SelfDesign High Course Descriptions
2010 Graduation Program for BC Dogwood High School Diploma
To be eligible for the BC High School Diploma learners must have a total of 80 credits:
- 48 credits from required (foundation) courses
- 28 credits from elective courses
- 4 credits for the Graduation Portfolio or fulfill the Graduation Transitions requirements
- Write 5 Provincial Exams*, one at the Grade 12 Level
* These are the 5 required Provincial Exams: English 10 and 12, Science 10, Math 10, and Social Studies 11. All other Provincial exams are optional. Please contact our administration office for a list of optional exams.
All courses are 4-credit courses
- B.C. First Nations Studies 12
- In this course learners will explore several key themes relating to the history and experiences of the First Nations peoples in BC, Canada and North America. They will examine the First Nation concepts of and relationships to land and how these are embedded in their cultural traditions and practices. Learners will investigate historical experiences upon contact and during colonialist period (ongoing) and identify where and how resistance was made and met. The final phase of the course brings the learners to 20th Century efforts by First Nations to take leading roles in their own self-determination.
- Beginner Guitar 10
- This course orients the learner to the basic skills in playing guitar. Chords, chord changes, strumming and fingerpicking skills are acquired by the learner through group and individual playing. Learners build a repertoire of popular songs that are practiced intensively. Regular practice allows learners to move into the realm of music making quickly and with confidence. Sight reading music is not a part of this approach.
- Biology 11
- Biology 11 is concerned with the foundations of biological life and how we understand these specifically Western evolutionary theories. The three main themes in this course are unity and diversity, evolutionary relationships and ecological relationships.
- Biology 12
- Biology 12 is concerned with human biology. Learners will explore the systems of the human body, their interrelationship, and how they create and support homeostasis. Genetic Theory and the Cell Theory will also be examined.
- Comparative Civilizations 12
- Emphasis will be on the question, “What does it means to be civilized cultures, and how is that question related to the times?” In this course, you will explore the central issues in the debate surrounding the word, “civilization.” Part of this work will involve examining the more common understanding of what constitutes a civilization, including its suggested components or elements. The next step will be to contrast this understanding with more recent critiques of the idea that civilization is a positive force. In the second part of the course learners have the opportunity to explore several broad, cultural categories, referred to as “ancient civilizations:” namely, those of India, China, Greece and the Islamic civilization. Each of these ancient civilizations continues to have considerable impact on the dominant cultures of today’s world.
- Creative Youth Entrepreneurship 11
- Our world is rapidly changing. Increasingly, creative-entrepreneurial skills serving business and social goals are recognized as vital and even essential to individual success and contributing to the well-being of our communities. With this in mind SelfDesign High has developed this unique course for youth in partnership with the Centre for Innovative and Entrepreneurial Leadership (CIEL) based in Nelson. This course is focused on equipping youth with the tools to better understand and experience business and social-oriented entrepreneurism.
- Earth Science 11: Gaiaosophy
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"The stars, earth, stones, life of all kinds, form a whole in relation to each other and so close is this relationship that we cannot understand a stone without some understanding of the great sun. No matter what we touch an atom or a cell, we cannot explain it without knowledge of the universe." - Maria Montessori, To Educate the Human Potential
Earth Science/Gaiaosophy is the study of the earth and her processes through time and space. The elements of earth, air, fire and water are explored from the point of view of evolution, geology, geography and human interdependence with the wisdom of the earth, hence the title of this course: 'gaia' (Gk: earth mother) 'sophy' (Gk: wisdom).
The first module introduces astronomical underpinnings for our solar system along with evolutionary development on the earth. The second module centers on the geological cycle, and climate. The third module addresses geography from all four processes using David Suzuki's (1997) book The Sacred Balance as a primary text. In Module 4 you will be asked to create an independent project and research report based on one of the four living elements of earth, air, water and fire as related to geology and geography.
