Vancouver Formosa Academy
5621 Killarney Street
Vancouver, BC, Canada
V5R 3W4
- E-mail: info@vfa.bc.ca
- Phone: 604.436.2332
- Fax: 604.436.2331
English 7
This course will emphasize the development of writing and reading skills. Students will be required to produce various kinds of writing based on the Writing Process method. Lessons will focus on reading comprehension techniques. The elements of the short story and novel will be introduced
English 8
This course will introduce students to the elements of short stories, novels and forms of poetry. It will emphasize the development of their knowledge, skills and understanding of the Writing Process as a means to communicate effectively. Students are required to respond in oral and written forms to demonstrate their comprehension level. Grammar and writing skills are other important topics.
English 9
This course includes the study of various types of literature such as the short story, the novel and poetry. There will also be an emphasis on writing skills including grammar. Students will be expected to communicate their ideas orally as well as in written form.
English 10
The English 10 course will expose the students to a variety of new reading experiences as well as short stories, novels and poetry. In their writing, students will be expected to compare and contrast various aspects of literature. Grammar skills will continue to be emphasized and oral communication will be stressed. There is a required Provincial Examination worth 20% of the final mark.
English 11
The English 11 course is designed to help students develop the six core skills of language arts: reading, writing, listening, speaking, viewing, and representing. Units of study include novel, short stories, poetry, drama and creative writing.
Communications 11
This course has been designed as an alternative to English 10 and is intended to help students become fully skilled language users, capable of comprehending and responding to the multiple forms and functions of language that surround them. Units of study include: novel, short stories, poetry, creative writing, practical writing, grammar and oral communication. Students completing Communications 11 are not eligible for English 12.
Mathematics 7
The Math 7 course reviews all basic number operations. Other units include patterns, shapes and space, statistics and probability. Problem-solving skills are emphasized.
Mathematics 8
The Math 8 course covers basic number operations; patterns and relationships with an introduction to variables and equations; measurement; and shape and space concepts. Students will use a variety of methods to solve practical and theoretical problems.
Mathematics 9
The Math 9 course reviews basic operations and emphasizes algebra and geometry. Problem solving skills are stressed and students are challenged to use independent thinking in their solutions.
Principles of Mathematics 10
This course is an extension of Math 9 with the emphasis moving from concrete skills to the more abstract. Problem solving assignments will become more complex and challenging. There is a required Provincial Examination worth 20% of the final mark.
Principles of Mathematics 11
The Principles of Mathematics pathway prepares students for the study of calculus. Course organizers include: variables and equations, relationships and functions, 3-D objects and 2-D shapes. Students will be involved in more advanced problem solving activities.
Social Studies 7
This course examines Ancient World Cultures to A.D.500. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the contributions of ancient cultures to modern science, technology and government. Geography skills will be reinforced. The study and discussion of current events will be introduced.
Social Studies 8
This course will focus on “Our Diverse Heritage”. It includes the study of the emergence of the four religions and the developments in Western and Eastern Europe during the Middle Ages. The Middle East, India, China and Japan will also be examined. Other topics include the Renaissance, Reformation and Exploration. Geography and current events will also be emphasized.
Social Studies 9
The theme of this course is industrialization of the modern world. It covers revolutions and nationalization in Europe and North America from 1550 to 1800. The early history of Canada to 1815 is also studied. Geography and current events are other important topics.
Social Studies 10
Social Studies 10 is a continuation of the Canadian studies in Social Studies 9. Canadian history from 1815 to 1914 is examined with emphasis on events leading to Confederation and development of the west. Canada’s political system and Pacific Rim trading partners are studied. Geography and current events remain important topics as well.
Social Studies 11
This course offers students an integrated approach to Canadian and global issues of the 20th century. The course focuses on historical and contemporary social, cultural, political, legal, economic and environmental issues and prepares students for their future lives in Canada and as members of the international community. There is a required Provincial Examination worth 20% of the final mark.
Science 7
The Science 7 course includes the study of Earth and Space Science, Life Science and Physical Science. Students will be introduced to simple laboratory experiments with an emphasis on proper procedures and safety.
Science 8
Science 8 focuses on the Life Sciences, and introduces students to the basic concepts in Chemistry, Geological Processes and Energy. Students will perform laboratory experiments with an emphasis on proper laboratory procedures and safety.
Science 9
This course covers the areas of Chemistry, the Solar System, Ecology, Energy and the Human Body. Lessons will consist of lectures, laboratory experiments and project work.
Science 10
The themes of Science 9 are continued in this course with emphasis on Chemistry, Biology and Physics. Laboratory experiments and projects will remain important parts of the course. There is a required Provincial Examination worth 20% of the final mark.
