STS Upper School & STAND School Course Description Handbook 2026-2027

STRATHCONA-TWEEDSMUIR SCHOOL 2026–2027 UPPER SCHOOL & STAND SCHOOL

COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK

DR. CAROL GRANT-WATT, HEAD OF SCHOOL

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION

3

DIVISIONS ORGANIZED BY GRADE AND IB PROGRAMME AT STS

3

STS MOTTO, MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES

4

IB MISSION

4

STUDENT SERVICES

4

MIDDLE SCHOOL (GRADES 7-9)

5

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

5

ALBERTA PROGRAMS OF STUDY AND IB MYP

5

COURSE OFFERINGS AT A GLANCE

6

SENIOR SCHOOL (GRADES 10-12)

7

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

7

ACADEMIC ROADMAP

7

GRADE 10 MYP

7

GRADES 11-12

9

IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME

10

POST-SECONDARY APPLICATION DOCUMENTATION

12

COURSE OFFERINGS AT A GLANCE

14

STAND SCHOOL (GRADES 9-12)

15

WHAT IS STAND?

15

OFFERINGS

15

COURSE OFFERINGS AT A GLANCE

16

HOW TO READ COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

17

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS (ELA)

18

MATHEMATICS

21

SCIENCES

25

SOCIAL STUDIES

31

MODERN LANGUAGES

36

FINE ARTS

42

DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION (DTI)

50

PHYSICAL & HEALTH EDUCATION (PHE)

53

OUTDOOR EDUCATION (OE)

57

THE CLASS OF 2025

60

STAND SCHOOL

61

INTRODUCTION

61

DELIVERY, EXAMS & SUPPORT

62

HOW TO READ COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

63

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

63

STAND SCHOOL INNOVATION DIPLOMA

72

DUAL CREDIT & WORK EXPERIENCE

73

EQUINE STUDIES

74

APPENDIX A | REGISTERING FOR STS COURSES

75

APPENDIX B | IB DP PATHWAYS

77

APPENDIX C | ALBERTA EDUCATION DAR

84

APPENDIX D | SENIOR SCHOOL COURSE PLANNING

85

INTRODUCTION The 2026–2027 Course Description Handbook highlights the diverse course offerings available to Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (STS) students in the Middle School (Grades 7-9) and Senior School (Grades 10-12). These courses are designed to meet the rigorous dual standards of the Alberta Education Programs of Study and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) and IB Diploma Programme (DP). This edition marks the first time the handbook includes STAND School course offerings and pathways.

Students who complete three consecutive years of study from Grades 10 to 12 at STS can graduate with an Alberta High School Diploma, provided they meet the Alberta Education graduation program requirements. Additionally, STS offers Senior School students the opportunity to earn an IB Diploma or an IB Certificate, depending on their course selections and the specific requirements of the IB DP. These options prepare students for diverse post-secondary opportunities, equipping them with academic rigour and global perspectives.

STS ensures a smooth transition for students transferring to Alberta from other provinces or countries by awarding pass/fail credits for equivalent coursework completed elsewhere. These transfer credits, assessed by the Heads of Divisions, may contribute toward the Alberta Education graduation requirements and allow students to continue their educational journey with minimal disruption. This inclusive and flexible approach reflects STS’s commitment to supporting all students in achieving their academic goals.

DIVISIONS ORGANIZED BY GRADE AND IB PROGRAMME AT STS UPPER SCHOOL GRADE

7

DIVISION

8

9

10

Middle School

11

12

Senior School Diploma Programme (DP)

IB PROGRAMME

IB PROGRAMME YEAR

Optional - Grade 11 & 12 students can elect to complete the IB DP

Middle Years Programme (MYP)

MYP Year 2

MYP Year 3

MYP Year 4

MYP Year 5

DP Year 1

DP Year 2

STAND School

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

OUR MOTTO

Nil nisi optimum. Nothing but our best.

OUR VISION

Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (STS) inspires compassionate, curious, and creative global citizens who lead with courage.

OUR MISSION

A diverse community with students pursue lives of purpose, flourishing emotionally, physically, and intellectually.

AT STS WE VALUE

CURIOSITY as the first step in deep learning and innovative thinking.

CREATIVITY as an authentic and entrepreneurial expression of self in relation to problem-solving.

RESPECT for ourselves, others, and the earth as a fundamental commitment to how we live our lives.

KINDNESS as the wellspring for our shared sense of belonging.

PLURALISM so we are open to, respect, and engage with diversity of thoughts, feelings, and people.

HUMILITY in order to open ourselves to lifelong learning and grow as human beings.

INTEGRITY living every day with honesty and strong moral principles.

JOY as an inner feeling that celebrates personal success, well-being, and beautiful moments.

EXCELLENCE as the outcome of giving our best every day.

RESILIENCY through the hard work of learning to endure challenges and become stronger.

IB MISSION

The International Baccalaureate (IB) aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end, the organization works with schools, governments, and international organizations to develop challenging programmes for international education and rigorous assessment. These programmes encourage students worldwide to become active, compassionate, and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be correct.

STUDENT SERVICES

The Student Services department is dedicated to supporting students’ academic, social-emotional, and post-secondary development. The K-12 team includes Learning Strategists, who support effective learning habits and executive functioning; Guidance Counsellors, who provide mental health support and social-emotional programming; Post-Secondary Guidance Counsellors (PSGCs) who help students navigate post-secondary planning, including the university admission process; and a School Nurse, who offers preventive care, health education, and medical support.

For students in Grades 7–12, supports are tailored to developmental needs. In Middle School (Grades 7–9), the focus is on building strong learning strategies, healthy study routines, and social-emotional skill-building as students assume greater academic responsibility. In Senior School (Grades 10–12), student support expands to include post-secondary planning, career exploration, and preparation for life beyond STS. Working in partnership with teachers, families, and external professionals, the Student Services team ensures that every student is known, supported, and empowered to flourish at school and beyond.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

GRADES 7-9

PROGRAM OVERVIEW Students in Grades 7 to 9 are part of a dynamic and engaging Middle School (MS) community. The academic year runs from September to June, with core academic courses offered throughout the year. Fine Arts electives are structured into two semesters: September to January and February to June, allowing students to explore a variety of fine arts disciplines throughout the school year.

All MS students are enrolled in the IB MYP, a framework anchored in the Alberta Education Programs of Study curriculum. The MYP emphasizes holistic education, critical thinking, and global awareness while providing a foundation in eight subject groups: Language and Literature, Mathematics, Sciences, Individuals and Societies, Arts, Physical and Health Education, Design, and Language Acquisition. This diverse curriculum ensures balance and allows for interdisciplinary approaches to learning.

This handbook provides an overview of each MYP subject group and essential information about the courses available, helping students and families understand the academic and creative opportunities offered during these formative years at STS.

ALBERTA PROGRAMS OF STUDY AND IB MYP A Middle School student’s eight-block timetable is comprised of the following IB MYP courses: English French or Spanish Social Studies Science Math Physical and Health Education (PHE) Design Electives: Art Band Drama Musical Theatre

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSE OFFERINGS AT A GLANCE DISCIPLINE

GRADE 7

GRADE 8

GRADE 9

ENGLISH

English 7 IB MYP

English 8 IB MYP

English 9 IB MYP

MATHEMATICS

Math 7 IB MYP

Math 8 IB MYP

Math 9 IB MYP

SCIENCES

Science 7 IB MYP

Science 8 IB MYP

Science 9 IB MYP

Social Studies 7 IB MYP

Social Studies 8 IB MYP

Social Studies 9 IB MYP

MODERN LANGUAGES

French 7 IB MYP Spanish 7 IB MYP

French 8 IB MYP Spanish 8 IB MYP

French 9 IB MYP Spanish 9 IB MYP

FINE ARTS

Art 7 IB MYP Band 7 IB MYP Drama 7 IB MYP Musical Theatre 7 IB MYP

Art 8 IB MYP Band 8 IB MYP Drama 8 IB MYP Musical Theatre 8 IB MYP

Art 9 IB MYP Band 9 IB MYP Drama 9 IB MYP Musical Theatre 9 IB MYP

DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION (DTI)

Design 7 IB MYP

Design 8 IB MYP

Design 9 IB MYP

PHYSICAL & HEALTH EDUCATION (PHE)

PHE 7 IB MYP

PHE 8 IB MYP

PHE 9 IB MYP

SOCIAL STUDIES

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SENIOR SCHOOL

GRADES 10-12

PROGRAM OVERVIEW GRADES 10-12 | ALBERTA PROGRAMS OF STUDY GRADE 10 | IB MYP GRADES 11-12 | IB DP All Grade 10 students complete the IB MYP through the Alberta Education Programs of Study curriculum. The content of Grade 11 and 12 courses is informed by the Alberta Education Programs of Study curriculum, the IB DP curriculum, or, in some courses, both curricula. STS students earn an Alberta High School Diploma after completing at least 100 graduation program credits, including compulsory and elective Grade 10-12 courses.

SENIOR SCHOOL ACADEMIC ROADMAP GRADE 10 10-level English, Math, Science, Social Studies Elective courses MYP Personal Project + service hours CALM Post-secondary planning

GRADE 10 MYP

GRADE 11 English 20-1, Math 20-level, at least one Science 20level, Social Studies 20-1 More elective choices Select courses: IB DP Candidate/IB Course Candidate Service learning Post-secondary planning

GRADE 12 English 30-1 Social Studies 30-1 More choice/depth Select courses: IB DP Candidate/IB Course Candidate Post-secondary planning Alberta Diploma exams IB Diploma exams

Grade 10 represents the culmination of the IB MYP and the transition from Middle School to Senior School. Students engage with the Alberta Education Programs of Study through the lens of the MYP framework, which emphasizes reflective thinking, global contexts, and holistic learning. This approach strengthens academic foundations while fostering confidence, independence, and the ability to connect classroom learning to real-world contexts. Upon fulfilling all programme requirements—including the successful completion of the MYP Personal Project—students earn the STS IB MYP Certificate at the end of the school year.

Most Grade 10 courses follow a semester schedule. Semester 1 courses run from September to January, and Semester 2 courses run from February to June. Some Grade 10 elective courses may run every quarter. Each Semester concludes with an STS exam in academic subjects designed to evaluate students’ learning outcomes based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study curriculum. These exams provide valuable feedback on the knowledge and skills students have developed, and help guide their academic pathways within the Alberta Education Programs of Study framework.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

GRADE 10 MYP COURSE OFFERINGS English 10 IB MYP French 10 IB MYP or Spanish 10 IB MYP Social Studies 10 IB MYP Science 10 IB MYP Math 10 IB MYP Math 10C IB MYP Math 10C+ IB MYP Physical and Health Education (PHE) 10 IB MYP Career and Life Management (CALM) Two electives from: Outdoor Education (OE), Sports Medicine, Fine Arts: Art, DTI, Drama, Instrumental Music, or Musical Theatre (non-IB DP pathway).

If pursuing the IB DP pathway, Fine Arts electives might be taken outside the student’s timetable and completed by the end of their Grade 10 year.

Note: Instrumental Music, Musical Theatre, STEM Racing Engineering and Manufacturing, and Personal Fitness are available outside the timetable.

MYP Personal Project (PP): pursued outside the timetable

IB MYP PERSONAL PROJECT The IB MYP Personal Project (PP) is a capstone 25-hour independent study completed outside the regular timetable, enabling students to apply and refine their Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills through a self-directed passion project. Guided by a designated STS supervisor, students explore a topic of their choice by investigating, planning, acting, and reflecting on their learning process. The project includes four key components: (1) a tangible product or outcome, (2) a process journal documenting progress, (3) a final written or audio report, and (4) a May exhibition showcasing the project’s results.

Each PP begins with a student-driven inquiry question and learning goals, creating a personalized exploration of a topic meaningful to the student. Supervisors assess the projects, and IB examiners externally moderate them to ensure that rigorous academic global standards are met. Completing the Personal Project is a requirement for the STS IB MYP Certificate and demonstrates students’ independence, creativity, and critical thinking skills.

