Compass students will earn the following 4 credits in the 2nd semester of grade 11:
SCH3U or 4C – Chemistry, Pre-university or College Preparation
Prerequisite: Science Grade 10, Academic (for SCH3U) or Applied (for SCH4C)
This course allows students to deepen their knowledge of chemistry by putting into practice what they have learned in Grade 10. In connection with Boussole, the focus is on environmental chemistry, that is, the chemistry of water, the Earth and the air. Students will have the opportunity to conduct practical chemical studies in the environment and learn a variety of methods for environmental chemical analysis.
EAE3U or 3C – English, Pre-university or College Preparation
Prerequisite: English Grade 10, Academic (for EAE3U) or Applied (for EAE3C)
This course continues students’ English learning to prepare them for post-secondary education. There is an emphasis on the analysis of media (texts and documentary films) and the oral and written communication of an opinion based on research (through essays, debates, storytelling, etc. as well as media production – see TGJ3M). There is also a novel study related to the environment and the perspective of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.
TGJ3M – Communication Technology, Mixed Level
Prerequisite: None
This course allows students to develop and refine their skills in technology-based media production (video, audio, photography, design, etc.). If the English course is where students work on their critical thinking and development of ideas, this course is where students develop an understanding of how to efficiently use today’s available tools to communicate those ideas. We also explore ethical considerations and look at the roles and responsibilities of media and technology in communicating with the public.
PLF4M – Recreation Leadership, Mixed Level
Prerequisite: Physical Education, Grade 9 or 10
This course allows students to learn how to be leaders by exploring the characteristics and skills required of a leader. Over the course of the semester, through outdoor and experiential learning opportunities, students will be put in leadership situations allowing them to practice and develop those skills. They will complete Wilderness First Aid and Hike Leader training courses, culminating in the students planning and leading a multi-day backcountry camping trip.
In addition, students will complete two co-op credits by the end of grade 12. It is best for students to complete these credits in the summer immediately following the Boussole semester, but other times are possible.
Co-operative Education is a rapidly growing area of secondary school education. It combines classroom theory with practical experience in the workplace by placing students with a host organization that can provide them with opportunities to gain real-world work experience. Upon their successful completion of the required hours and demonstration of learning expectations from in-school curriculum, school credits are awarded to students. The student is supported in their learning by their co-op teacher and their workplace supervisor. Here are some of the main highlights of the co-op education program that would be relevant to you, the employer:
- Two credits of co-op equal 180 work hours at the placement.
- Co-op can be completed in the summer or during the school year.
- Summer: Students work full-time beginning immediately after the school year ends (typically just before or after Canada Day) and finish their hours by the end of July or in the first week of August.
- School Year: Students work half-days in the afternoon, from mid-February/early March until late May/early June.
- Remuneration is not expected since the emphasis is on learning and the students receive school credits for their work.
- Workplace Safety and Insurance coverage is provided by the Ministry of Education for the duration of the student’s placement.
- Students must be assigned a workplace supervisor throughout the duration of the placement. This supervisor is required to ensure a positive learning experience for the student, confirm the number of hours worked and complete two performance appraisals of the student.
- A qualified co-op teacher is assigned to the student for the duration of the placement. This teacher will visit the placement prior to its start and at regular intervals to ensure a successful experience for both employer and student.