Biology 11
In this course, students are introduced to a variety of biological skills, scientific processes, and themes. The course surveys the array of life forms on earth in the five kingdoms: Kingdom Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia. The course outline covers: Adaptations & Evolution; Microbiology; Mycology; Plant biology; Animal Biology; and Ecology. Prerequisite: Science 10.
Physics 11
Physics 11 is an introductory course that focuses on the principles and theories of Physics, encourages investigation of physical relationships, and illustrates the relationship between theory and application. The application of Physics to everyday situations is highlighted throughout the curriculum. The learning outcomes for Physics 11 include: Physics Introduction; Wave Motion and Geometrical Optics; Kinematics; Dynamics in One Dimension; Energy; Special Relativity; and Nuclear Fission and Fusion. Prerequisite: Science 10.
Chemistry 11
Chemistry 11 is a laboratory course in which students are introduced to the activities of Science Safety and the Scientific Method. Curriculum topics include: Introduction to Chemistry; Atoms, Molecules, and Ions; Mole Concept; Chemical Reactions; Atomic Theory; Solution Chemistry; and Organic Chemistry. Prerequisite: Science 10
Physical Education 7, 8, 9, 11
In these courses the students will participate in a variety of popular Canadian sports. They will also learn the rules and vocabulary of each. Emphasis will be placed on participation and personal fitness.
Physical Education 11
The Physical Education 11 and 12 curriculum focuses on promoting healthy attitudes and regular physical activity as important parts of each student’s lifestyle. It emphasizes analyzing and improving physical competence, maintaining personal fitness and developing effective leadership. The course supports the completion of the Graduation Transitions Personal Health requirement.
Information Technology 10
Through this course, students will become more sophisticated in their use of information technology tools such as computers, printers, scanners and digital cameras, and apply the associated software. Students will develop stronger information literacy skills and learn about various careers that use and apply information. They will consider the cultural, ethical and legal implications of information technology.
Information & Communications Technology 11
The fast changing world of technology is explored .In this course, students may be engaged in web page design, 2D and 3D design and animation, networking technologies, desktop digital media, systems management and object oriented programming.
Art 7, 8, 9, 10
These courses will give the students experience in many different art media. Vocabulary related to Art will also be taught and Canadian cultural themes and holidays will be integrated into project work.
Art Foundations 11
In this course, students will be engaged in creating and responding to a wide range of 2D and 3D art processes selected from drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking and graphic design. Art history, art criticism and exploration of a range of art careers are integral to the course.
Health and Career Education 7
This course will help the students make healthy and responsible choices in their lives. Topics include healthy lifestyles, as well as the prevention of substance abuse, child abuse and injuries. Family life education is introduced. Career development is another important topic
Health and Career Education 8, 9
The aim of these courses is to enable students to become responsible individuals who can make plans, set goals, and make informed choices about such topics as healthy living and abuse prevention. Emphasis is placed on career awareness, exploration, and preparation.
Planning 10
The Planning 10 course focuses on education planning, career development, healthy decision-making and financial literacy. Students will also work on different aspects related to the Graduation Transitions requirement.
Graduation Transitions
Graduations Transitions is a requirement of all students enrolled in Grades 10, 11 and 12 in the British Columbia School System. The goal of Graduation Transitions is to prepare students for a successful transition to life after secondary school. To complete graduation transitions, students must collect evidence on their achievements in the areas of Personal Health, Community Connections and Career and Life.
English as a Second Language 7, 8, 9, 10
These courses are designed to assist students with specific language skills needed to succeed in regular Junior High School courses. Basic reading and writing skills will be reviewed and new subject related vocabulary reinforced. Speaking, listening and study skills will be emphasized.
English Through Drama
Students will be challenged to use their language skills in a new way in this course. Some projects will include short plays, puppetry, improvisation activities and mime. Students will also have the chance to write their own material.
English Through Music
Sstudents will be exposed to a wide variety of songs including Canadian folk songs and holiday songs. Basic music theory and music vocabulary will also be taught.
Keyboarding
This is an introductory course which will teach basic computer operation and keyboarding skills
Introduction to Computer Science
Students learn to write simple computer programs using the BASIC language. They will learn and apply common routines found in all computer programs written today. From the programming, students will develop their skills in sequential logic which can be applied to other subject areas.
Canadian Culture
This practical course gives students a chance to learn about Canadian society, including Canadian lifestyle, culture, customs and manners.
Vancouver Formosa Academy
5621 Killarney Street
Vancouver, BC, Canada
V5R 3W4