Grade 10 Course Descriptions

In American History 20G, students will explore the cultural, economic, political, and social developments that have shaped the United States from c. 1491 to the present.

Through analyzing historical sources, texts, and visual evidence, students will learn to make connections to the present and craft historical arguments based in critical thinking.

Art 20S is an optional course. Emphasis is on artistic expression using a variety of media. The student will develop basic skills in drawing, painting using acrylics as well as water paints, sculpture, and pottery. Students will research art produced by various first nations groups around the world.

Students will have the opportunity to observe and study a variety of artistic styles, both contemporary as well as from the past. They will begin to learn to critique and to discover how creative work is influenced by perception and experience. No artistic experience is required.

Computer Science 20S (CS20S) is an entry-level course in computer science. It is designed for students interested in pursuing computer science after high school. No previous programming experience is required.

CS20S will use a current programming language and environment to introduce students to the fundamentals of programming computers. Developing a systematic approach to problem-solving will be a major theme in CS20S. Students will be challenged to think deeply about and develop solutions to problem sets of increasing complexity throughout the term.

The current teaching language is Java, but students may use other languages. Topics may include

•  Formatting and commenting code
• Assignment
• Programming sequentially
• File I/O
• Selection structures
• Iteration

This course will prepare students for Computer Science 30S.

Prerequisites: strong computer skills, strong problem solving and math skills, and the ability to work independently are all necessary. Students should be aware that the following skills are assumed;

• Running applications
• Organizing files with a custom file system (making folders and sub-folders to organize saved documents)
• Moving and copying files between folders and between drives.
• Using a word processing program

Effective oral communication, listening and analytical skills are the basis and a fundamental skill within today’s society. Speeches, presentations, seminars, formal meetings, and interviews are a fraction of the situations where oral communication skills are integral for success. However, often when placed in these situations, many find themselves uncomfortable and unable to achieve success. One’s ability and comfortability to speak effectively is an important skill but is only one aspect of excellent oral communications. Other key facets of speaking include but are not limited to the ability to listen carefully and to truly understand what is being said. This can be done through analyzing an argument or position and being able to identify strengths and flaws. Therefore, creating and developing logical thinking skills and effectively using a multitude of communication skills

Students in Digital Media I will explore a variety of digital media forms through the use of current software and web technologies. Digital Media I is divided broadly, into two categories;

1. Content Creation: Students will create content using a variety of current software packages
2. Content Distribution: Students will create and maintain a website to publish the content created in class.

Students will be encouraged to think and learn independently. Problem-solving skills will be developed. Self-starters will excel, and self-discipline will be key to success in this course. A solid background in computers is recommended but not required. Students will complete projects of varying lengths throughout the term. These projects will serve as both assessment and a vehicle for students to extend their ability and sophistication in working with digital media.

This course builds on the skills learned in Dramatic Arts 10S and emphasizes the ability of the actor to be a storyteller, recognizing that the primary concern of every actor, director & playwright is telling stories.

Objectives

Students will confidently create and block scenes.  Students will learn to give and accept critiques of each others' work.  Students will gain appreciation of the theatre in a professional theatre environment.

Pre-requisite(s)

None. Students only need a willingness to work with others.  A keen interest in theatre and an inclination to engage in all exercises and activities are assets.

Topics

The structure of the course will be flexible, to address the level and experience of the students and their interests.  Students will focus on improvisation as a means of exploring interaction, characterization, scene structure and some theatre study.

Assignments

Due to the participatory nature of this course, 100% attendance is mandatory.  Students are expected to participate fully in all class activities, and may need to participate in rehearsals outside of class time.

Benefits

The study of Dramatic Arts develops mental agility, creativity, self-confidence, communication skills, co-operative skills, and physical and vocal flexibility. Students interested in pursuing a career in communications, the arts, education, law, professional theatre, marketing, (or any career field which involves communication and presentations,) will find this course useful.

Special Requirements

Students will be expected to dress in a manner appropriate to class activities. Specific requirements will be announced in the first class.

English 20F introduces students to academic approaches to reading, understanding, and sharing literature. Students will be required to analyze and evaluate the choices writers have made in a broad sampling of literary works including poetry, short stories, novels, and plays and to connect those choices to specific literary themes. Students will also become conscious of the manipulation of both written and oral language skills through a variety of tasks including academic and creative writing as well as oral, visual, and dramatic presentations.

