Electives:
Junior High Students will get up to 4 different electives over the course of a year in
regular programming. We are developing new electives all the time, with input
from both staff and students. Here are the electives for semester 1 of the 2025-2026 school year:
BAND: This course introduces the students to the world of instrumental music. Students may begin the year on flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, euphonium, trombone, tuba, or percussion. Students will learn to play their instruments, read musical notation, and develop their aural skills. Different styles of music will be explored, and performances in a variety of band settings will be available. Students do not need to have any prior experience playing instruments or reading music to join Band!
GENERAL MUSIC: This course is an opportunity for students to explore music-making in a variety of ways, including but not limited to guitar, ukulele, piano, bass guitar, drums, singing, and electronic music. The course is open to students at all levels, whether they are already accomplished musicians looking to expand their learning or new beginners wanting to try an instrument for the very first time. All instruments are provided, but students are welcome to bring their own as well! No experience is necessary.
FRENCH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE: This course concentrates on a basic understanding of the French language. Students learn basic grammar as well as specific vocabulary themes throughout the year. Listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing are stressed as well.
ART: In Art class, everyone is welcome—no experience needed! This relaxed elective is all about self-expression and having fun while exploring your creativity. You’ll get to try out sketching, crafting, coloring, and painting with plenty of freedom to make each project your own. Some exciting assignments include drawing a self-portrait, putting a funny twist on a famous masterpiece, experimenting with abstract art, and designing a personal project from start to finish. Whether you’re new to art or already love it, this class is the perfect place to create and express yourself.
DRAMA: This course introduces students to the art of drama as a creative form of self-expression and communication. Through engaging activities such as public speaking, skits, and improvisation, students will build confidence, develop stage presence, and strengthen their ability to think on their feet. Learners will also explore and analyze a variety of plays, gaining an appreciation for different theatrical styles, themes, and cultural perspectives. By working individually and collaboratively, students will enhance their creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while discovering the power of performance to entertain, inform, and inspire.
TEXTILES (SEWING): In this course, students will gain knowledge of Sewing Machine technology, and fabric preparation will be applied to hand and machine-sewn projects.
HAND TEXTILES: This course focuses on the knowledge and use of different textile mediums such as yarn and plastic canvas, cross-stitch, hand sewing stitches, bead work, parachute chord knots, and weaving in the creation of final projects.
INDUSTRIAL ARTS (CONSTRUCTION): The CTF Construction program for Grades 7–9 provides students with hands-on opportunities to explore the world of building and design. Through progressive skill development, students learn how to safely use hand and power tools, plan and complete projects, and apply creative problem-solving to real-world tasks. At each grade level, students take on increasingly complex challenges.
Throughout the program, students develop responsibility, collaboration, and critical thinking while practicing safe work habits and craftsmanship. By the end of Grade 9, they will have built a strong foundation of technical ability, confidence, and workplace readiness to support success in both high school and everyday life.
MEDICAL SCIENCE: Students will explore modules focused on the brain, the nervous system, and foundational concepts in psychology. Topics will include neurological function, brain anatomy, mental health, and human behavior. This course is intended for students who are interested in the medical field, mental health professions, or neuroscience.
INFORMATION PROCESSING: In this course, students will build essential computer skills for academic and everyday use. The focus will be on improving typing proficiency, creating and editing documents, designing slideshows, working with spreadsheets for graphing, and using cloud-based productivity tools such as Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, and Slides). This course is ideal for students who want to become more confident and efficient in using technology for school, work, and communication.
RESOURCE ROOM: The Resource Room elective provides students with extra time and support to strengthen their skills in core subjects. This class is designed to help students review key concepts, receive individualized or small-group assistance, and build confidence in math and literacy. Students will have the opportunity to catch up on assignments, practice strategies for success, and develop study and organizational skills in a supportive learning environment. The goal of this elective is to provide students with the tools they need to feel more prepared and successful in their academic classes.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP: This course combines the fundamentals of entrepreneurship with the basics of business. Students will explore what it means to be an entrepreneur while also gaining an understanding of key business concepts such as marketing, finance, and management. The course will encourage creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, as students learn how to develop business ideas and turn them into viable enterprises.
COSMETOLOGY: Students taking this course will get basic knowledge in giving manicures, pedicures, braiding hair, and coloring/cutting hair. Also, aspects of skin care, facial treatments, cosmetic make-up services, and hair removal are covered.
COMPUTER SCIENCE: Students will learn the basic skills for programming and computational thought. We will work with Scratch and introductory Python to build projects that could be text or graphics-based games and solve coding puzzles.
STOP MOTION ANIMATION: Students will learn about stop motion and create their own stop motion animation film.
- Stop Motion: animated filmmaking technique in which objects are physically manipulated in small increments between individually photographed frames so that they will appear to exhibit independent motion or change when the series of frames is played back.
