Sir James Dunn C&VS

Departments

Art

Visual arts courses focus on studio work and art appreciation and are primarily concerned with exploring the expressive character of how we see and the design of things we use. Students are introduced to a wide variety of materials, processes, techniques and styles. Materials include clay, oil pastel, charcoal, conte, pencil, poster paint, oil, water colour, collage, mosaics, marker, ink and pencil crayon. Art of the Western World, such as Egyptian, Byzantine, and Medieval art, as well as some Canadian art are used to reinforce theory and art appreciation. The students can continue to take visual art in grade 10-12. Expectations include, creation of personal work, theory, history, and analysis. Note: This course qualifies as the Arts requirement for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. For Art Gallery links click here.
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Computer Science

We have FOUR courses available in Computer Science. You can click the hyperlink to learn more about this exciting, versatile, and valuable program of studies.

TIK2O:
This course helps students examine computer science concepts. Students will outline stages in software development, define standard control and data structures, identify on-and off-line resources, explain the functions of basic computer components, and develop programming and problem-solving skills by using operating systems and implementing defined practices. As well as identifying careers in computer science, students will develop an understanding of the ethical use of computers and the impact of emergent technologies on society.

ICS3M:
This course covers advanced programming concepts to prepare students for adavanced work at the end of the semester and for ICS4M. This course is important for those wishing to learn programming at an advanced level or continuing on to post secondary education in the computing field.

ICS4M1:
This course is a continuation of ICS3M (a prerequisite) and takes on a case study approach for the major project dealing with the software development cycle in creating a game. Additonally, the student learns to program for mobile devices, java applets, implementing algorithms, developing algorithms, independent study projects, and any other advanced computer science topics as time permits.

ICS4M2:
This course requires ICS4M1 as a prerequisite. It is a Sun Java Programming Certification course. When done, the student will have attained the abilites and knowledge to pass the Su Java Certification Exam. Additionally, the student will have written the AP (Advanced Placement) Exam. The student will have the necessary skills to be highly successful on this AP Exam. The success rate for both these exams so far have been very high, well above the world standards for these. Completing the Java Certification allows the student to be highly recognized, world wide, as a proven Java Programmer, for industry and for post-secondary education. Completing the AP Exams gives the student the opportunity to claim University credits at recognized universities throughout the world.
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Drama

Dramatic Arts courses require students to explore acting techniques, set design, costumes and properties as well as the history of theatre including Commedia Dell’Arte and Elizabethan theatre. Students learning includes the identification and use of the elements of time, place, role/character, dramatic situation/tension, and structure in creating, sustaining and communicating authentic drama. Students assume responsibility for decisions made in the creation and presentation of the drama, and analyze and reflect on the experience. The summative project is a written play and performance as a final examination.
Expectations are organized into three strands: Theory, Creation, and Analysis. All units and activities draw upon all three strands in an integrated approach
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English

This course emphasizes the analytic reading, writing, oral communications and thinking skills that students need for success in secondary school academic programs and in their daily lives. Students will study and interpret texts from contemporary and historical periods, including plays, poems, short stories, and short essays, and will investigate and create media works. An important focus will be the correct and effective use of spoken and written languages.
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French

The Grade 9 core French course emphasizes the further development of oral communication, reading, and writing skills. This course explores a variety of topics, including web pages, mystery parties, monster movies, time travel, and the environment. Through the creation of dialogues, short dramatizations, comic strips and journal writing, students will demonstrate and build on their knowledge of French. Throughout the course students will study a variety of thematic readings such as short stories, articles, and poems, which will enhance the topics being studied in class and will help students expand their knowledge of the French language.
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French Immersion

