GRADE 9 REQUIRED COURSES:
English Program: English 9, Social Studies 9, Math 9, Science 9, Career Ed 9, PE 9, and TAG 9. Grade 9 students get 5 elective classes throughout the year; however, students are required to take at least one art course (art, band, or drama) for one of their electives. French, Band, and Leadership are considered to take up 2 of the 5 elective classes as they run the full year. We ask that students choose six electives because it is not guaranteed that they will be able to get their top choices. Please look at the course descriptions and fill in the elective choices below.
French Immersion Program:Français Langue 9, Sciences Humaines 9, English 9, Math 9, Science 9, Éducation Physique 9, Éducation a la Santé et la Carrière 9, and TAG 9. Grade 9 French Immersion students get 2 elective classes throughout the year; however, Leadership and Band are considered to take up 2 of the 5 elective classes as they run the full year. We ask that students choose three electives because it is not guaranteed that they will be able to get their top choices. NOTE: French Immersion students also get an assigned French Elective that runs half of the year. Please look at the course descriptions and fill in your elective choices below.
ELECTIVES:
NOTE: All efforts will be made to give students their requested electives. Please read over the choices carefully as there may not be a possibility to change your elective in September.
Band
Band is a year long course and takes the spot of 2 electives. *Note: Students must have successfully completed Band 8 or equivalent. Students who are new to Fort St. John should meet with the band teacher prior to registration. This class will perform music designed to improve the playing habits and abilities of all members. The following will be stressed: technical facility, balance and blend, tone and pitch control, new conducting patterns, varied time signatures, main subtle types of articulation, ensemble work, and sight-reading. Students will be evaluated on playing skills, theory, and leadership responsibility. Participation includes attending evening rehearsals on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30p.m. (September-May), a minimum of two evening concerts per year, a recruitment tour at local elementary schools and any other related activities. Students must perform in an evening band in order to travel. Please contact Alice Maundrell for more information at amaundrell@prn.bc.ca. Band is a year long course and takes the spot of 2 electives. *Note: Students must have successfully completed Band 8 or equivalent. Students who are new to Fort St. John should meet with the band teacher prior to registration.
Digital Media
Digital Media 9 will explore the many facets of media in our day-to-day world. Technology units will be explored including: simple skills to complex opportunities of the workings of film/video production, digital photography other technology programs, and technology related materials. Students will learn or review camera equipment, framing and movement, and editing techniques. Projects could include but are not limited to: Photography, Film Production, Stop Animation, and 3D Design. Being self-motivated and having he ability to work in groups settings are assets for this course.
Drama
Drama education provides students with opportunities to examine human experience through imagined roles and situations. As a powerful mode of expression, drama education contributes to student’s individual and social development. The knowledge, skills and attitudes acquired through the drama program will be valuable in any career. Students meet the learning outcomes for the course if they demonstrate willingness, openness and enthusiasm to engage in a variety of activities and to work with others. The practical component includes warm-up activities, games, trust activities, relaxation exercises, role-playing, body and voice expressions, acting, directing, stage craft, critical analysis, rehearsal and performance. Wearing comfortable clothing for easy movement is essential.
Fitness
Fitness 9 combines classroom and active components. In the classroom, you will learn about the human body, nutrition for performance, and how to create your own workout plan to meet your personal health and fitness goals. Fitness 9 students will participate in a multitude of different fitness activities within the school and community that will challenge all students. Students must be very self-motivated and interested in developing their physical fitness to take this course. *Note: This class does not replace Physical Education; rather, it is in addition to PE.
Foods and Nutrition
Foods is a lab-orientated course. Students prepare foods and learn about nutrients with reference to special dietary needs. Foods study continues with healthy preparation of foods using safe, sanitary and nutritional methods. Students have the opportunity to use additional tools and equipment and prepare more complex meals, experiment with principles of food preparation and evaluate commercial foods.
French
Building on the skills developed in French 8, this course continues the emphasis on oral communication and builds reading and writing skills. This course is communicative and students are required to speak French for the majority of class time. The course uses plays, songs and raps that cover vocabulary and introduce grammatical concepts. French is a year long course and takes the spot of 2 electives.