- English 10: The Power of the Word
- In this course learners are looking at a range of literature and language. They will build their understanding of the conventions employed in the evolution of the written word through myths, legends, epic poetry, short story narratives and short feature film. Learners will apply appropriate strategies to read, interpret, and understand narrative texts. Through the use of elements of narrative such as plot, character, setting, theme, and mood, learners learn, understand and interpret narrative text. Learners will demonstrate their understanding of different narrative forms by recording their thoughts, feelings and ideas in a variety of personal responses.
- English 11
- Every human being must face the questions of destiny and identity. Who are we, and what is the meaning in our life? Why are we here? Is there a purpose to our lives? These are all questions that come from humankind's search for meaning in life. These themes are explored in a variety of literary genres, including poetry, novels, short stories/speeches, and film, ranging from classical literature to modern forms of poetry such as spoken word. Literary devices are examined and learners are invited to explore the existence of bias, determine its effect, and contrast this with a more objective presentation of opinion. The personal voice is explored through the narrative genres of biography and memoir, including the creation of the learners’ own personal narrative.
- English 12
- In this course learners will learn to experience language in its full range of contexts and purposes. These will include developing skills in informational and literary communication. Learners will read works of fiction, poetry, and view documentary films with the goal of developing their critical and analytical thinking and written response. Literary devices will be explored, supporting the learner’s experience of how language plays a role in shaping thought through reading essays, short novels and poetry.
- Ethnomorphology 12
- Ethnomorphology is the study of the alteration of ethnic and racial boundaries, including the loss of culture and its change. In this course you will be introduced to a brief history of progress from cultural and developmental points of view. You will look at what anthologists, poets, professors of medicine and law, visionaries, and the U.N. Secretary General to Africa have to say about cultural transformation.
- Fine Arts 10: History of Art
- The History of Art introduces Western art throughout human history. Art is explored as an expression of how we observe and experience the world. It makes visible what mattered to people of different ages. It shows us when religion, love, poetry, music, or the material outer world was of the greatest importance for the people of the age in which it was produced. The learner will be asked to create pieces of artwork in the style and tradition of different time periods.
- Fine Arts 11: History of Music
- In the History of Music the learner will have the opportunity to explore, experience and respond to a variety of musical expressions from the Western world. Learners will become familiar with the basic elements and principles of music and how their cultural and historical contexts shape them. Attention is given to both sacred and secular music, and learners will learn about instruments throughout history.
- Fine Arts 12: History of Architecture
- Architecture can be seen as an external expression of humankind’s relationship between themselves and their outer environment. It is informed by a myriad of things, each of which will be considered in this course: geography, weather, culture, and socio/economic/political contexts and influences. Learners will learn the fundamental elements of space, materials, techniques and forms central to architecture. Starting with ancient civilizations, this course will trace the development of architecture throughout time.
- Geography 12
- Geography 12 offers learners the opportunity to examine the physical and human-created systems through the study of people, places and environments. Learners will learn to interpret the landscape and understand the interconnections between people and nature. With this understanding, learners can make informed decisions related to the management of earth’s natural resources, as well as critical analysis of cultural, economical, social and political factors involved.
- Graduation Portfolio 12
- This course invites the learner to make connections between their personal choices and their relationship to their community, the environment and the world. At the heart of this course is the learners curiosity about the question, “Why am I here?”
- Independent Studies 10, 11 and 12
- Independent Studies 10, 11 and 12 are courses initiated, designed and completed by learners, with the support of a teacher/mentor. The SelfDesign-ISK Learning Community values self-directed, integrative learning that encourages supports and strengthens independent inquiry and thinking.
- Intermediate Guitar 11
- This course builds on the basic skills acquired in Guitar 10. Learners tackle more challenging pieces that require a combination of skills. Learners bring songs they wish to learn to class. Group playing continues but the emphasis shifts to more individual playing. Improvisational blues jamming is explored as a group. Timing and rhythm become more focussed skills.
- Math 10
- Note that the current grade 10 Math courses are being discontinued and replaced with new courses in September 2010. The last ever Provincial Exams for the current courses is in early August 2010. If you don't think you can complete the course by August, please enrol in the new courses for September. More details of these new courses are shown below.