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GRADES 11-12 ALBERTA PROGRAMS OF STUDY Most Grade 11 and 12 courses follow a semester schedule. Semester 1 courses run from September to January, and Semester 2 courses span from February to June. Some elective courses may run quarterly. Each semester concludes with an STS exam in academic subjects designed to evaluate students’ learning outcomes based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study curriculum. These exams provide valuable feedback on the knowledge and skills students have developed, helping to guide their academic pathways within the Alberta Education Programs of Study framework.

DIPLOMA EXAM SESSIONS Most Grade 12 students write their Alberta Diploma Exams in January or June, which align with the school’s semester timelines.

However, Alberta Education offers multiple exam sittings throughout the year—November, January, April, June, and August—and some students may write in these alternate sessions when appropriate. Students are registered for all Diploma exam sessions through their Division Heads, who (along with their subject teacher) help determine the most suitable exam timeline based on each student’s program and readiness.

Alberta Diploma exams account for 30% of the final grade in each applicable course. Students who choose to retake a Diploma exam face no academic penalty, as the higher exam mark is used to calculate their final grade. This Ministry policy offers students a valuable opportunity to enhance their performance and achieve their best possible results. Students must pay a fee to rewrite provincial examinations.

At STS, provincially examinable courses include English 30-1 (Part A and Part B), Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2, Social Studies 30-1 (Part A and Part B), Biology 30, Chemistry 30, and Physics 30. Alberta’s High School Diploma requirements and the associated Diploma exams assess students’ mastery of the core curriculum, preparing them for graduation and success in post-secondary education.

GRADE 11 Students must take at least seven courses and are allowed one school-approved spare.

English 20-1 Math 20-1 or Math 20-2 Social Studies 20-1 At least one 20-level Science: Biology 20 Chemistry 20 Physics 20 At least ten additional credits at the 20-level in any combination of the elective course options

GRADE 12 Students must take at least six courses and are allowed up to two school-approved spares.

Compulsory courses: English 30-1 Social Studies 30-1 Elective courses: At least 20 additional credits at the 30-level *Students should confirm they are on track to complete their graduation program requirements by consulting with their designated Post-Secondary Guidance Counsellor.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME (IB DP) The IB DP is a rigorous, pre-university curriculum offered in Grades 11 and 12. It encompasses six subject groups and three Core components— Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)—to foster academic excellence, critical thinking, and global-mindedness. Students engage in independent research, reflective learning, and meaningful community involvement throughout the two-year programme. Subject-specific IB examinations are written in April and May, once students have completed their IB course. The IB DP begins in Grade 11, with preparatory work and course selection taking place in Grade 10. Recognized globally for its academic rigour, the IB DP offers high-achieving students opportunities for advanced standing or credit at many post-secondary institutions.

Students may pursue one of two pathways: Full Diploma: Completion of all required courses and Core components leading to the award of the IB Diploma.

Course (Partial) Pathway: Students who successfully complete two years of study in an IB subject and meet assessment requirements will earn an IB Certificate in that subject.

CLICK HERE to see which universities, colleges, and post-secondary institutions recognize the IB DP worldwide.

FIVE REASONS TO PURSUE THE IB DIPLOMA 1. Learn to think for yourself The IB programmes help you learn how to think— not just memorize facts. You’ll ask big questions, analyze ideas, and learn to express your own perspective with confidence.

2. Connect learning to real life Through TOK, CAS, and the Extended Essay, what you study isn’t just for tests—you link it to real issues, your interests, and meaningful experiences inside and outside school.

3. Explore what you love—with balance You get to choose subjects that interest you while still building a well-rounded academic foundation.

You can follow your passions in the sciences, arts, languages, or humanities.

4. Be university-ready—before you get there IB students take university-level courses from their high school teachers and enter post-secondary institutions with confidence. Students know how to write research papers, manage multiple deadlines, and approach new ideas with intellectual curiosity and discipline.

5. Stand out for university and beyond IB is recognized around the world. Universities value the program’s challenge and depth, and many IB students earn advanced credits or placement. You’ll grow not only as a student, but also as a thoughtful and capable person.

FIVE REASONS TO PURSUE AN IB CERTIFICATE IN ANY IB DP SUBJECT(S) 1. Focus on the subjects you love Choose IB courses in the areas that inspire you most without committing to the full Diploma. IB Certificate students aren’t held to the same fullprogram expectations, giving you flexibility.

2. Build strong academic skills in small classes Develop university-level skills by studying a subject you love with your high school teacher who knows you and your learning style.

3. Flex your schedule Select IB courses that fit your strengths, interests, and other commitments—whether athletics, arts, clubs, work, or personal priorities.

4. Stand out in university applications Even one IB course signals ambition and rigour.

Universities value students who challenge themselves.

5. Learn through exploration and independence IB learning is inquiry-based and encourages curiosity.

You’ll discuss ideas, tackle real-world problems, and gain confidence managing your own learning.

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HIGHER LEVEL (HL) AND STANDARD LEVEL (SL) IB DP courses are offered at the Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) over a two-year period. While both levels share the same grade descriptors, HL courses cover a broader range of material, requiring students to demonstrate a deeper understanding and more advanced skills. HL courses require 240 course hours, while SL courses require 150. Students can start in an HL course and switch to an SL course without academic penalty.

Full IB Diploma candidates must take at least three, but no more than four, HL courses.

IB DP SUBJECT GROUPS

CORE ELEMENTS

There are six IB DP Subject Groups:

Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Encourages critical thinking about knowledge and its applications.

Students submit a 1,600-word essay for assessment by the IB.

Group 1: Studies in Language & Literature English A: Literature (HL) Group 2: Language Acquisition French ab initio (SL), Spanish ab initio (SL) French B (SL), Spanish B (SL)

Extended Essay (EE): Students submit a 4,000-word independent research paper for assessment by the IB.

Group 3: Individuals and Societies History (HL/SL), Economics (HL/SL) Group 4: Sciences and Design Biology (HL/SL), Chemistry (HL/SL), Physics (SL), Design Technology (HL/SL)

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): A portfolio of extracurricular activities fostering personal growth.

Group 5: Mathematics Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (HL/SL) Group 6: The Arts Music (HL/SL), Theatre (HL/SL), Visual Arts (HL/SL) IB DP students may substitute a Group 6 subject with one from Groups 3, 4, or 5.

KEY FEATURES OF IB DP AT STS Concurrent course requirements: Students enrolled in IB DP subjects meet Alberta Education Programs of Study and IB course requirements.

Assessment: Students receive a final percentage grade (0–100%) for curriculum objectives covered in Alberta Education Programs of Study courses, and an IB mark (1–7) for curriculum objectives covered in IB Diploma Programme courses at the HL or SL level.

STS offerings: Dual-level (HL/SL) courses in History, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Design, and Music.

Flexible pathways: Students can switch from HL to SL courses in Grades 11 or 12 without penalty.

Post-secondary planning: Students choose the IB Diploma or the IB Certificate.

See APPENDIX B for recommended IB course pathways.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

IB DP GRADING SCALE The maximum score for each subject is 7 TOK and EE offer up to 3 additional points The maximum possible score for IB DP candidates is 45 (42 + 3)

IB DP DIPLOMA RECOGNITION A candidate can receive an IB Diploma only if the following conditions are met: All Core requirements are met: EE, TOK, and CAS. The candidate has achieved at least 24 total points.

A grade has been awarded in all subjects, TOK and the EE. A grade of at least 2 has been awarded in all subjects.

No more than two grade 2s were awarded (HL or SL).

No more than three grade 3s or below were awarded (HL or SL).

The candidate has at least 12 points in HL subjects. (For candidates who register for four HL subjects, the three highest grades count.)

The candidate has at least 9 points in SL subjects. (Candidates who register for two SL subjects must be awarded at least 5 points at SL).

IB Diploma Requirements IB Course Certificates: Students who complete two full years of study in any subject-group course can receive an IB Certificate in that particular course.

University Recognition: IB DP HL coursework may earn first-year credits at select universities.

POST-SECONDARY APPLICATION DOCUMENTATION IB DP TRANSCRIPTS The IB provides an official transcript of grades for the Diploma Programme (DP). It is an official copy of an IB candidate’s results.

Transcripts can be sent directly to an institute of higher education, such as a university. These documents are not sent to students or other organizations.

REQUESTING IB TRANSCRIPTS BEFORE IB DP RESULTS ARE RELEASED Students seeking IB DP transcripts before July 5 should contact the school's IB DP Coordinator to submit a request on the student's behalf to the IB. Students can choose up to six higher education institutions (HEI) worldwide, with a limit of three from Canada, and only one from the USA. An admissions centre, such as the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), counts as one request.

Results, when released, can be accessed by institutes via an IB secure website or on a paper transcript if the institute does not use the IB secure website. The first six requests are free of charge if submitted before the release of results for that exam session.

REQUESTING IB TRANSCRIPTS AFTER IB DP RESULTS ARE RELEASED After July 5, IB graduates can request transcripts directly from their institutions through the IB Request Service. There is a fee for each additional request, regardless of any previous requests for that student. Each transcript request must include a processing fee of $18 USD. It is important to note that the IB does not accept cash or postal orders.

For more information about IB-issued transcript requests, CLICK HERE. 12

DETAILED ACADEMIC RECORD (DAR) A Detailed Academic Record (DAR) is an Alberta Education-issued record that contains a student’s entire high school course mark history, including: (1) Grades 10-12 course attempts, (2) final course marks, (3) credits awarded, and (4) courses in progress. A DAR is an unofficial record and is intended for student use only. Students can view their DAR within myPass.

See Appendix C to view a sample DAR.

ALBERTA EDUCATION OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS The Alberta Transcript of High School Achievement is the official record to be used to apply for post-secondary admission. Issued by Alberta Education, the Alberta Transcript of High School Achievement includes the student's highest marks and the credits awarded in Grade 10-12 subjects. By default, transcripts display the student's legal name as registered under the Vital Statistics Act. Ordering transcripts is a straightforward online process through myPass, allowing students to send copies to their preferred destinations. Please note that a non-refundable processing fee of $10 applies to each copy requested. Learn more about Alberta Education transcripts.

First-semester transcripts are available in mid-February.

Second-semester transcripts are available in mid-July.

Summer school transcripts are available the last week of August.

SCHOOL ACADEMIC RECORD The School Academic Record is an STS-issued document that summarizes a student’s coursework, grades, and academic history during their enrollment at the school. It provides post-secondary institutions with a comprehensive overview of a student’s learning journey and achievement within STS programs and is commonly required as part of the admissions process. The School Academic Record is not an official transcript.

Official transcripts are issued only by external accrediting bodies: Alberta Education issues official transcripts for courses completed under the Alberta Education Programs of Study.

The International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) issues official transcripts for IB Diploma Programme and IB Certificate courses.

Official transcripts are available only after a student has completed the Alberta Graduation Program and/or an IB Diploma Programme or IB Certificate.

For students who have not yet graduated, Alberta Education can issue a Detailed Academic Report (DAR) that documents completed and in-progress courses. IB courses do not appear on DARs or Alberta transcripts, and official IB transcripts reflect only completed IB course results.

The School Academic Record, therefore, complements, but does not replace, official Alberta Education or IBO transcripts.