A vibrant French Immersion Program is offered at the secondary level at Sir James Dunn C. & V. School as an enriching experience. Here, students who have graduated from an elementary French Immersion Program or a French First Language School continue to perfect their second language skills. Since the program’s inception in 1987, we have grown to offer a rich selection of courses, including Français,History, Geography, Mathematics, Calculus, Geometry, Data Management, Sociology, Psychology, Anthropology, Introduction Information Technology, Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Citizenship and Careers.
By using French in a variety of classes, students not only learn course content but enhance their communicative competence. Research shows that learning a second language develops cognitive skills, problem solving skills and facilitate the learning of other languages. As psychologist Ellen Bialystok puts it: ‘Being bilingual is like going to a brain gym”. As a way of recognizing the level of fluency that the students achieve, they are awarded a Certificate of Bilingualism upon completion of 13 French Immersion Courses, four of which are français courses. Since the Ministry of Education requires ten courses to grant French Immersion status, our school actually exceeds these expectations and constitutes one of the most rigorous bilingual education programs in the province. Many students choose to surpass these expectations and graduate with over 20 immersion courses.
Resources that support our program include a well stocked library that boasts 4000 French Books and is staffed by a bilingual librarian who facilitates research for immersion projects. As well, computer training is offered in French using French software which enables students to efficiently use the computer for all of their future immersion classes. This year, we are piloting the International Computer Driving License which issues an internationally recognized certificate validating their computer proficiency.
Housed in Sir James Dunn, French Immersion students participate in an excellent athletic program and a diversity of clubs. They are leaders in our school where they make up a large part of the Students’ Council and our graduates go on to become very successful members of our community.
In the French Immersion Program, there is a positive, caring atmosphere where students draw strength from each other and develop close ties with their teachers. Whether students’ future aspirations include enhanced job opportunities, traveling or higher education, the French Immersion Program at Sir James Dunn will take their skills to the next level. The Program is big enough to offer diversity and enhanced learning opportunities, yet it is small enough to feel like a family!

Geography

This course uses a variety of frameworks, including principles of physical, human, and economic geography, to explore the distinct and evolving character of Canada's geography. Students will investigate the interconnections between the environment and human activities in Canadian ecozones in order to understand Canada's diversity and role in the world.
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History

This course traces Canadian history from Wilfrid Laurier's pronouncement that the twentieth century belongs to Canada to the United Nations' recognition of Canada as one of the best countries in which to live. Students will learn about various expressions of Canadian identity, the stories of individuals and communities, and changes in political and social structures. Students will discover the importance in historical studies of chronology and cause-and-effect relationships. As well, they will be given opportunities to formulate appropriate questions, develop informed opinions, and present information in a variety of ways.
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Mathematics

This course enables students to develop mathematical ideas through exploration of applications, the effective use of technology, and abstract reasoning. Students will investigate relationships to develop equations of strait lines in analytic geometry, explore relationships between volume and surface area of objects in measurement, and apply extended algebraic skills in problem solving. Students will engage in abstract extensions of core learning that will deepen their mathematical knowledge and enrich their understanding.
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Music

Sir James Dunn offers 2 strands of music: Instrumental and Guitar. You do not have to have any musical experience to be successful in these courses. All you need is a positive attitude and the will to learn. The school provides the instruments for you to use. The instruments that are available are flutes, clarinets, saxophones, trumpets, french horns, trombones, tubas, and percussion. Guitar players are advised to either purchase or rent a guitar for their home use. There is also a computer lab equipped with music software to allow students to compose and arrange their own compositions. Our music teachers, Mr. Dal Cin and Mr. Gough, are readily available to assist you with your musical journey.
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Physical Education

The course emphasizes regular participation in a variety of physical activities (both individual and team) that promote lifelong movement skills and ways to improve personal fitness and physical competence. They investigate issues related to healthy sexuality and the use/abuse of drugs (alcohol, tobacco etc.) as well as participate in activities designed to develop goal-setting, communication and social skills.
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Sciences

This course enables students to understand basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics; to develop skills in the processes of scientific inquiry; and to relate science to technology, society, and environment. Students will learn scientific theories and conduct investigations related to cell division and reproduction; atomic and molecular structures and the properties of elements and compounds; the universe and space exploration; and the principles of electricity.
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Technology

In our Integrated Technologies Program, each student is given the opportunity to make different projects During the semester. A project booklet that contains sections on design and drawing, questions, project instructions, and evaluation is given to the student along with the materials for their project. Students are required to complete the booklet and hand it in along with the completed project. Each activity will take approximately 5-10 days to complete, projects may take longer. Students will be required to complete 6 activities for the first half of the semester and 3 activities and a project for the second half of the semester.
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