit value 1.0
This course focuses on studio activities in digital photography studies. Students will create art works that explore a wide range of subject matter, and will evaluate art works, providing grounds for their aesthetic judgments. They will also examine historical, stylistic, and cultural contexts of Western art (including Canadian art) and art from various world cultures to support their study of specific media. This course will involve the use of a digital camera, laptop computer, shooting and digital photo techniques using Photoshop CS or CS2. Required equipment: Digital camera (minimum 3 megapixel, 5 megapixel or higher ideal) and a laptop computer.
AWQ4M Photography - Grade 12 University/College Preparation, Prerequisite: Visual Arts, Grade 11, credit value 1.0
This course focuses on the refinement of students' skills and knowledge in visual arts. Students will analyze art forms; use theories of art in analyzing and producing art; and increase their understanding of stylistic changes in modern and contemporary Western art, Canadian art and art forms from various parts of the world. Students will produce a body of work demonstrating a personal approach. Instruction will include the use of the digital camera and image manipulation software (Photoshop). Students will blend shooting and manipulation techniques to produce stylized and multi-image works. There will be a focus on travel photography. Required equipment: Digital camera (minimum 3 megapixel, 5 megapixel or higher ideal) and a laptop computer.
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Canadian and World Studies
CHV20 Civics - Grade 10 Prerequisite: None, Credit Value 0.5
This course explores what it means to be an informed, participating citizen in a democratic
society. Students will learn about the elements of democracy in local, national, and global contexts, about political reactions to social change, and about political decision-making processes in Canada. They will explore their own and other's ideas about civics questions and learn how to think critically about public issues and react responsibly to them.
CHC2D Canadian History Since World War I - Grade 10, Academic (Compulsory) Credit Value 1.0
This course explores the local, national, and global forces that have shaped Canada's national identity since World War I to the present. Students will investigate the challenges presented by economic, social, and technological changes and explore the contributions of individuals and groups to Canadian culture and society during this period. Students will use critical thinking and communication skills to evaluate various interpretations of the issues and events of the period and to present their own point of view.
CGW4U Canadian and World Issues: A Geographic Analysis - Grade 12 Prerequisite: Any University or University/College preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Sciences and Humanities, Credit Value 1.0
This course examines the global challenges of creating a sustainable and equitable future, focusing on current issues that illustrate these challenges. Students will investigate a range of topics, including cultural, economic, and geopolitical relationships, regional disparities in the ability to meet human needs, and protection of the natural environment. Students will use geotechnologies and skills of geographic inquiry and analysis to develop and communicate balanced opinions about the complex issues facing Canada and a world that is independent and constantly changing.
CHW3M World History to the Sixteenth Century - Grade 11, University/College Preparation, Prerequisite: Canadian History in the Twentieth Century, Grade 10, Academic or Applied, Credit Value 1.0
This course investigates the history of humanity from earliest times to the sixteenth century. Students will analyse diverse societies from around the world, with an emphasis on the political, cultural, and economic structures and historical forces that have shaped the modern world. They will apply historical inquiry, critical thinking, and communication skills to evaluate the influence of selected individuals, groups, and innovations and to present their own conclusions.
CHI4U Canadian History, Identity and Culture Grade 12, University Preparation, Prerequisite: Any University or University/College preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Sciences and Humanities, Credit Value 1.0
This course explores the challenges associated with the formation of a Canadian national identity. Students will examine the social, political, and economic forces that have shaped Canada from the pre-contact period to the present and will investigate the historical roots of contemporary issues from a variety of perspectives. Students will use critical-thinking and communication skills to consider events and ideas in historical context, debate issues of culture
and identity, and present their own views.
CHY4U World History: The West and the World, Grade 12, University Preparation, Prerequisite: Any University or University/College preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Sciences and Humanities, Credit Value 1.0
This course investigates the major trends in Western civilization and world history from the sixteenth century to the present. Students will learn about the interaction between the emerging West and other regions of the world and about the development of modern social, political, and economic systems. They will use critical thinking and communication skills to investigate the historical roots of contemporary issues and present their conclusions.