STS Post-Secondary Guidance Counsellors (PSGCs) are experienced in the academic documentation requirements of post-secondary institutions worldwide. Families and students are encouraged to direct all transcript-related questions to the PSGCs.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

SENIOR SCHOOL COURSE OFFERINGS AT A GLANCE GRADE 10 DISCIPLINE

GRADE 11

GRADE 12

NAME OF COURSE AND TOTAL CREDITS UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION

ENGLISH

English 10 IB MYP

5

English 20-1* English 20-1 IB HL*

5 5

English 30-1* English 30-1 IB HL* English 35*

5 5 3

MATHEMATICS

Math 10C IB MYP Math 10C+ IB MYP

5 5

Math 20-2* Math 20-1* Math 20-1+*

5 5 5

Math 30-2* Math 30-1* Math 30-1 IB SL* Math 30-1 IB HL* Math 31* Math 31 IB SL* Math 31 IB HL* Math 35 IB HL*

5 5 5 5 5 5 5 3

SCIENCES

Science 10 IB MYP

5

Biology 20* Biology 20+* Biology 25 IB HL/SL* Chemistry 20* Chemistry 20 IB HL/SL* Physics 20* Physics 20 IB SL*

5 5 5 5 5 5 5

Biology 30* Biology 30 IB HL/SL* Biology 35 IB HL* Chemistry 30* Chemistry 30 IB SL* Chemistry 30 IB HL* Chemistry 35 IB HL* Physics 30* Physics 30 IB SL*

5 5 5 5 5 5 3 5 5

SOCIAL STUDIES

Social 10 IB MYP

5

Social 20-1* Social 20-1 IB HL/SL* Economics 20 IB HL/SL* Theory of Knowledge 20 IB*

5 5 3 3

Social 30-1* Social 30-1 IB HL/SL* Economics 30 IB HL/SL* History 35 IB HL* International Politics 30 Legal Studies Theory of Knowledge 30 IB*

5 5 6 3 3 3 3

MODERN LANGUAGES

French 10 IB MYP - Phases 1,2,3* French 10/20/30 IB MYP - Phases 3,4* Spanish 10 IB MYP - Phase 1 Spanish 10 IB MYP - Phases 2,3 Spanish 10 IB MYP - Phases 3,4*

5 15 5 5 5

French 20 IB ab initio SL* French 20 IB Language B SL* Spanish 20 IB ab initio SL* Spanish 20 IB Language B SL*

5 5 5 5

French 30 IB ab initio SL* French 30 IB Language B SL* Spanish 30 IB ab initio SL* Spanish 30 IB Language B SL*

5 5 5 5

FINE ARTS

Art 10 IB MYP Drama 10 IB MYP Instrumental Music 10* Music 10 IB MYP Musical Theatre 15

5 3 5 5 3

Art 20* Art 20 IB HL/SL* Drama 20* Instrumental Music 20* Music 20 IB HL/SL* Musical Theatre 25* Theatre Arts 20 IB HL/SL*

5 5 5 5 5 3 5

Art 30* Art 30 IB HL/SL* Drama 30* Instrumental Music 30* Music 30 IB HL/SL* Musical Theatre 35* Theatre Arts 30 IB HL/SL*

5 5 5 5 5 3 5

Computer Science 10 IB MYP Design 10 Product Design IB MYP STEM Racing Engineering & Manufacturing

3 Design & Innovation Studies 20* 3 Design Technology 20 IB HL/SL* 3-5

5 5

Design Technology Studies 30* Design Technology 30 IB HL/SL*

5 5

PHE 10 IB MYP PHYSICAL & HEALTH Sports Medicine 10 EDUCATION (PHE) Career and Life Management (CALM)

5 5 5

PHE 20* Sports Medicine 20*

3 5 5

PHE 30* Sports Medicine 30* Personal Fitness (through STAND School)

5 5 1-7

OE 10 OUTDOOR EDUCATION (OE)

6

OE 20* OE 20 Access*

6 3

OE 30* OE 30 Access*

5 3

DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

*Course has prerequisite(s) and/or corequisite(s) Grade 10-12 students can take any Senior School course if they have completed the prerequisite course or received permission from the Head of Senior School.

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STAND SCHOOL

GRADES 9-12

WHAT IS STAND? STAND (ST&) grew from Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School’s spirit of innovation, saying yes to possibility and to Say Yes to STS. In STAND, it becomes yes… AND. Yes to all that STS is known for, AND yes to flexible online or hybrid learning that fits the life and dreams of the modern learner.

OFFERINGS FOR GRADES 9-12 STAND ONLINE

STAND online students are fully remote learners who complete all courses online, enjoying the flexibility to learn from anywhere. They visit campus only for major exams or special events, as many are managing distance, travel, health needs, or high-performance schedules outside of school.

STS FLEX

STS FLEX students are hybrid learners who complete their core courses online and have full access to both STAND and STS option classes, campus life and facilities, clubs, athletics, and other co-curriculars. With guidance from the STAND Principal, they design a customized plan with both online and in-person options to fit their needs, interests and personal schedules.

STS STAND-ALONE

STS campus students in Grades 9-12 may earn up to 10 credits per school year through online STAND courses when timetable conflicts or special circumstances arise. This requires approval from the STS Head of Middle or Senior School and, in some cases, may include an additional fee.

*External (e-commerce) students attending different schools for Grades 9-12 may also purchase single online STAND courses and earn up to 10 credits per year. An application process is required.

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Learn more about STAND School and courses offered in 2026–2027 on pages 61-74.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

STAND COURSE OFFERINGS AT A GLANCE DISCIPLINE HUMANITIES

Humanities 9

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS

English 10-1 English 20-1 English 20-2

English 30-1 English 30-2

SOCIAL STUDIES

Social 10-1 Social 20-1

Niitsitapi “The People”: Indigenous Studies 10/20/30 Social 30-1

MATHEMATICS

Math 9 Math 10C Math 20-1 Math 20-2

Math 30-1 Math 30-2 Math 31

SCIENCES

Science 9 Science 10 Science 20 Biology 20 Chemistry 20

Physics 20 Biology 30 Chemistry 30 Physics 30

PHE 9 PHE 10 PHE 20

PHE 30 Career and Life Management (CALM) Personal Fitness

PHYSICAL & HEALTH EDUCATION

DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY DTI Changemaker Program & INNOVATION (DTI) ARTS

Art 10 Art 20 Art 30

Instrumental Music 10 Instrumental Music 20 Instrumental Music 30

*For dual credit courses available at partner institutions and Equine Studies, please see pages 73-74.

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HOW TO READ COURSE DESCRIPTIONS MUSIC 20 IB HL/SL General Music 20

FNA2424

5 credits

Prerequisite: Music 10 IB MYP, Musical Theatre 15, Instrumental Music 10 IB MYP, or Head of Senior School approval

This course welcomes students of all musical backgrounds, from beginners to advanced performers, and provides opportunities to explore music as performers, creators, and researchers. In Year 1, students collaborate to arrange and perform a piece of music while building essential music theory knowledge. The curriculum focuses on the IB DP Music Areas of Inquiry, engaging students in diverse performance, composition, and research tasks exploring worldwide music. Students gain hands-on experience with music technology tools, including Avid Sibelius notation software, Ableton Live, MIDI controllers, synthesizers, and recording equipment. Open to vocalists and instrumentalists on any instrument, this course is ideal for students considering post-secondary music studies or careers in music.

STS COURSE NAME (APPEARS ON REPORT CARD) LENGTH OF TIMETABLED COURSE FULL-YEAR COURSE ONE SEMESTER COURSE QUARTER SEMESTER COURSE ALBERTA EDUCATION COURSE NAME ALBERTA EDUCATION COURSE CODE ALBERTA EDUCATION CREDITS EARNED UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF COURSE REQUIRED PREREQUISITE(S) AND/OR COREQUISITE(S) DESCRIPTION OF COURSE AND WHAT TO EXPECT

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS INTRODUCTION The English Language Arts (ELA) program empowers students to understand, appreciate, and use language confidently in diverse situations for effective communication, personal growth, and lifelong learning. It emphasizes the development of critical concepts, skills, and attitudes necessary for meaningful communication. Aligned with the Alberta Education Programs of Study curriculum, the program focuses on six interconnected skill areas, or strands: reading, writing, viewing, listening, speaking, and representing. Similarly, the International Baccalaureate (IB) English program aims to develop internationally minded students who think critically, communicate effectively, and engage with a wide range of texts, fostering both analytical and creative skills that complement Alberta’s emphasis on literacy, comprehension, and expression. Through their studies, students develop confidence in analyzing and appreciating literary works, while cultivating enjoyment and lifelong engagement with literature. They recognize that language and literature are dynamic processes that inspire imagination and foster creativity through self-expression.

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ENGLISH 7 IB MYP This course helps students enhance their English skills while fostering creativity and a passion for language and literature.

Students practice essential skills, including listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing, and representing. These activities help students explore ideas, respond to texts, share their thoughts, communicate clearly, and work with others. A diverse selection of texts, including poetry, media texts, speech arts, and novels, offers rich opportunities for students to engage with new perspectives and develop key attributes of the IB Learner Profile.

Through these experiences, students build a strong foundation in English and develop skills that support both personal growth and academic success.

ENGLISH 10-1 IB MYP English Language Arts 10-1

ELA1105

5 credits

This academically rigorous course fulfills Alberta Education Programs of Study outcomes and IB MYP objectives, equipping students with essential linguistic, analytical, and communication skills. Students explore a variety of literary genres, including short stories, novels, poetry, non-fiction, drama, and visual/multimedia works, engaging with thematically linked materials to foster deeper understanding and connections within and beyond the texts. Key units include Shakespeare, contemporary novels, short stories, and modern drama. The curriculum also incorporates interdisciplinary and thematic explorations, strengthening students’ critical thinking and appreciation of literature while preparing them for academic success.

ENGLISH 8 IB MYP This course focuses on developing strong English language skills to help students communicate clearly, think critically, and express themselves creatively. The course builds on six key skill areas—listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing, and representing—encouraging students to use these skills independently and together. Units on short stories, The Odyssey, speech arts, poetry (novel in verse), and a novel study allow students to explore various texts, themes, and the author’s craft.

These activities enhance imagination and creativity and improve analytical and communication skills. Through engaging in discussions, projects, and writing tasks, students develop key IB Learner Profile attributes, such as being reflective, open-minded, and effective communicators, preparing them for success across subjects and beyond the classroom.

ENGLISH 9 IB MYP In this course, students explore the power of language through engagement with quality literature, fostering proficiency in English for effective communication and personal reflection. This course emphasizes the creative aspects of language and literature, encouraging imagination and self-expression. The curriculum develops six interconnected skill areas: listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing, and representing. Students refine these skills independently and collaboratively by studying and appreciating language and literature. Core units, including novel study, poetry, speech arts, Romeo and Juliet, and Provincial Achievement Test (PAT) preparation, provide diverse learning opportunities. These units are designed to enhance students’ understanding of literature while developing the attributes of the IB Learner Profile.

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ENGLISH 20-1 English Language Arts 20-1

ELA2105

5 credits

Prerequisite: English 10-1 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This Alberta Education Programs of Study course offers an indepth exploration of short stories, novels, poetry, non-fiction, drama, and visual/multimedia texts. Organized primarily by genre, it incorporates thematic connections to deepen students’ understanding of literature and media. Students will study a novel, a Shakespearean play, a film, a modern drama, and a diverse selection of essays, short stories, poetry, and visual media from various sources. This course is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and an appreciation for literature and media in their many forms.

ENGLISH 20-1 IB HL English Language Arts 20-1

ELA2105

5 credits

Prerequisite: English 10-1 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This course examines literary works as artistic creations, focusing on the analysis of authors' techniques to convey meaning across genres and cultures. Through a comparative approach, students explore diverse genres of literature, including, but not limited to, poetry, novels, translated works, dramatic works, and non-fiction. This international and interdisciplinary curriculum fosters critical analysis, global awareness, and attitudes of tolerance, empathy, and respect for diverse perspectives, deepening students’ appreciation of literature's artistic and cultural significance.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

ENGLISH 35 IB HL

ENGLISH 30-1 English Language Arts 30-1

ELA3105

5 credits

Prerequisite: English 20-1, English 20-1 IB, or Head of Senior School approval

This course provides a rich exploration of literature and multimedia, encompassing novels, short stories, poetry, drama, non-fiction, and visual media. Organized by genre with thematic connections, the course includes five key units: Novel study, Modern drama, Shakespearean drama, Film study, and a selection of essays, poetry, short fiction, and visual media.

Students will refine critical thinking, interpretation, and creative expression through these diverse works.

