French
Parlez-vous francais? L'ecole Vernon Barford, nous parlons beaucoup de francais!
In French several thematic units are covered. Each unit will cover vocabulary, grammar and culture related to the theme. Students will have the opportunity to speak, listen, read, and write in French. Each unit will work towards a final project and culminate in an exam. There will be a year-end exam in June. Graded assignments and quizzes throughout the year will prepare students for these projects and tests. Students will have the opportunity to work individually and in groups, participation in both cases is very important to learning the language.
Spanish
In beginner level Spanish, students will learn to use Spanish in a variety of situations effectively and competently. Through the exploration of the cultures in the Spanish-speaking world, students will acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes to be effective global citizens.
Art
The art program provides students with the opportunity to express themselves visually using a variety of media. Students develop drawing, painting, ceramic and print-making skills in a collaborative studio atmosphere. Main projects include still life, landscapes, portraits and sculpture inspired by great artists from the past and present in both representation and abstract styles.
Drama
The drama program is designed to take students at any level of preparation or experience. All activities are aimed at building confidence, concentration and imagination as well as developing theatrical skills, verbal communication skills and group cooperation. Class activities will deal with all aspects of drama from acting, to designing, promoting and directing productions. The course will also deal with a wide variety of dramatic resources from Shakespeare to modern works, and from puppetry to masks and musical theatre.
Instrumental Music
Students in the instrumental music program learn skills that enable them to perform on a wind or percussion instrument, both as a soloist and as part of a larger ensemble. The music program at Vernon Barford School is continuous, knowledge and skills are built on from year to year. Because of this it is recommended that students begin in grade 7. To be an effective member of the band, a student must demonstrate a positive and cooperative attitude. Home practice is also necessary.
Students have the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities such as band camp, special workshops and festivals. These occur throughout the year for all grades. The music program consists of a grade 7 band, a grade 8 band, a grade 9 band, a stage band and small chamber ensembles. Rehearsals for these ensembles occur outside of class, usually during the lunch hour.
Industrial Arts
Students in design studies/construction technologies and communication technology will:
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develop and apply creative and problem solving abilities,
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develop a working knowledge and skills in a variety of technologies and technological systems,
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and develop safe, effective and environmentally friendly work habits.
Career Exploration
The Career and Exploration six-week rotation allows students to sample foods, computers, second languages, health, environmental outdoor education, industrial arts and sewing. Students develop skills they can apply in daily living now and in the future. They can investigate complementary courses, use technology (processes, tools and techniques) effectively and efficiently, apply and reinforce learnings developed in other subject areas, and help prepare for entry into the workplace or further learning.
