Pre-U Course Descriptions 2025-2026

IBDP ENGLISH SL/HL YEAR 2 - PROGRAMME LANGUAGE A: Language & LITERATURE

The language A: language and literature Year 2 course aims at the continued study of the complex and dynamic nature of language and the exploration of both its practical and aesthetic dimensions begun in Year 1. The course will continue to explore the crucial role language plays in communication, reflecting experience and shaping the world, and the roles of individuals themselves as producers of language. Throughout Year 2, students will explore the various ways in which language choices, text types, literary forms and contextual elements all effect meaning. Through close analysis of various text types and literary forms, students will consider their own interpretations, as well as the critical perspectives of others, to explore how such positions are shaped by cultural belief systems and to negotiate meanings for texts. The aims of Year 2 studies in language and literature courses are to enable students to engage with a range of texts, including both literary and non-literary texts, with a particular emphasis on preparation for the Year 2 evaluations: The Individual Oral, Paper 1 (Guided textual analysis), Paper 2 (Comparative essay), and the Higher Level essay (HL only).

Français préuniversitaire / Language Acquisition - French (IB Diploma) 

IBDP Français ab initio SL Year 2

The ab initio course is two years long and is designed for students with limited knowledge of the French language. Only those who have completed the first year will be able to register (or at the teacher’s professional judgement). 

Through the five mandatory IB themes, students will deepen their reading, writing and oral communication skills. They will be placed in genuine situations of everyday life and social interactions. Special emphasis will be placed on exploring Francophone cultures around the world.

IBDP Français SL Year 2

Ce programme met l’accent sur l’amélioration des compétences langagières en expression orale. À travers des débats et des présentations, l’étudiant est amené à découvrir différents aspects sociohistoriques de la culture francophone canadienne et internationale. De plus, nous réfléchirons également à propos des transformations de la société moderne par le biais de l’analyse d’enjeux actuels. 

IBDP Français HL Year 2

Ce programme vise davantage l’interprétation de différents textes, la production d’une variété de travaux écrits et de recherches sur un sujet choisi pour les présenter oralement. L’utilisation appropriée des conventions de la langue orale et écrite sera soulignée tout le long de ce cours.

Ainsi, l’analyse des textes produits dans une langue particulière est fondamentale pour l’étude de la langue et de la culture et, par conséquent, pour définir la manière dont nous percevons et comprenons le monde dans lequel nous vivons. L’un des objectifs fondamentaux du cours de français préuniversitaire est d’inciter l’étudiant à s’interroger sur le sens généré par la langue et les textes, sens qui, si l’on peut dire, est rarement simple et sans équivoque. 

Soulignons que ce cours, de français langue seconde, met l’accent sur deux grands axes: le premier étant celui de la compétence réceptive, lire divers types de textes et écouter un éventail de documents audiovisuel, et le second étant la compétence productive, écrire une variété de texte et s’exprimer oralement dans divers contextes.

IBDP Analysis & Approaches (AI) Mathematics SL

This course is crafted to empower students with the mathematical tools necessary to interpret and navigate a data-rich world. This course emphasizes the practical application of mathematics, exploring topics such as statistics, financial mathematics, modelling, and optimization, while encouraging students to investigate real-world scenarios and draw meaningful conclusions.

Acknowledging the prevalence of technology in data analysis and problem-solving, this course integrates the use of graphing calculators. However, the core focus remains on developing the ability to translate real-world problems into mathematical models, to communicate findings clearly and effectively, and to justify conclusions based on sound mathematical reasoning. Students will cultivate a deep understanding of how mathematics can be used to analyze and interpret information, recognizing that mathematical literacy is essential for informed decision-making in a diverse and interconnected world.

• Pre-requisite course: IBDP AI Mathematics SL Year 1
• Some independent work may be required for students coming from grade 11 CST.

IBDP Analysis & Approaches (AA) Mathematics SL

This course recognizes the need for analytical expertise in a world where innovation is increasingly dependent on a deep understanding of mathematics. This course includes topics that are both traditionally part of a pre-university mathematics course (for example calculus and statistics and probability) as well as topics that are amenable to investigation, conjecture and proof, for instance the study of sequences and series.