ENGLISH 30-1 IB HL English Language Arts 30-1

ELA3105

English Literature 35

LDC3169

3 credits

Prerequisite: English 30-1 IB HL or Head of Senior School approval

English 35 invites students to explore literature from around the world, fostering international-mindedness and an appreciation of social, cultural, and environmental diversity. The course emphasizes critical and creative engagement with texts, encouraging independent thought, close reading, analytical writing, and articulate discussion. Students examine key concepts such as identity, culture, creativity, communication, perspective, transformation, and representation, while exploring texts from across historical periods and global contexts.

Collaborative discussion, active listening, and clear communication are central to the course, helping students respond thoughtfully to others' ideas and perspectives.

5 credits

Prerequisite: English 20-1 IB HL or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: English 35 IB HL

This course deepens students’ study of language and literature, encouraging them to view literary works as artistic creations and analyze how authors convey themes and ideas. Students explore texts through a comparative framework that includes works in translation, developing a global perspective that promotes tolerance, empathy, and respect for diverse viewpoints. Core content includes fiction, non-fiction, drama, and poetry from various geographical areas and time periods. The course provides focused time for developing the Individual Oral Presentation and HL essay.

SENIOR SCHOOL ENGLISH PATHWAYS ENGLISH 10-1 IB MYP

ENGLISH 20-1

ENGLISH 20-1 IB HL

ENGLISH 30-1

ENGLISH 30-1 IB HL

ENGLISH 35 IB HL

ALBERTA EDUCATION STREAM IB DP STREAM

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MATHEMATICS INTRODUCTION Mathematics is a universal language that develops analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills, fostering logical, abstract, and critical thinking. The Alberta Education Programs of Study and IB aim to help students use mathematics confidently, think and communicate mathematically, and appreciate its value. In the IB MYP and DP, the emphasis is on inquiry and practical application, equipping students with problem-solving skills that extend beyond academic learning. Together, these pathways encourage a lifelong commitment to education, preparing students to contribute to society as mathematically literate individuals. Alongside this, the curriculum aims to inspire an enjoyment of mathematics, an appreciation for its beauty and usefulness, and the development of logical, critical, and creative thinking. It also nurtures patience and persistence in tackling challenges and prepares students for post-secondary studies.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

MATH 7 IB MYP In Math 7 IB MYP, aligned with the Alberta Education Programs of Study, students explore real-world applications while building a strong foundation in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability. Students investigate patterns, analyze relationships, and use logical thinking to solve problems and communicate mathematical ideas effectively. The program is organized into four central units: patterns and relations (linear relations and equations), numbers (fractions, decimals, and percentages), shape and space (geometry and transformations on the Cartesian plane), and statistics and probability (data analysis and basic probability). Through these areas of study, students strengthen their problem-solving skills and develop a lifelong appreciation for how mathematics shapes their everyday lives.

MATH 8 IB MYP In Math 8 IB MYP, aligned with the Alberta Education Programs of Study, students deepen their knowledge and understanding of key mathematical concepts while continuing to explore realworld applications. They investigate more complex patterns, strengthen their number sense, and use reasoning to solve problems, make predictions, and communicate their thinking clearly. The program is organized into four central areas: patterns and relations (linear equations, graphing, and proportional reasoning), numbers (operations with fractions, decimals, and integers, including exponents and roots), shape and space (surface area, volume, and transformations), and statistics and probability. Through these studies, students build confidence as independent problem-solvers.

MATH 9 IB MYP In Math 9, following the IB MYP framework and the Alberta Education Programs of Study, students extend their knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts while applying them to complex, real-world contexts. They investigate advanced patterns, analyze relationships, and use critical thinking to model and solve problems with precision and clarity. The program is organized into four key areas: patterns and relations (linear relations, equations, and inequalities), numbers (rational numbers, powers, and exponents), shape and space (compound surface area and volume, symmetry, scale, and similarity), and statistics and probability (data analysis and probability). Through these studies, students refine their problem-solving strategies, communicate their reasoning effectively, and develop the confidence and curiosity needed for continued mathematical success.

MATH 10C IB MYP Mathematics 10C

MAT1791

5 credits

The Math 10C IB MYP course encourages students to connect mathematical models to real-life situations and other academic subjects, learn and apply new concepts through problemsolving, express mathematical ideas using a variety of representations, and utilize technology to enhance their understanding. Aligned with the Alberta Education Programs of Study, the course builds on the algebra skills and number sense developed in Math 9 IB MYP, and incorporates ATL and Assessment Criteria from the IB MYP. The course focuses on five key units: trigonometric ratios, products, factors, roots and powers, relations and Functions, systems of linear equations and linear relationships, and measurement. These units provide a strong foundation in mathematics, creating technically proficient learners who can succeed as practicing mathematicians.

MATH 10C+ IB MYP Mathematics 10C

MAT1791

5 credits

The Math 10C+ IB MYP course encourages students to connect mathematical models to real-life situations and other subjects, learn and apply new concepts through problem-solving, express mathematical ideas using a variety of representations, and utilize technology to enhance their understanding. Aligned with the Alberta Education Programs of Study, the course builds on the algebra skills and number sense developed in Math 9 IB MYP, and incorporates ATL and Assessment Criteria from the IB MYP. The course focuses on five key units: trigonometric ratios, including extensions to oblique triangles; products, factors, roots, and powers; relations and functions; systems of linear equations and linear relationships; and measurement. These units provide a strong foundation in mathematics, creating technically proficient learners who can succeed as practicing mathematicians. It is essential for students planning to pursue the IB DP Analysis and Approaches Programme in Semester II (Grade 10). This course incorporates elements of horizontal and vertical enrichment.

NOTE: Students pursuing the IB Math pathway must enroll in this course and in Math 20-1+ during Semester II of their Grade 10 year.

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MATH 20-2 Mathematics 10C

MATH 30-2 MAT2792

5 credits

Mathematics 30-2

MAT3792

5 credits

Prerequisite: any Math 10-level or Head of Senior School approval

Prerequisite: any Math 20-level or Head of Senior School approval

In Math 20-2, students follow the Alberta Education Programs of Study. This course is designed for post-secondary students who require strong quantitative reasoning but not calculus. The curriculum includes six units of study: quadratic functions, radical expressions and equations, geometry, proportional and spatial reasoning, trigonometry, and statistics (including standard deviation and confidence intervals). Students also explore the applicable nature of mathematics in the real world through a mathematics research project.

In Math 30-2, students follow the Alberta Education’s Mathematics 30-2 curriculum. This course is designed for students whose post-secondary pathways require strong quantitative reasoning but not calculus. The curriculum includes eight units of study: rational expressions and equations, logical reasoning and set theory, permutations and combinations, probability, exponential and logarithmic functions, applications of exponents and logarithms, polynomial and sinusoidal functions, and analyzing puzzles and games. Students also explore the applicable nature of mathematics in the real world through a mathematics research project.

MATH 20-1 Mathematics 20-1

MAT2791

5 credits

Prerequisite: Math 10C IB MYP, Math 10C+ IB MYP, or Head of Senior School approval

In Math 20-1, students follow the Alberta Education Programs of Study. This course is designed to develop mathematical understanding and critical thinking skills required for mathintensive post-secondary programs. The course includes nine units of study: sequences and series, trigonometry, quadratic functions, quadratic equations, radical expressions and equations, rational expressions and equations, absolute value and reciprocal functions, systems of equations, and linear and quadratic inequalities, providing a strong foundation for advanced mathematical study.

MATH 20-1+ Mathematics 20-1

MAT2791

5 credits

Prerequisite: Math 10C+ IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

In Math 20-1+, students follow the Alberta Education’s Mathematics 20-1 curriculum, and integrate IB Analysis and Approaches SL content. This course is designed to develop mathematical understanding and critical thinking skills required for math-intensive post-secondary programs. The curriculum covers ten units: sequences and series, trigonometry, quadratic functions, quadratic equations, radical expressions and equations, rational expressions and equations, absolute value and reciprocal functions, systems of equations, linear and quadratic inequalities, and statistics, providing a strong foundation for advanced mathematical study.

NOTE: Students pursuing the IB Mathematics pathway must take this course and Math 20-1+ during Semester II of their Grade 10 year (see note under Math 10C+ IB MYP).

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MATH 30-1 Mathematics 30-1

MAT3791

5 credits

Prerequisite: Math 20-1, Math 20-1+, Math 30-2, or Head of Senior School approval

In Math 30-1, students follow the Alberta Education Programs of Study. This course equips students with the mathematical understanding and critical thinking skills needed for math‑intensive post-secondary programs. It emphasizes foundational properties in finite mathematics, mathematical modelling and problem‑solving, and precise communication. The curriculum includes nine units: function operations, transformations, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, unit circle trigonometry, trigonometric functions and graphs, trigonometric identities, radical and rational functions, and permutations and combinations.

MATH 30-1 IB SL Mathematics 30-1

MAT3791

5 credits

Prerequisite: Math 20-1+ or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: Math 30-1 IB SL

In Math 30-1 IB SL, students engage with enriched and accelerated topics in finite mathematics, allowing them to complete Math 30-1 by Spring Break while integrating components of the IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches Standard Level curriculum. There are ten units of study: function operations, transformations, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, unit circle trigonometry, trigonometric functions and graphs, trigonometric identities, radical and rational functions, permutations and combinations, and statistics and probability. The Alberta Education Programs of Study component equips students with the mathematical understanding and critical thinking needed for math‑intensive post-secondary programs, emphasizing foundational properties of finite mathematics, mathematical modelling and problem‑solving, and clear, precise communication.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

MATH 31 IB HL/SL

MATH 30-1 IB HL Mathematics 30-1

MAT3791

5 credits

Mathematics 31

MAT3211

5 credits

Prerequisite: Math 20-1+ or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: Math 30-1 IB SL

Prerequisite: Math 20-1+ or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: Math 30-1 HL/SL

In Math 30-1 IB HL, students study enriched and accelerated topics in finite mathematics while integrating elements of the IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches Higher Level curriculum.

There are ten units of study: function operations, transformations, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, unit circle trigonometry, trigonometric functions and graphs, trigonometric identities, radical and rational functions, permutations and combinations, and statistics and probability. The Alberta Education Programs of Study course prepares students for math‐intensive post-secondary programs by emphasizing foundational finite mathematics, mathematical modelling and problem‐solving, and precise communication, while also introducing selected units from the IB HL course.

HL‐specific units are completed in Math 35 during students’ Grade 12 year.

In Math 31 IB HL/SL, students follow the Alberta Education Programs of Study for Mathematics 31, which introduces the principles, concepts, and methods of differential and integral calculus. The course develops problem‑solving skills and mathematical procedures, applying them to real‑world contexts in physics, biology, the social sciences, and commerce. There are ten units of study: set theory and algebra review; review of prerequisite concepts; functions; limits and first principles; techniques of differentiation; applications of the derivative; second derivatives; derivatives of trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions; antiderivative concepts; applications of antiderivatives; and techniques of integration. To complete the IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL course, probability and statistics are also included in the syllabus.

Mathematics Analysis & Approaches 35

MATH 31 Mathematics 31

MATH 35 IB HL

MAT3211

5 credits

Prerequisite: Math 20-1, Math 20-1+, or Head of Senior School approval

In Math 31, students follow the Alberta Education Programs of Study curriculum. This course introduces the principles, concepts, and methods of differential and integral calculus. It focuses on developing problem‑solving skills in a calculus context and applying these methods to real‑world problems in the physical, biological, and social sciences, as well as commerce. The ten units of study include: set theory and algebra review; review of prerequisite concepts; functions; limits and first principles; techniques of differentiation; applications of the derivative; second derivatives; derivatives of trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions; antiderivatives; applications of antiderivatives; and techniques of integration.

