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Course Overviews

The following is a list of available courses offered to students attending St. Thomas More Collegiate. If you have any questions regading any of the following courses please feel free to contact the school.

RELIGION

Religion 8 (Mandatory)

This course is a comprehensive study of the Old Testament and deals with the story of creation, the fall of man, the promise of the Messiah, and God's revelation to the people through the covenant. Students study key figures of the Old Testament in relationship to the covenant. As well, the sacrament of baptism is covered, along with an examination of the structure of the Mass. Prayer leadership is very much encouraged.

Religion 9 (Mandatory)

Students in Religion 9 study the New Testament, with especial focus on the person of Jesus: his position as the Son of God, how he was "called," his discipleship and mission. The course covers Jesus and the Mystical Body, the Sacrament of the Eucharist, and the Liturgical Year. Prayer leadership is encouraged.

Religion 10 (Mandatory)

The main focus of this course is Moral theology, including the study of natural Law, Conscience and its formation, Sin and Virtue. The course is designed to make the student think by discovery. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is covered, as are decision making, critical thinking skills, specific moral issues, and sexual ethics.

Religion 11 (Mandatory)

The focus of this course is Ecclesiology and Church History. Models of church throughout history up to the present will be studied. Students will cover peak moments of Vatican II, Marian appearances in the modern era, and study the Church as a pilgrim. The course also addresses the concept of Social Justice.

Religion 12 (Mandatory)

The main text for this course is Creating a Christian Lifestyle. The thrust of the course is to help grade twelve students develop a fundamental understanding of who they are and how they plan to live the rest of their lives. Topics include communication, identity, love, sexuality, marriage, the single life, the priesthood and the religious life. Through a series of assignments, quizzes and position papers it is hoped that the students will grow to a greater understanding of who they are as people. The course is designed to give the students some practical knowledge as they ready themselves to move into the mainstream of society. Students are encouraged to examine their feelings and attitudes honestly. At the center of all discussions and topics are the Bible and the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Retreats (Mandatory Part of Religion Program)

Each student participates in a grade level retreat. The grade eight retreat is centered around the theme of personal identity. In grade nine students examine the topic of peer pressure and the many issues surrounding that topic. Grade ten deals with issues of sexuality.

Planning 10

New Grade 10 Course for 2004-05 (Mandatory)

This 4 credit mandatory course replaces CaPP 10. The focus of this course is in four areas: graduation program, education and careers, health and finances. Related to this course is the Graduation Portfolio requirement that every student must complete and defend in their grade 12 year. Planning for the portfolio will begin during the grade 10 year through the Planning 10 course. There are a few different options available to the school as to how we deliver this course. We are awaiting the final draft of the course from the government to determine the best method of delivery.\

CaPP

Career and Personal Planning (CaPP) 8-12 (Mandatory)

These courses are year long, but at the Grade 11 and 12 level, they count as the equivalent of Half Year Courses.

This program is an integrated series of lessons geared to the ongoing development of the individual student. Each student creates an individualized Student Learning Plan (SLP) that reflects present attitudes, hopes, and aspirations. Students change and adjust, with the advice of teachers, their SLP throughout the five years of Secondary education.

The personal development component of CaPP 8-12 looks at the following topics: healthy living, mental well being, family life issues, child abuse prevention, substance abuse prevention, and safety and injury prevention.

Career development activities take place throughout the secondary school experience. The school provides opportunities for students to explore various career and educational opportunities through career and university days and guest speakers.

CaPP also goes hand in hand with STMC's Religion and Retreat Program: the school aims to give each student the support they need as they grow into mature adults.

ENGLISH

English 8 (Mandatory)

The English 8 course emphasizes the basic skills of listening, writing, and reading. Through a variety of exercises students learn the difference between active and passive listening. They are given a variety of speaking experiences such as oral reading of prose and poetry as well as class and small group discussions. Through literature read in class, students are introduced to new vocabulary, as well as the more common figures of speech. The writing sequence of drafting, revision for clarity, proofreading and editing is introduced. Grammar and punctuation are taught in the context of student writing.

