DAVID SUZUKI SECONDARY SCHOOL
INFORMATION FOR SEPTEMBER 2013 GRADE 9 STUDENTS
TYPES OF COURSES:
1.Open
These courses cover essential concepts in knowledge and skills. The curriculum expectations are the same for all students.
2. Academic Courses
In these courses, the essential concepts of a subject are learned and related material explored as well. Although knowledge and skills in the subject will be developed through both theory and practical applications, the emphasis will be on theory and abstract thinking as a basis for future learning and problem solving. The pace is quicker in these courses than in applied courses.
3. Applied Courses
These courses cover the essential concepts of a subject. Knowledge and skill will be developed through both theory and practical applications, but the focus will be on practical applications. In applied courses, familiar, real-life situations will be used to illustrate ideas, and more opportunities will be given to experience hands-on applications of the concepts studied.
4. Locally Developed Compulsory Courses
Locally developed courses approved by the Ministry of Education that are available in the Peel Board are grade 9/10 English, grade 9/10 Mathematics and grade 9/10 Science. The student must be recommended by the feeder school to select this option. Most students selecting a locally developed compulsory course will continue in the workplace course in the discipline.
Changing Course Types in Grade 10
Students who are successful in any academic or applied course in Grade 9 may be able to proceed to either the academic or the applied course in the same subject in Grade 10. However, when a student plans to change from one course type in Grade 9 to the other in Grade 10, the student may be required to successfully complete the required grade 9 course in order to demonstrate achievement of the learning expectations that are included in the other course.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS:
1.30 Credits required for Secondary School DiplomaA)18 COMPULSORY CREDITS4 credits English (1 credit per grade) 1 credit Canadian History
3 credits Mathematics (at least 1 credit in Gr. 11 or 12) .5 credit Career Studies (Grade 10)
2 credits Science .5 credit Civics (Grade 10)
1 credit Arts 1 credit French as a Second Language
1 credit Canadian Geography 1 credit Health & Physical Education
1 additional credit from BOX 1 / 1 additional credit from BOX 2 / 1 additional credit from BOX 3
Canadian & World Studies
Co-operative Education
Guidance & Career Education
English, Social Science & Humanities and Additional Language / The Arts
Business Studies
Co-operative Education
Health & Physical Education
French as a Second Language / Co-operative Education
Science, Grade 11 or 12
Technological Education
French as a Second Language
Computer Studies
A maximum of 2 Co-op 2 French as a Second Language can be used as Compulsory Credits.
B)12 OPTIONAL CREDITS
- Students must complete 40 hours of community involvement.
- Students must successfully complete the Grade 10 EQAO Reading and Writing Test.
Compulsory Courses:
ENGLISH
Grade 9, Academic (ENG 1D)
This course is designed to develop the oral communication, reading, writing, and media literacy skills that students need for success in their secondary school academic programs andin their daily lives. Students will analyse literary texts from contemporary and historical periods, interpret informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on the useof strategies that contribute to effective communication. The course is intended to prepare students for the Grade 10 academic English course, which leads to university orcollege preparation courses in Grades 11 and 12.
Grade 9, Applied (ENG 1P)
This course is designed to develop the key oralcommunication, reading, writing, and media literacy skills students need for success in secondary school and daily life. Students will read, interpret, and create a variety of informational, literary, and graphic texts. An important focus will be on identifying and usingappropriate strategies and processes to improve students’ comprehension of texts and to help them communicate clearly and effectively. The course is intended to prepare students for the Grade 10 applied English course, which leads to college or workplace preparation courses in Grades 11 and 12.
Grade 9, Locally Developed Compulsory (ENG 1L)
This course provides foundational literacy and communication skills to prepare students for success in their daily lives, in the workplace, and in the Grade 10 LDCC Course. The course is organized into strands that develop listeningand talking skills, reading and viewing skills, and writing skills. In all strands, the focus is on developing foundational literacy skills and on using language clearly and accurately in a variety of authentic contexts. Students develop strategies and put into practice the processes involved in talking, listening, reading, viewing,writing, and thinking, and regularly upon theirgrowth in these areas.
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE
Level 1, Open (ESL AO)
This course builds on students’ previous education and language knowledge to introduce the English language and help students adjust to their new cultural environment. Students will use beginning English language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing for everyday and essential academic purposes; use basic English language structures and simple sentence patterns in short conversations; read short adapted texts; and write phrases and short sentences. The course also provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to begin to adapt to their new lives ibn Canada.