The course encourages the use of technology, as fluency in relevant mathematical software and hand-held technology is important regardless of choice of course. However, there is a strong emphasis on the ability to construct, communicate and justify correct mathematical arguments. There will be a recognition that the development of mathematical thinking is important for a student.

• Pre-requisite course: IB DP AA Mathematics SL Year 1
• Some independent work may be required if the order of topics was different than at LCC.

IBDP Analysis & Approaches (AA) Mathematics HL

This course recognizes the need for analytical expertise in a world where innovation is increasingly dependent on a deep understanding of mathematics. This course includes topics that are both traditionally part of a pre-university mathematics course (for example, functions, trigonometry, calculus) as well as topics that are amenable to investigation, conjecture and proof, for instance the study of sequences and series and proof by induction.

The course allows the use of technology, as fluency in relevant mathematical software and hand-held technology is important regardless of choice of course. However, there is a strong emphasis on the ability to construct, communicate and justify correct mathematical arguments. There will be a recognition that the development of mathematical thinking is important for a student.

• Pre-requisite course: IBDP AA Mathematics HL Year 1
• Some independent work may be required if the order of topics was different than at LCC.

IBDP Physics SL

This course is designed to prepare students for the International Baccalaureate exams in physics at the Standard Level (SL). This course will build upon the grade 11 Physics SL course, expanding on mechanics, optics and electromagnetics, which have already been covered in earlier science courses.  Additionally, some new topics, such as thermal physics, waves, modern physics, particle physics and energy generation systems will be covered. There will be an emphasis on conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, experimental design and data-analysis techniques. Students will study high-level laboratory techniques and be responsible for independently designing a laboratory experiment and producing the corresponding formal report.

•  Pre-requisite course: Year 1 of IB DP Physics SL or HL 
• Recommended for students interested in Engineering, Applied or Physical Science

IBDP Physics HL

This is a continuation of the HL Year 1 course in grade 11. This program is structured for potential engineering and physical science students and emphasizes classical mechanics, waves, modern physics and electricity and magnetism. Laboratory work consists of exercises designed to complement the theoretical work and to broaden the student's experience. Extensive discussion of uncertainty is integrated into the laboratory analysis, in order to prepare students for their Individual Investigation. Student participation is evaluated by their performance on assignments and investigation reports. The formal evaluation is based on the student's performance on a series of tests and a mock exam in December.

• Pre-requisite course: Year 1 of IB DP Physics HL
• Recommended for students interested in Engineering, Applied or Physical Science

IBDP Chemistry SL

This course is designed to help students prepare for the International Baccalaureate exams in chemistry at the Standard Level. Chemistry Year 2 is centered on both logic and theory, which are demonstrated through controlled experiments and the scientific inquiry process. Lab skills are developed through experimentation in preparation for the design of an independent study and formal report. Emphasis in this class will be placed on understanding and applying principles of oxidation and reduction, atomic structure, periodicity, bonding, and organic chemistry.

• Pre-requisite course: Year 1 of IB DP SL or HL Chemistry 
• Recommended for students interested in Engineering, Applied, Health or Natural Science

IBDP Chemistry HL

This course is designed to help students prepare for the International Baccalaureate exams in chemistry at the Higher Level (HL). Chemistry Year 2 is centered on both logic theory and application, which are demonstrated through controlled experiments and the scientific inquiry process. This course covers topics with more breath and depth than the standard level. Lab skills are developed and the  students work towards the completion of an independent report on a scientific laboratory experiment of their choosing. Emphasis in this class will be placed on understanding and applying principles of oxidation and reduction, atomic structure, molecular bonding, periodicity, and organic chemistry. The formal evaluation is based on the student's performance on a series of tests and a mock exam in December. 

• Pre-requisite course: Year 1 of IB DP HL Chemistry 
• Recommended for students interested in Engineering, Applied, Health or Natural Science

IBDP Biology SL/HL

This course is designed to prepare students for the International Baccalaureate exams in biology at the Standard (SL) or Higher Level (HL). Biology year II is centered on theory and its practical applications in society. Emphasis in this class will be placed on understanding and applying principles of cell biology, metabolic principles, ecology, evolution, botany, and molecular genetics. Daily reading and learning new biological concepts and their application is required for success.