- Geometry: Descriptive geometry, work on circle and line, and elements of projective geometry.
Trigonometry: They will find the height of a building, or another object that cannot be measured directly. From this the four basic trigonometric functions are introduced.
Algebra: This component of the course will explore quadratic equations, powers with whole and rational indices, logarithms, and number series. - Apprenticeship & Workplace Math 10
- This course will be available from September 2010.
- This course will cover all topics necessary to fully prepare students to write the mandatory Grade 10 provincial math exam.
Measurement:Learners will study the metric and imperial systems while exploring areas and volumes.
Geometry: In geometry, learners will study the Pythagorean Theorem, trigonometric ratios and develop an understanding of angles.
Number: learners will study unit pricing and currency exchange and gain an understanding of personal income.
Algebra: This component of the course will explore the algebra necessary for this course. - Foundation & Pre Calc Math 10
- This course will be available from September 2010.
- This course will cover all topics necessary to fully prepare students to write the mandatory Grade 10 provincial math exam.
Measurement: Learners will study the metric and imperial systems while exploring areas, volumes and trigonometric ratios.
Algebra & Number: Learners will study factoring, irrational numbers, powers and polynomials.
Relations & Functions: Learners will study the differences between relations and functions and the slope of graphs. They will also learn about linear relations, their graphs and equations, and how to solve them. Finally they will investigate function notation. - Essentials of Math 11
- Income and Debt: demonstrate an awareness of selected forms of personal income and debt.
Personal Income Tax: prepare a simple income tax form.
Owning and Operating a Vehicle: analyse the cost of acquiring and operating a vehicle.
Business Plan: prepare a plan to operate a successful business.
Relations and Formulas: represent and interpret relations in a variety of contexts.
Measurement Technology: determine measurements in Système International (SI) and Imperial systems using different measuring devices.
Data Analysis and Interpretation: analyse data with a focus on the validity of its presentation and the inferences made. - Applications of Math 11
- Number: solve consumer problems, using arithmetic operations.
Variables and Equations: represent and analyse situations that involve expressions and equations.
Relations and Functions: represent and analyse quadratic and exponential functions.
Measurement: use measuring devices to make estimates and to perform calculations in solving problems.
Data Analysis: analyse graphs or charts of given situations to derive specific information. - Principles of Math 11
- Variables and Equations: represent and analyse situations that involve expressions, equations, and inequalities.
Relations and Functions: represent and analyse quadratic, polynomial, and rational functions.
3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes: solve coordinate geometry problems involving points, lines, and line segments, and justify the solutions.
geometry: Develop and apply the geometric properties of circles to solve problems. - Essentials of Math 12
- This course will cover all topics necessary to fully prepare students to write the optional Grade 12 provincial math exam.
Personal Finance: solve consumer problems involving insurance, mortgages, and loans.
Investments: demonstrate and recognize the differences concerning different types of financial investments.
Government Finances: demonstrate an awareness of the income and expenditures of federal, provincial, and municipal governments.
Variation and Formulas: use algebraic and graphical models to generate patterns, make predictions, and solve patterns.
Design and Measurement: analyse objects, shapes, and processes to solve cost and design problems. - Applications of Math 12
- This course will cover all topics necessary to fully prepare students to write the optional Grade 12 provincial math exam.
Number: describe and apply operations on matrices to solve problems, using technology as required. Design or use a spreadsheet to make and justify financial decisions.
Patterns: generate and analyse sinusoidal patterns.
Measurement: analyse objects, shapes, and processes to solve cost and design problems.
3-D Objects and 2-D Shapes: solve problems involving vectors in two and three dimensions.
Chance and Uncertainty: solve problems based on the counting of sets, using the fundamental counting principle. - Principles of Math 12
- This course will cover all topics necessary to fully prepare students to write the optional Grade 12 provincial math exam. Students will encounter and explore geometry, trigonometry and algebra, statistics and probability, combinations & permutations, and the probabilities of events.
