GRADE 12 PROGRAM

In Grade 12, each student will take a minimum of six credits, which will include the following compulsory course: Grade 12 English, plus a minimum of five elective credits. A student must have the necessary pre-requisite before taking a Grade 12 course.

Advanced Functions: MHF 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Functions, Grade 11, University/College
(1.0 credit)

This course extends students’ experience with functions. Students will investigate the properties of polynomial, rational, logarithmic and trigonometric functions; broaden their understanding of rates of change and develop facility in applying these concepts and skills. Students will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. This course is intended both for students who plan to study mathematics in university and for those wishing to consolidate their understanding of mathematics before proceeding to any one of a variety of university programs.

Principles of Financial Accounting: BAT 4M

Grade 12 (University/College Preparation)
Pre-requisite: Introduction to Financial Accounting, Grade 11, University/College Preparation
(1.0 credit)

This course emphasizes the study of accounting principles related to financial statements. Students will learn about ways in which information in these statements is used in making business decisions and about the effects on financial statements of using different methods of inventory valuation and adjusting and reversing entries. Students will also study various means of financing a business and ways in which the strength of a corporation can be determined through the reading of its annual report.

Analysing Current Economic Issues: CIA 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and world studies, English, or social sciences and humanities
(1.0 credit)

This course explores the choices that individuals and societies make about the use of resources in a competitive global economy. Students will use economic concepts and models, as well as methods of economic inquiry, to analyze current economic issues and make informed economic choices based on their analysis.

Biology: SBI 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Biology, Grade 11, University Preparation
(1.0 credit)

This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes associated with biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, evolution and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on achievement of the detailed knowledge and refined skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields.

Calculus and Vectors: MCV 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
Pre-requisite: Advanced Functions, Grade 12, University Preparation
(This pre-requisite course may be taken concurrently).
(1.0 credit)

This course builds on students’ previous experiences with functions and their developing understanding of rates of change. Students will solve problems involving geometric and algebraic representations of vectors and representations of lines and planes in three-dimensional space; broaden their understanding of rates of change to include the derivatives of polynomial, rational, exponential and sinusoidal functions and apply these concepts and skills to the modeling of real-world relationships. Students will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. This course is intended for students who plan to study mathematics in university and who may choose to pursue careers in fields such as physics and engineering.

Canadian and International Law: CLN 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and world studies, English, or social sciences and humanities
(1.0 credit)

This course explores elements of Canadian law and the role of law in social, political and global contexts. Students will learn about the connections between the historical and philosophical sources of law and issues in contemporary society. They will also learn to analyze legal issues, conduct independent research and communicate the results of their inquiries in a variety of ways.

Canadian and World Issues – A Geographic Analysis: CGW 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and world studies, English, or social sciences and humanities
(1.0 credit)

This course draws on geographic concepts, skills, methods and technologies to analyze significant issues facing Canadians as citizens of an interdependent world. Students will examine the challenges of creating a sustainable and equitable future through the study of a range of topics, including economic interdependence, geopolitical conflict, regional disparities in the ability to meet basic human needs and protection of the planet’s life-support systems.

Chemistry: SCH 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Chemistry, Grade 11, University Preparations
(1.0 credit)

This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of organic chemistry, energy changes and rates of reaction, chemical systems and equilibrium, electrochemistry and atomic and molecular structure. Students will further develop problem-solving and laboratory skills as they investigate chemical processes, at the same time refining their ability to communicate scientific information. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of chemistry in daily life and on evaluating the impact of chemical technology on the environment.

Computers and Information Science: ICS 4M

Grade 12 (University/College Preparation)
pre-requisite: Computer and Information Science, Grade 11, University/College Preparation
(1.0 credit)

This course helps students use programming and software engineering principles to design and develop algorithms and programs. Students will use software development and diagnostic tools, implement data structures and algorithms and use file management techniques in project settings. They will also develop an understanding of the ethics of computer use and the impact of information technology on the community and will explore post-secondary education and career paths in computer science.

The course is conducted from an IT consulting company perspective where students carry out IT projects for clients within the Trafalgar Castle School community. Students involve themselves in two major projects throughout the year. The projects are planned using relevant Project Management Theory (scope, time and risk management) before being carried out and the student’s evaluation is workplace based. Students will have opportunities to self-direct their learning into different aspects of IT by choosing their own projects.

Dramatic Arts: ADA 4M

Grade 12 (University/College Preparation)
pre-requisite: Dramatic Arts, Grade 11, University/College Preparation or Open
(1.0 credit)

This course requires students to experiment with forms and conventions in dramatic literature and to create/adapt and present dramatic works. Students will research dramatic forms, conventions, themes and theories of acting and directing from different historical periods and apply their knowledge of these in analyzing and interpreting dramatic literature, including Canadian works and works from various cultures in the late twentieth century. Students will also examine the significance of dramatic arts in various cultures.