Assignments

Evaluation will be based on a variety of assignments such as exams, research essays, argumentative essays, reviews, response journals, oral work/presentations, and other forms.

Benefits

This course is required before a student can take English 30S. It emphasizes the academic and personal skills required to be successful.

Ce cours est destiné aux francophones et aux étudiants du programme d’immersion. À cause du nombre limité d’élèves, Francais 20F et Francais 30S pourraient être enseignés en même temps.

Les buts du cours

Ces cours permettront à l’élève de perfectionner son expression orale et écrite. Il / elle sera amené/e à développer ses habiletés langagières par l’étude de la grammaire, de la littérature et des textes non-littéraires.

Les cours préalables

Le cours de Français 10G

Les sujets à l’étude

Ces cours ont pour but de perfectionner et d’approfondir les connaissances grammaticales de l’élève. Il / elle fera donc l’étude systématique des verbes, de l’orthographe grammaticale et des parties du discours. Dans le but de développer son esprit de synthèse et d’analyse, l’élève sera appelé à faire la lecture de romans, de pièces de théâtre, de nouvelles, de poésie et d’une variété de textes non-littéraires. Les élèves verront des  spectacles de musique, des pièces de théâtre et des films français au cours de l'année. Ces activités leur permettront de vivre la culture et d'approfondir leurs connaissances tout en suivant le programme d'études.

Les devoirs

Afin de perfectionner l’écrit, l’élève fera des dictées, des exercices de grammaire et des rédactions. Pour améliorer son expression orale, il / elle devra participer aux discussions en classe, présenter des scènes ou des monologues dramatiques et faire des présentations orales sur les textes littéraires et non-littéraires à l’étude.

Les exigences

L’étudiant aura besoin d’un bon dictionnaire français, par exemple Le Petit Robert I.

French 20F is part of the Core French (Français de base) program beginning in grade 4. This program integrates four components—experience/communication, culture, language, and general language education—so that learners are able to apply practical linguistic knowledge at a personal level. 

Objectives

• To improve French language skills
• To increase linguistic accuracy
• To expand language learning strategies
• To better understand French-language speaking cultures

Pre-requisite(s)

French 10G

Topics

• Paroles et images (advertising and publicity)
• Face aux défis (stress)
• C’est tout un Canada (festivals and exchange programs)

Linguistic topics include: le passé composé, l’imparfait, le participe passé, le futur simple, le conditionnel présent, le participe présent, les pronoms objets avec l’impératif, et le passé composé des verbes pronominaux.

Assignments

Students are evaluated on the development of their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Assignments include Voyages 1 workbook exercises, research, problem-solving activities, interviews, projects, and presentations.

Benefits

Research shows that second language students develop greater problem-solving skills, perform better in their native language, and become more open to other cultures.

Special Requirements

Students must be willing to participate, be resourceful, and take risks, - all essential aspects of acquiring a second language.

Grade 10 Essential Mathematics (20S) is intended for students whose post-secondary planning does not include a focus on mathematics and science-related fields. 

Essential Math is intended to help students become “informed” consumers and will provide students with the necessary skills. This course prepares students by teaching them number sense, consumer problem-solving and decision-making.  Course strands include:  personal finance, trigonometry, measurement, consumer decisions, angle construction and transformations. Upon successful completion of this course, students will enroll in Essential Math 30S.  

Pre-requisite(s)

Grade 9 Mathematics

Grade 10 Introduction to Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics 20S is intended for students considering post-secondary studies that require a math pre-requisite. This course provides students with the mathematical understanding and critical thinking skills necessary for post-secondary programs of study.

Assessment tools may include homework, on-line assignments, mental math, investigations, projects, quizzes, tests and examinations.

This course is designed for students who wish to further their studies in instrumental music through performance in a concert band setting. Students will develop individual technique and musicianship through various exercise, studies, music theory, and a wide variety of concert band literature. Particular attention will be given to maturing individual and ensemble sound, intonation, sight reading, and developing concepts of musical phrasing. Students will participate in a variety of school concerts, festivals, and other special events. Performance dress is required.

Pre-requisite(s)

Band 10S or permission of the instructor.