• Pre-requisite course: Year 1 of IB DP Biology (SL/HL)
• Recommended for students interested in Health or Natural Science

IBDP Environmental Systems and Societies SL Year 2

This course is designed to prepare students for the International Baccalaureate exams in ESS at the Standard Level (SL). This course will build upon the grade 11 ESS SL course, expanding on biodiversity, climate change and mitigation strategies, which have already been covered in earlier science courses. Additionally, some new topics, such as environmental law, environmental and ecological economics and environmental ethics will be covered. There will be an emphasis on conceptual understanding, critical thinking skills, experimental design and data-analysis techniques. Students will be responsible for independently designing a laboratory experiment or using secondary data to produce the corresponding formal report (IA).

• Pre-requisite course: Year 1 of IB DP SL ESS
• Recommended for students interested in Law, Engineering, Applied or Physical Science

IBDP Global Politics SL/HL 

This IBDP course will acquaint students with the main issues that confront our world today, and students have the option to pursue this at the standard or higher level. Students will discover the great inequalities that exist among people of our world by studying the major issues confronted by global citizens. With our “global village” getting smaller, it is essential that contemporary students become aware of world concerns relating to population, resources, disease, the environment, economic development, political conflict, and cultural controversy. They will learn how to identify and analyze issues, recognize causes and consequences, and suggest workable solutions to these concerns. Students will develop their ATL skills as well as characteristics of the IB learner profile.

IBDP Economics SL/HL 

This IBDP course takes an interdisciplinary approach to global economic issues, and is available in either standard level or higher level. It serves as an introduction to economic concepts, such as supply and demand, opportunity cost, banking, monetary flows, fiscal policy, monetary policy, international trade, exchange rates, and economic development in developing countries. Topics to be studied include microeconomics, macroeconomics, international trade, and the global economy. The content of this course will appeal to students with an interest in economics, economic development, international affairs and political science, as well as serve as a useful base for those wishing to pursue studies in international development, commerce and/or social sciences at the post-secondary level. Students will develop their ATL skills as well as characteristics of the IB learner profile. At the end of Year 1 Economics, students who wish to pursue HL in Year 2 should have a minimum average of 84%, and students who wish to pursue SL in Year 2 should have a minimum average of 75%.

IBDP HISTORY HL

This IBDP course looks at historical phenomena from a thematic perspective. The course emphasizes the importance of encouraging students to think historically as well as gaining factual knowledge. It puts a premium on developing the skills of critical thinking, and an understanding of multiple interpretations of history. The course involves a challenging and demanding critical exploration of the past using a variety of learning activities, such as debates, simulations, text analysis, essay writing, and seminars. Students will draw on both primary and secondary sources in their study of the following units: The Cold War, Authoritarian States (with a focus on Nazi Germany and Castro’s Cuba), and Rights and Protests (with a focus on South African Apartheid and The Civil Rights Movement). Students will develop their ATL skills as well as characteristics of the IB learner profile.

IBDP Business Management SL/HL 

Business Management explores a variety of important business themes for students who are considering pursuing business or commerce as a career, or simply exploring their entrepreneurial spirit. Students may take this course at the standard or higher level. The course emphasizes a formalized vocabulary to help students express business concepts and analysis that they would otherwise only be exposed to in higher levels of post-secondary education. Students learn to analyse, discuss and evaluate business activities at local, national and international levels. The course covers a range of organizations from all sectors, as well as the socio-cultural and economic contexts in which those organizations operate.​The course has a variety of learning activities, such as written reports, simulations, text and data analysis, and business case studies. It is structured around the following units: Business Organization, Human Resources, Finance and Accounting, Marketing, and Operations Management. Students will develop their ATL skills as well as characteristics of the IB learner profile.