English 9 (Mandatory)

In English 9 students continue to work on the basic skills of listening, speaking, writing and reading. There is a variety of speaking experiences similar to the process taught in grade 8 but applied to grade 9 material. Students learn how to organize ideas into effective paragraphs, considering such factors as limiting the topic, unity, and coherence. The writing sequence of drafting, revising for clarity, proofreading and editing is reviewed. Through the literature read in class students review the common figures of speech as well as learning other figurative expressions as they appear in the grade 9 literature. Students continue to build a broad reading vocabulary.

English 10 (Mandatory)

In English 10, students continue to work on the basic skills of listening, speaking, writing, and reading. They are exposed to a variety of speaking experiences such as small-group discussions and oral presentations. The writing sequence of drafting, revising for clarity and style, proofreading and editing is reviewed. Punctuation and grammar are taught in the context of the students' writing. Students are given opportunities to express themselves in a variety of genres. Through the literature read in class, students review the common figures of speech and are introduced to other figurative expressions as they appear in the literature.

English 11 (Mandatory)

This course builds on the skills students have been previously taught and prepares them for both English 12 and English Literature 12. Emphasis is on improving communication skills while increasing and expanding exposure to and knowledge and appreciation of literature. All year, close attention is paid to syntax, usage, vocabulary, word choice, spelling, and comprehension. For half a year, students read different kinds of narratives in both prose and verse, and analyse narrative structure, narrative techniques, setting, characterization, figurative language, irony, satire, and symbolism; read, analyse, and recite lyric poetry to appreciate its many skills, beauties, and pleasures; and focus on analyzing a specific aspect of both narrative and lyric material in concise single page answers. In the second half of the year, they study drama and dramatic techniques, are exposed to novels and full-length dramas, and expand their writing skills from single page answers to developed literary essays. The course also includes the highly successful public speaking section that forms part of the English program in all grades.

English 12 (Mandatory)

Prerequisite: English 11.
This course builds on the skills developed in English 11 to prepare students for the Provincial Examination and for post-secondary education or the working world. English 11 skills are deepened and broadened and emphasis is placed on the need to practise them. All year, close attention continues to be paid to syntax, usage, vocabulary, word choice, and spelling. For half a year, students read and analyse full-length novels, deal with the different ways of interpreting a dramatic role and the problems of transferring drama from the live stage to film or television, and continue to develop their writing skills in concise single page answers, developed literary essays, and original multi-paragraph compositions which focus on their own experience of the world. In the second half of the year, they focus all these skills on more difficult modern and contemporary literature in order to prepare them for the Provincial examination, which is worth 40% of the final mark. The course also includes the highly successful public speaking section that forms part of the English program in all grades.

English Literature 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: English 11 - a C+ standing or better is recommended.
English Literature 12 is a challenging elective course designed to introduce students to some of the greatest literary works in the English language and to provide a rich literary background as an excellent preparation for life or post-secondary education, complementing such courses as Comparative Civilizations 12 and History 12. The course surveys literature in English from the Anglo-Saxon era to the modern period by discussing the social and political background and having students read, listen to, analyse, discuss, argue about, and write about many important authors, including the Beowulf and Sir Gawain poets, the anonymous Medieval Ballad writers, Chaucer, Wyatt, Shakespeare, Donne, Milton, Pope, Swift, Gray, Burns, Blake, Wordsworth, Coleridge, Byron, Shelley, Keats, Tennyson, the Brownings, Arnold, Dickinson, Hardy, Yeats, Owen, Eliot, Thomas, and Atwood. The course emphasizes appreciation of literature through poetry and drama. Students must write a Provincial examination in this course worth 40% of the final mark.

Writing 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: English 11.
Writing 12 is an elective course intended to encourage students to experiment with the written word and produce effective original works. The course teaches students to generate ideas, draft, edit, and polish their writing with an audience in mind. This is not a grammar course, although certain grammatical points will be discussed if problems consistently occur in a student's writing. The emphasis of the course is on the writing process. Students need not be excellent writers to do well, but they must be willing to work on their writing if they want to be successful.

SOCIAL STUDIES

Socials 8 (Mandatory)

The emphasis of the course is on the integration of the study of the history with the geography, literature, art, and music of many regions of the world. Students are asked to consider a number of primary sources from a variety of genres, and to apply themselves to understanding the uses and limitations of each The students are also asked to compare various perspectives, see the present-day relevance of their studies, and explore connections between cultures, periods, and disciplines.

Socials 9 (Mandatory)

The course deals with geography and its influence on Canadian history, focusing primarily on Canadian prehistory to the war of 1812. It includes European history from the Age of Enlightenment to the age of Expansion and Industrialization.