In this course students will have the opportunity to develop their musical interests and abilities through participation in a choral program with heavy emphasis on performance of choral music. The general objective of the program is to enable students to gain, through performance, an understanding of a wide range of choral literature. They will acquire singing skills including vocal production, breath control, diction and phrasing. Attention will be given to ensemble skills involving listening, voice blending, and the discipline necessary for choral singing. Students will be expected to participate in rehearsals, concerts, recitals, festivals, and other performances outside of regular class hours. Performance dress is required.

Pre-requisite(s)

Music Choral 10S or permission of the instructor

Physical Education 20F is a compulsory course for grade 10 students which introduces them to quality lifestyle choices. In the health component of this course, students will examine the topics of fitness, first aid, and drug awareness. The activity component of the course will develop the students’ cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility. The development of athletic abilities such as coordination, balance, agility, reaction time, speed and power will also be included. Students will be introduced to a number of games, activities, and sports that will help them to become active for life.

In addition, students will be given opportunities to refine their decision- making, conflict-resolution, and interpersonal skills, with a focus on enhancing their mental health and their relationships with others as well as making positive personal choices for a healthy lifestyle.

This course is designed to give females the opportunity to learn fitness concepts and conditioning techniques used for obtaining optimal physical fitness. Students will benefit from comprehensive weight training and cardiorespiratory endurance activities. Students will learn the basic fundamentals of strength training, aerobic training, and overall fitness training and conditioning. Students will be empowered to make wise choices, meet challenges, and develop positive behaviors in fitness, wellness, and movement activity for a lifetime. The class will provide a safe space for female students to improve and work at an individual pace and upon completion have the ability to continue maintaining an active lifestyle suited to their own individual needs and interests.

In addition, students will be given opportunities to refine their decision- making, conflict-resolution, and interpersonal skills, with a focus on enhancing their mental health and their relationships with others as well as making positive personal choices for a healthy lifestyle.

Science 20F is a general science course which will investigate the nature of science as a study of natural phenomena. The four major curricular components are Biology (ecology), Chemistry (atoms and molecules), Physics (motion), and Weather. The ecology unit includes an overview of the ecosystem and environment focusing on sustainable development. The chemistry unit includes bonding, nomenclature, reactions, acids and bases, and balancing reactions. The physics unit covers motion terms of velocity, acceleration, displacement, and time.

The final unit, weather, examines a variety of weather-related phenomena and includes sections on how weather is measured and interpreted.

Topics

●     Science and Scientific Inquiry
●     Dynamics of Ecosystems
●     Chemistry in Action
●     The Physics of Motion
●     Weather Dynamics

Evaluation

Evaluation will involve laboratory work and assignments, research projects (including internet research), group work, and exams.

Benefits

Students will have an opportunity to acquire a “feel” for specialized science courses in preparation for post-secondary studies and to acquire some basic laboratory and research skills.

Spanish 20F is the initial course of a three-year program at the high-school level. This course introduces students to the basic principles of Spanish. The emphasis is on developing practical skills to communicate in everyday situations. The contents are covered through themes designed to develop receptive and productive language skills, but also to introduce the student to the diversity of Spain and Spanish American culture. For example, activities could include writing to students in Spanish speaking countries.  Students are evaluated on the development of their ability to speak, understand, read, and write Spanish at a basic level.

Objectives

●     To develop basic Spanish language skills to be used in a variety of situations and for a variety of purposes
●     To use Spanish effectively and competently at a basic level
●     To expand various language learning strategies
●     To introduce students to the geography and culture of Spanish-speaking countries

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Topics

●     Greetings and introductions, the Spanish-speaking world
●     Talk about yourself and get information
●     Nationality, geography, and maps
●     Birthdays
●     Courses, class activities and telling time
●     Talk about family, friends, and daily life
●     Express likes and dislikes
●     Descriptions of people and things
●     Going around the city and future plans

Assignments

Workbook exercises, research, interviews, oral presentations, interactive activities, role-playing, main project Mi álbum personal.

Benefits

There is significant evidence to suggest that learning another language enhances the use of the first language, promotes cognitive flexibility, creativity, and develops awareness and sensitivity to other cultures. Moreover, in today’s workplace, it is an asset to be able to communicate and interact effectively with different cultures.