Grade 12 Courses
English, Grade 12, University Preparation - Compulsory (ENG4U)
This course emphasizes the consolidation of the literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyse a range of challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures; interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts; and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using academic language coherently and confidently, selecting the reading strategies best suited to particular texts and particular purposes for reading, and developing greater control in writing. The course is intended to prepare students for university, college, or the workplace.
Prerequisite: English, Grade 11, University Preparation
Advanced Functions, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (MHF4U)
This course extends students experience with functions. Students will investigate the properties of polynomial, rational, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; develop techniques for combining functions; broaden their understanding of rates of change; and develop facility in applying these concepts and skills. Students will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. This course is intended both for students taking the Calculus and Vectors course as a prerequisite for a university program and for those wishing to consolidate their understanding of mathematics before proceeding to any one of a variety of university programs.
Prerequisite: Functions, Grade 11, University Preparation, or Mathematics for College Technology, Grade 12, College Preparation
Analysing Current Economic Issues, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (CIA4U)
This course examines current Canadian and international economic issues, developments, policies, and practices from diverse perspectives. Students will explore the decisions that individuals and institutions, including governments, make in response to economic issues such as globalization, trade agreements, economic inequalities, regulation, and public spending. Students will apply the concepts of economic thinking and the economic inquiry process, as well as economic models and theories, to investigate, and develop informed opinions about, economic trade-offs, growth, and sustainability and related economic issues.
Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Sciences and Humanities
Biology, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (SBI4U)
This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on the achievement of detailed knowledge and the refinement of skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields.
Prerequisite: Biology, Grade 11, University Preparation
Business Leadership: Management Fundamentals 12 (University/College Preparation - Elective (BOH4M)
This course focuses on the development of leadership skills used in managing a successful business. Students will analyse the role of a leader in business, with a focus on decision making, management of group dynamics, workplace stress and conflict, motivation of employees, and planning. Effective business communication skills, ethics, and social responsibility are also emphasized.
Prerequisite: None
Calculus and Vectors, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (MCV4U)
This course builds on students’ previous experience with functions and their developing understanding of rates of change. Students will solve problems involving geometric and algebraic representations of vectors and representations of lines and planes in three-dimensional space; broaden their understanding of rates of change to include the derivatives of polynomial, sinusoidal, exponential, rational, and radical functions; and apply these concepts and skills to the modelling of real-world relationships. Students will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. This course is intended for students who choose to pursue careers in fields such as science, engineering, economics, and some areas of business, including those students who will be required to take a university-level calculus, linear algebra, or physics course.
Note: Grade 12 Advanced Functions (MHF4U) must be taken prior to or concurrently with Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U).
Canadian and International Law, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (CLN4U)
This course explores a range of contemporary legal issues and how they are addressed in both Canadian and international law. Students will develop an understanding of the principles of Canadian and international law and of issues related to human rights and freedoms, conflict resolution, and criminal, environmental, and workplace law, both in Canada and internationally. Students will apply the concepts of legal thinking and the legal studies inquiry process, and will develop legal reasoning skills, when investigating these and other issues in both Canadian and international contexts.
Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Sciences and Humanities
Canadian and International Politics, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (CPW4U)
This course explores various perspectives on issues in Canadian and world politics. Students will explore political decision making and ways in which individuals, stakeholder groups, and various institutions, including governments, multinational corporations, and non-governmental organizations, respond to and work to address domestic and international issues. Students will apply the concepts of political thinking and the political inquiry process to investigate issues, events, and developments of national and international political importance, and to develop and communicate informed opinions about them.
Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Sciences and Humanities
Challenge and Change in Society, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (HSB4U)
This course focuses on the use of social science theories, perspectives, and methodologies to investigate and explain shifts in knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviour and their impact on society. Students will critically analyse how and why cultural, social, and behavioural patterns change over time. They will explore the ideas of social theorists and use those ideas to analyse causes of and responses to challenges such as technological change, deviance, and global inequalities.
Students will explore ways in which social science research methods can be used to study social change.
Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Sciences and Humanities
Chemistry, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (SCH4U)
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of organic chemistry, the structure and properties of matter, energy changes and rates of reaction, equilibrium in chemical systems, and electrochemistry. Students will further develop their problem-solving and investigation skills as they investigate chemical processes, and will refine their ability to communicate scientific information. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of chemistry in everyday life and on evaluating the impact of chemical technology on the environment.
Prerequisite: Chemistry, Grade 11, University Preparation
Communications Technology, Grade 12, University/College Preparation - Elective (TGJ4M)
This course enables students to further develop media knowledge and skills while designing and producing projects in the areas of live, recorded, and graphic communications. Students may work in the areas of TV, video, and movie production; radio and audio production; print and graphic communications; photography; digital imaging; broadcast journalism; and interactive new media.