ALBERTA EDUCATION STREAM (-2) ALBERTA EDUCATION STREAM (-1) IB DP STREAM

3 credits

Prerequisite: Math 30-1 IB HL and Math 31 IB HL, or Head of Senior School approval

Math 35 IB HL emphasizes analytical thinking and innovation, linking core concepts in statistics and calculus with other branches of mathematics, such as the binomial theorem, complex numbers, and differential equations. Students explore, conjecture, and justify mathematical ideas, constructing clear, logical arguments to address real‑world problems. The curriculum includes the Maclaurin series and its applications, as well as additional algebraic techniques for integration. The course also incorporates technology, enabling students to develop fluency with mathematical software and tools for practical analysis and problem‑solving.

Math 10C

SENIOR SCHOOL MATH PATHWAYS

LDC3306

Math 10C+

MATH 20-2

MATH 20-1

MATH 30-2

MATH 30-1

MATH 30-1 IB HL/SL

MATH 31

MATH 31 IB HL/SL

MATH 20-1+

MATH 35 IB HL

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SCIENCES INTRODUCTION The Science program develops students as curious, scientifically literate, and responsible individuals who think critically and creatively when solving problems and making decisions. It encourages students to explore the connections between science, technology, society, and the environment, helping them understand how these relationships impact their lives and futures. Aligned with the Alberta Education Programs of Study, the program emphasizes inquiry-based learning and the practical application of scientific concepts.

Similarly, the IB Science program cultivates internationally minded students who investigate, analyze, and reflect on scientific issues, integrating scientific understanding with critical thinking and global awareness. Students build scientific literacy by accessing, using, and communicating scientific information effectively. Through engaging learning experiences, they deepen their understanding of key scientific concepts and apply them to solve real-world problems, fostering the critical thinking skills needed to address global challenges from a scientific perspective.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

SCIENCE 7 IB MYP Science 7 IB MYP introduces students to the world of science, highlighting it as a human endeavour with both benefits and limitations. The course develops analytical, inquisitive, and adaptable thinking by encouraging students to pose questions, solve problems, construct explanations, and evaluate arguments.

Students learn to design and conduct investigations, analyze evidence, draw conclusions, and apply scientific language in real‑world contexts. They also cultivate an awareness of and sensitivity to living and non-living environments. Reflection on their learning experiences empowers students to make informed decisions. The course is structured into five units: interactions and ecosystems, plants for food and fibre, heat and temperature, structures and forces, and planet Earth.

SCIENCE 8 IB MYP This course engages students in exploring science as a human endeavour, emphasizing its implications and encouraging thoughtful evaluation. It fosters analytical, inquisitive, and adaptable thinking, enabling students to pose questions, solve problems, and evaluate arguments. Students refine their skills in designing and conducting investigations, analyzing evidence, and drawing meaningful conclusions. The course promotes sensitivity to living and non-living environments by applying scientific language skills in real-life contexts. Through reflection on their learning experiences, students are empowered to make informed decisions. The course comprises five units: mix and flow of matter, cells and systems, light and optical systems, mechanical systems, and freshwater and saltwater systems.

SCIENCE 9 IB MYP This course builds on students’ prior knowledge, deepening their understanding and appreciation of the impacts of science.

Students explore science as a human endeavour, recognizing its benefits and limitations. The course fosters analytical, inquisitive, and adaptable thinking by encouraging students to pose questions, solve problems, and evaluate arguments. Through hands-on investigations, students develop skills in designing experiments, evaluating evidence, and drawing conclusions.

Scientific language is integrated into real-world contexts, and the curriculum emphasizes sensitivity to living and non-living environments. Reflection on learning experiences empowers students to make informed decisions. The course includes five units: biological diversity, matter and chemical change, environmental chemistry, electrical principles and technologies, and space exploration.

SCIENCE 10 IB MYP Science 10

SCN1270

5 credits

Science 10 IB introduces students to key concepts in chemistry, biology, physics, and global systems, fostering an understanding of science as a human endeavour with both benefits and limitations. Through engaging units of study, students develop analytical and inquiring minds capable of posing questions, solving problems, constructing explanations, evaluating arguments, and conducting investigations. They refine their ability to design experiments, analyze evidence, and draw conclusions.

The course integrates scientific language skills and knowledge into real-life contexts, encouraging sensitivity to living and nonliving environments. By reflecting on their learning experiences, students are empowered to make informed decisions. The course covers four topics: energy and matter in chemical change, energy flow in technological systems, cycling of matter in living systems, and energy flow in global systems.

NOTE: Students pursuing the IB Biology pathway must enroll in this course and in Biology 20+ during Semester II of their Grade 10 year.

BIOLOGY 20 Biology Biology 20 20

SCN2231 SCN2231

55 credits credits

Prerequisite: 1010-1 IB MYP Head of Senior School approval Prerequisite:Science Science IB or MYP

Biology 20 focuses on the key themes of energy, matter, change, diversity, systems, and equilibrium, helping students deepen their scientific understanding and competency. Through laboratory investigations, independent learning, and computer simulations, students explore scientific principles and concepts related to the four core units of study. Along the way, they enhance their critical thinking skills, develop a greater awareness of the impact of science on society, and understand how their bodies transport and use energy. The course includes four units: energy and matter exchange in the biosphere, ecosystems and population change, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, and human systems.

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BIOLOGY 20+ Biology 20

CHEMISTRY 20 IB HL/SL SCN2231

5 credits

Prerequisite: Science 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

Based on the Alberta Biology 20 Program of Study, this accelerated and enriched course prepares students for the IB Biology syllabus. Students enhance their skills and knowledge through a broad range of biological investigations, gaining an appreciation for the richness and complexity of the living world.

They also develop an understanding of how scientists work and communicate, with an emphasis on practical work and the nature of science.

Success in this course requires solid academic ability, strong personal motivation, independent learning skills, a strong work ethic, effective time management, and a willingness to ask questions and reflect critically. The course includes four units: energy and matter exchange in the biosphere, ecosystems and population change, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, and human systems.

BIOLOGY 25 IB HL/SL Biology Higher 25

LDC2428

5 credits

Prerequisite: Biology 20+ or Head of Senior School approval

This course bridges Biology 20+ and IB Biology 30 HL/SL in preparation for the IB Biology exam, covering mostly SL material.

The course is structured around four key themes: unity and diversity, form and function, interaction and interdependence, and continuity and change, which are used to examine the various strands of biology: cells, molecules, organisms, and ecosystems.

As an IB class, students develop deeper connections to these themes and strands through Theory of Knowledge and nature of science explorations centred on hands‐on, practical approaches that emphasize collaboration, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Guided by teachers, students design investigations, collect data, and communicate and analyze findings, fostering a global appreciation for scientific study.

This course includes a field study component in Kananaskis.

CHEMISTRY 20 Chemistry 20

SCN2796

5 credits

Prerequisite: Science 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

Chemistry 20 introduces students to the fundamental principles and interconnected ideas of chemistry while exploring their connections to everyday technology. This course develops the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for scientific literacy, helping students understand the role of science in society.

As an experimental discipline, chemistry relies heavily on laboratory experiences, where students learn to collect data, observe, analyze results, form generalizations, hypothesize, and make inferences. The course includes four units of study: the diversity of matter and chemical bonding, forms of matter: gases, matter as solutions, acids and bases, and quantitative relationships in chemical changes.

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Chemistry 20

SCN2796

5 credits

Prerequisite: Science 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: Math 20-1 or Math 20-1+

This accelerated and enriched course is based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study for Chemistry 20 and the IB DP Chemistry syllabus. Students develop their skills and knowledge across various chemical investigations and learn the chemical principles underpinning the physical environment and biological systems by studying quantitative chemistry, atomic theory, periodicity, chemical bonding, gases, solutions, acids and bases, and related topics.

Laboratory experience is an essential component of this course. It develops students’ skills and knowledge to design, perform, and analyze investigations. Students are expected to develop an aptitude for collecting data, observing, analyzing, forming generalizations, hypothesizing, and making inferences from observations. They also become aware of how scientists work and communicate with one another.

Success in this course requires solid academic ability, strong personal motivation, and a willingness to work independently.

The course explores the Chemistry 20 Program of Study and the IB HL/SL Chemistry syllabus through the themes of structure and reactivity.

PHYSICS 20 Physics 20

SCN2797

5 credits

Prerequisite: Science 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This course focuses on the interaction of matter and energy, exploring its principles and applications through hands-on experiments, project-based learning, computer simulations, and problem-solving exercises. Students collect and analyze quantitative data, gaining a deeper appreciation for how matter and energy interactions impact daily life.

The course comprises six units of study: kinematics and graphing, vectors, vector addition and projectiles, dynamics, circular motion, gravitational force and field, energy and simple harmonic motion, oscillations, and the behaviour of mechanical waves.

PHYSICS 20 IB SL Physics 20

SCN2797

5 credits

Prerequisite: Science 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: Math 20-1 or Math 20-1+

This accelerated and enriched course combines the Alberta Education Physics 20 curriculum with key topics from the Physics IB SL syllabus, offering a comprehensive study of the interaction between matter and energy. Students deepen their understanding through hands-on experiments, computer simulations, quantitative data collection and analysis, and problem-solving as they explore how these interactions influence their daily lives.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

In addition to the Alberta Education Physics 20 curriculum, the course includes four core topics from the Physics IB SL syllabus: space, time and motion; the particulate nature of matter; wave behaviour; and fields. This rigorous program is designed for motivated students with a strong academic foundation and a keen interest in physics.

BIOLOGY 30 IB HL/SL Biology 30

SCN3230

5 credits

Prerequisite: Biology 25 IB HL/SL or Head of Senior School approval

This accelerated and enriched course integrates the Alberta Biology 30 curriculum with the themes and rigour of the Biology IB DP syllabus. The IB DP syllabus is structured around four key themes: unity and diversity, form and function, interaction and interdependence, and continuity and change, which are used to examine the various strands of biology: cells, molecules, organisms, and ecosystems. Students develop practical skills through a handson approach while furthering collaboration, analytical, and critical thinking. Guided by the overarching theme of the nature of science, the course fosters a global appreciation for scientific study and its interdisciplinary nature, addressing the possibilities, limitations, and ethical implications of science and technology.

Students choosing the SL option of this course complete an individual investigation as part of the IB internal assessment process and write their IB Biology SL examinations in May. All students write the Alberta Biology 30 Diploma exam at the end of this course.

BIOLOGY 35 IB HL Biology Advanced 35

LDC3202

5 credits

Prerequisite: Biology 30 IB HL or Head of Senior School approval

This accelerated and enriched course supplements IB Biology 30 HL/SL and is intended for students writing the IB Biology HL exam.

The course extends students’ explorations of the IB Biology syllabus, focusing on the four overarching themes: unity and diversity, form and function, interaction and interdependence, and continuity and change.

BIOLOGY 30 Biology 30

SCN3230

5 credits

Prerequisite: Biology 20-level or Head of Senior School approval

This course fosters a critical sense of curiosity and wonder about scientific and technological endeavours while equipping students with the skills to use science and technology to acquire new knowledge and solve problems, improving their lives and the lives of others. It challenges students to critically address societal, economic, ethical, and environmental issues related to science and provides opportunities to explore science-related careers.

Through laboratory investigations, independent learning, and computer simulations, students deepen their understanding of key scientific principles and concepts, enhancing their critical thinking skills and awareness of science’s impact on society. The course includes four main units of study: nervous and endocrine systems, reproduction and development, cell division, genetics and molecular biology, and population and community dynamics.

HL students study additional topics and examine concepts in greater depth, offering a broader, more detailed understanding of the subject. In addition, students complete an individual investigation as part of the IB internal assessment process.

Students complete this course at the end of Semester I, with a plan to review and write the IB Biology HL examinations in May.

CHEMISTRY 30 Chemistry 30

SCN3796

5 credits

Prerequisite: Chemistry 20-level and Math 20-1, or Head of Senior School approval

Chemistry 30 focuses on the interconnecting ideas and principles of chemistry that unify the natural sciences and their relevance to the technology used in daily life. As an experimental discipline, this course emphasizes the importance of laboratory experiences in developing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for fostering scientific awareness and literacy. Through hands-on experiments, students gain a deeper understanding of key concepts and their applications. The course includes four units of study: thermochemical changes, electrochemical changes, chemical changes of organic compounds, and chemical equilibrium, with a focus on acid-base systems.

