The North Vancouver Distributed Learning School (NVDLS) provides students with an alternate pathway to complete many of their academic and elective courses at the Grade 10, 11 and 12 levels. Benefits of online learning include: a personalized pathway to meet diverse learning needs the potential to enrol in additional electives at school while taking other courses online flexibility through self-paced, anytime, anywhere learning complements extra-curricular and work schedules develops and utilizes 21 st century skills through interactive technology prepares students for online course delivery options in post-secondary institutions All courses meet the Ministry of Education curriculum guidelines, are taught by BC Certified teachers, and support the graduation program. Students may choose to work entirely online and communicate with teachers/peers using a variety of interactive and engaging online tools. Or, they may choose the blended model, which combines online learning with some scheduled, in-person activities. It is our intention to provide students with the best online course experience anywhere. For more information about the vision for Distributed Learning in North Vancouver, please see our School Plan, available on the website. WHAT ARE ONLINE COURSES? Online courses in North Vancouver are regular high school graduation courses that allow students a different method to complete the course. Students must have access to a computer and internet. This allows students to work from any location they choose, at the pace they choose and at the time of day they choose. It is important to remember that while there is a great deal of independence expected of students there is always a teacher available to assist the student. Teachers provide: a structure to the course learning opportunities direction as students proceed through the course assistance (via email, chat, online tools, face-to-face) assessment (assignments, quizzes, tests...)
WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL ONLINE STUDENT? Before deciding whether online learning will fit your educational needs and personal circumstances, students and parents need to be aware of: who is likely to succeed with online learning whether you have some of the characteristics to be a successful online student the expectations of the parent or guardian as facilitator in their child s education Successful online students are: self-motivated independent learners computer literate are able to organize their time and tasks have effective written communication skills are personally committed to this type of learning environment PARENTS NEED TO: help their child with the necessary technology assist in setting up a daily routine and organization of assignments monitor progress encourage students to ask questions of their instructors when they are having difficulty encourage students to utilize the supports offered at the DL Centre DL CENTRE BLENDED MODEL: All students enrolling in the North Vancouver Distributed Learning School have access to a Distributed Learning (DL) Centre where they may participate in face-to-face tutorials, work in the DL computer lab, interact with their teacher, and complete supervised tests and exams. The main DL Centre is located at Mountainside Secondary School and is open during the day and after school most evenings until 6:00 pm. Satellite DL Centres are also located at Argyle, Carson, Handsworth, Seycove, Sutherland, and Windsor secondary schools. Please check the website for DL Centre hours at each location. MOODLE: THE ONLINE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT: The North Vancouver Distributed Learning School is housed in an online learning management system (LMS) called Moodle. Moodle is an open source LMS that is used by many online schools at both the secondary and post-secondary level. Students will access the Moodle site through a website link and access their personal course(s) via a confidential password and login. The site contains all of the course materials which can include texts, videos, flash animation, voice threads, forums, a peer and teacher messaging system and links to the DL teachers, Academic Advisor and Administrator. Teachers are live in the site frequently, and will post their online availability in their courses. Teachers also set up virtual classrooms and invite students to participate in both formal and informal classes.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS BY GRADE: All courses offered through the North Vancouver Distributed Learning School utilize a wide variety of technology tools. E-texts, video, audio, interactive forums and a variety of online tools support student learning and provide an interactive and engaging environment. GRADE 10 COURSE OFFERINGS: English 10 In English 10, students are challenged to extend their writing and research skills and to develop their personal voice. Students are expected to delve and explore the writing process through a variety of means: essays, responses, narrative stories, dramatic scripts, poetic forms, notes and letters. The general goal of English is the enjoyment of literature through investigation and exploration; therefore, the courses offer various short stories, poems, novels, plays and essays to appeal to a variety of interests and abilities. With growing confidence, students will begin to develop their skills of literary analysis through a greater emphasis on the role that literary features play in creating meaning and perspective. Formal and informal essay writing is further practiced, with specific training in the formulation of a thesis and the selection and organization of supporting evidence. Students will continue to develop and work towards greater sophistication in their language and communication of ideas and make personal connections to what they read, hear and view. The English 10 course requires the completion of a Provincial Exam, worth 20% of a student s final mark. Experiential Outdoor Environmental Leadership 10 The EOEL course is a blended DL experience, in partnership with the North Vancouver Outdoor School, which provides opportunities for students to develop their leadership and interpersonal skills while gaining a deep understanding of environmental and ecological knowledge. Students will access the DL portion of the course to give them background knowledge and information about leadership skills and specific environmental issues unique to the Outdoor School (Squamish) area and then practice these skills on-site at the NVOS. As student leadership counsellors, they will work with elementary students and guide them in such topics as wildlife habitat, fisheries biology, forest ecology, sustainable farming practices and animal husbandry. Math 10 Apprenticeship & Workplace This Apprenticeship and Workplace math pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for entry into the majority of trades and for direct entry into the work force. Topics include understanding and applying the metric and imperial systems to the measurement of 2-D and 3-D objects, problem solving, number and algebra, geometry, measurement, statistics and probability. Math 10 Foundations & Pre-Calculus This course is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in both the arts and the sciences. Topics include surface area and volume of 3-D objects, problem solving, number and algebra, relations, functions and measurement.