Level 2, Open (ESL BO)
This course expands students’ listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English for everyday and academic purposes. Students will participate in conversations, in structured situations, on a variety of familiar and new topics; link English sentences to compose paragraphs; read a variety of texts designed or adapted for English language learners; and expand their knowledge of English grammatical structures and sentence patterns. The course also supports students’ continuing adaptation to the Ontario school system by expanding their cultural knowledge of their new province and country.
Level 3, Open (ESL CO)
This course extends students’ skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English for a variety of everyday and academic purposes. Students will make short classroom presentations; read a variety of adapted and original texts in English; and write using a variety of forms of text. Students will also expand their academic vocabulary and their study skills to facilitate the transition to the mainstream school program. This course also introduces students to the rights and responsibilities inherent in Canadian citizenship, and to a variety of current Canadian issues.
Level 4, Open (ESL DO)
This course prepares students to use English with increasing fluency and accuracy in classroom and social situations and to participate in Canadian society as informed citizens. Students will develop the reading, writing, and oral presentation skills required for success in all school subjects. They will study and interpret a variety of grade-level texts; extend listening and speaking skills through participationin discussions and seminars; write narratives, articles, andsummaries in English; and respond critically to various print
and media texts.
Level 5, Open (ESL EO)
This course provides students with the skills and strategiesthey need to make the transition to college and universitypreparation courses in English and other secondary schooldisciplines. Students will be encouraged to developindependence in a range of academic tasks. They willparticipate in debates and lead classroom workshops; readand interpret literary works and academic texts; writeessays, narratives, and reports; and apply a range of learningstrategies and research skills effectively. Students willfurther develop their ability to respond critically to print andmedia texts.
FRENCH
Grade 9, Academic (FSF 1D)
This course emphasizes the further development of oralcommunication, reading and writing skills. Students willbuild on and apply their knowledge of French whileexploring a variety of themes, such as relationships, social trends and careers. Thematic readings, which include a selection of short stories, articles and poems, will serve as stepping stones to oral and written activities.
Grade 9, Academic - French Immersion, (FIF 1D*)
This course enables students to enhance their knowledge of the French language and to further develop their languageskills through the study of 20th century North American francophone literature and culture. Students will participatein oral communication, reading and writing activities as they study an authentic novel and selected authentic poems,legends, songs, films and newspaper articles from French speaking parts of North America.
Grade 9, Applied (FSF 1P)
This course emphasizes the concurrent development of oral communication, reading and writing skills, using a broad based theme, such as the media. Students will enhance their ability to understand and speak French through conversations, discussions and presentations. They will also read short stories, articles, poems and songs, and write brief descriptions, letters, dialogues and invitations.
GEOGRAPHY OF CANADA
Grade 9, Academic (CGC 1D)
This course explores Canada’s distinct and changing character and the geographic systems and relationshipsthat shape it. Students will investigate the interactions of natural and human systems within Canada, as wellas Canada’s economic, cultural, and environmental connections to other countries. Students will use a variety of geotechnologies and inquiry and communication methods to analyse and evaluate geographic issues and present their findings.
Grade 9, Academic - French Immersion, (CGC 1D*)
This course explores Canada’s distinct and changing character and the geographic systems and relationships that shape it. Students will investigate the interactions of natural and human systems within Canada, as well as Canada’s economic, cultural, and environmental connections to other countries. Students will use a variety of geotechnologies and inquiry and communication methods to analyse and evaluate geographic issues and present their findings.
Grade 9, Applied (CGC 1P)
This course focuses on geographic issues that affect Canadians today. Students will draw on personal and everyday experiences as they learn about Canada’s distinct and changing character and the natural and human systems and global influences that shape the country. Students will use a variety of geotechnologies and inquiry and communication methods to examine practical geographic questions and communicate their findings.
MATHEMATICS
Principles of Mathematics,Grade 9, Academic (MPM 1D)
This course enables students to develop an understanding of mathematical concepts related to algebra, analytic geometry, and measurement geometry through investigation, the effective use of technology, abstract reasoning. Students will investigate relationships, which they will then generalize as equations of lines, will determine the connections between different representations of a linear relation. They will also explore relationships that emerge from the measurement of three-dimensional figures and two dimensional shapes. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems. Learning through abstract reasoning is an important aspect of this course.
Foundations of Mathematics,Grade 9, Applied (MFM 1P)
This course enables students to develop an understanding of mathematical concepts related to introductory algebra, proportional reasoning, and measurement and geometry through investigation, the effective use of technology, and hands-on activities. Students will investigate real-life examples to develop various representations of linear relations, and will determine the connections between the representations. They will also explore certain relationships that emerge from the measurement of three-dimensional objects and two-dimensional shapes. Students will consolidate their mathematical skills as they solve problems and communicate their thinking. Successful completion of this course prepares students for Foundations of Mathematics, Grade 10, Applied (MFM 2P). (Note: Students who wish to take Principles of Mathematics,Grade 10, Academic (MPM 2D) after completing this course will need to take a transfer course.) Learning through hands-on activities and the use of concrete examples is an important aspect of this course.