WORLD MYTHOLOGY: World Mythology 7 is an epic journey into the world’s greatest stories! From clever trickster gods who bend the rules to legends about the end of time and the ticking of the doomsday clock, we’ll explore how different cultures explain the mysteries of life. Along the way, you’ll watch films, design bold posters, create digital projects, and dive into your own research adventures. This class is all about unlocking the power of myth while having fun, bringing these timeless tales to life.
YOGA: Come learn yoga in an accepting and relaxed environment. This class is suitable for students at all levels and is geared towards improving oneself rather than competing with others. We start with the basics and then explore a variety of styles of yoga like flow, deep stretching, partner yoga, and restorative yoga. You’ll learn techniques that will help you achieve calm, improve your sleep, and gain strength and flexibility. Mats, cushions, and all other props are provided; just bring your positive attitude!
OUTDOOR EDUCATION: This course gives students the opportunity to learn about the great outdoors while developing skills to explore safety. Whether finding a route with a map and compass, exploring the trails around the school, or learning to cook over a fire, students will be given many opportunities to be active both in and out of the classroom!
ESPORTS: Dive into the exciting world of competitive gaming! In this course, you’ll explore different games, learn new strategies, and practice teamwork and sportsmanship in a positive gaming environment. We’ll also look at the many pathways Esports can lead to, from post-secondary opportunities to careers in professional gaming, content creation, and beyond.
INTRO TO LACROSSE: This course provides students with a foundational understanding of the sport of lacrosse through the development of physical skills, game strategies, and team play. In addition to skill acquisition, students will explore the rich cultural history of lacrosse, with a particular emphasis on its Indigenous roots and significance within First Nations, Métis, and Inuit (FNMI) communities. Through active participation and cultural reflection, students will gain both an appreciation for the sport and a deeper respect for its traditional origins and enduring legacy. All of the required equipment will be provided by the school.
INDIGENOUS STUDIES: Students explore the rich and diverse cultures of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples from across Canada. They learn that Indigenous worldviews—how people see their place in the world—are often deeply shaped by the land, environment, and local traditions. Students see how beliefs, languages, and ways of life can vary depending on geography, and how Indigenous knowledge systems remain strong and vibrant today. Learning is hands-on and engaging: many lessons are paired with crafts or cultural activities, such as traditional cooking, beading, fish scale and leather art, and contemporary reinterpretations of Indigenous designs. Where possible, students also engage with local Indigenous knowledge through stories, guest speakers, or connections with Elders and community members. Students are encouraged to think critically, act respectfully, and celebrate Indigenous cultures - not only as part of Canada's past, but as a vibrant, essential part of its future.
FOOD STUDIES: In Food Studies, we work as a team to practice cooking and baking skills. You will have the chance to prepare a wide variety of delicious recipes and learn skills that can be used for the rest of your life! Safety, sanitation, measurement, and teamwork are daily focuses in Foods. Learning about the role of ingredients in recipes, baking methods, proper use of kitchen equipment and tools, nutrition, and meal planning are all incorporated into the course.
LEADERSHIP: The primary objective of this leadership course is to equip students with essential leadership competencies and practical applications for both individual and group settings. Throughout the course, students will explore various leadership styles and develop a deep understanding of their personal leadership qualities. By engaging in activities and discussions, students will learn to create and pursue personal goals using the SMART framework and contribute to school improvement initiatives. The course aims to foster self-awareness, enhance leadership skills, and empower students to effectively lead and collaborate within their school communities.
CREATIVE WRITING: Unleash your imagination in this engaging course designed for aspiring writers! Students will sharpen their storytelling skills through lessons on descriptive writing, free-form writing, world-building, character development, and visual storytelling. Along the way, they’ll learn how to bring their ideas to life on the page with vivid detail and strong narrative voice. The class will culminate in a narrative writing project, allowing students to showcase their creativity and growth. All works in progress that students may currently be working on are welcome! Whether you dream of writing short stories, novels, or simply want to strengthen your writing, this course will guide you every step of the way.
MARKETING: This course facilitates the learning and demonstration of techniques for the successful promotion and selling of products and services. Marketing as a course is tailored to expose students to communication channels and advertising media that are used in the market today.
FILIPINO AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE: This course immerses students in the rich Filipino history, traditions, and music by embarking on the journey of learning a language spoken by millions, Tagalog (Filipino). Filipino as a Foreign Language is designed for students who aim to broaden their horizons linguistically and culturally.
ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE: This course is designed for students who are learning English as an Additional Language. It is a safe and welcoming class where students can practice English without fear of making mistakes. We work together to build skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. You will read stories and articles, learn new words, and write in different ways to share your ideas. We also practice conversations and presentations so you can feel more confident using English in school and in everyday life. This class is about learning, growing, and supporting each other.