Physical Education 10 The Physical Education program will enable all learners to enhance their quality of life through active living. Students will develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to incorporate physical activity into regular routines and leisure pursuits to live an active, healthy lifestyle. There is further work in the area of Active Health, with a focus on fitness, nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Students will be given the opportunity to develop, modify and maintain a personal fitness plan, and to develop and lead a variety of physically active activities. Self-motivation and acquisition of leadership skills are integral components of this course. Planification 10 This course provides opportunities for French Immersion students to explore a wide range of career and post-secondary education and career options, think critically about health issues and decisions, develop financial literacy skills, and plan the actions required to pursue post-secondary destinations and career paths. Planification 10 will cover a broad range of topics including: introduction to Graduation Transition requirements, Education and Careers, and Health and Finances. This course is designed to help students develop the confidence and skills they need to become self-directed individuals who display initiative, set priorities, establish goals, make thoughtful decisions and take responsibility for pursuing their goals in an ever-changing society. Planning 10 This course is designed to enable students to develop the skills needed to become self-directed individuals who set goals, make thoughtful decisions and take responsibility for pursuing their goals throughout life. Students will explore graduation requirements, education and careers, mental health issues, budgeting, and personal finances. Planning 10 encourages students to explore a full range of career and education choices; to think about their prospects for success in those careers; and to plan the actions required to pursue their chosen career paths and post-secondary education destinations. Students will develop the skills they need to become self-directed individuals who set goals, make thoughtful decisions, and take responsibility for pursuing their goals throughout life to the demands of the working world and the expectations of society. Science 10 Science 10 expands on the student s knowledge of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Earth Science. Biology emphasizes sustaining the earth s ecosystems. Chemistry concentrates on the Periodic table, ionic compounds, organic compounds and chemical reactions. Physics studies motion, specifically velocity and acceleration. Earth Science focuses on energy transfer in natural systems, climate change and plate tectonics. In the Life Science unit, students study the sustainability of ecosystems. Students will look at the issues associated with the environment from a global perspective and will also discuss the ethics of decisions made by developing and developed nations regarding the sustainability of life on earth. The Chemistry component includes learning to classify chemicals, distinguishing between organic and inorganic compounds, and analyzing chemical reactions. The Science 10 course requires the completion of a Provincial Exam, worth 20% of a student s final mark. Sciences Humaines 10 Sciences Humaines 10 examines the factors which have shaped our country, with emphasis on Western Canada. French Immersion students will explore the issues which led to Confederation and beyond from a geographical, historical and economic perspective. Through the lens of Canada s history and geography, students in this course will have the opportunity to decipher significant political theories and development issues. Within this context, they will explore and develop concepts of time, place and space, change, systems and global awareness. Students are expected to use technical, analytical, problem-solving and investigative skills as they make connections past, present, and future. The central theme of Sciences Humaines 10 is the political, economic, and social development of Canada. Unlike France, which became a country as a result of a people s revolution, or the US, which was brought about by a war of independence,
Canada was a vision shared by thousands of men and women who worked to make it a reality. Various themes are revisited throughout the course, including immigration and the face of Canada s cultural mosaic, the changing nature of democracy, and the role of the First Nations in Canada s development. The diversity of the First Nations, with their profound knowledge of the land and the variety of the people from Europe and Asia are also covered. Canada s relationship with the United States and other countries is explored in current events units that will aid students in developing a global perspective, focusing on how our historical past continues to shape and define our present day communities. Social Studies 10 Social Studies 10 consists of an examination of the factors that have shaped, and continue to shape, Canada and Canadians. Employing economic, geographic and historical perspectives, students will study the exploration of the West, the development of industry and trade, and the advent of Confederation. Through the lens of Canada s history and geography, students in this course will have the opportunity to decipher significant political theories and development issues. Within this context, they will explore and develop concepts of time, place and space, change, systems and global awareness. Students are expected to use technical, analytical, problem-solving and investigative skills as they make connections past, present, and future. Unlike France, which became a country as a result of a people s revolution, or the US, which was brought about by a war of independence, Canada was a vision shared by thousands of men and women who worked to make it a reality. Various themes are revisited throughout the course, including immigration and the face of Canada s cultural mosaic, the changing nature of democracy, and