IBDP Psychology HL/SL (Year 2) 

Psychology is the rigorous and systematic study of mental processes and behaviour. It is a complex subject that draws on concepts, methods and understandings from a number of different disciplines. The IB/DP Psychology course is first explored through the core perspectives of biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on thinking and behaviour, as there is no single approach that would describe or explain mental processes and behaviour on its own, as human beings are complex animals, with highly developed frontal lobes and cognitive abilities that closely interplay with social structures and cultures. The study of behaviour and mental processes requires a multidisciplinary approach and the use of a variety of research techniques whilst recognizing that behaviour is not a static phenomenon, it is adaptive, and as the world, societies and challenges facing societies change, so does behaviour. 

In Year 2, students will explore two of four options that delve into psychological subfields; they include the study of human relationships, abnormal behaviour, human health and developmental psychology. Finally, all units are explored through the lens of research. Psychologists employ a range of research methods, both qualitative and quantitative, in order to test their observations and hypotheses. As a part of the syllabus, DP Psychology promotes an understanding of the various approaches to research and how they have been used in order to critically reflect on the evidence as well as assist in the design, implementation, analysis and evaluation of the students’ own investigations. As such, much of the content covered in this class involves studying peer reviewed, scientific research that supports a current understanding of various topics. IB external assessments--Paper 1, 2 and 3 (HL only) and the Internal Assessment-- typically require that students demonstrate conceptual knowledge and develop cogent arguments that are supported by research that has been reviewed in class. Students in year 2 will also participate in conducting a research study and preparing a formal report. Mock exams and a mock study in Years 1 & 2 will help prepare students for the official IB assessments.

IBDP Film SL/HL Year 2

The DP film course aims to develop students as proficient interpreters and makers of film. Through the study and analysis of film texts, and through practical exercises in film production, the film course develops students’ critical abilities and their appreciation of artistic, cultural, historical and global perspectives in film. Students examine film concepts, theories, practices and ideas from multiple perspectives, challenging their own viewpoints and biases in order to understand and value those of others. 

DP film students experiment with film and multimedia technology, acquiring the skills and creative competencies required to successfully communicate through the language of the medium. Students will develop technical skills using various media production tools, including but not limited to Adobe’s Creative Suite, while learning to proficiently use SLR cameras, varying lenses, audio recording tools, lighting and more. They develop an artistic voice and learn how to express personal perspectives through film. 

This is a project-based course. The technical training and theory units will serve as a foundation for subsequent film and media analysis projects in the form of media-rich, interactive e-texts to be published online. In addition, students will also participate both individually and in teams on numerous production projects in film with opportunities to explore various production roles such as cinematographer, director, script writer, editor, sound engineer, special effects editor, and more. 

Using their technical production skills and knowledge of various theories, students will be challenged to analyze, think critically, synthesize and apply their learning in producing and publishing project work that is refined and professional. 

• Students who completed IB DP Film Year 1 must enrol in this course to complete Year 2

IBDP Visual Art SL/HL Year 2

The IB Visual Arts course consists of three major components that are completed over a two-year time span: a comparative study, a process portfolio and an exhibition of studio artworks. The first component, a comparative study, is an independent critical and contextual investigation exploring artworks, objects and artifacts from differing cultural contexts. Students compare at least three different artworks, by at least two different artists, with commentary. HL candidates also use one of the artists from their comparative study as an artist model in the development of a studio artwork. The process portfolio component consists of carefully selected materials, which evidences their experimentation, exploration, manipulation and refinement of a variety of visual arts activities during the two-year course. For the exhibition component, students submit for assessment a selection of eight to eleven resolved studio artworks.

Interdisciplinary Design (IDC4U / IB Design & Tech)

This course invites students to explore design as a method of inquiry, connecting ideas across disciplines through hands-on research and iterative making. Drawing from both the IB Design & Technology curriculum and Ontario’s IDC4U expectations, students develop an original product prototype while investigating how design intersects with fields such as science, art, technology, and culture. Emphasis is placed on ideation, experimentation, sustainability, and analysis, with assessment through portfolio work, presentations, and a final public exhibition.