Socials 10 (Mandatory)

This course deals with Canadian history from 1776 to 1914 and has several major themes, including Confederation, the development of the western provinces, Canadian and BC economics, and Canada and the Pacific Rim.

Socials 11 (Mandatory)

The course deals with Canadian history from 1900 to the present and is divided into major themes: Canadian government and the constitution, French-English relations, Canadian-American relations, and Canada at war and peace.

History 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Socials 11-a C standing or better is recommended.
History 12 is a challenging elective course designed to prepare students for college or university. Many of the vital problems facing our world today had their roots in the movements and developments of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. This course investigates forces such as liberalism, capitalism, democracy, nationalism, imperialism, militarism, socialism, communism, totalitarianism and internationalism in the context of events such as the World Wars, the Russian revolution, the Depression, the Cold War and the unrest in the third world. Current issues and events will be considered in the light of such forces and developments. Students must write a Provincial examination in this course worth 40% of the final mark.

Geography 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Socials 11
Geography is the study of our global environment. The course combines the study of cultural and physical geography, weather and weather patterns, map interpretation, and environmental issues with our growing awareness to understand better our complex global environment. Geography is a connecting thread between such disciplines as Geology, Chemistry, Biology, Meteorology, Archaeology, and Urban Planning. Students must write a Provincial examination in this course worth 40% of the final mark.

Comparative Civilizations 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Socials 11-a C standing or better is recommended.
The focus of this course is the development and evolution of civilizations from around the world. The course concentrates on what makes civilizations and cultures, the differences and similarities from region to region and period to period. Instead of a survey of many civilizations, the course examines a few in great detail to see what elements make them civilized.

Law 12 (Elective)

This is a survey course intended to introduce students to the fundamentals of Canadian law. It is designed to develop an awareness of the complexity and diversity of Canadian law through readings, discussions and analyses of cases and legal matters reported in the media. Areas of study include common law, criminal law, the Constitution, criminal procedure, civil law and family law.

Economics 12 (Elective)

This course studies the economic theory of the capitalist system, looking at both micro- and macroeconomic concepts (inflation, unemployment, poverty, taxation, etc.). In the second half of the course, which has the major emphasis, the students examine the principles of financial planning, stock investing, and buying and selling of homes and automobiles.

MATHEMATICS

Mathematics 8 (Mandatory)

The Math 8 course deals with a range of topics including number operations with fractions, decimals and integers, data analysis, geometry, measurement, and algebra. Problem-solving skills are developed. ONE GRADE 9 COURSE IS MANDATORY

Principles of Mathematics 9

In Math 9 students study rationals, probability, properties of similar figures, congruence of triangles, graphing lines and systems of linear relations. Areas and volumes are studied again, along with equations and expressions in algebra. In learning about expressions in algebra, students must deal with powers with variable bases, as well as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and factoring of polynomials.

Principles of Mathematics 10

Students learn how to evaluate powers and simplify radicals. More work is done on organizing and interpreting data, using scatter plots and graphs. Students work with the basic trigonometric ratios. They learn about lines and their slopes, their equations and how to graph them. Much work is done on algebraic expressions, including factoring; students learn how to solve equations, including the quadratic, and inequalities. Problem solving is part of the course.

Principles of Mathematics 10R (enRiched)

This course satisfies the Math 10 requirement and is a typical enriched course with the level of enrichment and challenge being dependent upon the class aptitude. It is suggested that students enrolling in this course have a sincere passion for the principles of mathematics, a minimum B standing in Math 9, and the recommendation of the Math 9 teacher.

Principles of Mathematics 11R (enRiched)

There are six strands in this course, which is a comprehensive study of these topics: algebra, relations and functions, geometry, trigonometry, polynominals, and problem solving. It provides an excellent background for Mathematics 12 and post-secondary math. Those who intend to study Math 12 are required to take this course.

Principles of Mathematics 11 (Regular)

This course covers the core material of the six topics mentioned above but not in the same detail as the enriched program. The course is for those who need Math 11 in order to enter post-secondary institutions and wish a slower pace of instruction than the enriched program.