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CHEMISTRY 30 IB SL Chemistry 30

SCN3796

5 credits

Prerequisites: Chemistry 20 IB HL/SL and Math 20-1 or Math 20-1+, or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: Math 30-1

This accelerated and enriched course integrates the Alberta Education Chemistry 30 curriculum with the Chemistry IB SL syllabus, offering a rigorous exploration of chemical principles.

Students identify patterns that explain matter at the microscopic level, enabling them to predict and control its behaviour at the macroscopic level. The course emphasizes the development of representative models, explanatory theories, and the mathematical analysis of empirical evidence.

Laboratory work is a core component that requires students to demonstrate proficiency in experimentation, analyze methodological errors and equipment limitations, and write thorough lab reports. Advances in technology enhance students’ experimental and analytical skills. Success in this course demands strong academic ability, personal motivation, and independent work habits. The course explores the Chemistry 30 Programs of Study and the Chemistry IB SL syllabus through the themes of structure and reactivity.

CHEMISTRY 30 IB HL Chemistry 30

SCN3796

5 credits

Prerequisites: Chemistry 20 IB HL/SL and Math 20-1 or Math 20-1+, or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: Math 30-1 and Chemistry 35 IB HL

concept‐based, inquiry‐driven approach. Students develop critical thinking and scientific literacy by examining chemical knowledge in real‐world contexts.

Learning is centered on classroom and laboratory inquiry, with an emphasis on experimental skills, data analysis, and the evaluation of error and uncertainty. The course is grounded in approaches to learning, the nature of science, and skills in the study of chemistry, and culminates in the Collaborative Sciences Project, an interdisciplinary experience focused on collaboration and scientific communication.

PHYSICS 30 Physics 30

SCN3797

5 credits

Prerequisites: Math 20-1 or Math 20-1+, Physics 20-level, or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: Math 30-1

This course equips students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to become productive and responsible members of society while exploring classical and modern physics topics.

Students engage in hands-on experiments, project-based learning, computer simulations, and quantitative data analysis to deepen their understanding of the interaction between matter and energy. The course emphasizes problem‐solving and highlights the impact of these interactions on daily life.

The curriculum is organized into four key units of study: momentum and impulse, forces and fields, electromagnetic radiation, and atomic physics.

This course builds on the HL curriculum by exploring topics in greater depth and addressing conceptually more demanding content. HL students are expected to make deeper connections between diverse areas of the syllabus, reflecting the advanced nature of the course. The course is designed for students planning to pursue chemistry as a significant focus in university studies or as part of a degree in fields such as medicine, engineering, or technology.

A core component is laboratory work, emphasizing skill development in designing investigations, analyzing results, and writing detailed laboratory reports.

CHEMISTRY 35 IB HL Chemistry Advanced 35

LDC3138

3 credits

Prerequisites: Chemistry 20 IB HL/SL and Math 20-1 or Math 20-1+, or Head of School approval Corequisite: Math 30-1 and Chemistry 30 IB HL

This course extends the Alberta Chemistry 30 curriculum by exploring advanced IB Higher Level concepts through a

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

PHYSICS 30 IB SL Physics 30

SCN3797

5 credits

Prerequisites: Physics 20 IB SL and Math 20-1 or Math 20-1+, or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: Math 30-1

This course combines the Alberta Education Programs of Study for Physics 30 and the Physics IB SL curriculum, allowing students to explore the interaction of matter and energy through hands-on experiments, computer simulations, quantitative data collection, and problem‑solving. Students also investigate how these interactions impact daily life.

In addition to the Alberta Physics 30 curriculum, the course covers key Physics IB SL topics, including space, time and motion; the particulate nature of matter; wave behaviour; fields; and nuclear and quantum physics.

SENIOR SCHOOL SCIENCE PATHWAYS

BIOLOGY 20

BIOLOGY 25 IB SL

BIOLOGY 30 IB SL

BIOLOGY 25 IB HL

BIOLOGY 30 IB HL

BIOLOGY

BIOLOGY 30

BIOLOGY 20+

CHEMISTRY 20 IB SL

CHEMISTRY 30 IB SL

CHEMISTRY 20 IB HL

CHEMISTRY 30 IB HL

CHEMISTRY 35 IB HL

CHEMISTRY

CHEMISTRY 30

PHYSICS 20 PHYSICS 30 PHYSICS 20 IB SL

PHYSICS 30 IB SL

PHYSICS

SCIENCE 10 IB MYP

CHEMISTRY 20

BIOLOGY 35 IB HL

ALBERTA EDUCATION STREAM IB DP STREAM (SL) IB DP STREAM (HL)

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SOCIAL STUDIES INTRODUCTION The Social Studies program prepares students to be globally aware and socially responsible citizens, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to navigate and contribute to an interconnected, ever-changing world. Aligned with the Alberta Education Programs of Study, the program emphasizes critical thinking, inquiry, research, and analysis to understand the social, cultural, economic, and political forces that shape society.

Complementing this, the IB Individuals and Societies framework encourages students to explore human systems and their interactions, reflect on ethical and global issues, and develop informed, principled perspectives. Through interdisciplinary exploration, collaboration, and reflection, students build informed personal understandings of complex issues, cultivate empathy, and appreciate diversity and differing perspectives. The program empowers students as agents of positive change, promoting civic engagement, activism, and responsible citizenship at both local and global levels.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

SOCIAL STUDIES 7 IB MYP This course empowers students by fostering the attitudes, skills, and knowledge essential for active and informed citizenship.

Emphasizing respect for individual and collective identities, the course encourages students to embrace their roles as citizens in an inclusive, pluralistic, and democratic society rooted in belonging and acceptance. Students examine the origins, histories, and movements that have shaped Canada, with a focus on Confederation and its enduring impact. The course explores how political, demographic, economic, and social changes, both before and after Confederation, have influenced Canada's development. By cultivating critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives, the program prepares students to respect and engage with the complexities of an interconnected world.

SOCIAL STUDIES 8 IB MYP This course empowers students by cultivating the attitudes, skills, and knowledge essential for active and informed citizenship.

Emphasizing respect for individual and collective identities, the course encourages students to embrace their roles as citizens in an inclusive, pluralistic, and democratic society. The program fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance while promoting local, national, and global engagement. In the Individuals and Societies curriculum, students investigate issues arising from contact between societies with differing worldviews. Students explore the elements of worldviews and how these perspectives have shaped societies through time and across different places.

Through examples from Japan, Renaissance Europe, and Spanish and Aztec societies, students analyze how the past influences the present and reflect on their worldviews. The course equips students with critical thinking skills, a deeper understanding of diverse contexts, and the ability to engage with the world's complexities.

SOCIAL 10-1 IB MYP Social 10-1

SST1771

5 credits

This course engages students in exploring global interconnections and their implications through the lens of social, political, and economic systems. Aligned with IB principles, it emphasizes critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and a deeper understanding of global issues, cultural perspectives, and civic responsibility.Students analyze historical events, contemporary challenges, and case studies related to globalization, human rights, and environmental sustainability.

Through collaborative projects and discussions, learners develop the skills to critically examine their roles as informed global citizens, preparing them to navigate and contribute meaningfully to a rapidly changing world. The course content is structured around four units of inquiry: globalization and identity, historical globalization, economic globalization, and global citizenship.

SOCIAL 20-1 Social 20-1

SST2771

5 credits

Prerequisite: Social 10-1 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This course, based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study curriculum, examines the complexities of nationalism in both Canadian and international contexts. Students explore the origins of nationalism and its impact on regional, international, and global relations. By analyzing multiple perspectives, students gain a deeper understanding of how nationalism influences citizenship and identity in Canada and develop an appreciation for diverse viewpoints, fostering personal and civic responses to contemporary issues related to nationalism. The course content is structured around four key units of inquiry: identity and nationalism, national interest and conflict, internationalism, and Canadian nationalism.

SOCIAL STUDIES 9 IB MYP This course empowers students by fostering the attitudes, skills, and knowledge essential for active and informed citizenship.

Emphasizing the recognition and respect of individual and collective identities, the course encourages students to embrace their roles as citizens in an inclusive, pluralistic, and democratic society, promoting a sense of belonging and engagement at both local and global levels.Students explore Canada’s political and legislative processes, analyzing their influence on government, rights, citizenship, and identity. They also examine economic issues and their impact on quality of life in Canada and the United States, and gain an appreciation for diverse perspectives on sustainability, political decision-making, and economic planning. The course equips students with critical thinking skills, a deeper understanding of global contexts, and the ability to navigate and contribute meaningfully to an interconnected world.

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SOCIAL 20-1 IB HL/SL Social 20-1

THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE 20 IB

SST2771

5 credits

Prerequisite: Social 10-1 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

History is a dynamic, contested, and evidence-based discipline offering an engaging exploration of the past. The IB History course adopts a comparative and multi-perspective approach to world history, focusing on key historical concepts: change, causation, significance, perspectives, continuity, and consequence.

As both an exploratory and interpretive subject, it promotes inquiry, critical analysis, and engagement with diverse and often conflicting perspectives, helping students deepen their understanding of humanity and the complexities of the modern world. Central to the course is an in-depth analysis of nationalism, exploring its complexities and connections to internationalism, globalization, citizenship, and identity.

Students examine historical and contemporary perspectives on nationalism, its contested nature, and its evolving relationship with individuals, collectives, and the state. This study encourages appreciation for diverse viewpoints and invites personal and civic responses to nationalism’s role in shaping global dynamics.

The course is organized around three units of inquiry: the French Revolution and Napoleon, Europe and the First World War, and Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe.

ECONOMICS 20 IB HL/SL Microeconomics 20

SSN3183

3 credits

Prerequisite: Social 10-1 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This course examines how individuals and societies allocate scarce resources and make decisions, connecting theoretical concepts with real-world applications on both local and global scales. Integrating insights from history, sociology, geography, political science, and psychology provides a comprehensive understanding of how human behaviour shapes economic systems.

The course emphasizes scientific methodology—problem identification, hypothesis formation, testing, and conclusion—to analyze both empirical (positive) and value-based (normative) economic questions. Students develop critical thinking and data analysis skills as they examine global challenges, including environmental sustainability and international relations.

The course is organized into two units: an introduction to economics (covering foundational models and economics as a social science) and microeconomics (focusing on individual markets, resource allocation, and global/environmental issues).

This foundation equips students to apply economic principles to complex global problems.

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Contemporary Western Philosophy 20

SSN2182

3 credits

Prerequisite: Social 10-1 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: IB Diploma Candidate, IB Certificate Candidate

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a senior-level course required by all full IB Diploma Candidates, but is also available for Alberta Education credit if space permits. The main aim is to provide structured opportunities for students to critically examine how we claim to know things and to develop skills reflecting on the processes by which we acquire knowledge.

Key learning includes recognizing bias at personal, social, and cultural levels, appreciating diverse value systems while maintaining one’s values, understanding intellectual responsibility, and communicating ideas effectively.

Main Grade 11 topics: Core theme: knowledge and the knower Areas of Knowledge (AOK): history, human sciences, natural sciences, mathematics, the arts TOK Internal Assessment: TOK exhibition The course encompasses the following topics in Grade 11: Unit 1: Core Theme – Knowledge and the Knower Unit 2: Areas of Knowledge (AOK) – History Unit 3: AOK – Human Sciences Unit 4: AOK – Natural Sciences Unit 5: AOK - Mathematics Unit 6: AOK – The Arts TOK Internal Assessment (IA): TOK Exhibition

SOCIAL 30-1 Social 30-1

SST3771

5 credits

Prerequisite: Social 20-1 or Head of Senior School approval

This course explores the origins and complexities of ideologies, with a focus on classical and modern liberalism. Students examine political and economic systems to assess the viability of liberalism’s principles in contemporary contexts and explore citizenship roles and responsibilities in response to global issues.

By studying the evolution of liberal thought and competing ideologies, students gain a comprehensive understanding of democratic societies, preparing them to become active, informed, and responsible citizens. Through critical investigation and analysis, students evaluate government policies and develop responses to local, national, and global challenges.

