Options

The primary focus of this option is to assist students who are struggling with their studies in Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies and Science. This course is also intended to allow students to use some class time to complete assignments from other subjects.  Along with this portion of the course, students will develop study and organization skills.

Junior High Art is a course designed to give students a broad exposure to the medium of art. The students will experience how to express themselves in visual forms.  The areas of art that may be covered include: design, drawing with pencil, oil pastels, chalks, charcoal, ink and other media, painting (using different paint media such as water colours, poster paint and acrylics), sculpture (soap stone carving, paper mache, plasticine, recycled goods, etc.), cartooning, claymation and printmaking. 

NOTE: A basic fee of $35 is charged to all students to cover the cost of materials.

In Baseball, students will develop skills fundamental to the game. Students will have the opportunity to apply these skills as they work to improve their physical fitness and collaborate as a member of a team. This course allows students to explore their interests and passions as they work independently and collaboratively. 

NOTE:  There is a course fee of $75.00 to cover the cost of bussing and fees.

This course provides story enthusiasts the opportunity to read books and view films, and engage in critical analysis of the role the written word and film play in our society. By reading, viewing and engaging in discussion with peers, students will gain insight into the interplay between the storyteller and the filmmaker. In the course, students will engage in studies of particular books and films, based on their interests and needs.

This option will develop the skills necessary for performance and competition on the school’s cheer team. The option will encourage empowerment, discipline, practice, teamwork, positivity, self-motivation, and skills building, while also being very active during all practices.  Skills at all levels will include various types of tumbling, jumps, stunts, dance, and cheer components. Girls and boys are encouraged to join, and no previous skills are necessary.

NOTE: A fee of $150.00/semester - to cover bus travel to practices, gym rental and competition fees. There is an additional $80 uniform fee. For the Cheerleading Provincials there is a possible fee of $200 if travel is required. 

The creative writing option provides students with an opportunity to learn and improve basic writing skills, to practice proficiency in a variety of genres, to develop their own "voice" and to share their writing with other students. This will be done through various drills and sample writing practices, the use of exemplars for comparison of different levels and styles of writing, and many "writer's cafe" opportunities that will allow students to present and display their own works.

Drama 7 and 8 are fun-filled, skill-based performing arts classes designed to stimulate the imagination and to encourage personal growth on all levels. Through the instruction of movement, speech, improvisation and theatre studies, students will learn how to be perceptive viewers, more poised speakers and discerning listeners.  Students acquire skills in both the off-stage and on-stage process of performance, and in doing so discover in themselves.

NOTE: A basic fee of $20 is charged to all students to cover the cost of materials.

Drivers Education will provide students with an in-class opportunity to go over the fundamentals of driving. Students will go through the rules, regulations and safety skills needed to become a successful driver. This course will give students the advantage when looking at pursuing their learners licence. 

Explore the world of textiles and fabric in this option. Students will have the opportunity to create a number of textile projects and learn sewing skills of sewing both with needle and thread as well as sewing machines. Students will be able to make a number of items that they can take home.

NOTE: A basic fee of $50 is charged to all students to cover the cost of materials.

The goal of this option is to encourage students to develop a lifelong interest and active involvement in creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  Activities will take place in the fit room, and at recreational, sporting, and outdoor venues.  Students will be involved in activities such as golf, mountain biking, wall climbing, fitness training, curling, cross country skiing, tennis, swimming, yoga, wrestling, martial arts and other various activities.  No prior skills are required!  

NOTE:  There is a course fee of $50.00 to cover the cost of bussing and fees.

In Foods 7 & 8, students will enjoy preparing gourmet delights while learning the basics of successful cooking and the benefits of healthy food choices. In Foods 9, students will plan and prepare a variety of snacks, appetizers, and meals such as cookies, cinnamon buns, muffins, pies, scones, bruschetta, pizza, lasagne, and caesar salad.

Note: A basic fee of $80 is charged to all students to cover a portion of the food items.

Parlons francais! Students will be learning French using a communicative approach.  The aim of this program is to encourage students to actively participate in a language experience that begins with the students’ personal experiences and interests. There will be an emphasis on written and oral comprehension, as well as production. 

NOTE:  There is a course fee of $40.00 to cover the cost of bussing and fees.

This is an introductory guitar course requiring no prerequisite.  Students will have the chance to develop melodic playing, study various chord forms, power chords and reading tab. The focus is on learning guitar through rock and pop songs and skills. While intended for beginners, students of all skill levels are invited to take the course.  

NOTE: There is a guitar rental fee of $30.00  

Registration for this program is done separately and can be found on the WDC registration website

Note: A monthly fee of $240.00 applies.

In Industrial and Digital Arts, students will first complete a module in safety before moving into the three areas of our lab: woods, design and digital technology. In the woods area, students will learn to use various machines and tools to create projects, with a constant emphasis on the safe operation and handling of each tool. In the design area, students will have an opportunity to create something with leather, wood burning, buttons, and silk screens. In the digital technology area, students will have an opportunity to learn the basics of coding and robotics, photography, video film and editing, 3D printing and animation.

Note: A basic fee of $60 is charged to all students to cover the cost of materials.  Students who wish to complete large projects or ones that require specialized materials may incur a supplemental fee for supplies.