Students will also expand their awareness of environmental and societal issues related to communications technology, and will investigate career opportunities and challenges in a rapidly changing technological environment.
Prerequisite: Communications Technology, Grade 11, University/College Preparation
Computer Science, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (ICS4U)
This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review.
Students will also analyse algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field.
Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science, Grade 11, University Preparation
Core French, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (FSF4U)
This course provides extensive opportunities for students to speak and interact in French independently. Students will develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, apply language learning strategies in a wide variety of real-life situations, and develop their creative and critical thinking skills through responding to and interacting with a variety of oral and written texts. They will also enrich their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities, and will develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.
Prerequisite: Core French, Grade 11, University Preparation
Drama, Grade 12, University/College Preparation - Elective (ADA4M)
This course requires students to experiment individually and collaboratively with forms and conventions of both drama and theatre from various cultures and time periods. Students will interpret dramatic literature and other texts and media sources while learning about various theories of directing and acting. Students will examine the significance of dramatic arts in various cultures, and will analyse how the knowledge and skills developed in drama are related to their personal skills, social awareness, and goals beyond secondary school.
Prerequisite: Drama, Grade 11, University/College Preparation or Open
Drama - Musical Theatre, Grade 12, University/College Preparation - Elective (ADB4M)
This course provides opportunities for students to explore dramatic forms, conventions, and techniques. Students will explore a variety of dramatic sources from various cultures and representing a range of genres. Students will use the elements of drama in creating and communicating through dramatic works. Students will assume responsibility for decisions made in the creative and collaborative processes and will reflect on their experiences. This course has a focus on Music Theatre.
Prerequisite: Drama, Grade 11, University/College Preparation or Open
Equity and Social Justice: From Theory to Practice, Grade 12, University/ College Preparation - Elective (HSE4M)
This course enables students to develop an understanding of the theoretical, social, and historical underpinnings of various equity and social justice issues and to analyse strategies for bringing about positive social change. Students will learn about historical and contemporary equity and social justice issues in Canada and globally. They will explore power relations and the impact of a variety of factors on equity and social justice. Students will develop and apply research skills and will design and implement a social action initiative relating to an equity or social justice issue.
Prerequisite: Any university, college, or university/college preparation course in Social Sciences and Humanities, English, or Canadian and World Studies
Families in Canada, Grade 12, University Preparation, Elective (HHS4U)
This course enables students to draw on sociological, psychological, and anthropological theories and research to analyse the development of individuals, intimate relationships, and family and parent-child relationships. Students will focus on issues and challenges facing individuals and families in Canada’s diverse society. They will develop analytical tools that enable them to assess various factors affecting families and to consider policies and practices intended to support families in Canada. They will develop the investigative skills required to conduct and communicate the results of research on individuals, intimate relationships, and parent-child relationships
Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world studies.
Healthy Living and Personal and Fitness Activities, Grade 12, Open - Elective (PAF4O)
This course focuses on the development of a healthy lifestyle and participation in a variety of enjoyable fitness focused activities. This course will teach the student about weight training, cardiovascular training, strength and endurance as well as flexibility training and nutrition. Students will be encouraged to develop and follow their own gym fitness plan and will be given the tools to achieve their healthy fitness goals. The student will determine the emphasis of their program. Fitness levels will be monitored regularly. Evaluation will be based on the student's ability to reach goals established jointly with the teacher, effort, participation, and record keeping. Students will gain decision-making skills, improve communication skills and develop organizational skills.
Prerequisites: None
Human Development Throughout the Lifespan, Grade 12, University/College Preparation, Elective (HHG4M)
This course offers a multidisciplinary approach to the study of human development throughout the lifespan. Students will learn about a range of theoretical perspectives on human development. They will examine threats to healthy development as well as protective factors that promote resilience. Students will learn about physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development from the prenatal period through old age and will develop their research and inquiry skills by investigating issues related to human development.
Prerequisite: Any university, college, or university/college preparation course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world Studies.
Interdisciplinary Studies: Sports & Entertainment Marketing, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (IDC4U)
The Sports and Entertainment Marketing interdisciplinary course emphasizes the development of practical skills and knowledge in order to solve problems, make decisions, create personal meaning, and present findings related to the growing importance that the sports and entertainment industry plays in our modern economy. Through individual and collaborative inquiry, research into contemporary issues, real- life situations, and careers related to Sports and Entertainment Marketing, students will develop skills in the areas of marketing essentials, facility location and design, branding, licensing, merchandising, advertising, public relations/publicity, event marketing, sponsoring and naming rights, product distribution, legal issues and career opportunities in Sports and Entertainment Marketing.
Prerequisite: Any university, university/college preparation course.