the role of the First Nations in Canada s development. The diversity of the First Nations, with their profound knowledge of the land and the variety of the people from Europe and Asia are also covered. Canada s relationship with the United States and other countries is explored in current events units that will aid students in developing a global perspective, focusing on how our historical past continues to shape and define our present day communities. Social Studies 10 explores the challenge of Canada s geographic diversity the way our ancestors experienced it. GRADE 11 COURSE OFFERINGS: Biology 11 Biology 11 is an exciting look into the evolution, ecology and diversity of life. Centred on the study of the diversity of living organisms including from microbes, to plants, and animals, Biology 11 focuses on the common themes of adaptation and evolution. The course presents biology as an open and growing field of challenging problems awaiting solution and looks at the nature of scientific processes and methods of investigation. Biology 11 includes the study of the scientific method, classification, evolution and adaptation, viruses, bacteria, primitive flowering and cone-bearing plants. This course will introduce the knowledge, skills, and the attitudes that provide the basis for sound and ethical problem solving in Biological issues. It will also examine the place of Biology in society and history and its relationship to other disciplines. Biology 11 uses lab activities to study the increasing complexity of life forms including theories of life, and complexity of life with in-depth studies of all life forms ranging from bacteria to primates. The basis of evolution of organisms and their ecology are also explored as well as factors that limit and control population growth. Chemistry 11 Chemistry 11 is a course designed to introduce the main ideas, principles and verifying concepts in chemistry by extending the student s knowledge of chemistry concepts, skills, and techniques. This course will focus on chemical principles in science and analyze many of them mathematically. Topics include the mole concept, solutions, chemical reactions and organic chemistry. Abilities in problem solving, chemical calculations and lab report writing are also developed. The course is theory based with a strong emphasis on quantitative aspects and students will focus on chemical principles in science and analyze many of them mathematically. Lab work and problem assignments will develop the student s skills in measurement, lab report writing, analysis and chemical calculations. Abilities in problem solving, chemical calculations and lab report writing are also developed.
Communications 11 Communications 11 provides students who are challenged with the English curriculum with opportunities to study a broad range of information and literary works; to practice using language in written, oral and visual forms for a variety of functions to life outside the classroom and at the workplace. Students will be able to think critically, creatively, and reflectively, while appreciating their own culture and the culture of others. Earth Science 11 Earth Science 11 is a course designed for those students with an interest in science and a curiosity about the origin and structure of the Earth, the materials of which it is made, the changes which occur on its surface, and its place in the universe. Students are introduced to the diverse aspects of earth and space science, and offers applications to the real world. Earth Science 11 will consist of a combination of topics chosen from the Astronomical Sciences and Geological Sciences, geologic process, earth resources, Earth s history, fossils, atmospheric science and oceanography. This course will look at some of these aspects focusing on a local perspective. Space science topics include planets and the solar system, stars, galaxies, and deep space objects such as quasars and black holes. Students who like learning about our planet and space science, will find this course an interesting way to obtain the Grade 11 science course credit toward graduation. The intent of Earth Science 11 is to introduce students to the many recent discoveries in space and space exploration, and to a number of current geological and environmental issues in the world today. English 11 English 11 develops the theme of personal discovery and symbolism. There will be greater emphasis on interpretive literature and literary terminology through the study of various genres. Conventions of language; grammar, usage and vocabulary, are applied to descriptive, narrative and expository paragraph and essay compositions. Critical and inferential thinking are key areas of development. Emphasis is placed on the development of the formal literary analysis as students read more challenging fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama. Students also experience the complexity and versatility of the English language by reading and studying short stories, novels, non-fiction, poetry, drama and essays. Through creative opportunities and writing, students are challenged to demonstrate comprehension to produce critical analyses of works studied. Math 11 Apprenticeship & Workplace This course is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for entry into the majority of trades and for direct entry into the work force. Topics include algebra, geometry, measurement, income and debt, number, statistics, and probability. Math 11 Foundations This pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in programs that do not require the study of theoretical calculus (typically the arts, humanities or social sciences). Topics include financial mathematics, geometry, measurement, logical reasoning, relations and functions, statistics, and probability. Math 11 Pre-Calculus This course is intended to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in programs that require the study of theoretical calculus (e.g.: Sciences and Engineering). Topics include algebra and number, relations and functions, combinations and binomial theorem, measurement, and trigonometry.