Principles of Mathematics 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Principles of Mathematics 11-a C+ standing or better is strongly recommended.
This course is designed for students who have an interest in mathematics, or who have career aspirations in the fields of engineering, mathematics, the sciences, economics and some business programs. The main purpose of this course will be to develop the formalism needed to continue on with the study of calculus. Students will explore the areas of problem solving, geometric sequences and series, logarithms, trigonometry, conics, transformations, combinatories, probability and statistics. This course meets the entrance requirements of post-secondary institutions..

Calculus 12 (Elective)

Board/ Authority Approved Course
Calculus is a recommended prerequisite for studies in science and technology. Students should take Principles of Mathematics 12 concurrently. This course follows a provincially prescribed curriculum. Areas taught include problem solving, history of calculus, limits, derivatives and their applications and antidifferentation and their applications.

SCIENCE

Science 8 (Mandatory)

Science 8 covers four broad topics: Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, and Biology. In Chemistry, students are introduced to simple reactions and state changes while using the Kinetic Molecular Theory of Matter to explain their observations. The Physics unit deals with forms of energy with special attention paid to heat and light. The focus of Earth Science is rocks, minerals, and rock cycle. Finally, Biology looks at ecology and sustainable communities.

Science 9 (Mandatory)

Science 9 expands from Science 8 to explore many different aspects of the physical world: Biology, including investigating the human body system; Physics, including force and energy; Chemistry, including chemical reactions and explosions; and Space Science, including the solar system and the universe.

Science 10 (Mandatory)

Science 10 is a continuation of Science 9 and an introduction to the grade 11 science courses. Chemistry includes atomic structure and the periodic table, chemical bonding and classifying and balancing chemical reactions. Physics includes electricity and generating energy on a commercial scale such as hydroelectric and nuclear methods. Biology concentrates on cellular structure and function and includes reproduction, genetics, and heredity. Earth Science covers geological time, fossil records, earthquakes, and plate tectonics. ONE GRADE 11 COURSE IS MANDATORY

Biology 11

Prerequisite: Science 10-a C standing or better is recommended.
This is an introductory course in biology, a scientific discipline that studies a great variety of organisms. The course is organized around three themes: Unity and Diversity, Evolution, and Ecological relationships. With these guiding elements, the course looks at adaptation and evolution, microbiology, mycology, botany-plant biology, zoology-animal biology, and ecology.

Chemistry 11

Prerequisite: Science 10-a 65% standing or better is recommended.
This full year course introduces several major topics. Students are introduced to a quantitative treatment of chemical reactions by discussing the mole. Stoichiometry, with respect to solid, aqueous, and gaseous reagents, is treated in detail. Quantum mechanics and atomic structure is presented in conjunction with the organization of the periodic table. Chemical bonding and molecular shapes then lead to a comprehensive introduction to organic chemistry. Finally, solution and acid-base chemistry is discussed as a prelude to Chemistry 12. Laboratory investigations complement the lecture material.

Physics 11

Prerequisite: Science 10-a 65% standing or better is recommended and
Math 10 or Math 10R.
Physics 11 focuses on the theories and principles of physics, encourages the investigation of physical relationships, and illustrates the relationship between theory and application. The course deals specifically with wave motion and geometrical optics, kinematics, dynamics in one dimension, energy, special relativity, and nuclear fission and fusion.

Earth Science 11

Prerequisite: Science 10
The course is intended to provide secondary school students with the background and the desire to investigate their earth, its materials and its processes. The course is organized around five major topics: geology, oceanography, astronomy, atmospheric science, and historical geology.

Biology 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Biology 11
The main focus of this course is human biology, allowing students to develop an interest in and understanding of science by looking at themselves and seeing how the diverse body systems are integrated to maintain homeostasis. The three main areas are cell biology, including structure, compounds, biological molecules and DNA; cell processes and applications, including protein synthesis, cancer, transport across cell membranes, and enzymes; and human biology, including, the digestive, respiratory, nervous, reproductive, urinary, and circulatory and blood systems, and heart structure and function. Students must write a Provincial examination in this course worth 40% of the final mark.

Health Sciences 12

Prerequisite: Health Sciences 11
In this course students complete the Biology 12 Provincial Exam and go above and beyond the regular Biology 12 course. Students are expected to complete 30 hours of work experience in the health science field outside of class time. This allows students to gain valuable experience working in a professional atmosphere and allows them the opportunity to choose a potential career in the field. They are also expected to complete a report outlining their experiences, and research the post-secondary requirements for entering the career of their choice. The professional experience and academic challenges that students face over their 2 years in this program provides them with a jumpstart into the exciting world of health science and technology.