Leadership 8 focuses on learning to take initiative as well as creating a positive school climate.  Focus is also placed on making positive connections within the community.  Students will be asked to participate in activities that promote well-being. Students are expected to bring a positive attitude, a willingness to work with others, and lots of great ideas! This is a course that demands considerable personal commitment and has a very strong service component. 

NOTE: A basic fee of $25 is charged to all students to cover the cost of bussing and fees.

Leadership 9 students will seek to create a positive atmosphere in school by promoting active citizenship and school spirit.  Projects will range from organizing activities to managing the school enterprises (e.g., pep rallies, dances, volunteering, work in the kitchen).  Students will learn what is needed to become effective leaders in society and will enhance their leadership skills through a process of goal setting, decision making, planning and reflecting. This is a course that demands considerable personal commitment and has a very strong service component. Most importantly we have a huge community component and our students are expected to be excellent role models in their placements.

NOTE: A basic fee of $25 is charged to all students to cover the cost of bussing and fees.

Mad Science will give the students an overview of many of the strands of science which would help them to become better critical thinkers and would give them opportunity for possible future career paths.  Students will learn, and apply, the scientific process to many scientific activities. They will apply ideas in creating, or conducting, labs or research assignments.  Students will be able to plan, and work through, steps in solving scientific problems. This is a fun option to take if you love to build, create and construct objects!  

NOTE: A basic fee of $50 is charged to all students to cover the cost of materials.

This course is designed to provide challenging opportunities for students to pursue more in-depth science topics not normally addressed in the curriculum. It provides students an opportunity to explore a wide variety of topics related to marine biology that will allow students to explore a field that could lead to a future career. 

In Men of Honour 8 & 9 students will develop skills fundamental to personal empowerment. Students will have the opportunity to apply these skills as they work to consider the world we live and how they might best navigate it in a positive, safe and healthy manner. This course allows students to explore their interests and passions as they work independently and collaboratively.

This option will explore the background of conflict throughout human history.  Beginning with the ancient Greeks we will progress through time to Korea and Vietnam, wrapping up with Iraq and Canadian involvement in present day events.  Written material, internet and film resources will be used to gain background. Students should have an interest in history and be willing to engage in debates as we explore this fascinating topic.

This course will focus on the fundamental and practical understanding of communication through graphics and media. Students have the opportunity to explore topics such as: advertising, graphic design, web design, illustration, photography, game design, and many more. Join to explore the creative side of graphic and media design.

The aim of the Outdoor Pursuits course is offered to provide students the opportunity to have daily activities, to enhance cooperative learning, to teach leadership through projects and to be exposed to alternative activities not covered in Physical Education. Individuals must be willing to take part in group activities and in individual indoor and outdoor activities in a variety of settings. Some of the activities that may be offered include: soccer, broomball, x-country skiing, snowshoeing, ringette, orienteering, flag football, archery, cooperative games, and field lacrosse.

Photography has been designed to explore and develop your students' interests and skills in digital photography. Throughout the semester, students will be challenged to be creative with their images, thinking outside the box, and learn new skills within the realm of photography. Grade 9 Photography will be focused on yearbook development.

NOTE:  There is a course fee of $20.00 to cover the cost of supplies.

Play Production 9 is a special drama course designed to provide students a chance to challenge themselves in the area of play creation.  Students will learn the essentials of what goes into the performance of a play.  The course participants will ultimately perform a play (self-written/playwright-written) that will showcase our students’ talents. Drama 7 and Drama 8 are not required; however, prior experience in drama is highly recommended.

NOTE: A basic fee of $20 is charged to all students to cover the cost of materials.

Registration for this program is done separately and can be found on the WDC registration website

Note: A monthly fee of $175.00 applies.

In Soccer, students will develop skills fundamental to the game. Students will have the opportunity to apply these skills as they work to improve their physical fitness and collaborate as a member of a team. This course allows students to explore their interests and passions as they work independently and collaboratively.

NOTE:  There is a course fee of $50.00 to cover the cost of bussing and fees.

Sports Performance 7 & 8 is an opportunity for students to be introduced to, or improve their skills at, three school sports: volleyball, basketball, and badminton.  The goal of Sports Performance 7 & 8 is to promote active living as well as prepare students to play these three sports either recreationally or competitively.  Students interested in volleyball, basketball, or badminton will particularly benefit from taking this option.

In Technology class, students will learn to use a variety of technology tools and applications. Students will be introduced to computer science and computational skills. They will use a variety of coding, websites and programs as well as explore other topic in technology such as AI, gaming and philosophy of technology.  

This option will examine current topics related to teenage girls.  This year’s course may include the following:  self-esteem and empowerment, health awareness and body image, relationships and dating violence, self-defence, relaxation techniques, stress management, eating disorders, personality tests, media images of women, friendships, depression, anxiety, suicide, careers for women, teen pregnancy and any other topics that are of interest and issues with which students are concerned. 

NOTE: There is a course fee of $175.00 for a retreat.

Students will explore the benefits of stretching, moving, and breathing freely as they relieve stress, learn to relax, and ultimately get more out of day-to-day life. Students will develop skills in yoga poses, and will recognize the benefits of regular yoga, relaxation and breathing techniques to help them deal with the stresses of everyday life. Students will also build self-esteem and confidence by using their breathing and relaxation techniques to give them focus on goals and to calm the mind.

NOTE:  There is a course fee of $30.00 to cover the cost of bussing and fees.