Physics 11 Physics 11 is a course designed to introduce the main ideas, principles, and unifying concepts in physics; to develop an understanding of the analytical and experimental methods of inquiry used in science; and to promote an understanding of how physics applies to everyday life for those students who intend to go on to careers in the basic or applied sciences. Physics 11 includes the study of kinematics motion, dynamics (forces), momentum, energy (mechanical, heat and light), waves, nuclear fission and fusion, and relativity. Students will develop some of the skills that scientists have used throughout the centuries to answer questions about their reality. Social Studies 11 The aim of Social Studies 11 is to develop thoughtful, responsible, active citizens who are able to acquire the requisite information to consider multiple perspectives and reasoned judgments. The curriculum provides students with opportunities to reflect critically upon events and issues in order to examine the present, make connections with the past, and consider the future. The focus is on historical and contemporary social, cultural, political, legal, economic and environmental issues. There are three major components: History deals with major social, economic and political events that have united and divided Canadians during the twentieth century; Geography explores the impact of economic activities, population growth, standards of living, urbanization, and environmental issues facing Canada and the world, and Government examines the structure and operation of Canada s federal, provincial and municipal governments. By exploring Canada s role in world events and examining Canada s development as an autonomous nation, students will come to understand Canada s position and responsibilities in the international community. Students are encouraged to develop an appreciation of democracy and what it means to be a Canadian; understand and prepare to exercise their roles, rights, and responsibilities within Canada and the world. This will prepare students with the skills and knowledge to become informed and active citizens of Canada and gain understanding of their Charter rights, political philosophies and parties, elections, and how to influence public policy. This course requires the completion of a Provincial Exam, worth 20% of a student s final mark. GRADE 12 COURSE OFFERINGS: Biology 12 Biology 12 focuses on human biology (digestive, circulatory, respiratory and reproductive systems), fostering student interest in and understanding of science by looking at themselves (human body) and seeing the diversity of body systems and how they work together. Students will explore cell structure and biochemical processes to the organ systems of the human body with an emphasis on homeostasis and control mechanisms. An understanding of human systems and the integrated nature of the human body will be emphasized. Microscope work, laboratory activities and dissections will provide hands-on experience. Chemistry 12 In Chemistry 12, many of the concepts presented in Chemistry 11 are probed at greater depth. Through theory and lab work, the following topics are investigated: thermochemistry, reaction rates, equilibrium, solubility, acids and bases, oxidation-reduction and electrochemistry. Lab work and problem assignments continue the development of skills in measurement, lab report writing, analysis and chemical calculations. Communications 12 Communications 12 provides students with opportunities to study a broad range of informational and literary works and to communicate effectively using language in written, oral, and visual forms for a variety of functions. This course provides activities in practical reading and writing skills, as well as the further development of listening and speaking skills. Students will develop a positive attitude towards language learning, by making connections to other areas of study and to life outside the classroom and into the workplace. Communications 12 will satisfy graduation requirements however, it does not fulfill university admission requirements. The course requires the completion of a Provincial Exam, worth 40% of a student s final mark.
