Complementary Course Descriptions – 2021-2022

Art 5-9

Please note that Art is mandatory for all students in Grades 5 and 6. The duration is one semester.
Students will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of techniques and materials including drawing, painting & mixed media.

Band (Instrumental Music) 5-9

Please note that either Band or music is mandatory for students in Grades 5 and 6.
Students in band (instrumental music) will have the opportunity to learn a wind or percussion instrument, with much of the year spent preparing a variety of music for performances. In addition to two yearly concerts, students will also have the opportunity to participate in workshops, additional performance opportunities and trips (band camp, or other overnight trips) depending on which level class they are in. The development of teamwork, individual practice, creativity and thinking skills are important in this course. Occasionally, students will be expected to attend extra rehearsals and performances outside of class time, however most class work is done during regular school classes.

Please note that Band 6-9 is a full year course and includes a $100.00 fee for instrument rental if you do not provide your own instrument. There will be no withdrawals after Term 1 except in special circumstances.

***Grade 5 Band class will be one term only, with one concert at the end of the term. The instrument rental fee for grade 5 band is $50.

Computing Science 8

This class is for the analytically minded. Using Adobe Animate, we will be doing heavy component of coding through the code language of ActionScript 3. We will also be doing some 3D design and to a lesser extent, some animation to supplement our code and programs. All in all, our end goal is to have each student create a custom interactive game playable through any standard Flash player. No knowledge of coding is required, but students must have a strong independent work ethic.

Construction 5-9

Construction will teach students some general knowledge of wood & how we use it to make things. Teaching SAFE work habits as students cut, shape, drill & join wood are a large & extremely important part of this course. Depending on the grade level hand tools and some power equipment may be used. Students will complete a variety of projects.

Design Studies 9

This class is centered around creating. Students will have an opportunity to design, 3D print, and finish 3D models. Students will also have the chance to finish a print finished pieces from other users, through seaming, sanding, and priming. In addition, upon completion of projects, students move on to create their own custom graphics for tee-shirts and other student original ideas with teacher support. Pieces made include props, helmets, masks, and others. No prior 3D printing experience is required, personal time management is an asset. Basic supplies provided.

Drama 5-9

Students will explore the dramatic process, ways of communicating using their voices and bodies, and gain self- confidence in a safe environment.

Foods 5-9

In Foods, students will be introduced to measuring techniques, baking, meal preparation and safety with a focus on Canada’s Food Guide.

Guitar 7-9

This is a new option being offered at David Thompson, and as such, is only being offered in Grade 7 in an attempt to build the program. It is designed for students with zero to limited guitar experience. Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to playing the guitar at a beginning level and will learn many of the different styles, skills and techniques required to become a successful guitarist. Areas of concentration include: correct posture, note reading, aural skills, flat-picking, singing songs, rhythmic patterns, chord study, finger-picking styles, musical forms, improvisation and performing experiences.

Leadership 7/8/9

Being involved in a leadership group involves bringing a positive attitude to class, along with energy and ideas to undertake and support school and leadership group initiatives. There may be occasions where your leadership is needed during school time, on special days, lunch hour, after school and some evenings. There are plenty of opportunities where your creativity, initiative, responsibility and commitment to follow-through will be called upon as we act as ambassadors in creating a positive community environment at David Thompson.

Communication Technology 5/6 and Media Studies 7-9

This Career and Technology Foundation course will allow students to develop computer literacy using a number of programs and applications. Students will explore several topics that include graphic design, photography, animation, programming & video game creation, video, special effects, 3d design and modeling.

Music 5 / Music 6 (mandatory course for all Grades 5-6 students - there is no longer Band in Grades 5 and 6)

Through the elementary music program, students will develop: enjoyment of music, awareness and appreciation of a variety of music, including music of the many cultures represented in Canada, insights into music through meaningful musical activities, self-expression and creativity, musical skills and knowledge.

Outdoor Education 7-9

This course provides opportunities for in depth studies of environments in a variety of urban and natural settings. The focus of the course will be on outdoor survival and safety. The core values that will be taught in this course are: Teamwork, Leadership; Community and Environmental Stewardship through in-class learning modules and through outdoor experiential activities. These activities may include (but are not limited to): Campsite set-up & safety, orienteering, geocaching, hiking, snowshoeing, avalanche training and shelter building.