English: ENG 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: English, Grade 11, University Preparations
(1.0 credit)

This course emphasizes consolidation of literacy, critical thinking and communication skills. Students will analyze a range of challenging texts from various time periods, countries and cultures; write analytical and argumentative essays and a major paper for an independent literary research project; and apply key concepts to analyze media works. An important focus will be on understanding academic language and using it coherently and confidently in discussion and argument.

The Writer's Craft: EWC 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: English, Grade 11, University Preparations
(1.0 credit)

This course emphasizes knowledge and skills related to the craft of writing. Students will analyze models of effective writing, use a workshop approach to produce a range of works, identify and use techniques required for specialized forms of writing and identify effective ways to improve the quality of their writing. They will also complete a major paper as part of a creative or analytical independent study project and investigate opportunities for publication and for writing careers.

Excercise Science: PSE 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Any Grade 11 university or university/college preparation course in science, or any Grade 11 or 12 open course in health and physical education
(1.0 credit)

This course focuses on the study of human movement and on systems, factors and principles involved in human development. Students will learn about the effects of physical activity on health and performance, the evolution of physical activity and sports and the factors that influence an individual’s participation in physical activity. The course prepares students for university programs in physical education, kinesiology, recreation and sports administration.

Core French: FSF 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Core French, Grade 11, University Preparation
(1.0 credit)

This course draws on a variety of themes to promote extensive development of French-language skills. Students will consolidate their oral skills as they discuss literature, culture and current issues. They will read a variety of texts and will write a formal essay. The use of correct grammar and appropriate language conventions in both spoken and written French will be emphasized throughout the course.

Individuals and Families in a Diverse Society: HHS 4M

Grade 12 (University/College Preparation)
pre-requisite: Any university, university/college, or college preparation course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world studies
(1.0 credit)

This course applies current theories and research from the disciplines of anthropology, psychology and sociology to the study of individual development, family behaviour, intimate and parent–child relationships and the ways in which families interact within the diverse Canadian society. Students will learn the interpersonal skills required to contribute to the well-being of families and the investigative skills required to conduct and evaluate research about individuals and families.

Interdisciplinary Studies: IDC 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: any university or university/college preparation course
(1.0 credit)

This course will help students develop and consolidate the skills required for and the knowledge of different subjects and disciplines to solve problems, make decisions, create personal meaning and present findings beyond the scope of a single subject or discipline. The student will have the opportunity to self-direct their learning in different areas of computer science and information technology through a project based workplace environment. Students will design, execute and manage their plan to carry out IT projects for community clients using relevant Project Management Theory. Using a unique workplace evaluation method, students will also develop an understanding of the impact of information technology on the workplace as well as explore and be exposed to different career paths in computer science and information technology.

Mathematics of Data Management: MDM 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Functions and Relations, Grade 11, University Preparation, or Functions, Grade 11, University/College Preparation
(1.0 credit)

This course broadens students’ understanding of mathematics as it relates to managing information. Students will apply methods for organizing large amounts of information; solve problems involving counting techniques, probability and statistics and carry out a culminating project that integrates the expectations of the course. Students will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. Students planning to enter university programs in business, the social sciences or the humanities will find this course of particular interest.

Music: AMU 4M

Grade 12 (University/College Preparation)
pre-requisite: Any Music, Grade 11, University/College Preparation or Open
(1.0 credit)

This course emphasizes the appreciation, analysis and performance of music from the romantic period and the twentieth century, including art music, jazz, popular music and Canadian and non-Western music. Students will concentrate on developing interpretive skills and the ability to work independently. They will also complete complex creative projects.

Physics: SPH 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Physics, Grade 11, University Preparation
(1.0 credit)

This course enables students to deepen their understanding of the concepts and theories of physics. Students will explore further the laws of dynamics and energy transformations and will investigate electrical, gravitational and magnetic fields; electromagnetic radiation and the interface between energy and matter. They will further develop inquiry skills, learning, for example, how the interpretation of experimental data can provide indirect evidence to support the development of a scientific model. Students will also consider the impact on society and the environment of technological applications of physics.

Visual Arts: AVI 4M

Grade 12 (University/College Preparation)
pre-requisite: Visual Arts, Grade 11, University/College Preparation
(1.0 credit)

This course focuses on the refinement of students’ skills and knowledge in visual arts. Students will analyze art forms; use theories of art in analyzing and producing art and increase their understanding of stylistic changes in modern and contemporary Western art, Canadian (including Native Canadian) art and art forms from various parts of the world. Students will produce a body of work demonstrating a personal approach.

World History: The West and the World: CHY 4U

Grade 12 (University Preparation)
pre-requisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and world studies, English, or social sciences and humanities.
(1.0 credit)

This course investigates the major trends in Western civilization and world history from the sixteenth century to the present. Students will learn about the interaction between the emerging West and other regions of the world and about the development of modern social, political and economic systems. The skills and knowledge developed in this course will enable students to understand and appreciate both the character of historical change and the historical roots of contemporary issues.