- Media Savvy 11
- We create it, we consume it and some even say it consumes us. We're talking about Media, and we're all familiar with many forms of it from blogs to ads to music videos to Tweets to zines and more. Much more. This course will enable learners to explore and decode the multifaceted nature of media, to create their own media and deepen understandings of how we are influenced by the vast array of media competing for our attention. It is our goal to energize youth by making them aware of shifts and opportunities in new media: they are, after all, a foundation of our democracy and have been so for some time.
- Peace Studies 10
- This course challenges learners to take a penetrating look at what peace is and at the underlying roots of violence, conflict and war. They will explore the interrelatedness of human rights, justice and peace; critically examine the concept of nonviolence; and determine steps they can take to contribute to creating a culture of peace and nonviolence in their hearts, community and world.
- Philosophy 12
- This course is an introductory exploration into the nature of Philosophy at a personal and global level. Learners will explore one of the most mysterious and enduring of subjects in the history of human culture whose name, 'philosophy', does not mean the 'the study of' something, but rather the 'love' of an elusive and exclusively human experience, 'wisdom'. Philosophy can, at first glance, seem full of abstract intellectual ideas with little relevance to human life. The goal of this course will be to explore the story of Philosophy as a uniquely human endeavour. We will strive to see how philosophy engages the individual and how the diverse ways in which philosophy has emerged around the globe is an expression the far-reaching search for meaning in human experience.
- Physical Education 10: Movement & Active Living
- Learners will explore how physical activity is an important part of a holistic approach to health through engaging in a diverse range of physical activities. They will become curious about which activities are suitable for their individual constitution, body type and inclination, and connect/consult with physical activity professionals in the community to further their experiential understanding of the importance of physical movement.
- Physical Education 11: Movement & Active Living
- learners will further explore how physical activity is an important part of a holistic approach to health and self-knowledge. They will engage in experiential/adventure education and explore the components of leadership and community program coordination in the area of physical activity.
- Physical Education 12: Movement & Active Living
- learners will further explore how physical activity is an important part of a holistic approach to health and self-knowledge. They will engage in leadership development activities related to physical health and their community. They will incorporate mental, emotional and physical elements into their understanding of health and their personal relationship to movement.
- Physics 11
- Physics 11 introduces learners to the study of theories of space, time, force, movement and relativity. Learners will develop experiential understanding of the fundamental principles behind these theories.
- Physics 12
- In Physics 12 learners will continue to explore and develop understanding of the principles of physics concerning kinematics, dynamics, work, energy and power, momentum, equilibrium, circular motion and gravitation. Learners will also be introduced to the laws of electrostatics and electric circuits, and electromagnetism.
- Planning 10: Learning Your Way
- In this course learners will gain insights into and practise strategies for optimizing personal strengths and intelligences, personal wellness, and financial literacy and competence. Additionally, learners will improve their awareness of learning opportunities pertinent to their local regions and beyond.
- Pottery 10, 11: From Forming it to Finishing It
- The curriculum for these courses introduces forming to finishing pottery through hand-building and an introduction to wheel throwing techniques. You will learn to hand-build pottery using slab, coil, pinch and Indigenous coil techniques and making your own dishes for your home or as gifts for your family and friends. As well, surface design using stains and glazes are introduced and explored.
- Pottery12: Glaze Chemistry
- How To Make and Test Your Own Custom Ceramic Glazes. Remember, in high school chemistry class when you found yourself thinking, "when will I EVER use this stuff in my life?" (unless, of course, you always dreamed of becoming a chemist). Well, if you became a potter, chances are you have found yourself getting reacquainted with some of the terminology from high school chemistry. If the glaze chemistry bug hasn't bitten you yet, it probably will eventually as you'll want to customize your work with a particular glaze surface. Learning how different materials contribute to glazes and clay bodies is very important in expanding your abilities as a ceramic artist.
- Science 10
- This course has been created to meet the requirements of the grade 10 science learning outcomes, and to prepare learners for the grade 10 Provincial Exam. Learners will be engaged with four components of science: applications of science, life science, physical science, and earth and space science. Through a practical approach to scientific questions and processes, the learner’s sense of wonder about the world is evoked, and a sense of responsibility to the world is encouraged.
