Curriculum Detail

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Humanities

  • Ethics & Religious Culture 9

    This is an MEES required course designed to inform students about different cultures and religions around the world. It does not take the position that one is better than another but exposes the students to the many religions, cultures and currents of thought found globally. The purpose is to educate students in order to increase their understanding of the world around them. The course also examines ethics through investigating ethical and moral situations both in history and occurring in our world today. The goal is to have students become engaged participants in our modern pluralistic society.
    The ERC program has been designed with three subject-specific competencies that students are expected to develop in this course:
    • to reflect on ethical questions
    • to demonstrate an understanding of the phenomenon of religion
    • to engage in dialogue
    A learning environment is provided that encourages the students to actively participate in class and to form their opinions and create their own autonomy. Dynamic interaction within the class is encouraged in the form of debates and discussions. Each student is encouraged to share their personal opinions on issues, while listening and learning from the thoughts of others. A wide variety of sources are  consulted to engage and enhance student learning.
     
  • History of Quebec & Canada 9

    This is the first of two History of Quebec and Canada (HQC) courses in the second cycle of the Quebec Education Program. The HQC program is organized as a chronological survey, with Grade 9 studying “Origins to 1840” and Grade 10 examining “1840 to today.” The general objectives of the HQC program focus on the characterization and interpretation of the distinguishing features of the historical path taken by Quebec society. The curriculum involves the study of the interaction between the diverse groups within the complex entity that form the nation. There are two subject-specific competencies that students are expected to develop in the HQC program: characterizes a period in the history of Quebec and Canada; and interprets a social phenomenon. Specific content begins with a primer on the geographical attributes of the region to enhance understanding of historical realities, such as settlement and economic development. There are four main chapters within the course: the experience of the Indigenous peoples and the colonization attempts from origins to 1608; the evolution of colonial society under French rule 1608-1760; the Conquest and the change of empire 1760-1791; and the demands and struggles of nationhood 1791-1840.
     
  • Music 9

    Beginner: This introductory music course is designed for the very beginner who has no previous music training. Students select an instrument and learn to play a few simple pieces by the end of the year. A music method book, which includes sample tunes from various cultures, is used to introduce the notes on the instruments. Theory and practice are mutually developed at a pace that allows students to grasp the basic elements of rhythm and melody. Students begin their musical literacy by being able to express themselves using basic musical terminology.

    Advanced: Students in their second or third year of study on their instrument are now learning jazz band repertoire as well as popular repertoire. They further develop their technique and playing skills as they work in large and small groups and learn to solo. Music theory and ear training include a study of more complex melodic and rhythmic patterns as well as scales and basic melodic structure in the major keys.
     
  • Physical Education & Health 9

    This course, which is interconnected with the Quebec Education Plan’s Personal Development subject area, introduces students to topics related to healthy lifestyle choices, including cardiovascular health, introductory first aid (Red Cross), hygiene, the impact of alcohol and tobacco on the body and others. Topics from the sexuality curriculum are explored to help students better understand themselves and develop healthy relationships. The physical education portion of this course promotes comprehension, ability and commitment in each student that will in turn foster an enjoyment and appreciation for healthy living, wellness and a long-lasting active lifestyle. Students participate in a variety of activities with the goal of improving the wellness of the body, mind and spirit. Students learn and practice the skills and rules for team sports, such as ultimate Frisbee, flag rugby, futsal, touch football, capture the flag, cooperative games and more. There is a consistent focus on positive personal and social behaviours, with an emphasis on fair play. 
     
  • Visual Art 9

    This is an intermediate course where students continue to build on artistic competencies as they extend their media literacy in areas such as painting, drawing and sculpture. Students have the opportunity to broaden their experience and consolidate fundamental skills needed to achieve desired creative effects. Contributions to the development of cultural and social values as well as personal meaning in their art are explored. Students adopt effective work methods and seek to achieve the fullest potential in their art.
     
  • Ethics & Religious Culture 10

    Students begin the course by studying the theory of evolution followed by historical and chronological study of the rise and fall of the various civilizations of the Middle East that gave rise and power to the main religions of the area and how they spread throughout the world. The basic philosophy and backdrop to world religions will be studied as well as the top five religions of the world in detail: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism. The course also looks at various artwork and cultural elements with religious significance. Then the course turns towards the modern-day justice system and law and investigates current events and ethical dilemmas and challenging, controversial topics. The course ends with a study of the future of humanity and what challenges the students will face in the future as adults.
     
  • History of Quebec & Canada 10

    This is the second of two History of Quebec and Canada (HQC) courses in the second cycle of the Quebec Education Program (QEP). The HQC program is organized as a chronological survey, with Grade 9 studying “Origins to 1840” and Grade 10 examining the period “1840 to Today.” The objectives and competencies of the HQC program remain the same as those discussed in the Grade 9 course. Specific content begins with two primers - one analyzing the geographical attributes of the region and the other a recap of some key content and concepts studied in Grade 9. There are four main chapters within the course:  formation of the Canadian federal system 1840-1896; nationalism and the autonomy of Canada 1896-1945; modernization of Quebec and the Quiet Revolution 1945-1980; societal choices in contemporary Quebec 1980 to the present day. Students must take and pass this required course to obtain a high school matriculation certificate in the Province of Quebec. There is a compulsory uniform final examination administered by the MEQ. The examination covers only the material covered during Grade 10 (Grade 9 HQC is not required to experience success with the Grade 10 course/final examination).
     
