Academics

Courses Offered

ESLDO — English as a Second Language, Level 5 Grade 11, Grade 12, Summer OSSD Credit Program

Prerequisite: ESL Level 4 or equivalent

This course provides students with the skills and strategies they need to make the transition to college and university preparation courses in English and other secondary school disciplines. Students will be encouraged to develop independence in a range of academic tasks. They will participate in debates and discussions, read and analyse challenging texts, write essays, narratives, and reports, and apply a range of learning strategies and research skills effectively. Students will further develop their ability to respond critically to print, media, and electronic texts.

ENG3U — English, Grade 11

University Preparation

Prerequisite: ENG2D

This course emphasizes the development of literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyse challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures, as well as a range of informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using language with precision and clarity and incorporating stylistic devices appropriately and effectively. The course is intended to prepare students for the compulsory Grade 12 university or college preparation course.

MCR3U — Functions, Grade 11

University Preparation

Prerequisite: MPM2D

This course introduces the mathematical concept of the function by extending students’ experiences with linear and quadratic relations. Students will investigate properties of discrete and continuous functions, including trigonometric and exponential functions; represent functions numerically, algebraically, and graphically; solve problems involving applications of functions; and develop facility in simplifying polynomial and rational expressions. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.

BDI3C — Entrepreneurship: The Venture, Grade 11

College Preparation

Prerequisite: None

This course focuses on ways in which entrepreneurs recognize opportunities, generate ideas, and organize resources to plan successful ventures that enable them to achieve their goals. Students will create a venture plan for a school-based or student-run business. Through hands-on experiences, students will have opportunities to develop the values, traits, and skills most often associated with successful entrepreneurs.

BAF3M — Financial Accounting Fundamentals, Grade 11

University/College Preparation

Prerequisite: None

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and procedures of accounting. Students will develop financial analysis and decision-making skills that will assist them in future studies and/or career opportunities in business. Students will acquire an understanding of accounting for a service business, accounting for a merchandising business, accounting for a manufacturing business, and personal finance, as well as the importance of ethics in accounting.

CLU3M — Understanding Canadian Law, Grade 11

University/College Preparation

Prerequisite: CHC2D or CHC2P

This course explores Canadian law, with a focus on law as it relates to the individual. Students will develop an understanding of laws relating to real estate, family law, contract law, employment law, and individual rights, and will gain practical knowledge about Canada’s legal system, including the criminal justice system.

CIE3M — The Individual and the Economy, Grade 11

University/College Preparation

Prerequisite: CHC2D or CHC2P

This course explores issues and challenges facing the Canadian economy as well as the implications of various responses to them. Students will explore the decisions that individuals must make as consumers, producers, and citizens, and will examine how governments use policy tools to address economic issues. Students will develop the ability to use economic models and to think critically about economic issues and their implications.

SPH3U — Physics, Grade 11

University Preparation

Prerequisite: SNC2D

This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will explore kinematics, with an emphasis on linear motion; different kinds of forces; energy transformations; the properties of mechanical waves and sound; and electricity and magnetism. They will enhance their scientific investigation skills as they test laws of physics. In addition, they will analyse the interrelationships between physics and technology and consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.

SCH3U — Chemistry, Grade 11

University Preparation

Prerequisite: SNC2D

This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of the properties of chemicals and chemical bonds; chemical reactions and quantitative relationships in those reactions; solutions and solubility; and atmospheric chemistry and the behaviour of gases. Students will further develop their analytical skills and investigate the qualitative and quantitative properties of matter, as well as the impact of some common chemical reactions on society and the environment.

ICS3U — Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11

University Preparation

Prerequisite: None

This course introduces students to computer science. Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs. Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, and global career trends in computer-related fields.

ENG4U — English Grade 12, Summer OSSD Credit Program

University Preparation

Prerequisite: ENG3U

This course emphasizes the consolidation of the literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyse a range of challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures; interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts; and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using academic language coherently and confidently, selecting the reading strategies best suited to particular texts and particular purposes for reading, and developing greater control in writing. The course is intended to prepare students for university, college, or the workplace.

MHF4U — Advanced Functions, Grade 12, Summer OSSD Credit Program

University Preparation

Prerequisite: MCR3U or MCT4C

This course extends students’ experience with functions. Students will investigate the properties of polynomial, rational, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; develop techniques for combining 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 taking the Calculus and Vectors course as a prerequisite for a university program and for those wishing to consolidate their understanding of mathematics before proceeding to any one of a variety of university programs.

MDM4U — Mathematics of Data Management, Grade 12, Summer OSSD Credit Program

University Preparation

Prerequisite: MCR3U or MCF3M

This course broadens students’ understanding of mathematics as it relates to managing data. Students will apply methods for organizing and analysing large amounts of information; solve problems involving probability and statistics; and carry out a culminating investigation that integrates statistical concepts and skills. 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, and the humanities will find this course of particular interest.

MCV4U — Calculus and Vectors, Grade 12, Summer OSSD Credit Program

University Preparation

Prerequisite: MHF4U (prior or concurrent)

This course builds on students’ previous experience 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, sinusoidal, exponential, rational, and radical functions; and apply these concepts and skills to the modelling 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 choose to pursue careers in fields such as science, engineering, economics, and some areas of business, including those students who will be required to take a university-level calculus, linear algebra, or physics course.

BBB4M — International Business Fundamentals, Grade 12, Summer OSSD Credit Program

University/College Preparation

Prerequisite: None

Dual Transfer Credit: International Business University (IBU) — curriculum mapping underway

This course provides an overview of the importance of international business and trade in the global economy and explores the factors that influence success in international markets. Students will learn about the techniques and strategies associated with marketing, distribution, and managing international business effectively. This course prepares students for postsecondary programs in business, including international business, marketing, and management.