English 12 The general goal of English is the enjoyment of literature through investigation and in-depth exploration; this course offers various short stories, poems, novels, plays and essays to appeal to a variety of interests and abilities. The specific aim of English includes the development of listening, speaking, reading and writing skills, as well as a refined understanding of the structure of the English language. This course focuses on both traditional and contemporary themes and issues relevant to young adults. Students will continue to develop and work towards levels of greater sophistication in their language usage and their appreciation of literature. The course requires the completion of a Provincial Exam, worth 40% of a student s final mark. French 12 French 12 offers students the opportunity to expand and develop their language skills. The emphasis of this course is on utilizing the basic skills that have been mastered previously; listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills are developed through the use of a variety of authentic documents. The finer points of structure and communication are introduced and developed. There is a stronger focus on exposure to contemporary and traditional literary selections where aspects of francophone culture will be introduced through stories, music and film. Students will perfect their communicative proficiency as well as grammar and vocabulary acquisition. Geography 12 Geography 12 is an interdisciplinary investigation of both physical and human geography to explore the many characteristics, processes, distributions and interactions among the physical components of the earth s surface and investigates the relationships between man and his physical environment. This course analyzes the physical properties of the four spheres: lithosphere (solid), atmosphere (gases), hydrosphere (water), and biosphere (living). Geography 12 is designed to prepare students in making rational decisions regarding the management of the earth as they become responsible citizens in a rapidly changing world. History 12 History 12 provides a comprehensive study of major events, ideas, issues and political philosophies that dominated the 20th Century. Through analysis of WWI, the Inter-war period, WWII, the cold war, and the collapse of the USSR to the rise of the United States and the Soviet Union as superpowers; the intent is to provide an understanding of the current world situation. Students will be required to work with historic facts and hypotheses to construct sophisticated arguments concerning historical problems. In addition to acquiring specific knowledge, History 12 is designed to develop a student s logic, critical thinking skills as well as personal values, and political points of view that will increase their understanding of their lives as Canadians and as global citizens. Law 12 Law 12 introduces students to the basics of Canadian Law: our judicial system, court procedure, criminal law, civil law, family law, human rights, contracts, buying, selling, and renting. A major section of this course focuses on the student s mock trials, which combines legal and trial knowledge, and critical thinking skills. Law 12 is designed to make students aware of their legal rights and responsibilities in Canada to apply concepts to practical situations and current issues which students may encounter after they graduate. Students will be challenged through a critical, reflective inquiry into our legal system and the ways in which it attempts to administer justice on our behalf.
Marketing 12 This course explores a deeper understanding of the issues relating to a global marketplace. Some of the topics covered will include ethics and advertising, ecommerce, sport and entertainment marketing, consumer buying behaviour, and international marketing in the BC economy. Students will look critically at the advertising they are exposed to every day to examine marketing skills and strategies at a global level. Students will learn to develop a business plan as well as be given the opportunity to apply their skills to a real life business endeavor. Math 12 Pre-Calculus This course continues to prepare students with the mathematical understandings and critical thinking skills for post secondary programs requiring the highest level of mathematics. Topics include advanced probability (permutations and combinations,) graphical manipulation of functions, graphs of polynomial functions (up to and including 5th degree), radical and rational functions, advanced trigonometry including inverse function, trigonometric equations and trigonometric proofs. Physical Education 12 PE 12 provides opportunities for students to experience a wide variety of recreational pursuits, career interests, and activities that promote lifelong healthy living. Emphasis will be given to analyzing and improving physical competence, maintaining personal fitness, developing effective leadership and sports management skills, and career planning. Students will be involved in service work within the school and community to develop effective leadership and sports management skills. Physics 12 Physics 12 is the study of classical mechanics and electromagnetism through a combination of thought experiments, demonstrations, hands-on learning and lab experiments, and is designed to help students develop analytical and problem solving skills. Physics 12 covers vectors, 2-D kinematics, dynamics, equilibrium, gravity, electricity, and electromagnetism. Transition Planning/Grad Transitions Graduation Transitions is an opportunity for students to reflect on their knowledge and abilities and plan for life after graduation. By collecting evidence of their achievements through personal health (develop a healthy living plan appropriate to their lifestyle), community connections (gain employability skills through participation in at least 30 hours of work experience and/or community service), and career and life (to explore personal and career goals during their secondary school years and create a plan for life after graduation), students will reflect on their strengths and interests, set career and personal goals, and develop a plan to achieve those goals. The aim is to prepare students for a successful transition to life after secondary school by supporting students in acquiring attributes in the areas of intellectual, social, and career development. Through the exploration of personal values, learning styles and goal settings students come to know themselves better. Students completing the 2 credit Transition Planning 12 course will automatically receive the Requirements Met designation for the 4 credit Grad Transitions course.