  • Music 10/11

    Prerequisite: Music 10 (this is not an introductory course). Students in their fourth and/or fifth year of study on their instrument work on more advanced jazz band repertoire and small and large ensemble pieces, further developing their technique and refining their performance skills. Students are expected to develop their personal performance skills to a level of confidence where they can improvise and solo comfortably within the group. Music theory includes a study of major and minor scales, intervals, triadic chord structure and harmonic progressions. Ear training includes both rhythmic and melodic dictation. Students submit their own original song compositions.
  • Visual Art 10

    A mature focus is developed at this level in terms of critical assessment and art as a tool for communication and creativity. Students acquire a stronger grasp of the manipulation of materials while learning to express their thoughts, values and feelings in a visual form. Exploring through study periods, students further develop their exposure to new concepts and mediums. Art history and theory bring their work into relevant context and strengthen their individual growth as art makers.
     
  • 20th Century History 11

    This course studies contemporary world history since 1900. Topics include industrialism and contemporary society, main currents in contemporary thought, a study of alliances and interdependence, the Cold War and peaceful coexistence, decolonization and underdevelopment. The course allows for an in-depth study of the major economic, social and political trends throughout this period. Special emphasis is placed on the history of the United States.
  • AP Research 11

    Pre-requisite: AP Seminar. Students develop and practice skills in research, collaboration and communication that are needed in any academic discipline. Students investigate topics in a variety of subject areas, write research-based essays and design and give presentations both individually and as part of a team.
  • Contemporary World 11

    In this course, students are invited to explore problems and issues affecting various societies through various geographic and historical perspectives along with economic and political dimensions. Students become better prepared to understand global events and place these events within the context of today’s complex world.
  • Economics 11

    Economics 11 exposes students to a broad cross-section of basic economic theory. This course provides students with the knowledge base to function as informed consumers and producers operating within the global economic system. In this course, students read and respond to a range of economic issues based on current, real-world situations. They are given the opportunity to develop their oral expression skills through discussion, debating and presentations. Developing abilities in this area is a key to successful communication as well as an essential skill for success in college and the labour market of the 21st century.
  • Financial Education 11

    This program focuses on helping students manage their personal finances based on situations they are already familiar with or are likely to face in the near future. The program emphasizes three financial areas: consumption of goods and services, integration into the workforce and continuing education. Each issue requires students to use critical judgment, make informed choices and estimate costs, all while considering the various laws involved.
  • Health and Physical Education 11

    Upon completion of the program, students will have developed the tools they will need throughout their lives to be physically and mentally healthy, feel good about themselves and live in harmony with others.
  • Visual Art 11

    This course is based on four respective disciplines: art production, art history, art criticism and aesthetics. Each area enables students to have a fuller knowledge of the richness of visual language as a means for individual, cultural and social expression. The principles and elements of design are included in various forms throughout the program. A great emphasis is placed on individual instruction at this level. Students are encouraged to grow in competence as artists by acquiring the necessary building blocks for an enduring artistic awareness.

Our Faculty

  • Photo of Graham Chandler
    Graham Chandler
    Head of Humanities; Teacher, Humanities
    Bio
  • Photo of Joshua Delorme
    Joshua Delorme
    Teacher, English, Humanities; Asst. Davis House Director
    Bio
  • Photo of Shannon Garrett
    Shannon Garrett
    Communications Management Consultant
    St. Lawrence University
    Bio
  • Photo of Amy Godin
    Amy Godin
    Teacher, Art
    Bio
  • Photo of Eric Grenier
    Eric Grenier
    Teacher, Music, ERC
    819-876-7891 ext 296
    Bio
  • Photo of Audrey Hamilton
    Audrey Hamilton
    Teacher, Humanities; Archives
    819-876-7891 ext 271
  • Photo of Laura Kirby
    Laura Kirby
    Teacher, Math, Science, Humanities; Head of Science; Assistant Webster House Director
    819-876-7891, ext. 256
    Bio
  • Photo of Roger Marino
    Roger Marino
    Teacher, Humanities; Dean of Students
    819-876-7891 ext. 247
    Bio
  • Photo of Bernie Pimm
    Bernie Pimm
    Hockey Coach, Varsity Girls; Teacher, Humanities
    819-876-7891
    Bio
  • Photo of James Rioux
    James Rioux
    Director of Hockey Operations; Teacher Humanities
    819-876-7891 ext 289
    B.A. University of Ottawa '99 and BED. Bishop's University '01
    Bio
  • Photo of Monica Schafer
    Monica Schafer
    Teacher, Phys-Ed, Psychology; Webster House Director; Director of Student Life
    819-876-7891 ext. 258
    Bio
  • Photo of Sabrina Scrabbi
    Sabrina Scrabbi
    Teacher, Humanities
    Bio
  • Photo of Andre Simard
    Andre Simard
    Teacher, Humanities
    Bio
  • Photo of Matthew Thompson
    Matthew Thompson
    Teacher, Humanities; Varsity Boys Hockey Coach
    819-876-7891 ext 235
    Bio
  • Photo of Simon Winquist
    Simon Winquist
    Teacher, Humanities; Asst. Davis House Director
    819-876-7891 ext. 254
    Bishop's University
    Bio