CLN4U Canadian and International Law, Grade 12, University Preparation, Prerequisite: Any University or University/College preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Studies and Humanities, Credit Value 1.0
This course explores elements of Canadian and international law and in social, political, and global contexts. Students will study the historical and philosophical sources of law and the principles and practices of international law and will learn to relate them to issues in Canadian society and the wider world. Students will use critical thinking and communication skills to analyse legal issues, conduct independent research, and present the results of their inquiries in a variety of ways.
CGR4M The Environment and Resource Management, Grade 12, University/College Preparation, Prerequisite: Any University, University/College preparation course in Canadian and World studies, English or Social Sciences and Humanities. Credit value 1.0.
This course investigates the complexity and fragility of ecosystems and the pressures human activities place on them. Students will examine ecological processes, the principles of sustainability, and strategies for resource management, with a focus on the challenges of environmental degradation and resource depletion. Students will use geotechnologies and skills of geographic inquiry to explain and evaluate various approaches to achieving a more sustainable relationship between people and their environment.
CHA3U American History, Grade 11 Prerequisite: Canadian History Since World War I, Grade 10. Credit value 1.0
This course traces the social, economic, and political development of the United States from colonial times to the present. Students will examine issues of diversity, identity, and culture that have influenced the country’s social and political formation and will consider the implications of its expansion into a global superpower. Students will use critical thinking and communication skills to determine causal relationships, evaluate multiple perspectives, and present their own points of view.
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Classical Studies and International Languages
LVV4U Classical Civilization, Grade 12, University Preparation. Prerequisite: English, Grade 10, Academic or Applied, Credit Value 1.0
This course allows students to explore the beliefs and achievements of the classical world,
which have shaped Western thought and civilization. Students will investigate such aspects of
classical culture as its mythology, art, literature, and philosophy, as well as elements of ancient
Greek and Latin, through a variety of activities such as dramatizations, audio-visual
presentations, and discussions. By reading classical authors in English and examining
archaeological evidence, students will enhance both their communication skills and their ability
to think critically and creatively.
LWIBD Italian, Grade 10 (International Languages, Academic, Level 2). Prerequisite: None, Credit Value 1.0
This course provides students with the language learning experiences that will enable them to
communicate in Italy. Study will continue to develop and apply their speaking skills in a variety
of contexts, and will participate in activities that will improve their reading comprehension and
writing skills. They will also continue to explore aspects of the culture of Italy by taking part in
community-sponsored events and activities involving both print and technological resources.
Although students will continue to expand their vocabulary and repertoire of language
structures, the language they will use at this level will still be simple.
LWICU Italian, Level 3, Grade 11, University Preparation. Prerequisite: Italian, Level 2, Credit Value 1.0
In addition to most of the Level 2 material, this course offer students opportunities to further
develop their knowledge of Italian and to enhance their communication skills. Students will use
increasingly sophisticated language in a variety of activities that will enable them to speak and
write with clarity and accuracy. Students will also enhance their thinking skills through critical
study of literature, and continue to explore aspects of the culture of Italy through a variety of
print and technological resources.
LWIDU Italian, Level 4, Grade 12, University Preparation. Prerequisite: Italian, Level 3, University Preparation, Credit Value 1.0
This course prepares students for university studies in Italian. Students will enhance their ability
to use the language with clarity and precision, and will develop the language skills needed to
engage in sustained conversations and discussions, understand and evaluate information, read
diverse materials for both study and pleasure, and write clearly and effectively. Students will
also have opportunities to add to their knowledge of the culture of Italy through the use of
community resources and computer technology.