- SelfDesign Praxis 10, 11 and 12
- Are you a self-motivated learner who would like to challenge yourself while focusing on your most passionate learning goals? Then this course is for you! SelfDesign Praxis is designed to help you improve your reflective and purposeful movement toward accomplishing self-declared learning goals with the support of an experienced Learning Consultant*. Specifically, you will collaborate with a Learning Consultant to create a Learning Plan that focuses solely on personal goals about which you are the most enthusiastic and passionate! The Learning Consultant will then support you through regular conversation, offering unique coaching strategies and insights reflecting your ambitions and sensibilities. Upon completion of this course, all learners will have developed critical thinking and practical life skills, and gained valuable knowledge, insights and experiences that will enhance their abilities to optimize future personal and group learning opportunities. (*Learning Consultants are certified educators who are also uniquely trained in SelfDesign methodology)
- Social Studies 10: Canadian History
- This course will provide learners with the opportunity to explore a variety of historical voices from 19th and early 20th century Canada. Touching on the subjects of Canadian Confederation, they will encounter divergent voices in the process of nation building, and delve into the experiences of early immigrants to Canada. History shapes the identity of people and of nations, and understanding the history of a country allows us to better understand its present. With this in mind, learners explore the history of Canada in the 19th and early 20th century.
- Social Studies 11
- Canada is a country shaped by events within and outside the country. This course is an exploration of the role of Canada as an autonomous nation, and as a member of the world community. Global issues such as poverty, environmental degradation, and the impact of these issues on the lives of people will be explored. Investigating the nature of Canada as a multicultural country, the course asks the question “what is the Canadian identity”, inviting the learner into an experience of the forces that both shape and reflect the Canadian identity.
- Spanish 10
- This course introduces the learner to the basics of the Spanish language: pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. It also incorporates snippets of culture from the Spanish-speaking countries of Latin America and Spain to give the learner a context in which to learn the language and appreciate its speakers and their world.
- Spanish 11
- BIENVENIDOS! WELCOME TO INTERMEDIATE SPANISH!
This course provides the learner with a review of the basics of the Spanish language: pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. New material--such as additional grammar and guided reading-- is also introduced. This course also incorporates snippets of culture from the Spanish-speaking countries of Latin America and Spain to give the learner a context in which to learn the language and appreciate its speakers and their world. - Street Art 11
- Since ancient times, humans have written on walls and in public spaces, to express themselves, chronicle their lives and tell stories. From the Italian word graffiato, graffiti can be as simple as a name scratched in a tree or as elaborate as a colourful three-dimensional landscape with characters. It can be protest, poetry, art, vandalism, and social critique or simply; "I was here."
We welcome you to explore cultures, ideologies and intentions behind the artwork found on the streets, while experimenting with different techniques, developing individual style and skills and working collaboratively. We will learn together as we make art together. The groups will investigate the role that art plays in the community and how it can build community. We will share a dialogue around the subject of public art and share our opinions. - Visual Arts 10: Drawing & Painting
- In this course learners will explore the basic elements of art with a focus on drawing, colour and experimentation with art materials. Through group discussion and individual guidance learners will work to develop both technique and style as well as build an approach to art making that works for them.
- Visual Arts 10: Mixed Media
- In this course learners will explore various two-dimensional and three-dimensional media. While experimenting with various art-making forms, learners will share and discuss their work with one another and find new ways to express their ideas. Drawing, painting, sculpture, silk-screening, video and digital art will all be touched upon.
- World Religions 12
- Religion continues to be a major force for both unity and division in our world. Why is this? What, at their core, do religions respond to in the daily lives of their billions of adherents? In this course we will explore the extraordinary array of religious beliefs and practices of many (not all!) traditions from around the world which continue to inform, shape and transform the human story daily. It is our hope that by wandering into some of these fascinating religious views and traditions an understanding of and respect for both their similarities and differences may be cultivated. Learners are invited to reflect upon the variety and richness of the human response to questions of meaning, relationships, fate, purpose, destiny, the unknown and the unknowable.
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