Chemistry 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Chemistry 11
This course presents five main topics: Reaction Kinetics, including reaction rates, collision theory, reaction mechanisms and catalysts, and potential energy diagrams; Chemical Equilibrium, including reversible reactions, Le Chatelier's principle, and the equilibrium constant; Solubility of Ionic Substances, including solution equilibria, qualitative analysis, and the solubility product constant; Acids, Bases and Salts, including acid and base strength, the pH scale, hydrolysis, buffers, and titration; Electrochemistry, including oxidation states, redox equations, reduction potentials, and galvanic and electrolytic cells. Each topic is treated qualitatively and quantitatively, and incorporates experimental and industrial applications. Students must write a Provincial examination in this course worth 40% of the final mark.

Physics 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Physics 11
Physics 12 is the study of classical mechanics and electromagnetism, and is designed to help students develop analytical and problem solving skills. Learning outcomes include Vector Kinematics in two dimensions; Dynamics; Vector Dynamics; Work, Energy, and Power; Momentum; Equilibrium; Circular Motion; gravitation; Electrostatics; Electric Circuits; and Electromagnetism. The skills and processes used and developed in Physics 12 are those used by scientists at work, allowing students to solve problems, think critically, make decisions, find answers, and satisfy their curiosity. Students must write a Provincial examination in this course worth 40% of the final mark.

LANGUAGES

French 8 (Mandatory)

French for Mastery Level I-It is assumed that the student has had little or no exposure to French as a second language. The basic elements of French grammar are introduced as students learn to communicate using simple vocabulary and common expressions. The development of spoken language is balanced with the essentials of written expression. This is both a fun and practical introductory language course.

French 9 (Mandatory)

French for Mastery Level II-Students continue to progress in their study of tenses, regular and irregular verbs and various other parts of speech. A more formal approach to grammar and sentence structure is followed. The use of adjectives, articles, prepositions and other rules of grammar enhance the level of the student's communicative skills. Oral activities, skits and dialogues allow the student to become more comfortable with the spoken language. Exploration of geographic, cultural and historical perspectives introduce the student to the diversity of the French speaking world.

French 10 (Mandatory)

French for Mastery Level III-By this stage, students have been taught the basic elements of grammar and sentence structure. Further development of composition and paragraph building skills allows students to refine their level of written expression and enhance the quality of spoken language. In addition students explore selected themes in literature and read a number of short stories. Student interest and level of accomplishment grows as a result of language skill integration. This course is an important catalyst for the senior level courses as French becomes the predominant language of instruction.

French 11 (Elective)

Prerequisite: French 10-C+ standing or better is recommended.
French for Mastery Level IV-The final level of study for most students considering post secondary studies within Canada involves extensive reading from contemporary sources: selected short stories and creative writing are important components in this course. A communicative approach to French is encouraged through the production of video projects, use of conversational dialogues and consistent use of French in the classroom. Complexity of French grammar themes, development of specialized vocabulary and greater proficiency in written French are encouraged. Successful completion of this course will facilitate post secondary planning.

French 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: French 11- a C+ standing or better is recommended.
French for Mastery Level V-This advanced course relies heavily upon the student's ability to be self-motivated work independently. French is the language of instruction and communication in the classroom. Students produce a great deal of written work in the form of narratives, articles and compositions as they create their portfolio. Conversational French and comprehension activities are continually practised. Students explore French literature, poetry and contemporary sources as they prepare for the provincial examination, worth 40% of the final mark. Students who go into the Arts Faculty at UBC must have this course or take its equivalent.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The goals of the Physical Education Program are to assist students in developing knowledge and understanding of factors involved in attaining competence in and appreciation of physical activity, maintaining positive personal attributes and interpersonal relationships as well as a positive attitude towards participation in physical activity, developing efficient and effective motor skills, and enabling them to apply these skills to a wide variety of physical activities, and in developing and maintaining physical fitness.

Physical Education 8 (Mandatory)

PE 8 introduces the students to health and safety factors, personal equipment care and the need for showers; conditioning exercises and the major muscle groups. Students take part in no fewer than eight team activities and ten individual activities. The course includes an introduction to the science of good health, personal health, body systems and diseases.

