Complementary Course Descriptions

Art (Grades 7-9) Students will explore the elements and principles of design, as well as inspiration artists, while experimenting with a variety of mediums such as drawing, painting, collage, pastel, sculpture, and print making.

Band (Grades 7-9) Students in band will have the opportunity to learn a wind or percussion instrument, with much of the year spent preparing a variety of music for performances. In addition to two yearly concerts, students will also can participate in workshops, additional performance opportunities and trips (overnight band camp, or other trips) depending on which level they are in. The development of teamwork, individual practice, creativity and thinking skills are important in this course. Occasionally, students will be expected to attend extra rehearsals and performances outside of class time. Please note that Band includes a $100.00 fee for instrument rental if you do not provide your own instrument. There will be no withdrawals after Term 1 except in special circumstances.

Communication Technology (Grades 7-9) This Career and Technology Foundation course will allow students to develop computer literacy using a number of programs and applications. Students will explore several topics that include graphic design, photography,animation, basic programming, video and green screen, special eff ects, 3d design and modeling. We will also be building up our keyboarding skills and using web applications as needed.

Computer Science (Grade 8 only) This class is for the analytically minded. Using Adobe Animate, we will be doing heavy components of coding through the code language of ActionScript 3. We will also be doing some 3D design and to a lesser extent, some animation to supplement our code and programs. Our goal is to have each student create a custom interactive game playable through any standard Flash player. No knowledge of coding is required, but students must have a strong independent work ethic.

Construction (Grades 7-9) Construction will teach students some general knowledge of wood and how we use it to make things. Teaching SAFE work habits as students cut, shape, drill & join wood are a large and extremely important part of this course. Depending on the grade level, hand tools and some power equipment may be used. Students will complete a variety of projects.

Design Studies (Grade 9 only) Please Note: CommTech 9 is required before Design Studies 9. If you choose this class, please ensure you have also chosen CommTech 9. This class is centered around creating. From a digital medium, we will have an opportunity to print, 3d print, and CNC our designs into reality. In addition, upon completion of projects, students move on to create their own custom graphics for t-shirts (on vinyl) and other student original ideas with teacher support. As this class is design based, independent projects may be approved on a case-by-case basis. No prior 3D printing experience is required, personal time management is an asset. Basic supplies provided.

Drama (Grades 7-9) Drama for Grades 5–9 invites students to explore creativity, communication, and collaboration through dramatic expression. This course develops students’ confi dence, empathy, and imagination as they engage in role-play, movement, improvisation, and storytelling. Through individual and group work, students will build performance skills, refl ect on character and emotion, and explore the human experience in a safe, supportive environment. Whether rehearsing a scene, creating original work, or responding to peer performances, students will develop a deeper appreciation for theatre arts and the role of drama in culture, community, and personal growth. Dungeons and Dragons (Grades 7-9) Students will learn techniques for collaborative storytelling including developing plot, characters and settings. They will practice improvisation, listening, and teamwork skills, taking turns planning and leading a small group. Students will learn construction and crafting techniques for various game tools and miniatures.

Engineering (Grades 7-9) This class will introduce students to the engineering design process, problem-solving, and basic design skills. Students will learn to identify problems, research solutions, develop ideas, create prototypes, and evaluate results. Students will learn using a hands-on approach. They will have opportunities to work independently and on various teams as they explore and create.

Foods (Grade 7-9) This hands-on course introduces students to the basics of food preparation, kitchen safety, nutrition, and culinary creativity. Students will learn how to prepare a variety of dishes, explore the impact of food choices, and develop real-world skills in a collaborative kitchen environment. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving, safe practices, and career connections in the food and hospitality industry. German Language and Culture (Grade 7) Students will learn basic parts of conversational German, including but not limited to exchanging greetings and introductions, expressing opinions and feelings, and asking questions. Additionally, they will explore the language and culture creatively through songs, poetry, illustrations, skits, and research projects.

Guitar (Grades 7-9) This course is designed for students with zero-to-limited guitar experience. Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to playing the guitar at a beginning level and will learn many of the diff erent styles, skills and techniques required to become a successful guitarist. Areas of concentration include correct posture, note reading, aural skills, fl at-picking, singing songs, rhythmic patterns, chord study, fi nger-picking styles, musical forms, improvisation and performing experiences.

Leadership (Grades 8 and 9) A program or course aimed at cultivating leadership skills and knowledge, off ering practical experience through workshops and activities that allow individuals to explore their leadership style and build the necessary skills for eff ective leadership. Planning school events such as Indigenous Day, Black History Month activities, Halloween, Winter Celebration, Valentine's Day, Sports Day, Fall Celebration, Spring Celebration, and Summer Celebration.

Military Studies (Grades 7-9) To provide students with an understanding of Canada's military history, the role of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), and the impact of military events and service on Canadian identity, citizenship, and global peacekeeping. The course will also touch on the international Armed Forces. Students will be expected to be engaged and ready to participate in school conferences and fi eld trips.

Outdoor education (Grades 7-9) This course provides opportunities for in-depth studies of environments in a variety of urban and natural settings. The focus of the course will be outdoor survival and safety. The core values that will be taught in this course are: Teamwork, Leadership, Community and Environmental Stewardship through in-class learning modules and

through outdoor experiential activities. These activities may include (but are not limited to): Campsite set-up, safety, cooking, canoeing, wall-climbing, cross-country skiing, backpacking, orienteering, geocaching, hiking, snowshoeing, avalanche training and shelter building.

Performing Arts (School Play – Grade 9 only) This course is designed to provide students with authentic, process-based experiences in the performing arts, with a focus on full participation in the school play . Through exploration of drama, dance, music, and interdisciplinary performance, students will develop their creative voice, technical skills, and stage presence in both individual and ensemble settings. Emphasizing collaboration, refl ection, and risk-taking, the course immerses students in the full production process—including auditions, rehearsals, critiques, and public performances—that mirror professional artistic practices. By being part of the school play, students will build confi dence, communication, and critical thinking through expressive performance, while deepening their understanding of artistic disciplines, cultural contexts, and career pathways in the arts. This course is ideal for students who are passionate about performing and committed to growing as artists and collaborators in a live theatre setting.

Set Design (Grade 9 only) Students will learn how to plan, conceptualize and bring together sets and props for the school play. Skills include perspective drawing, trompe l'oeil painting skills, construction of handheld objects and larger set pieces and sourcing of materials. Sports Medicine (Grades 8,9) Through hands-on activities, interactive lessons, and real-world scenarios, students will learn how to tape and wrap injuries and understand how to maintain athlete health and wellness. This introductory course provides junior high students with a foundational understanding of sports medicine and athletic training. Students will explore basic human anatomy, common sports injuries, injury prevention, and fi rst aid techniques.

Training for Excellence in Sport (Grades 8,9) Sports performance refers to the ability to perform at a high level in physical activities, whether in individual or team sports. It encompasses a combination of strength, endurance, agility, speed, fl exibility, and mental focus. Enhancing sports performance involves training that targets physical conditioning, technique refi nement, and mental strategies to optimize results. Athletes focus on improving their overall fi tness, mastering sport-specifi c skills, and developing the mindset needed to perform consistently and at their best under pressure.

Yearbook/Photography (Grade 7-9) This course is designed for students with limited experience and will include photography, digital media and marketing. Students will work toward a year-end project which will be the ye