The course is framed by four inquiry questions: To what extent should ideology be the foundation of identity?

To what extent is resistance to liberalism justified?

To what extent are the principles of liberalism viable?

To what extent should an ideology shape my actions as a citizen?

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

SOCIAL 30-1 IB HL/SL Social 30-1

SST3771

5 credits

Prerequisite: Social 20-1 IB HL/SL or Head of Senior School approval

This course offers a comparative, multi-perspective approach to world history, exploring key concepts such as change, causation, significance, perspective, continuity, and consequence. By studying history, students deepen their understanding of the past, human nature, and contemporary society.

for accuracy and perspective, and revise interpretations when new evidence arises. Students apply the principles of historical inquiry—problem recognition, hypothesis formation, data evaluation, and generalization—to gain Western historical knowledge and the critical skills to think like historians.

As HL students will be preparing for three external IB assessment papers, this course complements the Social 30-1 IB HL/SL course and prepares students for these assessments, particularly Paper 3, unique to IB HL students.

Understanding the evolution of modern liberal thought and ideologies is central to developing active, informed, and responsible citizens. Students investigate and analyze government policies and actions, and respond individually and collectively to local, national, and global issues.

History is dynamic, contested, and evidence-based, encouraging inquiry and appreciation for diverse viewpoints. While content is the same for HL and SL, assessment differs: HL students complete three externally assessed papers; SL students complete two.

ECONOMICS 30 IB HL/SL Macroeconomics 30

SSN3194

3 credits

Global Economics 35

LDC3273

3 credits 6 credits total

Prerequisite: Economics 20 IB HL/SL or Head of Senior School approval

The course is structured around two key units: macroeconomics and global economics. Its main goal is to help students understand how economic models influence societies and debates about economic growth and development.

Students explore unemployment, inflation, inequality, and poverty, analyzing policy options to address these challenges.

Later, the focus shifts to global economics, with an emphasis on economic development strategies. Students use real-world data and examples to explore these issues, applying microeconomic skills to better understand the associated challenges.

The course equips students to understand global problems and how economics can contribute to solutions.

HISTORY 35 IB HL Western World History 30

SSN3185

3 credits

Prerequisite: Social 30-1 IB HL or Head of Senior School approval

This course surveys the development of Western civilization from geographic foundations and classical heritage through absolutism, revolutions, and the rise of nationalism and imperialism. Emphasizing both content and method, it trains students to classify and analyze historical data, evaluate sources

INTERNATIONAL POLITICS 30 International Politics 30

SSN3156

3 credits

This course is part of the Alberta Learning CTS Political Science Program and focuses on how power is achieved, maintained, and exercised internationally. Students develop an understanding of international relations by examining key concepts such as balance of power, dynastic marriages, territorial and ideological rivalries, international peace forums, and global economic ties. Students develop informed positions on global issues through inquiry and critical thinking while respecting differing viewpoints. The course emphasizes engagement with current affairs, ensuring relevance to local, national, and global issues.

Experiential learning opportunities include Model United Nations simulations, mock trials, and debates. The course is organized around three units: rise of nation states, liberalism and realism, and justice.

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LEGAL STUDIES

THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE 30 IB

Controversy & Change

LGS3060

1 credit

Landmark Decisions

LGS3070

1 credit

Criminal Law

LGS3080

1 credit

Philosophies of Man 30

SSN3182

3 credits

Prerequisite: Theory of Knowledge 20 IB or Head of Senior School approval Corequisite: IB Diploma Candidate, IB Certificate Candidate

3 credits total

This course is part of the Alberta Learning CTS Legal Studies Program and focuses on criminal law, Charter Rights, and judicial interpretations. It provides students with a foundational understanding of the legal system, introducing key frameworks and core concepts.

Students have the opportunity to explore career pathways in legal studies, with emphasis on the Constitution Act of 1982.

Through current events and landmark case studies, they gain a deeper understanding of Canada’s legal system. The course features experiential learning such as mock trials and debates, and connects students with legal professionals to explore expectations in the field.

Content is organized into three units: controversy and change, landmark cases, and criminal law.

This second-year TOK course provides students with structured opportunities to critically examine and evaluate how we claim to “know” things, enabling them to reflect on the processes behind knowledge acquisition. Year 2 builds on the Year 1 curriculum with emphasis on applying TOK Key Concepts, the Knowledge Framework, and TOK Knowledge Questions.

There are three central units: Core Theme: knowledge and the knower (TOK Essay applications) Optional Theme A: knowledge and indigenous societies Optional Theme B: knowledge and technology The externally assessed TOK Essay is based on one of six prompts released by the IB each September in Grade 12 and counts for 66% of the final grade. TOK is a required component of the IB Diploma.

Legal Studies can be used for Alberta graduation requirements, but is not considered a 30-level course for university admission.

Open to Grades 10–12.

SENIOR SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES PATHWAYS SOCIAL 10-1 IB MYP

SOCIAL 20-1

SOCIAL 20-1 IB SL

SOCIAL 20-1 IB HL

SOCIAL 30-1

SOCIAL 30-1 IB SL

SOCIAL 30-1 IB HL

ALBERTA EDUCATION STREAM IB DP STREAM SL IB DP STREAM HL

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HISTORY 35 IB HL

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

MODERN LANGUAGES INTRODUCTION The Modern Languages program equips students with communicative competence and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity through the study of additional languages. The program emphasizes meaningful communication, preparing students to use language skills confidently in academic, professional, and personal contexts.

Multiliteracy development is central: students engage thoughtfully with a variety of texts to support critical and creative thinking. Language is viewed both as a tool for self-expression and interdisciplinary learning. Students develop an understanding of language structure and acquisition, alongside cultural traditions and perspectives of language-speaking communities.

This holistic approach fosters curiosity, empathy, and respect for diverse worldviews, nurturing lifelong interest in language and global citizenship. Students advance through defined phases, ensuring sustained growth in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

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MYP LANGUAGE B COURSES (GRADES 7–10)

FRENCH 7 IB MYP

Students in MYP Language B courses (Grades 7–10) are placed in classes according to their demonstrated proficiency in French or Spanish. Language learning in the MYP is structured in progressive phases, with Phase 1 serving as the introductory level and Phase 4 representing advanced proficiency. Students advance through the phases by demonstrating mastery of language skills, allowing instruction to be tailored to their current level and promoting continuous development in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

In the MYP, language acquisition fosters respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures while building foundational skills for lifelong language development. This course represents the fourth year of the nine-year Alberta Education Programs of Study in French as a second language.

Over the academic year, students develop their reading, writing, listening, and speaking proficiency through five engaging thematic units: Introductions, School, Family, Animals, and Sports and Leisure.

PHASES 1,2,3

SPANISH 7 IB MYP COURS DE LANGUE B DU PAI (CLASSES DE 7E À 10E ANNÉE) Les élèves des cours de langue B du PEI (7e à 10e année) sont placés dans des classes en fonction de leur niveau de compétence démontré en français ou en espagnol.

L'apprentissage des langues dans le PEI est structuré en phases progressives, la phase 1 correspondant au niveau d'introduction et la phase 4 au niveau avancé. Les élèves progressent d’une phase à l’autre en démontrant leur maîtrise des compétences linguistiques, ce qui permet d'adapter l'enseignement à leur niveau actuel et de favoriser un développement continu de leurs compétences en compréhension orale et écrite, en expression orale et écrite, ainsi qu'en expression écrite.

CURSOS DE LENGUA B DEL PAI (GRADOS 7–10) Los estudiantes de los cursos de Lengua B del PAI (7.º a 10.º grado) se asignan a clases según su dominio demostrado del francés o el español. El aprendizaje de idiomas en el PAI se estructura en fases progresivas: la Fase 1 es el nivel introductorio y la Fase 4, el nivel avanzado. Los alumnos avanzan en las fases demostrando dominio de las habilidades lingüísticas, lo que permite adaptar la instrucción a su nivel actual y promueve el desarrollo continuo de la comprensión auditiva, la expresión oral, la lectura y la escritura.

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PHASE 1

In the MYP, language acquisition fosters respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures, while equipping students with essential skills for lifelong language development. This course is the starting point of a six-year Alberta Education Programs of Study in Spanish as a second language. Throughout the year, students build their proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking Spanish through three thematic units: How Do We Learn, People, and School.

FRENCH 8 IB MYP PHASES 2,3

In the MYP, language acquisition fosters respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures while equipping students with foundational skills for lifelong language development. This course represents the culmination of the fifth year in the comprehensive nine-year Alberta Education Programs of Study for French as a second language.

Students enhance their reading, writing, listening, and speaking proficiency in French throughout the year through four thematic units: The City, The House, Neighbourhood, and Clothing.

SPANISH 8 IB MYP PHASE 2

In the MYP, language acquisition fosters respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures while equipping students with foundational skills for lifelong language development. This course represents the second year of a six-year Alberta Education Programs of Study in Spanish as a second language. Throughout the year, students enhance their Spanish reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through three thematic units: How Do We Learn, Where Do You Live, and Pastimes.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

FRENCH 9 IB MYP

FRENCH 10/20/30 IB MYP

PHASES 2,3,4

PHASES 3,4

In the MYP, language acquisition promotes respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures while equipping students with foundational skills for lifelong language development. This course marks the sixth year of the nine-year Alberta Education Programs of Study in French as a second language. Over the academic year, students refine their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in French through five thematic units: Food and Drink, Health, Pop Culture, My Childhood, and My Province.

SPANISH 9 IB MYP PHASES 2,3

In the MYP, language acquisition fosters respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures while building essential skills for lifelong language development. This course represents the third year of the six-year Alberta Education Programs of Study in Spanish as a second language.

Throughout the academic year, students strengthen their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in Spanish through three units of study: This Is How My Day Goes, Environment and Travel, and Health.

FRENCH 10 IB MYP PHASES 2,3 French 10-9Y

FSL1099

5 credits

Prerequisite: Phase 1, French 9 IB MYP, 1 year previous experience in French, or Head of Senior School approval

Language acquisition in the MYP fosters respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures, while developing foundational skills for lifelong language development. Students enhance their reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities in French 10 IB MYP through three engaging units of study: Vacations, Education and Technology, and Clothing and the Environment.

SPANISH 10 IB MYP BEGINNER PHASE 1

Spanish Language & Culture 10-3Y

SPN1345

5 credits

The MYP language acquisition course promotes respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures, providing students with a solid foundation for ongoing language learning.

It is designed for students with little to no prior experience in Spanish and develops reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through three units of study: How Do You Say, School, and The City.

French 10-9Y

FSL1099

5 credits

French 20-9Y

FSL2099

5 credits

French 30-9Y

FSL3099

5 credits 15 credits total

Prerequisite: Phase 2, French 9 IB MYP, or Head of Senior School approval

Ce cours marque la dernière année du programme d'études de neuf ans de l'Alberta en français langue seconde, visant à développer une maîtrise avancée de tous les aspects de la langue. Les élèves améliorent leurs compétences en lecture, écriture, compréhension orale et expression orale à travers trois unités thématiques: Les voyages, Le cinéma et La technologie et les médias. Les notions de grammaire sont intégrées dans chaque unité pour soutenir un développement linguistique complet.

This course marks the final year of the nine-year Alberta Education Programs of Study in French as a second language, aiming to develop advanced fluency across all aspects of the language. Students enhance their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through three thematic units: Travel, Cinema, and Technology and Media. Grammar concepts are interwoven throughout the units to support comprehensive language development.

SPANISH 10 IB MYP CONTINUING PHASES 2,3

Spanish Language & Culture 10-3Y

SPN1345

5 credits

Prerequisite: Phase 1, Spanish 9 IB MYP, or Head of Senior School approval

En el PAI, la adquisición de idiomas fomenta el respeto y la comprensión de diversas lenguas y culturas, al tiempo que proporciona a los estudiantes habilidades fundamentales para el aprendizaje continuo del idioma a lo largo de la vida. A lo largo del año, los estudiantes desarrollan sus habilidades de lectura, escritura, comprensión auditiva y expresión oral en español mediante tres unidades de estudio dinámicas: La Vida Diaria, Celebraciones y Tradiciones y Arte y Cultura.

