Course Descriptions
11 English (ENG3U) - Barb
Modern coming of age novels, city inspired creative writing, native studies, multicultural literature, modern and classic drama, a study of a popular film genre and the launching of a grassroots campaign to promote ecofriendly policies in our neighbourhood provide a framework for learning how to communicate better for all purposes.
11 Environmental Science (SVN3M) - Dan
This course employs the three primary sciences, i.e. Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, in an interdisciplinary analysis of the ecological, technological, ethical, and societal issues relating to Environmental Science. A multi-faceted assessment of the environmental impact of physical agents and chemical pollutants within the compartments of soil, water, and air will be emphasized. We will be taking an “eco-solutions” approach to this course.
11/12 Dramatic Arts (ADA3M/4M) – Barb
This course is focused around the creation of a theatre troupe – examining all roles involved in the production of theatre (writer, actor, director, producer, technician, etc). The troupe will be charged with putting on a production by the end of the semester, from inception to presentation. The course will also offer regular seminars on various acting techniques.
11/12 Movement/Phys Ed. (PAF3O/4O) - Whitney
The Personal Fitness/ Human Movement course is designed to focus on personal fitness and human movement as it impacts our health, well-being, and life style choices. Exploring how and why we move in certain ways, as well as personal fitness routines and activities, will enable students to examine their current levels of fitness and activity levels. Why and how we should live healthy, well rounded lives is the focal point of the course, including the choices we make for living a well-rounded, healthy life which involves mental, physical, emotional, cultural, social and /or spiritual well-being
11/12 Popular Culture (IDC30/40) - Whitney
This course explores artistic, economic, technological, social, historical, and ethical perspectives within the context of popular music and the society within which it exists. Using a wide range of approaches, students will actively share their own productions and inquiries through material, print, media and digital presentations. They will develop skills by completing and submitting enriched, differentiated tasks which may include but are not limited to, the production of musical recordings and the creation of secondary works, such as videos, websites, pod casts and merchandise. Projects may also take on the form of reports and more formal writings involving journalism, interviewing and ‘how to’ manuals.
11/12 Visual Arts - (AVI3M/4M) - Lori
This course is a vehicle for working on personal identity and expression as well as refining practical skills and techniques. Mediums may include various types of Painting, Drawing, and 2D/3D Design depending on the interests of the class. Theory and Criticism are integral parts of this course and will be expected in oral and written forms. Portfolio development for potential application to post-secondary Art Programmes will be addressed. The history of art is infused throughout everything we do as a context for the work we create now. A major paper and oral presentation of the student’s own works are part of the final assessment in the course. A Sketchbook is a necessary tool for this course.
12 Advanced Functions (MHF4U) – Dan
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. They will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics.
12 Biology (SBI4U) – Di
Senior Biology students will look at population dynamics, evolution, and sustainability as well as metabolism, molecular genetics, and the “balance” within and between organisms. The course is enriched with many up-to-date articles to help students gain useful understanding of where humans fit in the scheme of living things...and to gain insights into how they can influence the coming impacts of biotechnology.
12 Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) – Dan
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 3-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 modeling of real-world relationships.
12 Chemistry (SCH4U) – Di
An advanced chemistry course and a prerequisite for university science. Units include chemical bonding, chemical reactions, reaction kinetics, chemical equilibrium, solubility, and nuclear and electrochemistry. Projects deal with the application of chemistry to “reality”.
12 English/Literary Studies (ENG4U/ETS4U-01) – Peter
Nature, Within and Without: This course focuses on human nature and the relationship of humans to the rest of nature. The first part looks at teen experience as a guide to understanding what makes people act the way they do. Various teen movies and a study of the novel White Oleander provide guidance. The second half looks at the place of humans in nature, spiritually, politically and aesthetically. Essays, poetry and short stories will shine a light.
12 English/Literary Studies (ENG4U/ETS4U -02) - Peter
English and Politics: This course examines the politics of everyday life locally, nationally and globally. We will research, debate, present and write about various contemporary issues using newspapers, magazines and online resources. The second half of the course will look at political literature, with a focus on the novel Nineteen Eighty-Four and the various issues and concerns it explores.
12 Environmental Studies (CGR4M – 01) – Whitney
This course emphasizes experiential learning and students taking informed action on current green issues. Several field studies are set up, including trips to: Toronto Islands, High Park and Crawford Lake. We’ll be tree planting, visiting the Toronto Wind Turbine and the Green Roof at Mountain Equipment Coop. Guest speakers will help us explore the topics of alternative energy, climate change and the role of environmental organizations in our fair city. If you have an area of related expertise you would like to share with the class, please give us a call.
12 Life Strategies (IDC4U) - Di
Life Strategies, designed by Di and approved by the TDSB, helps young adults “master their own destiny”. We look at priorities and decision making, time and money management, career paths and business design, self-care (nutrition, fitness, etc.) and risk management, communication and relationships in various contexts.
A highly practical course and hopefully fun.
12 Philosophy (HZT4U) – Barb
This course introduces the student to many of the major philosophers and philosophical themes of both the east and the west. Among the philosophers to be studied are Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Hume, Berkeley, Shankaracharya, Buddha, and Patanjali. Some of the topics are theories of knowledge, reality, ethics and the Good Life. Material is taught through readings (including original writings), discussions, videos, thought exercises, class trips, etc. A major focus in this course is the development of critical thinking.
12 World Issues (CGW4U) - Whitney
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 basic human needs, and protection of the natural environment. Our units will include current events and media, the history and legacy of colonialism and the tension between globalization and sustainability movements.