Students engage in exchanges with global Fab Labs and have the opportunity to contribute to a growing partnership with Fab Lab Barcelona, where we are developing a certificate pathway that recognizes circular design thinking and digital fabrication as a catalyst for innovation and change.

English 12

This course begins as a practical non-fiction writing course aimed to prepare students for the rigours of university-style writing. We begin with a focus on understanding and practicing common writing modes such as descriptive, narrative, expository and argumentative/persuasive expression. Students will further develop and refine their writing skills as they delve into the process and completion of a lengthy scholarly paper and gain a sturdy grasp of research methodology and document organization. In the final portion of the course, students will study literature through reading, discussions, analysis and writing about short fiction. They will be expected to practice in-depth critical analysis of the short story as an art and will gain an appreciation for the craft.

Français 12

Ce programme met l’accent sur l’amélioration des compétences langagières en expression orale. À travers des débats et des présentations, l’étudiant est amené à découvrir différents aspects sociohistoriques de la culture francophone québécoise. L’étude des textes poétiques d’auteurs québécois favorise l’apprentissage de cette culture et permet de créer des liens avec la propre culture de l’étudiant. De plus, nous réfléchirons également à propos des transformations de la société moderne par le biais de l’analyse d’enjeux actuels. 

• Students may be placed in an advanced level of the French course at the teacher’s discretion

Calculus and Vectors 12

This is an introductory course in calculus and is intended for students interested in pursuing science and business programs in university. This course builds on students' experience with advanced functions in secondary V scientific math and introduces the basic concepts and skills of differential calculus and vectors. 

Over the course of the year, students will learn the concepts and skills of differential calculus as applied to polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. They will explore geometric and algebraic representations of vectors, lines and planes in three-dimensional space. Students will use these concepts and skills for problem solving in a range of realistic applications.

The use of technology is an integral part of this course. The graphing calculator (TI-83 or better) is used on a daily basis to investigate and test hypotheses. Computer software and/or the internet are used at times to provide a better visual representation of the concepts. Technology is never used as a replacement for algebraic methods, but rather as an enhancement of the understanding of differential calculus concepts.

• Pre-requisite course: Secondary V Mathematics SN (minimum final mark 75%)
• This course is required for students interested in Commerce, Science, Engineering programs at university.

AP Calculus AB

AP calculus AB is roughly equivalent to a first semester college calculus course devoted to topics in differential and integral calculus. The AP course covers topics in these areas, including concepts and skills of limits, derivatives, definite integrals, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. The course teaches students to approach calculus concepts and problems when they are represented graphically, numerically, analytically and verbally, and to make connections amongst these representations. Students learn how to use technology to help solve problems, experiment, interpret results and support conclusions.

• Advanced placement Calculus AB exam is required for completion of the AP Calculus course.  Students may choose to write Calculus BC with support of the teacher.
• Pre-requisite course: Secondary V Mathematics SN (minimum final mark 85%)

AP Calculus BC

The AP Calculus BC course is taught in conjunction with Year 2 of the IB Mathematics Higher Level course, which is primarily focused on calculus throughout the year. AP Calculus BC is roughly equivalent to a second college calculus course devoted to topics in differential and integral calculus as well as series convergence and differential equations. 

The IB Math Analysis & Approaches HL syllabus covers most of the AP Calculus BC course with only a couple of units added and/or excluded. The major units not covered in class that is part of the AP Calculus BC curriculum are the units on the calculus of parametric and polar curves, the calculus of vectors, arc length and surface area, and the convergence and divergences tests for series. Students will be asked to complete an independent study of these topics with the instructor’s support should they require it. The additional topics that are part of the IB Math A&A HL course that are not part of the AP Calculus BC curriculum include first order linear differential equations and homogeneous differential equations, as well as proofs of the calculus theorems.

This is not an introductory Calculus course. It is assumed that students have already successfully completed the AP Calculus AB exam or an equivalent calculus course for students coming from abroad. Admission is at the discretion of the course instructor and administration.

