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 Welcome to the English Department

“Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible

and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” 

- Charles W. Eliot

Why Study English?

 

English prepares students for personal and professional life by fostering both practical communication skills and imagination. By reading literature critically, students gain essential training in how to think clearly and write articulately. Through literature, students will explore the human condition and develop their minds analytically.

 

By exploring social and cultural questions through the lenses of poetry, fiction, and drama, students also develop the important capacity to see the world from someone else's point of view. They learn to examine familiar ideas from new perspectives; to approach unfamiliar ideas with generosity and intelligence; to understand how historical context shapes individual beliefs and social relations; and to think critically about how all kinds of texts contribute to the social debates that shape culture.

 

 

ENGLISH COURSES:

NEW COURSE

The Narrative Mirror: Gender Roles in Literature - IDC 4U2  Grade 12 University

The English Department is very pleased to be offering a unique academic experience for Grade 12 students. This interdisciplinary course offers students an exploration of gender roles in literature, with a specific focus of the depiction of women from the Renaissance to present day. Students will investigate psychological, sociological, cultural and political factors that have influenced women through history and, ultimately, in literature.

 GRADE 11 Elective Courses:

Media Studies—EMS 301 Grade 11 Open

Are you interested in pop culture, celebrity gossip and important issues affecting teenagers and young adults? Do you love TV, movies, music, commercials and magazines? If the answer is yes, this course is for you. Through this course you will examine the role of the media in modern society and create your own media products such commercials and television sitcoms. This is a favourite course among many students who enjoy the media related activities and field trips.

Presentation and Speaking Skills—EPS 301 Grade 11 Open

Fact—the ability to speak and argue well is undeniably important. This course will teach you how to speak clearly and articulately, give dynamic presentations and speeches, win debates, give convincing arguments and other communication secrets that you need to take the course to learn! This course will teach you how to be a confident speaker and how to eliminate the common fear of public speaking. This course will help you excel in every subject area and virtually every job field.

 GRADE 12 Elective Courses:

The Meaning of Life in Film and Literature - ETS 4U1 Grade 12 University

This course is for students who love movies, debating, discussions and controversy. The Meaning of Life in Film and Literature will prepare students for university through analyzing various literary texts and engaging in meaningful discussions. Most importantly, it will make students stop and think about who they are, what they believe and where they are heading. This course is a favourite among students.

The Writer's Craft - EWC 4U1 Grade 12 University

Do you love to write? This course is for students who want to go into a career in journalism, radio or television, or simply need some help in improving writing and grammar skills. Good writing skills are necessary for all subjects and careers, and this course will not only teach students how to write well, it will also help students develop written work for portfolios that are required for certain University/College programs. Because of the focus on creating materials, the reading load is lighter than a traditional English course.

The Role of Sports in Modern Society - ETS 4C1 Grade 12 College

Are you a TSN and sports highlight junkie? Do you enjoy watching and discussing films? This course is for students who love sports. Students will be able to earn an English credit while reading about the daily events in the world of sports. Everything will be studied, from society’s obsession with sports to the power of athletes to merchandise products. This course, while an obvious choice for people with a passion for sports, is also useful for those students interested in sports journalism and broadcasting.

CLUBS:

 Writers Unblocked

 

Students are invited to join Writers Unblocked! This club provides students with an opportunity to establish a deeper appreciation and express their passion for various literary works. Through their writing, students will be given an opportunity to not only contribute as young aspiring writers to Canadian literature but also work as agents of social change within their community. The objective of the club is three-fold: allow students to appreciate various literary forms and express their opinions, provide community-based learning opportunities to help students to be citizens of social justice via their writing and provide opportunities for young writers to gain public recognition. Last year, Writers Unblocked created, in collaboration with Credit Valley Hospital, a Christmas activity booklet for patients who are in need of hope and aspiration during the festive season. With last year's Used Book Sale, Writers Unblocked raised sufficient funds to bind enough booklets for patients in the paediatrics division. "Not only I am excited to unveil hidden talent, but proud to watch the club's growing enthusiasm to give back to the community"- Ms. Kajda, Teacher Advisor.

 

Book Club

 

Students meet once a month to discuss best-selling novels and develop their minds. What a great learning experience to share with good food and great company. Please see Ms. Soares and Mr. Lepage for further details.

 

"The Mirror" Newspaper Club

 

Students will have the opportunity to learn how to write, edit and publish a newspaper. Reporting and photography skills are also developed through this exciting club.

 

Essay Competitions

 

Through the English Department, students will have the opportunity to enter various writing competitions such as essay and poetry writing competitions. Check the English board outside of room 304 for further details.

 

 

 The English Department Team

 

Ms. Bural - Department Head

Ms. Arseneau

Ms. DeCarvalho

Ms. Duke

Ms. Izquierdo

Ms. Jurnic

Ms. Kajda

Ms. Kerr

Ms. Kiss

Ms. Macri

Mr. McDowell

Ms. Ruffell

Ms. Soares

Ms. Taddeo