Should you take French? Important information about university and college entrance requirements:
A second language is not required to graduate in B.C. Students should be aware that a second language to the Grade 11 level is required for direct admission to many B.C. University and College programs following Grade 12. Students can opt to take French as their second language requirement or they can take Beginners German 11 or Spanish 11 at NPSS to fulfill this requirement.
It is important to realize that college and university entrance requirements are constantly changing and students should consult post-secondary schools of interest regularly.
Global Sports and Business Administration
The Global Sports and Business Administration course will explore the connections and relationships between the world of sports and the world of business, politics and its overall effect on society entirely. This course is designed to reach the needs of all learners in a Project-Based Learning environment where students will use their critical thinking, analysis and reflecting skills to dissect how people through sport can change the perspective and direction of the world around them. Students will have the opportunity to show their understanding in diverse and authentic ways, producing several different products of learning. This is an exciting, real-world and productive course that will challenge students to look beyond the glitter and glam that the world of sports consistently shows.
Leadership
Leadership combined. In this course, students will explore the basic principles of leadership. They will evaluate and put into practice their own leadership characteristics and qualities. Students will identify and apply their own roles as team members and identify qualities that lead to team effectiveness. Throughout this course students will be responsible for organizing “school spirit” activities, and putting on school/community fundraising events. We are looking for students who complete all academic work, are respectful within the school community and are eager to learn and develop their leadership and organizational skills.
Metalwork
Students are given an introduction to some of the processes of working with metal. They will be able to choose from a selection of projects that touch upon: sheet metal fabrication, welding, using the metal lathe, and jewelry making. Safety, ability to follow instructions, problem solving, effort, utilization of shop time, and personal and social management are all key components to this course. Students will have the opportunity to use the box and pan brake, drill presses, lathes, spot welder, oxy-acetylene welder, MIG welder, Arc welder, and more.
Music
Outdoor Recreation
This is a course geared to students who enjoy communing with nature and being outdoors. Students will learn the skills and techniques to be safe, comfortable, and competent being outdoors. Navigation, outdoor clothing, camping, as well as specific activity skills will be covered. Outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, firebuilding, wilderness survival and hiking are just a few of the activities students will be involved in. *Note: A fee may be required for any offsite activity costs.
Robotics & Electronics
Throughout this course students will explore technology as it relates to robotics and electronics. Students will generate ideas, develop plans, engage in the prototyping process, test designs, and share their products. Topics that may be covered in this course include: electrical circuits, Ohm’s law, mechanical devices to transfer energy, power efficiency, platforms for printed circuit board production, basic robot behaviors using input/output devices, robotics coding and robotics programming.
Spanish
Woodwork
Students are given in-depth instruction on the processes used in a woodwork shop. Students will be given a choice from a selection of projects, or be approved to make something they are interested in making. Safety, ability to follow instructions, problem solving, effort, utilization of shop time, and personal and social management are all key components to this course. Students will have the opportunity to use all the tools in the shop including the radial arm saw, miter saw, band saw, lathes, drill press, planer, jointer, router, CNC laser, CNC router and the table saw.
Band is a year long course and takes the spot of 2 electives. *Note: Students must have successfully completed Band 8 or equivalent. Students who are new to Fort St. John should meet with the band teacher prior to registration. This class will perform music designed to improve the playing habits and abilities of all members. The following will be stressed: technical facility, balance and blend, tone and pitch control, new conducting patterns, varied time signatures, main subtle types of articulation, ensemble work, and sight-reading. Students will be evaluated on playing skills, theory, and leadership responsibility. Participation includes attending evening rehearsals on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30p.m. (September-May), a minimum of two evening concerts per year, a recruitment tour at local elementary schools and any other related activities. Students must perform in an evening band in order to travel. Please contact Alice Maundrell for more information at amaundrell@prn.bc.ca. Band is a year long course and takes the spot of 2 electives. *Note: Students must have successfully completed Band 8 or equivalent. Students who are new to Fort St. John should meet with the band teacher prior to registration.