Prerequisite: AP Calculus AB or equivalent

Mathematics of Data Management 12

Data Management is a college level, non-calculus based course that will broaden a student’s understanding of mathematics as it relates to managing information. This course is designed to present strategies for collecting, organizing, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. The first section of the course deals with descriptive statistics where students are introduced to terminology in statistics, sampling techniques and tools used to describe data. The second section deals with inferential statistics whereby students will make use of the normal distribution to test a variety of parameters by conducting appropriate hypothesis tests in order to interpret, judge and reach viable conclusions on the statistical information in the world around them. This course is recommended for students interested in Commerce or Social Science programs at university.

AP Physics C: Mechanics

This course covers topics such as motion, forces, circular motion, gravitation, oscillations, and rotational motion. Students taking this course need a strong foundation in algebra and trigonometry. A previous or concurrent calculus course is required. The course culminates in a comprehensive external College Board© exam that tests students' knowledge, problem-solving skills, and ability to apply concepts to complex physics problems.

• Pre-requisite course: Sec V Physics - minimum final grade 75%
• Recommended for students interested in Engineering, Applied or Physical Science

Advanced Physics 12

This course, following the curriculum of the Ontario SPH4U course, will build upon the grade 11 regular physics course, expanding on mechanics and electromagnetics, which have already been covered in that and earlier science courses. Additionally, some new topics, such as waves, modern physics, particle physics and energy generation systems will be covered. There will be an emphasis on conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, experimental design and data-analysis techniques. A high level of mathematical rigour is expected.

• Pre-requisite course: Sec V Physics - minimum final grade 75%
• Recommended for students interested in Engineering, Applied or Physical Science

AP Chemistry

This course covers a wide range of topics, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, states of matter, solutions, acids and bases, thermochemistry, kinetics, equilibrium, and electrochemistry. Students learn about the properties of matter, chemical reactions, and the behaviour of substances in different states. The course culminates in a comprehensive external College Board© exam that tests students' knowledge, problem-solving skills, and ability to apply concepts to chemistry problems.

• Pre-requisite course: Sec V Chemistry - minimum final grade 75%
• Recommended for students interested in Engineering, Applied, Health or Physical Science

Advanced Chemistry 12

This course, following the Ontario SCH4U curriculum, is designed to prepare students for entry into a university science program. Students will enrich their understanding of chemistry through the study of organic chemistry, the structure and properties of matter, energy changes and rates of reaction, equilibrium in chemical systems, and electrochemistry. Students will further develop their problem-solving and investigation skills as they investigate chemical processes, and will refine their ability to communicate scientific information. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of chemistry in everyday life and on evaluating the impact of chemical technology on the environment.

• Pre-requisite course: Sec V Chemistry - minimum final grade 75%
• Recommended for students interested in Engineering, Applied, Health or Physical Science

Biology 12

This is a university preparatory program, based on the SBI4U Ontario curriculum, encompassing in-depth studies of cell biology, biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, and homeostatic mechanisms. An emphasis is placed on building solid scientific investigation skills through laboratory work and the communication of research, procedure, data and analyses using a formal lab report format. A significant amount of reading and learning new biological terminology as well as the application of basic chemistry is required.

• Recommended for students interested in Health or Natural Sciences

AP Environmental Science

This course covers a wide range of topics, including the earth system, biodiversity, energy, climate change, land use, water resources, pollution, and population. Students learn about the interconnectedness of these topics and the environmental challenges facing our planet. The course culminates in a comprehensive external College Board© exam that tests students' knowledge, problem-solving skills, and ability to apply concepts to environmental issues. This course is co-seated with the Environmental Systems and Societies course 12. 

• Pre-requisite course: Sec IV Science (ST) or equivalent 
• Recommended for students interested in Law, Engineering, Applied or Physical Science
• AP exam - required

Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS)

ESS is firmly grounded in both the exploration of cultural, economic, ethical, political and social interactions of societies with the environment and a scientific exploration of environmental systems in their structure and function. As a result of studying this course, students will become equipped with the ability to recognize and evaluate the impact of our complex system of societies on the natural world. 