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English
ENG2D English, Grade 10, Academic (Compulsory). Prerequisite: ENG1D or ENG1P, Credit Value 1.0
This course is designed to extend the range of oral communication, reading, writing, and media literacy skills that students need for success in their secondary school academic programs and in their daily lives. Students will analyse literary texts from contemporary and historical periods, interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be the selective use of strategies that contribute to effective communication. This course is intended to prepare students for the compulsory Grade 11 university or college preparation course.
ENG3U English, Grade 11, University Preparation. Prerequisite: Grade 10 English, Academic, Credit Value 1.0
This course emphasizes the development of literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyze challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures, as well as a range of informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using language with precision and clarity and incorporating stylistic devices appropriately and effectively. This course is intended to prepare students for the compulsory Grade 12 university or college preparatory course.
EMS30 Media Studies, Grade 11, Open Prerequisite: Grade 10 English, Academic or Applied, Credit Value 1.0
This course emphasizes knowledge and skills that will enable students to understand media
communication in the twenty-first century and to use media effectively and responsibly. Through
analyzing the forms and messages of a variety of media works and audience responses to
them, and through creating their own media works, students will develop critical thinking skills,
aesthetic writing and ethical judgement and skills viewing, representing, listening, speaking,
reading and writing.
ENG4U English Grade 12, University Preparation Prerequisite: English, Grade 11, University Preparation, Credit value 1.0
This course emphasizes consolidation of the literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyse a range of challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures; interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts; and create oral, written and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using academic language coherently and confidently, selecting the reading strategies best suited to particular texts and particular purposes for reading, and developing greater control in writing. This course is intended to prepare students for university, college, or the workplace.
EWC4U The Writer's Craft, Grade 12, University Preparation. Prerequisite: English, Grade 11, University Preparation, Credit Value 1.0
This course emphasizes knowledge and skills related to the craft of writing. Students will
analyse models of effective writing; use a workshop approach to produce a range of works;
identify and use techniques required for specialized forms of writing; and identify effective ways
to improve the quality of their writing. They will also complete a major paper as part of a creative
or analytical independent study project and investigate opportunities for publication and for
writing careers.
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Guidance and Career Education
GLC20 Career Studies, Grade 10, Compulsory. Prerequisite: None, Credit Value 0.5
This course teaches students how to develop and achieve personal goals for future learning, work, and community involvement. Students will assess their interests, skills, and characteristics and investigate current economic and workplace trends, work opportunities, and ways to search for work. The course explores postsecondary learning and career options, prepares students for managing work and life transitions, and helps students focus on their goals through the development of a career plan.
Mathematics
MPM2D Principles of Mathematics, Grade 10, Academic (Compulsory). Prerequisite: MPM1D or MFM1P, Credit Value 1.0
This course enables students to broaden their understanding of relationships and extend their problem-solving and algebraic skills through investigation, the effective use of technology, and abstract reasoning. Students will explore quadratic relations and their applications; solve and apply linear systems; verify properties of geometric figures using analytic geometry; and investigate the trigonometry of right and acute triangles. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.
MCR3U Functions, Grade 11, University Preparation. Prerequisite: Grade 10 Principles of Mathematics, Academic, Credit value 1.0
This course introduces the mathematical concept of the function by extending students'
experiences with linear and quadratic relations. Students will investigate properties of discrete
and continuous functions, including trigonometric and exponential functions; represent functions
numerically, algebraically, and graphically; solve problems involving applications of functions;
investigate inverse functions; and develop facility in determining equivalent algebraic expressions. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.
MCF3M Functions & Applications, Grade 11, University & College Preparation Prerequisite: Grade 10 Principles of Mathematics, Academic, Credit Value 1.0
This course introduces some financial applications of mathematics and extends students' experiences with quadratic relations. It focuses on quadratic, trigonometric, and exponential functions and their use in modeling real-world situations. Students will represent functions numerically, graphically, and algebraically; simplify expressions, solve equations; and solve problems relating to applications. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.