Digital Media
Digital Media 9 will explore the many facets of media in our day-to-day world. Technology units will be explored including: simple skills to complex opportunities of the workings of film/video production, digital photography other technology programs, and technology related materials. Students will learn or review camera equipment, framing and movement, and editing techniques. Projects could include but are not limited to: Photography, Film Production, Stop Animation, and 3D Design. Being self-motivated and having he ability to work in groups settings are assets for this course.
Drama
Drama education provides students with opportunities to examine human experience through imagined roles and situations. As a powerful mode of expression, drama education contributes to student’s individual and social development. The knowledge, skills and attitudes acquired through the drama program will be valuable in any career. Students meet the learning outcomes for the course if they demonstrate willingness, openness and enthusiasm to engage in a variety of activities and to work with others. The practical component includes warm-up activities, games, trust activities, relaxation exercises, role-playing, body and voice expressions, acting, directing, stage craft, critical analysis, rehearsal and performance. Wearing comfortable clothing for easy movement is essential.
Fitness
Fitness 9 combines classroom and active components. In the classroom, you will learn about the human body, nutrition for performance, and how to create your own workout plan to meet your personal health and fitness goals. Fitness 9 students will participate in a multitude of different fitness activities within the school and community that will challenge all students. Students must be very self-motivated and interested in developing their physical fitness to take this course. *Note: This class does not replace Physical Education; rather, it is in addition to PE.
Foods and Nutrition
Foods is a lab-orientated course. Students prepare foods and learn about nutrients with reference to special dietary needs. Foods study continues with healthy preparation of foods using safe, sanitary and nutritional methods. Students have the opportunity to use additional tools and equipment and prepare more complex meals, experiment with principles of food preparation and evaluate commercial foods.
French
Building on the skills developed in French 8, this course continues the emphasis on oral communication and builds reading and writing skills. This course is communicative and students are required to speak French for the majority of class time. The course uses plays, songs and raps that cover vocabulary and introduce grammatical concepts. French is a year long course and takes the spot of 2 electives.
Should you take French? Important information about university and college entrance requirements:
A second language is not required to graduate in B.C. Students should be aware that a second language to the Grade 11 level is required for direct admission to many B.C. University and College programs following Grade 12. Students can opt to take French as their second language requirement or they can take Beginners German 11 or Spanish 11 at NPSS to fulfill this requirement.
It is important to realize that college and university entrance requirements are constantly changing and students should consult post-secondary schools of interest regularly.
Global Sports and Business Administration
The Global Sports and Business Administration course will explore the connections and relationships between the world of sports and the world of business, politics and its overall effect on society entirely. This course is designed to reach the needs of all learners in a Project-Based Learning environment where students will use their critical thinking, analysis and reflecting skills to dissect how people through sport can change the perspective and direction of the world around them. Students will have the opportunity to show their understanding in diverse and authentic ways, producing several different products of learning. This is an exciting, real-world and productive course that will challenge students to look beyond the glitter and glam that the world of sports consistently shows.
Leadership
Leadership combined. In this course, students will explore the basic principles of leadership. They will evaluate and put into practice their own leadership characteristics and qualities. Students will identify and apply their own roles as team members and identify qualities that lead to team effectiveness. Throughout this course students will be responsible for organizing “school spirit” activities, and putting on school/community fundraising events. We are looking for students who complete all academic work, are respectful within the school community and are eager to learn and develop their leadership and organizational skills.
Metalwork
Students are given an introduction to some of the processes of working with metal. They will be able to choose from a selection of projects that touch upon: sheet metal fabrication, welding, using the metal lathe, and jewelry making. Safety, ability to follow instructions, problem solving, effort, utilization of shop time, and personal and social management are all key components to this course. Students will have the opportunity to use the box and pan brake, drill presses, lathes, spot welder, oxy-acetylene welder, MIG welder, Arc welder, and more.
Music
This course explores and builds upon the skills learned in grade 7 and 8 music samplers. Students will expand their knowledge of music vocabulary, skills and techniques related to music creation, performance and audience. This course is fluid and the focus is dependent on the teacher.