ESS aims to foster an international perspective, awareness of local and global environmental concerns and an understanding of the scientific methods is prioritized. During the course, students will study eight different topics covering biodiversity, conservation and sustainability related to the global economy and political sphere. Special emphasis will be placed on environmental law, environmental and ecological economics  and environmental ethics.

• Pre-requisite course: Sec IV Science or equivalent 
• Recommended for students interested in Law, Engineering, Applied or Physical Science

Introduction to Kinesiology

This course, following and expanding upon the curriculum of the Ontario PSK4U course, focuses on the study of human movement and of 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 sport, and the physiological, psychological, and social factors that influence an individual’s participation in physical activity and sport. The course prepares students for university programs in physical education and health, kinesiology, health sciences, health studies, recreation, and sports administration. 

• Pre-requisite course: Sec IV Science (ST) or equivalent  - minimum final grade 80%
• This course does not fulfill the prerequisite requirements for entrance to university science programs 
• Recommended for students interested in physical education and health, kinesiology, health sciences, affiliated health professions, recreation and sports administration

Environmental Systems and Societies 12

This IBDP course is firmly grounded in both the exploration of cultural, economic, ethical, political and social interactions of societies with the environment and a scientific exploration of environmental systems in their structure and function. It is available at the standard and higher level. As a result of studying this course, students will become equipped with the ability to recognize and evaluate the impact of our complex system of societies on the natural world. 

 Students will be able to study this course successfully with no specific previous knowledge of science or geography. ESS aims to foster an international perspective, awareness of local and global environmental concerns and an understanding of the scientific methods is prioritized. During the course, students will study eight different topics covering biodiversity, conservation, and sustainability related to the global economy and political sphere. The most important aspect of the ESS course is hands-on work in the laboratory and/or out in the field. Students will develop their ATL skills as well as characteristics of the IB learner profile.

Global Politics 12

This course will acquaint students with the main issues that confront our planet today. Students will discover the great inequalities that exist among people of our world by studying the major issues confronted by our global citizens. With our “global village” getting smaller, it is essential that contemporary students become aware of world concerns relating to population, resources, disease, the environment, economic development, political conflict, and cultural controversy. They will learn how to identify and analyze issues, recognize causes and consequences, and suggest workable solutions to these concerns.

HISTORY 12

This course looks at historical phenomena from a thematic perspective. The course emphasizes the importance of encouraging students to think historically as well as gaining factual knowledge. It puts a premium on developing the skills of critical thinking, and an understanding of multiple interpretations of history. The course involves a challenging and demanding critical exploration of the past using a variety of learning activities, such as debates, simulations, text analysis and seminars. Students will draw on both primary and secondary sources in their study of the following units: The Cold War, Authoritarian States (with a focus on Nazi Germany & Castro’s Cuba), and Rights and Protests.

Economics 12

In this course, students are introduced to economic theories and concepts that are basic in acquiring a solid understanding of the discipline, such as supply and demand, opportunity cost, banking, monetary flows, fiscal policy, monetary policy, international trade, exchange rates, and economic development in developing countries. Topics studied include microeconomics, macroeconomics, globalization, sustainable development, international trade, and the global economy. Students also learn how to adapt models in the social sciences to understand human behavioural phenomena. Furthermore, they will understand technical information, examine major issues affecting Canadian and world economies, apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations, analyze economic problems and assess solutions to these economic issues. To achieve this goal, students are expected to play an active role in the classroom, participate in group discussions, keep up with required readings and be critically informed of current economic events. The content of this course will appeal to students with an interest in economics, economic development, international affairs and political science. Student progress is evaluated through class tests, assigned work and class participation.

AP Psychology 

The AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behaviour and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice.

Areas covered in AP psychology include: biological basis of behaviour, research methods, sensory and perception, states of consciousness, learning, cognition, motivation and emotion, developmental psychology, personality, abnormal behaviour and social psychology. Delivery of course content is a hybrid approach between on-line resources, assignments, and automated feedback,  as well as in-class reviews three times per cycle where theory is examined in the context of real-world applications. As such, students are expected to manage their time effectively in meeting posted deadlines and complete readings prior to scheduled classes.

• Advanced placement psychology exam is optional for students and advised at the discretion of the teacher.

