English This course emphasizes the development of literacy, critical thinking, and communication skills. Students will analyse challenging texts from various periods; conduct research and analyse the information gathered; write persuasive and literary essays; and analyse the relationship among media forms, audiences, and media industry practices. An important focus will be on understanding the development of the English language Mathematics This course introduces some financial applications of mathematics, extends students' experiences with functions, and introduces second-degree relations. Students will solve problems in personal finance involving applications of sequences and series; investigate properties and applications of trigonometric functions; develop facility in operating with polynomials, rational expressions, and exponential expressions; develop an understanding of inverses and transformations of functions; and develop facility in using function notation and in communicating mathematical reasoning. Students will also investigate loci and the properties and applications of conics Biology This course furthers students' understanding of the processes involved in biological systems. Students will study cellular functions, genetic continuity, internal systems and regulation, the diversity of living things, and the anatomy, growth, and functions of plants. The course focuses on the theoretical aspects of the topics under study, and helps students refine skills related to scientific investigation. Chemistry This course focuses on the concepts and theories that form the basis of modern chemistry. Students will study the behaviours of solids, liquids, gases, and solutions; investigate changes and relationships in chemical systems; and explore how chemistry is used in developing new products and processes that affect our lives and our environment. Emphasis will also be placed on the importance of chemistry in other branches of science. Physics This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will study the laws of dynamics and explore different kinds of forces, the quantification and forms of energy (mechanical, sound, light, thermal, and electrical), and the way energy is transformed and transmitted. They will develop scientific-inquiry skills as they verify accepted laws and solve both assigned problems and those emerging from their investigations. Students will also analyse the interrelationships between physics and technology, and consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment. Science This course helps students examine computer science concepts. Students will outline stages in software development, define standard control and data structures, identify on- and off-line resources, explain the functions of basic computer components, and develop programming and problem-solving skills by using operating systems and implementing defined practices. As well as identifying careers in computer science, students will develop an understanding of the ethical use of computers and the impact of emergent technologies on society. Computer Graphics I This course allows students to learn modern computer technologies and to gain an in-depth knowledge of Photoshop. They also learn how to create computer animations using Microsoft Flash and to design web sites using Frontpage 2001. As their final project, students create their own web sites. Computer Graphics II This course allows students to develop computer and design skills using Quark Xpress. Students learn basic principles of graphic design as well as publishing terminology They design business cards, letterhead, and brochures. Their two main projects are the Abelard Literary Journal and the Abelard Year Book. French This course draws on a variety of themes to promote extensive development of reading and writing skills and to reinforce oral communication skills. Students will gain a greater understanding of French-speaking cultures in Canada and around the world through their reading of a variety of materials, including a short novel or a play. Students will produce various written assignments, including a formal essay. The use of correct grammar and appropriate language conventions in both spoken and written French will be emphasized throughout the course. Latin This course provides students with opportunities to continue their exploration of the achievements of the ancient world through the study of Latin. Students will read and translate more complex passages in Latin and will learn the vocabulary and grammar essential for these activities. English is the language of instruction. Through a variety of methods, such as dramatizations, presentations, and hands-on activities, students will investigate aspects of the culture and beliefs of the ancient world, including science, religion, and customs. Classical Greek This course introduces students to the achievements of the classical world through the study of Greek. Students will learn vocabulary and grammar essential for reading and translating classical texts. English is the language of instruction. Through a variety of enrichment activities, such as presentations, debates, and dialogues, students will explore such aspects of life in the ancient world as trade, commerce, education, entertainment, and social customs while improving their language skills. Classical Civilization This course allows students to explore the beliefs and achievements of the classical world, which have shaped Western thought and civilization. Students will investigate such aspects of classical culture as its mythology, art, literature, and philosophy, as well as elements of ancient Greek and Latin, through a variety of activities such as dramatizations, audio-visual presentations, and discussions. By reading classical authors in English and examining archaeological evidence, students will enhance both their communication skills and their ability to think critically and creatively. Canadian and World Politics This course examines national and international political issues from a variety of perspectives. Students will learn about the rights and responsibilities of individuals, groups, and states within the international community; analyse the different ways in which Canada tries to settle its conflicts with other nations; and evaluate the role of nationalist and internationalist ideologies in shaping relations among states. World History to the Sixteenth Century This course investigates the history of humanity from earliest times to the sixteenth century. Students will analyse diverse societies from around the world, with particular regard to the political, cultural, and economic structures and historical forces that form the foundation of the modern world. They will examine the influence of selected individuals and groups, as well as of particular innovations, and will develop skills of historical inquiry, organization, analysis, and communication. World History: The West and the World This course investigates the major trends in Western civilization and world history from the sixteenth century to the present. Students will learn about the interaction between the emerging West and other regions of the world and about the development of modern social, political, and economic systems. The skills and knowledge developed in this course will enable students to understand and appreciate both the character of historical change and the historical roots of contemporary issues. World Religions This course enables students to discover what others believe and how they live, and to appreciate their own unique heritage. Students will learn about the teachings and traditions of a variety of religions, the connections between religion and the development of civilizations, the place and function of religion in human experience, and the influence of a broad range of religions on contemporary society. This course also introduces students to skills used in researching and investigating world religions. Canadian and International Law This course explores elements of Canadian law and the role of law in social, political, and global contexts. Students will learn about the connections between the historical and philosophical sources of law and issues in contemporary society. They will also learn to analyse legal issues, conduct independent research, and communicate the results of their inquiries in a variety of ways. Economics This course explores the choices that individuals and societies make about the use of resources in a competitive global economy. Students will use economic concepts and models, as well as methods of economic inquiry, to analyse current economic issues and make informed economic choices based on their analysis. Drama This course requires students to create and to perform dramatic presentations. Students will analyse, interpret, and perform works of drama from various cultures, including Western plays from around 1900. Students will also do research on different acting styles and conventions for their presentations, create original works, and analyse the functions of playwright, director, actor, producer, designer, technician, and audience. Art This course provides students with opportunities to further develop their skills and knowledge in visual arts. Students will explore a range of subject matter through studio activities, and will further develop their practical skills. Students will also analyse art works and study aspects of Western art history, as well as art forms from Canada and other parts of the world Music This course emphasizes the appreciation, analysis, and performance of various kinds of music, including baroque and classical music, popular music, and Canadian and non-Western music. Students will perform technical exercises and appropriate repertoire, complete detailed creative activities, and analyse and evaluate live and recorded performances. They will continue to increase their understanding of the elements of music while developing their technical and imaginative abilities. Physical Health and Education This course emphasizes regular participation in a variety of enjoyable physical activities that promote lifelong healthy active living. Students will learn movement skills and principles, ways to improve personal fitness and physical competence, and safety and injury prevention. They will investigate issues related to healthy sexuality and the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, and will participate in activities designed to develop goal-setting, communication, and social skills.