Outdoor Recreation
This is a course geared to students who enjoy communing with nature and being outdoors. Students will learn the skills and techniques to be safe, comfortable, and competent being outdoors. Navigation, outdoor clothing, camping, as well as specific activity skills will be covered. Outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, firebuilding, wilderness survival and hiking are just a few of the activities students will be involved in. *Note: A fee may be required for any offsite activity costs.
Robotics & Electronics
Throughout this course students will explore technology as it relates to robotics and electronics. Students will generate ideas, develop plans, engage in the prototyping process, test designs, and share their products. Topics that may be covered in this course include: electrical circuits, Ohm’s law, mechanical devices to transfer energy, power efficiency, platforms for printed circuit board production, basic robot behaviors using input/output devices, robotics coding and robotics programming.
Spanish
This is an introductory course for beginners in learning Spanish. The AIM (Accelerative Integrated Method) program will be used throught the course. This is an interactive and verbally based Spanish language learning program using gestures to reinforce vocalulary. Students will experience activities to foster positive attitudes for learning and using Spanish language. Students will learn to communicate using simple questions and responses. Strategies will be developed for extracting meaning form Spanish materials. Dialogues and skits will be used to develop verbal competency.
Technology Education
Students taking this course will be faced with a high degree of project-based learning, where students will be given a problem/scenario, the materials, and the final outcome that should be achieved. This course will test the students’ problem solving abilities, creativity, and teamwork skills. Potential project ideas include: Rube Goldberg machines, Rocketry, Spaghetti Bridge Building, and computer programming. *Note: This course may involve students bringing items from home or bought in the community to achieve a functioning working project, according to their design plan.
Textiles
This course allows students to build on skills learned in Textiles 7. Students will have the opportunity to create work that involves a variety of decorative and functional hand and machine work. They will explore some theory around textiles and fabric, clothing functions, purpose and care as well as principles of design.
Theatre Academy
Students taking this course will be faced with a high degree of project-based learning, where students will be given a problem/scenario, the materials, and the final outcome that should be achieved. This course will test the students’ problem solving abilities, creativity, and teamwork skills. Potential project ideas include: Rube Goldberg machines, Rocketry, Spaghetti Bridge Building, and computer programming. *Note: This course may involve students bringing items from home or bought in the community to achieve a functioning working project, according to their design plan.
Textiles
This course allows students to build on skills learned in Textiles 7. Students will have the opportunity to create work that involves a variety of decorative and functional hand and machine work. They will explore some theory around textiles and fabric, clothing functions, purpose and care as well as principles of design.
Theatre Academy
This is a yearlong course and takes the place of two electives. Theatre Production focuses on a musical or drama production performed for the public. Students will learn about production, management and theatre tech. Students meet the learning outcomes for the course if they demonstrate willingness, openness and enthusiasm to engage in a variety of activities and to work with others. The practical componenet includes warm-up activities, trust activities, relaxation exercises, role-playing, body and voice expressions, acting, directing, stage craft, critical analysis, rehearsal and performance. Wearing comfortable clothing for easy movement is essential.
Visual Arts
This course allows students the opportunity to further develop their art skills gained in Art 8. Students will be encouraged to challenge themselves through a variety of projects that will build on what they already know, but also add new skills to their art foundation. Students will use a variety of media as they explore and create their art.
This course allows students the opportunity to further develop their art skills gained in Art 8. Students will be encouraged to challenge themselves through a variety of projects that will build on what they already know, but also add new skills to their art foundation. Students will use a variety of media as they explore and create their art.
Woodwork
Students are given in-depth instruction on the processes used in a woodwork shop. Students will be given a choice from a selection of projects, or be approved to make something they are interested in making. Safety, ability to follow instructions, problem solving, effort, utilization of shop time, and personal and social management are all key components to this course. Students will have the opportunity to use all the tools in the shop including the radial arm saw, miter saw, band saw, lathes, drill press, planer, jointer, router, CNC laser, CNC router and the table saw.
Yearbook
Interested in taking pictures? Want to be a part of creating a lasting memory for students to remember? Yearbook will be a course where you learn to use a camera and take good photos. You will also be using digital means to create layouts and pages for the schools yearbook. You will be assigned different tasks/pages and help to make the yearbook one that everyone will enjoy!