Students in grade 7 and 8 have the opportunity to take up to 6 complementary courses per school year. During the 2023-2024 school year, students can choose from the following complimentary courses:
Band
As part of the Music Program 5-8, students will be able to identify a variety of musical styles, understand how rhythm and notes combine to create musical form and expression, and show appreciation for the music of many cultures and historical contexts. Students will learn to play a Band instrument of their choice from the following options: Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone, Tuba, and Percussion. Students will work on developing individual skills and technique on their chosen instrument as well as collaborate with their peers to create a polished group performance. As part of the Band program, students will rehearse and perform a variety of musical selections including marches, classics, pop, jazz, and rock and roll! Performances will be an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of musical fundamentals on their instrument of choice as well as through alternative forms. Students will develop a portfolio of their learning over the year that will showcase many different styles of learning. This program includes access to special activities such as fieldtrips, music festival, guest professional musicians, concerts in our school and community, and working with younger students in our school.
Beginners are welcome to join this class and no previous experience is required. Instruments may be available for students to borrow, and rentals are also an option. Band is a full year option.
Orchestra
As part of the Music Program 5-8, students will be able to identify a variety of musical styles, understand how rhythm and notes combine to create musical form and expression, and show appreciation for the music of many cultures and historical contexts. Students will learn to play an Orchestra instrument of their choice from the following options: Violin, Viola, Cello, and String Bass. Students will have the opportunity to play a variety of styles of music as they develop their musical ability individually and as a member of the group. Performances will be an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of musical fundamentals on their instrument of choice as well as through alternative forms. Students will develop a portfolio of their learning over the year that will showcase many different styles of learning. This program includes access to special activities such as fieldtrips, music festival, guest professional musicians, concerts in our school and community, and working with younger students in our school.
Beginners are welcome to join this class and no previous experience is required. Instruments may be available for students to borrow, and rentals are also an option. Orchestra is a full year option.
Art This course has a $10.00 fee
Art is designed to give students an opportunity to develop their basic skills and understanding in the elements and principles of art (line, shape, value, texture, balance, movement, etc.) Students will learn the artistic process through the exploration of various materials. Artistic talent is not a pre-requisite for this course. Any student who is willing to try can enjoy this course and experience success.
Fashion This course has a $10.00 fee
Textile Arts: This is an introduction to hand sewing and design using textiles. Students will learn how to use the tools safely and responsibly for their respective use and will design and create projects based on their study. This study will include a brief look at the history of sewing and design as well as how these skills can be used in fashion and the arts. Throughout the study, students will be encouraged to consider how they will be able to use these skills to create a project that will showcase their work, techniques, and skill in textile arts.
Foods This course has a $10.00 fee
Get Cracking in Foods: The students will be introduced to food basics which include kitchen safety and sanitation, kitchen orientation, nutrition, and simple food preparation. Throughout the course, students will learn and use the various skills in the cooking trade. There will be several lab opportunities for the students to practice their newly acquired skills so that they will be able to demonstrate their technique at home.
Leadership
This course provides students with opportunities to learn about the characteristics, discipline and actions that are part of being a leader and providing leadership. This is accomplished through the study of recognized leaders, the analysis of specific traits demonstrated by leaders in various situations and being given the opportunity to provide leadership at the school and in the community. Students will also be involved in guided, first-hand experiences in being responsible for providing leadership for projects, activities, and initiatives at the school and in the community. This course is intended to build the character and skills of adolescents in an engaging and authentic approach to learning.
Digital Design Technology
In Digital Design, you will explore digital design career options through project-based learning. You will look at graphic design and digital artwork by completing a variety of assignments involving digital creation, layout, and manipulation. You will learn about fundamental design concepts, such as layout and composition, typography, colour, in addition to branding and identity. You will be asked to apply your new skills and understanding to analyze and critique existing designs and as you create your own using various online and computer design programs. Students enrolled in Digital Design will have the opportunity to participate in creating digital and print media for our school community (ie: Gr.8 Yearbook, event posters, social media posts, slideshows for assemblies, etc.)
Environment & Outdoor Education
This course has two major focuses: 1) introducing students to the outdoors including activities to enjoy nature and the community 2) understanding and appreciating the ecosystems in which we live and how we can minimize our impact upon them. The course explores themes such as wildlife and forestry, ecosystems, environmental awareness, outdoor skills, and outdoor experiences. Indigenous teachings and perspectives are also embedded throughout this course.
Sports Performance
Welcome to a class that focuses on the power of mindset and how it impacts sports performance. In this class students will set personal goals through meaningful hands-on experience in a sport of choice. This class is for all skill levels. Students will experience the interconnectedness of mindset awareness, performance skill, and occupational areas of the future.
Wellness and Yoga
In wellness and yoga, students will explore a variety of topics related to wellness and mindfulness and develop a bank of strategies (such as breathwork, journaling, meditation) they can use in their personal lives. Yoga will also be incorporate daily into this class and taught by a certified instructor.
Total Body Fitness
Ever wonder what it takes to be fit for life? This class will explore healthy fitness behaviours and nutrition choices. We plan to look at what is out there to keep you fit for life. Units will include exploring nutrition, physical training, and overall wellness.
Introduction to coding/robotics
Learn to use computer language to program your own games and think like a programmer. The first part of the course will be oriented towards learning the universal Python computer language. Students will learn how to create command buttons, offer options to players, create random selections, and solve coding problems. The second part will be devoted to programming using Micro: Bit. It is a microcomputer that can be programmed to receive and interpret environmental data or to control an external source such as a motor or a pair of wheels. Students will face challenges that will lead them to develop their computational thinking, a type of logical reasoning sought in all areas of science.
Photography
In Photography, you will explore basic elements of photography and digital images through project-based learning. You will look at digital photography and editing digital images from a design perspective by taking pictures to complete a variety of tasks, assignments, and projects. You will learn about some fundamental aspects of photography, including composition, exposure, depth-of-field, and camera modes, in addition to performing basic tasks using photo editing programs. You will be asked to apply your new skills and understanding to analyze and critique your own and others’ photos to capture better images and improve your photography. Students enrolled in Photography will have the opportunity to take photos in and around the school as a way of highlighting classroom learning and larger school events.
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
This exciting approach to teaching puts students in the center by encouraging exploration and innovation to solve problems. By doing so, we are creating tomorrow's cutting-edge leaders, ready to make new discoveries and advances that we couldn't even dream up!