Physical Education 9 (Mandatory)

PE 9 is a continuation of PE 8 with a more intensified program concentrating on weight training, circuit training, warm up sequences and running programs. Students take part in no fewer than seven team activities. They also study all the body systems, food groups, effects of sugar and salt, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats; they also continue the personal health system.

Physical Education 10 (Mandatory)

In PE 10 students concentrate on circuit training, aerobic training, locomotor exercises, balance exercises, and the theory systems of stretching. Students become familiar with training cycles, sports and appropriate weight exercises, muscle groups, and exercises that affect them. Students take part in no fewer than seven team activities and two individual activities. Students continue the health program, studying nutrition and lifestyles and image structuring.

Physical Education 11 (Elective)

This course is primarily an activity-oriented course which deals with lifetime sports. It also includes other activities for balanced living, such as nutrition, rest, exercise, and work. Strategies for specific sports, as well as basic coaching strategies, are also stressed.

Physical Education 12 (Elective)

This course is a continuation of PE 11, with the following added: stress management and relaxation, adapting physical activities to minimize environmental impact, human motor performance, personal functional levels of physical fitness.

TECHNOLOGY

Technology 8 (Elective)

Half Year Course
This course strives to provide an environment suitable to students of all abilities, both male and female, enabling them to design and make things, as well as use technology. To meet the challenge of future work and leisure in a technological society, students need to be adaptable and flexible. Careers of the future will require a wider set of knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Learning through hands-on problem solving is lifelong, transferable and resistant to being made obsolete by technological change. This course, as with most education today, stresses the importance of precision, creativity and design, problem solving strategies, reasoning and decision making, communication skills, teamwork, gender equity, self reliance, and entrepreneurial abilities.

Woodwork 8 (Elective)

Half Year Course
The course is mainly an introduction to hand tools, with a variety of smaller power tools and machines also being included. The main objective is to provide a variety of woodworking experiences and techniques which develop the students' skills in proper woodworking procedures, including the safe setup, operation, general maintenance, and use of all the hand and power tools in the course. Techniques for developing good designs, choosing and manufacturing the most appropriate wood joints, proper production procedures, assembly strategies, and finishing techniques will also be covered.

Woodwork 9 (Elective)

Half Year Course
The emphasis in this course is to introduce students to the proper setup and safe use of power tools and power machines, primarily the table saw, radial arm saw, jointer, and surface planer. The use of the lathe is optional. By their choice of specific projects and assignments-coffee and end tables, medicine cabinets, chests of drawers, piano benches, etc.-students develop specific skills which will enable them to calculate materials and costs and to manufacture quality modern and/or traditional furniture.

Technology 9 (Elective)

Half Year Course
This course is designed to deal with real life problems and solutions. Students use drawing, design, and construction skills in each of the assigned projects. As with Technology 8, communication skills, teamwork, and creativity are encouraged. This course will help students who are planning careers in technical fields.

Computer Studies 9 (Elective)

Half Year Course
This course introduces students to the mechanics of computers and basic computing skills, such as keyboarding and using word-processing, spread-sheet, and database programs.

Info & Communications Tech 11 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Science 10
This course introduces seniors to various aspects of the computer, including background information, programming, HTML and web design, networking, multimedia, and social implications. Students should achieve a high level of competency as computer users and, as well, have a good understanding of basic programming and hardware concepts.

Info & Communications Tech 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Information Technology 11
The course expands the students' understanding of computers and computing in the areas of electronic communications, multimedia, networking and programming.

Media Arts 12 (Elective)

Limited enrollment - admission by application
Focussing on video production and editing, the Media Arts 12 course develops convergent technical and creative skills, including script writing, storyboarding, production planning, camera technique, audio recording and production, and video editing. St. Thomas More Collegiate's facilities include DV cameras, specialized audio equipment and microphones, lighting gear, and non-linear editing equipment running on high-end desktop workstations. Students work on both structured school projects and productions of their own creation.

Carpentry & Joinery 11 (Elective)

The main objective of the course is to provide a wider variety of experiences and techniques which develop the students' woodworking skills. The ability to develop good designs, to assess materials needed, final costs, the machines and skills involved, and the time required are all necessary components in the successful construction of any project. As such these skills are emphasized throughout the course. Projects include such options as entertainment centers, chests of drawers, futon beds, computer desks, and blanket chests.