Business Management

This course explores a variety of important business themes for students who are considering pursuing business or commerce as a career, or simply exploring their entrepreneurial spirit. The course emphasizes a formalized vocabulary to help students express business concepts and analysis that they would otherwise only be exposed to in higher levels of post-secondary education. Students learn to analyze, discuss and evaluate business activities at local, national and international levels. The course covers a range of organizations from all sectors, as well as the socio-cultural and economic contexts in which those organizations operate.The course has a variety of learning activities, such as written reports, simulations, text and data analysis, and business case studies. It is structured around the following units: Business Organization, Human Resources, Finance and Accounting, Marketing, and Operations Management.

Communications Technology 12

This course examines film and media communications systems and production processes in the areas of electronic, live, recorded, and graphic communications. Students will create, manage, publish and distribute complex electronic audio-visual projects and films independently and in project teams; they will develop technical skills using various media production tools, including but not limited to Adobe’s Creative Suite, while learning to proficiently use SLR cameras, varying lenses, audio recording tools, lighting and more. Students entering this class will also be introduced to film and communications theories within the context of their historical and contemporary application, while examining film & media and its impact within various cultural contexts from across the globe. 

This is a project-based course. The technical training and theory units will serve as a foundation for subsequent film and media analysis projects in the form of media-rich, interactive e-texts to be published online. In addition, students will also participate both individually and in teams on numerous production projects in film and media communications. Such projects will provide students with opportunities to also explore various production roles such as cinematographer, director, script writer, editor, sound engineer, special effects editor, and more. Additional units to follow will involve the development of marketing strategies using various media to create branding materials, print ads, radio spots, viral ads and social media applications, to promote and publish work produced in class on the Internet.

Using their technical production skills and knowledge of various theories, students will be challenged to analyze, think critically, synthesize and apply their learning in producing and publishing project work--in the form of e-texts and films--that are refined and professional. This Communications course is designed for university preparation and follows the Ontario Ministry of Education’s Grade 12, pre-university course TGJ4M.

• This course is recommended for students interested in university programs related to communications, marketing, advertising, media studies and film production, 
• The is no prerequisite for this course as it accommodates beginners and advanced students

Visual Art 12

The Pre-U visual art course is devoted to an individualized program reflecting the unique strengths and needs of each student. There is a strong focus on the understanding and application of the creative process to produce original works of art. Each student will produce a body of studio work for exhibition. However, there is also a required drawing component that places a strong emphasis on developing and strengthening drawing skills in a variety of drawing media and styles. Working outside of class is encouraged. 

• This course has a prerequisite of secondary V level art or equivalent. A portfolio submission may also be required for admission, which is at the discretion of the art department head.

Music

This Pre-U wind ensemble course, aligned with the Ontario Arts Music Curriculum, provides students with an advanced musical experience through participation in a wind ensemble, focusing on refining instrumental proficiency, ensemble skills, and musical interpretation. Mandatory weekly rehearsals are on Mondays from 4:14 to 5:15 pm are crucial for developing performance readiness, which will be demonstrated through recordings and live performances at the Holiday Concert, school assembly, and the Mini Band Camp at LCC in January, with an optional annual band trip offering further enrichment. Coursework includes theoretical exercises that reinforce musical concepts, and evaluation is based on rehearsal participation, performance quality, theoretical understanding, and overall commitment to the ensemble.

Interdisciplinary Design (IDC4U / IB Design & Tech)

This course invites students to explore design as a method of inquiry, connecting ideas across disciplines through hands-on research and iterative making. Drawing from both the IB Design & Technology curriculum and Ontario’s IDC4U expectations, students develop an original product prototype while investigating how design intersects with fields such as science, art, technology, and culture. Emphasis is placed on ideation, experimentation, sustainability, and analysis, with assessment through portfolio work, presentations, and a final public exhibition.

Students will engage in exchanges with global Fab Labs and have the opportunity to contribute to a growing partnership with Fab Lab Barcelona, where we are developing a certificate pathway that recognizes circular design thinking and digital fabrication as a catalyst for innovation and change.