ART WELLNESS: In Art Wellness, we’ll explore how creating and looking at art can help us feel better inside. You'll learn how colors, shapes, and creativity can be powerful tools to manage stress, express emotions, and boost your mood. This class is all about using art to take care of your mental health in fun and thoughtful ways. No art skills are needed—just an open mind and a willingness to try! Whether you're feeling great or going through a tough time, art can be a helpful way to support yourself.
CULTURE AND TRAVEL: In Culture and Travel, we’ll explore amazing cultures from around the world and learn about their unique traditions, foods, holidays, and ways of life. You'll get to "travel" to different countries through videos, stories, and fun activities. We’ll also plan our own imaginary trips, learning what it takes to create a fun and successful vacation—from picking a destination to budgeting and making an itinerary. This class is perfect for curious minds who love learning about new places and dreaming about adventures!
COOPERATIVE GAMES: Do you want to improve your strategic skills while playing games you love? If so, then this is the option for you! Students in this class will have fun playing a variety of games, developing their abstract critical thinking and cooperation skills. Some of the brain-boosting benefits of strategic games include enhanced memory, concentration, strategic function, and problem-solving skills. Through cooperative games, students will also develop their level of teamwork, conflict resolution, self-awareness, communication, and leadership.
FASHION STUDIES: The Fashion Studies elective provides students with the opportunity to explore the creative and cultural world of fashion. This class is designed to introduce students to fashion history, trends, and design while encouraging them to develop their own sense of style. Students will take part in hands-on projects, research activities, and creative design challenges that allow them to express their individuality. They will also learn about sustainable fashion and the role the industry plays in society and everyday life. The goal of this elective is to give students the knowledge, skills, and confidence to understand fashion from multiple perspectives while exploring their own creative potential.
PHOTOGRAPHY: This course is an introduction to photography where students get the chance to explore how to take creative and thoughtful pictures. The class covers the basics of using a camera, learning simple settings like focus, lighting, and perspective to capture interesting shots. Students experiment with different types of photography, such as portraits, landscapes, and action shots, while also learning how to make their photos stand out through good composition. To enhance their work, students use Canva to edit and add creative touches to their images in an easy, accessible way. This course is all about trying new ideas, building confidence behind the camera, and discovering photography as a fun and creative way to tell stories.
INDIGENOUS ART: Indigenous Art introduces students to a variety of artistic styles, traditions, and techniques inspired by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures. Students explore dot art as a way to create vibrant patterns and symbolic imagery, as well as try projects such as animal silhouette paintings inspired by traditional storytelling, Métis floral beadwork designs recreated through drawing or painting, and Inuit-inspired printmaking that highlights northern wildlife and landscapes. They can use watercolour or just a simple Sharpie! Alongside these projects, students learn about the meaning and importance of symbols, patterns, and stories in Indigenous art, connecting each activity to culture and history.
HISTORY OF FASHION: This is an elective offered to grade 8 students for the 2025-2026 school year. The class will focus (chronologically) on the historical, political, and cultural ties to fashion and the evolution of clothing and accessories over the last few centuries. Students will learn the ‘why’ behind recognizable trends in style. In terms of worldview, and to avoid an ethnocentric bias, we will look at different fashion centers on different continents, all of which have had enormous impacts on how we dress and style ourselves. Eras of study are: the Meiji Period, the Regency Era, the Victorian Era, the Flapper Era, Mid Century Fashion & Design, the Hippie Era, the 1980’s, Y2K, and more.
PSYCHOLOGY BASICS: This is a class all about the most fascinating and powerful tool you own: your brain. We’ll explore the connections between how your brain works and why you think, feel, and act the way you do. This class is a calm and supportive space where we can better understand ourselves!
MASTER BUILDERS: This is a class all about the most fascinating and powerful tool you own: your brain. We’ll explore the connections between how your brain works and why you think, feel, and act the way you do. This class is a calm and supportive space where we can better understand ourselves!
INTRODUCTION TO COMEDY: This course offers students a creative and engaging introduction to the world of comedy, with a primary focus on stand-up. Students will explore the history and evolution of comedy, study joke writing and delivery techniques, and experiment with different comedic styles and formats. The course also incorporates elements of public speaking, media analysis, and personal branding. Students will develop original material and perform.
HANDMADE CRAFTS: In this hands-on course, students will explore the creative world of handmade crafts with a focus on knitting and crocheting. Designed for beginners and those with some experience, this class provides step-by-step instruction in foundational techniques such as casting on, basic stitches, increasing and decreasing, reading patterns, and finishing projects. Students will have the opportunity to create a variety of personal and decorative items such as scarves, dishcloths, and small amigurumi or accessory projects. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn and create!
ROBOTICS: This exciting and interactive course introduces students to the fundamentals of robotics, combining creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning. Using beginner-friendly robotics kits and programming platforms, students will design, build, and program their own robots to complete a variety of challenges and tasks.