Drafting & Design 11 (Elective)

This course counts as two fine arts credits and two applied skills credits.
This course is geared towards the student with no prior skills in drafting. Topics covered include freehand sketching, mechanical and architectural drawing. Students work through the fundamentals and rudiments with in-class exercises. Upon completion, students will have a complete portfolio of industry standard drawings.

Carpentry & Joinery 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Construction or Carpentry & Joinery 11
The projects chosen in this course will be more complex and sophisticated and will involve increased student input and self-direction. This course provides students with the opportunity to challenge their skills and abilities to design and construct such projects as display cabinets, writing desks, upholstered stools, kitchen tables, bedframes with headboards and pool tables.

Drafting & Design 12 / CAD 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Drafting 11
CAD or Computer-Assisted-Design Drafting 12 is a follow-up to Drafting 11, but all drawings are generated on computers and plotted out using an 8-pen XY flatbed plotter. The course covers the basic and advanced techniques in drafting using a program called DesignCad. On completion of the course, students will be prepared to continue their education in other technical institutions throughout the Province, whether in film, design, engineering, including mechanical and electrical engineering, and architecture.

Metal/Guitar 11 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Woodwork 9This specialized course is offered to students who are interested in building an electric or acoustic guitar. Students will be instructed in a step by step building method. Each student will be encouraged to use their creativity in design and finishing techniques. Career opportunities will be presented in repairing and building guitars at the professional level. Students will be exposed to a wide variety of music genres and will also be given lessons on how to play the guitar. Here are a few of the models students can build:

6 string solid body guitar	4 string bass	12 string solid body guitar
5 string bass	Double neck solid body guitar	6 string bass
6 string acoustic guitar	4 string acoustic bass	12 string acoustic guitar

FINE ARTS

Art 8 (Elective)

Half Year Course

Art 9 (Elective)

Half Year Course

Art 11 (Elective)

In this course, students discover and maximize inherent characteristics in a variety of art media: graphite, brushes, paint, watercolor, acrylic, acrylic inks, clay, and glazes. They also demonstrate an awareness of artistic traditions and innovations in drawing and painting. Students expand upon the styles and methods studied in Art 9 and are introduced to the Acrylic medium: using various artists as reference, they develop their own style in the genre of landscape painting; using Canadian High realists for reference, they complete a realistic painting from a photograph; they illustrate an emotional or political theme through a collage; and they further develop their personal style of painting. Students keep a journal of artistic expression and ideas in a sketchbook, paying special attention to the elements and principles of design; they show their understanding of these by completing relevant work in their sketchbooks. Students design a portfolio with original artwork for storage of their work: introduction to acrylics; complete canvas; a landscape; watercolors--advanced techniques; study of watercolorists and completion of several works; pastels; Impressionism; complete work in style of Impressionists; extensive use of text, art talk and posters for art appreciation; visit the Vancouver Art Gallery and workshop: "Vancouver Collects" tour focuses on a landscape in a wide variety of media; students examine paintings by the Group of Seven; students complete one or more ceramic pieces, showing a variety of techniques, glazed.

Art 12 (Elective)

Prerequisite: Art 11
In this course, students discover and maximize inherent characteristics in a variety of art media: graphite, brushes, paint, watercolour, acrylic, acrylic inks, clay and glazes. Students create a portfolio in their own design in good taste. Medium is pencil, crayon or felt marker, and a Visible Experience Notebook, a sketchbook which acts as a record of the student's own drawing experiences throughout the course. Students keep all the work intact even if they are not pleased with the results, since this is a record much like a diary. Student should be sure that they have completed all the listed studies: still life drawings; drawings from touch or feel; drawings reflecting objects; figure drawing, studies in proportion, human perspective, eyes, nose, mouth and hair studies, etc; drawing from imagination. Guidelines and/or lessons will precede each of these studies. The students' visual experience notebooks must also contain clippings and cutouts/ pictures from magazines, newspapers, etc that reflect what they think are good examples of the elements of design. Students complete the following: charcoal or pencil drawings of their own choice of subject on cartridge paper, matted and fixed; chalk pastel or conte drawing of their own choice of subject on sugar paper or oatmeal or any other textured paper, matted and fixed; a watercolor painting using various techniques, often a landscape, the paper to be stretched and soaked; an acrylic painting of their own choice of subject using various techniques, the canvas/ gesso on stretched bars and varnished when complete; one or more ceramic pieces, showing a variety of techniques and glazed; extensive use of text and art talk for art appreciation; visit the Vancouver Art Gallery and workshop: the "Vancouver Collects" tour focuses on landscape in a wide variety of media; students examine paintings by the Group of Seven.