Interdisciplinary Studies: Studies in Journalism, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (IDC4U)
This course will help students develop and consolidate the skills required for and knowledge of different subjects and disciplines to solve problems, make decisions, create personal meaning, and present findings beyond the scope of a single subject or discipline. Students will apply the principles and processes of inquiry and research to effectively use a range of print, electronic, and mass media resources; to analyse historical innovations and exemplary research; and to investigate real-life situations and career opportunities in interdisciplinary endeavours. They will also assess their own cognitive and affective strategies, apply general skills in both familiar and new contexts, create innovative products, and communicate new knowledge.
This course helps students develop skills in the fields of photography, videography, audio and its relation to journalism and digital media while examining the history of media communication and its impact/influences on current practices and trends.
Students will cover the basics of print journalism (traditional and digital), radio, journalism (script writing, recording and editing), videography (script writing, filming and editing) and digital photography (mechanics, composition, lighting, and post editing) while familiarizing themselves with a variety of software programs used in editing and composition. Students will also explore journalistic writing and reporting, developing skills in critical thinking, aesthetic and ethical judgement, writing, editing, and publishing. These combined skills will be used towards the production of print and electronic products for school and community audiences (including entries in the newsletter, yearbook, and website) as well as the production of personal portfolios.
Parallel to these practices, students will also study the history, philosophy and traditions of journalism (exploring the work of notable journalists from the twentieth and twenty-first century; observing the impact and influence digital visual media has had on contemporary society and the field of journalism; analyzing important current events and issues through the lens of a number of different journalism media; and examining the relationship between these global events and issues with Canadian media-related law, political ideology, economics and ethics). The overall objective of this course is to provide students with the skills to understand, capture, and communicate to the world around them.
Prerequisite: Any university, university/college preparation course.
International Business Fundamentals, Grade 12, University/College Preparation - Elective (BBB4M)
This course provides an overview of the importance of international business and trade in the global economy and explores the factors that influence success in international markets. Students will learn about the techniques and strategies associated with marketing, distribution, and managing international business effectively. This course prepares students for postsecondary programs in business, including international business, marketing, and management.
Prerequisite: None
Mathematics of Data Management, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (MDM4U)
This course broadens students understanding of mathematics as it relates to managing data. Students will apply methods for organizing and analysing large amounts of information; solve problems involving probability and statistics; and carry out a culminating investigation that integrates statistical concepts and skills. Students will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. Students planning to enter university programs in business, the social sciences, and the humanities will find this course of particular interest.
Prerequisite: Functions, Grade 11, University Preparation, or Functions and Applications, Grade 11, University/College Preparation
Music - Music for Creating, Grade 12, Open - Elective (AMC4M)
This course emphasizes the appreciation, analysis, and performance of music of the twentieth century, including art music, jazz, popular music, and Canadian music. Students will concentrate on developing interpretive skills and the ability to work independently. They will also complete complex creative projects. Course content will stress a deeper focus on the theory and history behind the creation of music, thus providing students with greater opportunity to develop their music writing skills.
Prerequisite: Instrumental Music, Grade 11
Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course, Grade 12, Open - Elective (OLC4O)
This course is designed to help students acquire and demonstrate the cross- curricular literacy skills that are evaluated by the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). Students who complete the course successfully will meet the provincial literacy requirement for graduation. Students will read a variety of informational, narrative, and graphic texts and will produce a variety of forms of writing, including summaries, information paragraphs, opinion pieces, and news reports. Students will also maintain and manage a portfolio containing a record of their reading experiences and samples of their writing.
Prerequisites: Eligibility requirement: Students who have been eligible to write the OSSLT at least twice and who have been unsuccessful at least once are eligible to take the course. (Students who have already met the literacy requirement for graduation may be eligible to take the course under special circumstances, at the discretion of the principal.)
Philosophy: Questions and Theories, Grade 12 University Preparation, Elective (HZT4U)
This course enables students to acquire an understanding of the nature of philosophy and philosophical reasoning skills and to develop and apply their knowledge and skills while exploring specialized branches of philosophy (the course will cover at least three of the following branches: metaphysics, ethics, epistemology, philosophy of science, social and political philosophy, aesthetics). Students will develop critical thinking and philosophical reasoning skills as they formulate and evaluate arguments related to a variety of philosophical questions and theories.
They will also develop research and inquiry skills related to the study and practice of philosophy.
Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world studies
Physics, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (SPH4U)
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of physics concepts and theories. Students will continue their exploration of energy transformations and the forces that affect motion, and will investigate electrical, gravitational, and magnetic fields and electromagnetic radiation. Students will also explore the wave nature of light, quantum mechanics, and special relativity. They will further develop their scientific investigation skills, learning, for example, how to analyse, qualitatively and quantitatively, data related to a variety of physics concepts and principles. Students will also consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.
