Career & Technology Studies and Options Courses

10/20 - 6 Credits (3 per course), 30 - 5 Credits

These courses focus on the diverse nature of Aboriginal languages and cultures. Aboriginal Studies 10/20 explores the perspectives and worldviews of Aboriginal peoples. It includes the study of the traditions and history of Aboriginal peoples in Canada and the study of policies, legislation, conflict, and cultural change. Aboriginal Studies 30 promotes the development of positive attitudes towards Indigenous peoples. The course explores multiple perspectives that shed light on the past, present, and future of Indigenous peoples. For all students, these programs can serve to build awareness of and respect for the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples as a unique foundation to our society.

Prerequisite: None for 10/20, then 50% or higher in Aboriginal Studies 10/20 for 30

6 Credits (3 per course)

Astronomy is a course designed to give students an opportunity to develop an appreciation for the vastness of space. Through the use of hands-on activities, first-hand observations with astronomical tools (telescopes), demonstrations, and simulations, students will learn about the constantly changing sky above them. A knowledge of the historical models of astronomy and cosmology will be developed along with current knowledge about the position and motion of celestial objects. Throughout the program, students will enhance their scientific literacy and numeracy, along with problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Prerequisite: 50% or higher in Science 10.

5 Credits per course
Fee: $40 for each level

Computer Science encourages students to study and take control of the devices that surround them every day. This course sequence introduces students to computer programming and system design and development. Students will have a chance to program interactive apps and games using a variety of platforms. Computer Science 30 fulfills the “Advanced Computer Science” prerequisite for many Alberta post-secondary institutions. 

Prerequisite: None for 10, then 50% or higher in previous Computer Science course modules. 

5 credits per course
Fee: $50 for each level

The focus of this program is the development of productive attitudes and woodworking skills. Students will develop skills for the safe and accurate use of many woodworking tools, and become familiar with wood products and other materials used in the furniture and construction industries. Most of the program is shop based, with students completing projects that are designed to build their craftsmanship in a logical sequence. Once the required projects are complete, students may build additional projects of their own choosing for extra credits at the cost of materials. Students completing the program will have a skill set that makes them strong candidates for entry positions in the furniture and cabinet-making industry.

Prerequisite: None for 10, then 50% or higher in previous Construction Technology modules.

10 - 5 Credits, 20,30 - 10 Credits

This course provides students with opportunities to explore personal and professional grooming and body care and prepare for cosmetology-related career options. Students build upon the competencies developed at each level, resulting in a high level of skill and expertise. Content within the courses will prepare students for entry into the workplace or an accredited post-secondary program. The program provides approximately 375 hours towards the Provincial Beauticians Certificate of Proficiency. As the school runs as a full-service salon, there will be a heavy emphasis placed on customer service.

Prerequisite: None for 10, then 50% or higher in previous Cosmetology modules. 

5 credits per course
Fee: $40 for each level

This course concentrates on the field of graphic design in digital formats. Using the Adobe Creative Cloud, students will create a comprehensive digital portfolio, including digital art, graphic designs, and films. In the introductory level, students are introduced to all facets of graphic design. By learning how to use industry-leading software and understanding the elements and principles of design, students will be able to bring their artistic visions to life! Intermediate-level students will further these skills, learning how to apply them in practical and creative ways. The advanced level will focus on the career-based application of skills and concepts, such as advertising and branding.

Prerequisite: None for 10, then 50% or higher in previous Digital Media & Film Production or Digital Media & Design modules.

5 credits per course
Fee: $40 for each level

In this course sequence, students will explore basic and advanced photographic techniques. Camera equipment is available for student use; however, personal equipment is welcome and encouraged. The introductory level has students experimenting with key aspects of photography such as exposure, composition, and digital editing. At the intermediate level, students learn about studio lighting, experiment with lenses, enhance their digital editing techniques, and carefully curate a portfolio of their work. The advanced level has students developing and pursuing their own projects, while learning advanced camera techniques and Photoshop skills. Students will enhance their editing and digital compositing skills, while developing their own personal style. 

Prerequisite: None for 10, then 50% or higher in previous Digital Photography modules.

5 Credits per course

This course is designed for students who have successfully completed Grade 9 French. The language is taught through an action-oriented approach in a cultural context. Topics include: activities, shopping, vacations, and fine arts. In French 20, language skills are enhanced with advanced activities. The emphasis of French 30 is on increased ability to understand and speak French, as well as read and write with accuracy through structured and free composition. Aspects of the Francophone world will be studied through literary extracts, music and film.

Prerequisite: None for French 10, then 50% or higher in previous French courses.

French Challenge: Students from a Francophone or Grade 9 French Immersion background may wish to demonstrate their competency at French 10, 20 and/or 30 by challenging the corresponding exam. The opportunity to challenge happens once per semester, and students may challenge one level at a time. After meeting with the teacher in November or May, students will prepare and submit a portfolio, and then take a four-part exam  the following January or June. Reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills are tested. A student may not challenge a course that they have been registered in during the current semester.

5 credits per course
Fee: $50 for each level

In Food Studies, students develop the confidence necessary to produce high-quality food at home or in the industry. Through a variety of meals, desserts, and snacks, the introductory course covers foundational concepts of food safety, sanitation, nutrition, preparation, and presentation. In the intermediate and advanced courses, students expand upon their cooking skills and explore the cultural, social, and environmental impacts of their food choices. Students will create food projects of their own design and develop the skills and knowledge necessary for life after high school.

Prerequisite: None for 10, then 50% or higher in previous Food Studies modules.

5 credits per course
Fee: $40 for each level

Framing focuses on the structural building aspects of the construction industry. Students will gain the skills and knowledge involved in the building of floor, wall, and roof systems, as well as basic concrete foundation pouring. Framing 20 covers basic framing and the practice of building small structures. In Framing 30 students will plan and lead projects, while also learning stair construction and advanced exterior finishes. Students who complete this stream will be comfortable building structures and will be excellently prepared for introductory work as a carpenter.

Prerequisite: 50% or higher in Construction 10 for Framing 20, then 50% or higher in previous Framing modules.

5 Credits

Video games and E-Sports are a globally entrenched entertainment medium that are influenced and defined by our modern culture.  In this course, students will learn about the history of video games, theories of game development, the social and cultural aspects of video games, and about the rapidly growing E-Sports industry.  As part of this course, students will have the opportunity to game in a competitive environment.

Prerequisite: None

10 - 5 Credits, 20, 30 - 10 Credits

Whether a student is preparing for work in the automotive industry or simply wants to be an informed owner/operator of a vehicle, mechanics is a great opportunity. The introductory level explains how the major parts of the automobile work and introduces hands-on activities such as basic car maintenance, oil changes, small engine repair, and more. At the intermediate level, students explore and complete the repair of a variety of drive train components and systems. Students at the senior level learn about the operation and function of car engines and how to overhaul them.

Prerequisite: None for 10, then 50% or higher in previous Mechanics modules

5 credits

Spanish 10 is for students who would like to learn Spanish with no previous experience. The focus is on learning to speak in realistic situations about people, school, activities, and celebrations. Students of Spanish 20 focus on improving their listening, speaking and writing, focusing on foods, travel, shopping, and health. Advanced grammar and verb structures are learned while studying the cultures of Spain and Latin America. Spanish 30 offers an in-depth look into Spanish-speaking cultures by studying aspects of the arts, music, technology, and entertainment.

Prerequisite: None for Spanish 10, then 50% or higher in previous Spanish courses.