BOH4M — Business Leadership: Management Fundamentals, Grade 12, Summer OSSD Credit Program

University/College Preparation

Prerequisite: None

Dual Transfer Credit: International Business University (IBU) — curriculum mapping underway

This course focuses on the development of leadership skills used in managing a successful business. Students will analyse the role of a leader in business, with a focus on decision making, management of group dynamics, workplace stress and conflict, motivation of employees, and planning. Effective business communication skills, ethics, and social responsibility are also emphasized in this course.

BAT4M — Financial Accounting Principles, Grade 12

University/College Preparation

Prerequisite: BAF3M or BAI3E

Dual Transfer Credit: International Business University (IBU) — curriculum mapping underway

This course introduces students to advanced accounting principles that will prepare them for postsecondary studies in business. Students will learn about financial statements for various forms of business ownership and how those statements are interpreted in making business decisions. This course expands students’ knowledge of sources of financing, costing and control methods, and an introduction to auditing.

HZT4U — Philosophy: Questions and Theories, Grade 12

University Preparation

Prerequisite: Any U or M course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world studies

Dual Transfer Credit: International Business University (IBU) — curriculum mapping underway

This course enables students to acquire an understanding of the nature of philosophy and philosophical reasoning skills and to develop and apply their knowledge and skills while exploring specialized branches of philosophy. Students will develop critical thinking and philosophical reasoning skills as they formulate and evaluate arguments related to a variety of philosophical questions and theories. They will also develop research and inquiry skills related to the study and practice of philosophy.

CLN4U — Canadian and International Law, Grade 12

University Preparation

Prerequisite: Any U or M course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world studies

This course explores a range of issues in Canadian and international law in a manner that encourages students to develop analytical, research, and communication skills. Students will apply the concepts of rights and freedoms, conflict and conflict resolution, and the role and evolution of law to issues that are both national and international in scope.

CIA4U — Analyzing Current Economic Issues, Grade 12

University Preparation

Prerequisite: Any U or M course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world studies

Dual Transfer Credit: International Business University (IBU) — curriculum mapping underway

This course examines current Canadian and international economic issues, developments, policies, and practices from diverse perspectives. Students will explore the decisions that individuals and institutions, including governments, make in response to economic issues such as globalization, trade agreements, economic inequalities, regulation, and public spending. Students will apply the concepts of economic thinking and the economic inquiry process, as well as economic models, to investigate, and develop informed opinions about, economic trade-offs, growth, and sustainability and related economic issues.

SPH4U — Physics, Grade 12

University Preparation

Prerequisite: SPH3U

This course enables students to deepen their understanding of physics concepts and theories. Students will continue their exploration of energy transformations and the forces that affect motion, and will investigate electrical, gravitational, and magnetic fields and electromagnetic radiation. Students will also explore the wave nature of light, quantum mechanics, and special relativity. They will further develop their scientific investigation skills, learning, for example, how to analyse, qualitatively and quantitatively, data related to a variety of physics concepts and principles. Students will also consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.

SCH4U — Chemistry, Grade 12

University Preparation

Prerequisite: SCH3U

This course enables students to deepen 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.

ICS4U — Computer Science, Grade 12

University Preparation

Prerequisite: ICS3U

This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyse algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field.

Regular Day School Program – Daytime Core Learning Block

(4 periods, 5 instructional hrs) — Monday to Friday Total weekly class time: 25 hrs

Time	Activity
9:00 – 9:05 am	Homeroom & Announcements
9:05 – 10:20 am	Period 1 (75 minutes)
10:20 – 10:25 am	Break
10:25 – 11:40 am	Period 2 (75 minutes)
11:40 am – 12:20 pm	Lunch
12:20 – 1:35 pm	Period 3 (75 minutes)
1:35 – 1:40 pm	Break
1:40 – 2:55 pm	Period 4 (75 minutes)
2:55 – 3:15 pm	Break
3:15 – 4:30 pm	Period 5 PE class

Summer Non-credit (2 week Program)

Week 1	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat
9am-12pm	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class	Full-day Excursion	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class	Full-day Excursion
12pm-12:30pm	Lunch	Lunch	Full-day Excursion	Lunch	Lunch	Full-day Excursion
12:30pm-3:30pm	Vega Academy Class	Toronto events	Full-day Excursion	Toronto events	Toronto events	Full-day Excursion
3:30pm onwards*		Toronto events	Full-day Excursion	Toronto events	Toronto events	Full-day Excursion

Week 2	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri
9am-12pm	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class	Full-day Excursion	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class
12pm-12:30pm	Lunch	Lunch	Full-day Excursion	Lunch	Lunch
12:30pm-3:30pm	Vega Academy Class	Toronto events	Full-day Excursion	Toronto events	Farewell party (until 6pm)
3:30pm onwards*		Toronto events*	Full-day Excursion	Toronto events

Summer Experience Weekly Schedule** - 4 weeks

	MON	TUE	WED	THU	FRI	SAT***
9am-12pm	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class	Full-day Excursion
12pm-12:30pm	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch	Lunch	Full-day Excursion
12:30pm-3:30pm	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class	Vega Academy Class	Toronto events	Vega Academy Class	Full-day Excursion
3:30pm onwards				Toronto events		Full-day Excursion

*Subject to change
**Schedule is the same in all 4 weeks.
***Saturday excursions will be held on July 12 or 26 only.

Co-curricular Experience – For all programs

Activities / Events / Excursions / Sightseeing

Full-day excursions include but not limited to*: Niagara Falls, Tree planting, African Lion Safari or others.

Half-day excursions include but not limited to*: Cirque du Soleil, Ripley’s Aquarium, CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto Islands, Shakespeare in the Park, Theatre and Musicals or others.