Prerequisite: Physics, Grade 11, University Preparation
Recreation and Healthy Active Living Leadership , Grade 12, University/ College Preparation - Elective (PLF4M)
This course enables students to explore the benefits of lifelong participation in active recreation and healthy leisure and to develop the leadership and coordinating skills needed to plan, organize, and safely implement recreational events and other activities related to healthy, active living. Students will also learn how to promote the benefits of healthy, active living to others through mentoring and assisting them in making informed decisions that enhance their well-being. The course will prepare students for university programs in physical education and health and kinesiology and for college and university programs in recreation and leisure management, fitness and health promotion, and fitness leadership.
Prerequisite: Any Health and Physical Education course
The Writer’s Craft, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (EWC4U)
This course emphasizes knowledge and skills related to the craft of writing. Students will analyse models of effective writing; use a workshop approach to produce a range of works; identify and use techniques required for specialized forms of writing; and identify effective ways to improve the quality of their writing. They will also complete a major paper as part of a creative or analytical independent study project, and investigate opportunities for publication and for writing careers.
Prerequisite: English, Grade 11, University Preparation
Visual Arts, Grade 12, University/College Preparation - Elective (AVI4M)
This course focuses on enabling students to refine their use of the creative process when creating and presenting two- and three-dimensional art works using a variety of traditional and emerging media and technologies. Students will use the critical analysis process to deconstruct art works and explore connections between art and society. The studio program enables students to explore a range of materials, processes, and techniques that can be applied in their own art production. Students will also make connections between various works of art in personal, contemporary, historical, and cultural contexts.
Prerequisite: Visual Arts, Grade 11, University/College Preparation
Visual Arts - Drawing and Painting, Grade 12, University/College Preparation - Elective (AWM4M)
Skills and techniques in drawing and painting will be the focus of this course that through creative problem solving students will develop personal imagery and expression. Discussions and critiques will be enriched through the study of historical and contemporary artists works and application in studio projects.
Prerequisite: Visual Arts, Grade 11, University/College Preparation
Visual Arts - Film and Video AWR4M
This course focuses on enabling students to refine their use of the creative process when creating and presenting film and video works using a variety of traditional and emerging media and technologies. Students will use the critical analysis process to deconstruct international films and explore connections between film and society. This course enables students to explore a range of styles and techniques that can be applied in their own productions. The students will develop video shorts for a demo reel of their work, as well as explore processes such as colour grading, foley and special effects in post-production.
Prerequisite: AWR3O (Film and Video 11), TGJ3M (Communications Technology 11), ASM3M (Media Arts 11)
World Cultures, Grade 12, University/College Preparation - Elective (HSC4M)
This course examines the nature of culture; how cultural identities are acquired, maintained, and transformed; and theories used to analyse cultures. Students will explore world cultures, with an emphasis on the analysis of religious and spiritual beliefs, art forms, and philosophy. They will study the contributions and influence of a range of cultural groups and will critically analyse issues facing ethnocultural groups within Canada and around the world. Students will develop and apply research skills and will design and implement a social action initiative relating to cultural diversity.
Prerequisite: Any university, college, or university/college preparation course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world studies
World Geography: Urban Patterns and Population Issues, Grade 12, University/College Preparation - Elective (CGU4M)
The world’s population is growing, it is moving and intermixing, and it is increasingly found in cities. This course explores these changes and the challenges that come with them. It investigates the forces that are shaping the world’s communities, the patterns of interaction between them, the quality of life within them, and their impact on the world around them. Students will apply the concepts of geographic thinking, the geographic inquiry process, and spatial skills and technologies as they investigate issues related to population change and urban life and propose ways of enhancing the sustainability of communities around the world.
Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Sciences and Humanities
World Issues: A Geographic Analysis, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (CGW4U)
In this course, students will address the challenge of creating a more sustainable and equitable world. They will explore issues involving a wide range of topics, including economic disparities, threats to the environment, globalization, human rights, and quality of life, and will analyse government policies, international agreements, and individual responsibilities relating to them. Students will apply the concepts of geographic thinking and the geographic inquiry process, including the use of spatial technologies, to investigate these complex issues and their impacts on natural and human communities around the world.
Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and World Studies, English, or Social Sciences and Humanities
World History Since the Fifteenth Century, Grade 12, University Preparation - Elective (CHY4U)
This course traces major developments and events in world history since approximately 1450. Students will explore social, economic, and political changes, the historical roots of contemporary issues, and the role of conflict and cooperation in global interrelationships. They will extend their ability to apply the concepts of historical thinking and the historical inquiry process, including the interpretation and analysis of evidence, as they investigate key issues and ideas and assess societal progress or decline in world history.
Prerequisite: Any university, university/college, or college preparation course in Social Sciences and Humanities, English, or Canadian and World Studies