Locally Developed 1 Compulsory Credit, Grade 9 (MAT 1L)
This course emphasizes further development of mathematical knowledge and skills to prepare students for success in their everyday lives, in the workplace, and in the Grade 10 LDCC course. The course is organized in three strands related to money sense, measurement, and proportional reasoning. In all strands, the focus is on developing and consolidating key foundational mathematical concepts and skills by solving authentic, everyday problems. Students have opportunities to further develop their mathematical literacy and problem-solving skills and to continue developing their skills in reading, writing, and oral language through relevant and practical math activities. Students must be recommended by the feeder school.
Locally Developed 2 Compulsory Credit, Grade 9 (MAT 2L0)
This course emphasizes the extension of mathematical knowledge and skills to prepare students for success in their everyday lives, in the workplace, and in the Grade 11 Mathematics Workplace Preparation course. The course is organized in three strands related to money sense, measurement, and proportional reasoning. In all strands, the focus is on strengthening and extending key foundational mathematical concepts and skills by solving authentic, everyday problems. Students have opportunities to extend their mathematical literacy and problem-solving skills and to continue developing their skills in reading, writing and oral language through relevant and practical math activities. Student must be recommended by the feeder school.
HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Grade 9, Open (PPL 1OF for female students/PPL 1OM for male students)
This course emphasizes regular participation in a variety of enjoyable physical activities that promote lifelong healthy active living. Students will learn movement skills and principles, ways to improve personal fitness and physical competence, and safety and injury prevention. They will investigate issues related to healthy sexuality and the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs and will participate in activities designed to develop goal-setting, communication and social skills.
SCIENCE
Grade 9, Academic (SNC 1D)
This course enables students to develop their understanding of basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and to relate science to technology, society, and the environment. Throughout the course, students will develop their skills in the processes of scientific investigation. Students will acquire an understanding of scientific theories and conduct investigations related to sustainable ecosystems; atomic and molecular structures and the properties of elements and compounds; the study of the universe and its properties and components; and the principles of electricity.
Grade 9, Applied (SNC 1P)
This course enables students to develop their understanding of basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and to apply their knowledge of science to everyday situations. They are also given opportunities to develop practical skills related to scientific investigation. Students will plan and conduct investigations into practical problems and issues related to the impact of human activity on ecosystems; the structure and properties of elements and compounds; space exploration and the components of the universe; and static and current electricity.
Grade 9, Locally Developed Compulsory (SNC 1L)
This course emphasizes reinforcing and strengthening science-related knowledge and skills, including scientificinquiry, critical thinking, and the relationship between science, society, and the environment, to prepare students for success in everyday life, in the workplace, and in the Grade 10 LDCC course. Students explore a range of topics, including science in daily life, properties of common materials, life-sustaining processes in simple and complex organisms, and electrical circuits. Students have the opportunity to extend mathematical and scientific process skills and to continue developing their skills in reading, writing, and oral language through relevant and practical science activities.
LEARNING STRATEGIES 1: SKILLS FOR SUCCESS IN SECONDARY SCHOOL
Grade 9, Open (GLS 10)/ Grade 9, Open Immersion (GLS 1O*)
This course explores learning strategies and helps students become better, more independent learners while increasing
their personal management skills, both in school and in other contexts. Students will learn how to develop and apply a
range of strategies to improve their learning and achievement, particularly their literacy, numeracy, communication and
planning skills. This course will increase students’ confidence, motivation and ability to learn.
Optional Courses:
DRAMA
Grade 9, Open (ADA 1O)
This course provides opportunities for students to explore dramatic forms and techniques, using material from a wide range of sources and cultures. Students will use the elements of drama to examine situations and issues that are relevant to their lives. Students will create, perform, discuss, and analyse drama, and then reflect on the experiences to develop an understanding of themselves, the art form, and the world around them.
MUSIC
Grade 9, Beginner (AMU 1O3)
This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience and is aimed at developing technique, sensitivity, and imagination for students with less than one year of experience with instruments. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop an understanding of the conventions and elements of music and of safe practices related to music, and will develop a variety of skills transferable to other areas of their life.
Grade 9, Experienced (AMU 1O5)
This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience and is aimed at developing technique, sensitivity, and imagination for students with at least one year of experience with instruments. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop an understanding of the conventions and elements of music and of safe practices related to music, and will develop a variety of skills transferable to other areas of their life.