Media Arts 12 (Elective)

Drama 8 (Elective)

Half Year Course
This is an introductory creative drama class for students with no acting experience. The class enables students to learn some basic theater skills while at the same time expanding their creativity. Because emphasis is placed on creativity and concentration, students do various exercises throughout the term which deal with these concerns. Students are aware that the skills they learn in Drama 8 can also be used in other classes.

Drama 9 (Elective)

Half Year Course
This class builds upon the skills explored in Drama 8. Students participate in various activities which help them develop their creativity and concentration skills. Students are also introduced to basic theater terminology. The skills that are learned in this class can also be used in other classes.

Acting 11 (Elective)

Full Year Course
This class builds on skills taught in Drama 8 and 9. Students work on concentration, trust, creativity, movement, voice, and improvisational acting. Students are introduced to script analysis and scene work, and have the opportunity of performing for a variety of audiences. The class also introduces students to theater history and stage make up.

Acting 12 (Elective)

Full Year Course-Prerequisite: Acting 11
This class builds on skills taught in Acting 11. Students continue to work on concentration, trust, creativity, movement, voice, and improvisational acting. Students are provided with more experience in script analysis and scene work, and have the opportunity of performing for a variety of audiences. The class also develops the students' knowledge of theater history and stage make up.

Voices Utopia Chamber Choir 8-12 (Elective)

Full Year Course
This course is open to students with or without previous singing or choral experience. An informal audition takes place in-class to determine voice registration. Development of vocal health and technique, breath control, group balance, and intonation; sight reading skills and ear training; melodic and rhythmic concepts; rehearsal skills, practice habits and performance etiquette are the foci of this course. Students learn about selected periods of music history and music theory rudiments. Students also learn the basic functions of sequencing and notation software and sound reinforcement theory. In-class participation, performance attendance and etiquette, home practice, assigned projects, and in-class quizzes comprise the evaluation. This group is featured at performances and participates in festivals.

Twelfth Avenue Vocal Jazz 8-12 (Elective)

Full Year Course
This course is open to students with previous singing or choral experience who show interest in understanding vocal jazz literature. Concurrent enrolment in a concert choir is recommended. A formal audition takes place to determine voice registration, pitch recognition, and tonal and harmonic memory. Development of vocal health and technique, breath control, group balance and intonation; sight-reading skills and ear training; melodic and rhythmic concepts; rehearsal skills, practice habits and performance etiquette are the foci of this course, as well as the development of improvisation skills and stylistic interpretation of Swing, Bebop, Rock, Afro-Cuban, Afro-Brazilian, Ballads, and the Blues, and music theory rudiments. Students also learn the basic functions of sequencing and notation software and sound reinforcement theory. Rehearsal attendance, in-class participation, performance attendance and etiquette, home practice, assigned projects, and in-class quizzes comprise the evaluation. This group is featured at performances and participates in festivals. This course is scheduled outside the timetable.

Band 8 - 12 (Elective)

Full Year Courses
These courses are open to students with little or no band instrument experience. Students learn to play an instrument of their choice: flute, clarinet or bass clarinet, alto, tenor or baritone saxophone, oboe, bassoon, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, French horn, guitar, bass guitar, piano, drums, auxiliary and mallet percussion. No audition is required and purchasing or renting of instruments and accessories are the responsibility of the student. The school can provide a trombone, French horn, baritone or tuba for a nominal maintenance fee. Development of tone production, breath control, articulation, group balance and intonation; sight-reading skills and ear training; melodic and rhythmic concepts; rehearsal skills, practice habits and performance etiquette are the foci. Students also learn about selected periods of music history and music theory rudiments. Class participation, performance attendance and etiquette, home practice, assigned projects, and in-class quizzes comprise the evaluation. The group is featured at performances and participates in festivals.

SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Learning Assistance 8 (Elective)

These courses are offered to students having difficulty with one or more academic subjects, organizational skills, or a diagnosed learning disability. The program is geared to deal with specific difficulties of individual students.