MHF4U Advanced Functions, Grade 12, University Preparation Prerequisite: MCR3U, Functions, Grade 11, University Preparation, MCR3U. Credit value 1.0
This course extends students' experience with functions. Students will investigate the properties of polynomial, rational, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; develop techniques for combining functions; broaden their understanding of rates of change; and develop facility in applying these concepts and skills. Students will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. This course is intended both for students taking the Calculus and Vectors course as a prerequisite for a university program and for those wishing to consolidate their understanding of mathematics before proceeding to any one of a variety of university programs
MCV4U Calculus and Vectors, Grade 12, University Preparation Prerequisite: MHF4U, Advanced Functions, Grade 12, University Preparation. Credit value 1.0
This course builds on students' previous experience with functions and their developing understanding of rates of change. Students will solve problems involving geometric and algebraic representations of vectors, and representations of lines and planes in three-dimensional space; broaden their understanding of rates of change to include the derivatives of polynomial, sinusoidal, exponential, rational, and radical functions; and apply these concepts and skills to the modelling of real-world relationships. Students will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. This course is intended for students who choose to pursue careers in fields such as science, engineering, economics, and some areas of business, including those students who will be required to take a university-level calculus, linear algebra or physics course.
MDM4U Mathematics of Data Management, Grade 12, University Preparation Prerequisite: Grade 11 Functions and Relations, University or Grade 11 Functions, University/College Credit value 1.0
This course broadens students' understanding of mathematics as it related to managing
information. Students will apply methods for organizing large amounts of information; solve problems involving probability and statistics; and carry out a culminating investigation that integrates statistical concepts and skills. Students will refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. Students planning to enter university programs in business, the social sciences, or the humanities will find this course of particular interest.
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Physical and Health Education
PPL30 Healthy Active Living Education, Grade 11, Open Prerequisite: None. Credit value 1.0
This course focuses on the development of a healthy lifestyle and participation in a variety of enjoyable physical activities that have the potential to engage students' interest throughout their lives. Students will be encouraged to develop personal competence in a variety of movement skills and will be given opportunities to practice goal-setting, decision-making, social and interpersonal skills. Students will also study the components of healthy relationships, reproductive health, and personal safety.
PPL40 Healthy Active Living Education, Grade 12, Open Prerequisite: None. Credit value 1.0
This course focuses on the development of a personalized approach to healthy active living through participation in a variety of sports and recreational activities that have the potential to engage students’ interest throughout their lives. Students will develop and implement personal physical fitness plans. In addition, they will be given opportunities to refine their decision-making, conflict-resolution, and interpersonal skills, with a view to enhancing their mental health and their relationships with others.
Science
SNC2D Science, Grade 10, Academic (Compulsory) Prerequisite: SNC1D, Credit Value 1.0
This course enables students to enhance their understanding of concepts in biology,
chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and of the interrelationships among science, technology, society, and the environment. Students are also given opportunities to further develop their scientific investigation skills. Students will plan and conduct investigations and develop their understanding of scientific theories related to the connections between cells and systems in animals and plants; chemical reactions, with particular focus on acid-base reactions; forces that affect climate and climate change; and the interaction of light and matter.
SBI3U Biology, Grade 11, University Preparation Prerequisite: Grade 10 Science, Academic, Credit Value 1.0
This course furthers students' understanding of the processes involved in biological systems.
Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biodiversity; evolution; genetic processes; the structure and function of animals; and the anatomy, growth, and function of plants. The course focuses on the theoretical aspects of the topics under study, and helps students refine skills related to scientific investigation.
SCH3U Chemistry, Grade 11, University Preparation Prerequisite: Grade 10 Science, Academic, Credit Value 1.0
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of the properties of chemicals and chemical bonds; chemical reactions and quantitative relationships in those reactions; solutions and solubility; and atmospheric chemistry and the behaviour of gases. Students will further develop their analytical skills and investigate the qualitative and quantitative properties of matter, as well as the impact of some common chemical reactions on society and the environment.
SPH3U Physics, Grade 11, University Preparation Prerequisite: Grade 10 Science, Academic, Credit Value 1.0
This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will explore kinematics, with an emphasis on linear motion; different kinds of forces; energy transformations; the properties of mechanical waves and sound; and electricity and magnetism. They will enhance their scientific investigation skills as they test laws of physics. In addition, they will analyse the interrelationships between physics and technology, and consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment
SBI4U Biology, Grade 12, University Preparation Prerequisite: Biology, Grade 11, Chemistry (SCH3U), Grade 11, Strongly Recommended, University Preparation, Credit Value 1.0
This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on the achievement of detailed knowledge and the refinement of skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields.
SCH4U Chemistry, Grade 12, University Preparation Prerequisite: Chemistry, Grade 11, University Preparation, Credit value 1.0
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of organic chemistry, the structure and properties of matter, energy changes and rates of reaction, equilibrium in chemical systems, and
electrochemistry. Students will further develop their problem-solving and investigation skills as they invesitgate chemical processes, will refine their ability to communicate scientific information. Emphasis will be placed on the
importance of chemistry in daily life, and on evaluating the impact of chemical technology on the environment.
SPH4U Physics, Grade 12, University Preparation Prerequisite: Physics, Grade 11, Mathematics (MCB4U), Grade 12 recommended, University Preparation, Credit value 1.0
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of physics concepts and theories. Students will continue their exploration of energy transformations and the forces that affect motion, and will investigate electrical, gravitational, and magnetic fields and electromagnetic radiation. Students will also explore the wave nature of light, quantum mechanics, and special relativity. They will further develop their scientific investigation skills, learning, for example, how to analyse, qualitatively and quantitatively, data related to a variety of physics concepts and principles. Students will also consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.
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Social Sciences and Humanities
HSP3M Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, and Sociology, Grade 11, University & College Preparation Prerequisite: None, Credit Value 1.0
This course introduces the theories, questions, and issues that are the major concerns of
anthropology, psychology, and sociology. Students will develop an understanding of the way
social scientists approach the topics they study and the research methods they employ.
Students will be given opportunities to explore theories from a variety of perspectives and to
become familiar with current thinking on a range of issues that have captured the interest of
classical and contemporary social scientists in the three disciplines.
HRT3M World Religions: Beliefs, Issues, and Religious Traditions, Grade 11, (Tentative) University & College Prerequisite: None, Credit value 1.0
This course enables students to discover what others believe and how they live, and to
appreciate their own unique heritage. Students will learn about the teachings and traditions of a
variety of religions, the connections between religion and the development of civilizations, the
place and function of religion in human experience, and the influence of a broad range of
religions on contemporary society. This course also introduces students to skills used in
researching and investigating world religions.
HSB4M Challenge and Change in Society Grade 12, University/College Preparation Prerequisite: Any University, University/College, or College preparation course in Social Sciences and Humanities, English, or Canadian and World studies, Credit value 1.0
This course examines the theories and methodologies used in anthropology, psychology; and sociology to investigate and explain shifts in knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviour and their impact on society. Students will analyse cultural, social, and biological patterns in human societies, looking at the ways in which those patterns change over time. Students will also explore the ideas of classical and contemporary social theorists, and will apply those ideas to the analysis of contemporary trends.
HZT4U Philosophy: Questions and Theories Grade 12, University Preparation Prerequisite: Any University, University/College preparation course in Social Sciences and Humanities, English, or Canadian and World studies, Credit value 1.0
This course addresses three (or more) of the main areas of philosophy: metaphysics, logic,
epistemology, ethics, social and political, and aesthetics. Students will learn critical-thinking
skills, the main ideas expressed by philosophers from a variety of the world's traditions, how to
develop and explain their own philosophical ideas, and how to apply those ideas to
contemporary social issues and personal experiences. The course will also help students refine
skills used in researching and investigating topics in philosophy.
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**Some courses may or may not be offered depending on student enrolment