In the MYP, language acquisition fosters respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures while equipping students with foundational skills for lifelong language learning. Throughout the year, students develop their reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities in Spanish through three engaging units of study: Daily Life, Celebrations and Traditions, and Art and Culture.

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FRENCH 31A IB LANGUAGE B SL

SPANISH 10 IB MYP ADVANCED PHASES 3,4

Spanish Language & Culture 10-6Y

SPN1349

5 credits

Prerequisite: Phase 2, Spanish 9 IB MYP, or Head of Senior School approval

En el PAI, la adquisición de idiomas fomenta el respeto y la comprensión de diversas lenguas y culturas, al tiempo que proporciona a los estudiantes habilidades fundamentales para el aprendizaje continuo del idioma a lo largo de la vida. Este curso invita a los estudiantes a explorar cómo el español funciona en contextos locales y globales, profundizando en el mundo hispano a través de cuatro unidades de estudio: Tecnomundo, Celebraciones, Cultura y Arte.

In the MYP, language acquisition promotes respect for and understanding of diverse languages and cultures while equipping students with foundational skills for lifelong language development. This course encourages students to explore how Spanish functions in local and global contexts by delving into the Hispanic world through four units of study: Tecnomundo, Celebraciones, Cultura y Arte, and El Medio Ambiente.

FRENCH 20 IB ab initio SL French 20-9Y

FSL2099

5 credits

Prerequisite: French 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

French 20 IB ab initio is the first year of a two-year course designed to build foundational language skills and intercultural understanding. Students progressively develop their ability to communicate in French while fostering global awareness and respect for cultural diversity. The course enhances receptive, productive, and interactive skills, preparing students to engage effectively in real-world contexts where French is spoken.

Learning is organized around five themes—Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, and Sharing the Planet—explored cyclically over the two years.

French 31A

FSL3306

5 credits

Prerequisite: Phase 3, French 10/20/30 IB MYP, French 30, or Head of Senior School approval

Le cours de Français 31A IB Langue B SL est la première partie d'un programme de deux ans conçu pour répondre aux exigences linguistiques, communicatives et culturelles du BI en français. Il vise à développer les compétences nécessaires et une compréhension interculturelle pour communiquer efficacement dans un environnement francophone, tout en encourageant les élèves à élargir leur vision du monde et à respecter la diversité culturelle. Les élèves étudient des unités spécifiques de grammaire avancée et explorent la littérature et le cinéma. Le programme est structuré autour de cinq thèmes enseignés de manière cyclique sur deux ans: Identités, Expériences, Ingéniosité Humaine, Organisation Sociale et Partage de la Planète.

French 31A IB Language B SL is the first year of a two-year program designed to meet the linguistic, communicative, and cultural requirements of the IB DP. This course equips students with the skills and intercultural understanding to communicate effectively in French-speaking environments. It encourages learners to go beyond the classroom, fostering global awarenessand respect for cultural diversity. Students engage with advanced grammar concepts and explore both literature and film, enhancing their linguistic proficiency and cultural knowledge. The course is structured around five key themes, revisited in a cyclical approach over the two years: Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, and Sharing the Planet.

SPANISH 20 IB ab initio SL Spanish Language & Culture 20-3Y

SPN2345

5 credits

Prerequisite: Phase 1, Spanish 10 IB MYP, or Head of Senior School approval

Spanish 20 IB ab initio is the first year of a two-year course designed to develop foundational language skills and intercultural understanding. Students progressively enhance their ability to communicate in Spanish by building receptive, productive, and interactive skills, preparing them to succeed in real-world contexts where Spanish is spoken. The course fosters global awareness and respect for cultural diversity, encouraging learners to extend their learning beyond the classroom.

Organized around five key themes—Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, and Sharing the Planet— the curriculum revisits these themes in a cyclical approach over two years to reinforce and expand language proficiency.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

SPANISH 20 IB LANGUAGE B SL Spanish Language & Culture 20-6Y

SPN2349

FRENCH 31B IB LANGUAGE B SL 5 credits

French 31B

FSL3307

5 credits

Prerequisite: Phase 3, Spanish 10 IB MYP Advanced, or Head of Senior School approval

Prerequisite: French 31A IB Language B SL or Head of Senior School approval

Español 20 IB Lengua B SL es la primera parte de un curso de dos años diseñado para cumplir con los requisitos lingüísticos, comunicativos y culturales del programa IB en español. Este curso proporciona a los estudiantes las habilidades necesarias y la comprensión intercultural para comunicarse con éxito en entornos hispanohablantes, fomentando su conocimiento del mundo y el respeto por la diversidad cultural. A través de unidades específicas de gramática avanzada, los estudiantes mejoran su capacidad para leer textos complejos y construir oraciones elaboradas, complementando sus estudios con análisis de literatura, cine y temas independientes. El programa se organiza en cinco temas clave—Identidades, Experiencias, Ingenio Humano, Organización Social y Compartir el Planeta— que se revisitan de manera cíclica durante los dos años.

Le cours de Français 31A IB Langue B SL est la première partie d'un programme de deux ans conçu pour répondre aux exigences linguistiques, communicatives et culturelles du BI en français. Il vise à développer les compétences nécessaires et une compréhension interculturelle pour communiquer efficacement dans un environnement francophone, tout en encourageant les élèves à élargir leur vision du monde et à respecter la diversité culturelle. Les élèves étudient des unités spécifiques de grammaire avancée et explorent la littérature et le cinéma. Le programme est structuré autour de cinq thèmes enseignés de manière cyclique sur deux ans: Identités, Expériences, Ingéniosité Humaine, Organisation Sociale et Partage de la Planète.

Spanish 20 IB Language B SL is the first year of a two-year course designed to meet the IB Spanish program's linguistic, communicative, and cultural requirements. The course equips students with the skills and intercultural understanding needed to communicate effectively in Spanish-speaking environments, encouraging them to expand their global awareness and respect for cultural diversity. Students enhance their proficiency through advanced grammar studies to tackle complex texts and construct sophisticated sentences while exploring thematic units, literature, and film. The curriculum is structured around five key themes—Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, and Sharing the Planet—taught in a cyclical approach over two years.

SPANISH 30 IB ab initio SL

FRENCH 30 IB ab initio SL French 30-9Y

FSL3099

French 31A IB Language B SL is the first year of a two-year program designed to meet the linguistic, communicative, and cultural requirements of the IB DP. This course equips students with the skills and intercultural understanding to communicate effectively in French-speaking environments. It encourages learners to go beyond the classroom, fostering global awareness and respect for cultural diversity. Students engage with advanced grammar concepts and explore both literature and film, enhancing their linguistic proficiency and cultural knowledge. The course is structured around five key themes, revisited in a cyclical approach over the two years: Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, and Sharing the Planet.

5 credits

Prerequisite: French 20 IB ab initio SL or Head of Senior School approval

French 30 IB ab initio is the second year of a two-year course designed to develop foundational language skills and intercultural understanding. Students progressively enhance their ability to communicate effectively in French by building receptive, productive, and interactive skills. The course prepares students to engage successfully in French-speaking environments, fostering global awareness and respect for cultural diversity. Organized around five key themes—Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, and Sharing the Planet—the curriculum revisits these themes in a cyclical approach over two years. At the end of the course, students will sit the IB exam to demonstrate their proficiency.

Spanish Language & Culture 30-3Y

SPN3345

5 credits

Prerequisite: Spanish 20 IB ab initio SL or Head of Senior School approval

Spanish 30 IB ab initio is the second year of a two-year course designed to develop foundational language skills and intercultural understanding. Over time, students enhance their ability to communicate effectively in Spanish by building receptive, productive, and interactive skills. The course fosters global awareness and respect for cultural diversity, encouraging learners to extend their learning beyond the classroom and explore the language in real-world contexts. Organized around five key themes—Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, and Sharing the Planet—the curriculum is taught in a cyclical approach to reinforce and expand language proficiency over the two years.

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SPANISH 30 IB LANGUAGE B SL Spanish Language & Culture 30-6Y

SPN3349

5 credits

Prerequisite: Spanish 20 IB Language B SL or Head of Senior School approval

Español 30 IB Lengua B SL es el segundo año de un programa de dos años de Español B. A lo largo del curso, los estudiantes adquieren conocimientos, habilidades y actitudes lingüísticas, desarrollando progresivamente su capacidad para comunicarse de manera efectiva. Este curso está diseñado para proporcionar las competencias necesarias y la comprensión intercultural que les permita comunicarse con éxito en entornos hispanohablantes. Este proceso motiva a los estudiantes a ir más allá del aula, fomentando una mayor conciencia del mundo y el respeto por la diversidad cultural. La metodología se centra en experiencias, permitiendo a los estudiantes desarrollar habilidades receptivas, productivas e interactivas que les preparan para cumplir con los objetivos de evaluación del curso de Lengua B. El programa está estructurado en cinco temas principales que se abordan de manera cíclica durante los dos años: Identidades, Experiencias, Ingenio Humano, Organización Social y Compartir el Planeta.

Spanish 30 IB Language B SL is the second year of a two-year program designed to develop linguistic skills and intercultural understanding essential for effective communication in Spanishspeaking environments. This course develops students’ receptive, productive, and interactive skills, encouraging them to extend their learning beyond the classroom to foster global awareness and respect for cultural diversity. With a syllabus structured around experiences, students engage with five core themes—Identities, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organization, and Sharing the Planet—taught in a cyclical approach over two years. Through these themes, students progressively acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to meet the course’s assessment objectives while enhancing their ability to communicate in real-world contexts.

SENIOR SCHOOL MODERN LANGUAGE PATHWAYS

FRENCH

FRENCH 10 IB MYP

Continuing Phases 1-2 | 5 credits French 10-9Y

FRENCH 10/20/30 IB MYP

Continuing Phases 3-4 | 15 credits French 10/20/30-9Y

FRENCH 20 IB ab initio SL

FRENCH 30 IB ab initio SL

FRENCH 31A LANGUAGE B SL IB

FRENCH 31B IB LANGUAGE B SL

SPANISH 20 IB ab initio SL

SPANISH 30 IB ab initio SL

SPANISH 20 LANGUAGE B SL IB

SPANISH 30 LANGUAGE B SL IB

French 20-9Y | 5 credits

French 31A | 5 credits

French 30-9Y | 5 credits

French 31B | 5 credits

SPANISH 10 IB MYP

SPANISH

Phase 1 | Beginner | 5 credits Spanish 10-3Y

SPANISH 10 IB MYP

Spanish 30-3Y | 5 credits

Phases 2,3 | Continuing | 5 credits Spanish 10-3Y

SPANISH 10 IB MYP

Phases 3,4 | Advanced | 5 credits Spanish 10-6Y

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Spanish 20-3Y | 5 credits

Spanish 20-6Y | 5 credits

Spanish 30-6Y | 5 credits

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

FINE ARTS

INTRODUCTION The Fine Arts Department fosters creativity, collaboration, and artistic growth through programs in visual arts, theatre, music, and performance. Aligned with the IB Arts objectives, students explore and develop technical skills while engaging in inquiry, reflection, and the creative process to express themselves personally and culturally. They investigate the relationships between art, artists, and audiences, analyze and interpret works, and make connections across disciplines and global contexts. Through creating visual artwork, performing in productions, or participating in ensembles, students engage in hands-on experiences that encourage experimentation, expression, and teamwork. The program emphasizes polished performances—from full-scale theatrical productions to vocal and instrumental showcases— while fostering research, composition, and exploration of diverse genres and technologies. By combining artistic techniques with critical thinking, reflection, and collaboration, students become skilled, reflective, and passionate creators with a lifelong engagement with the arts.

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ART Visual Arts courses foster lifelong engagement with the arts, encouraging students to become informed, reflective, and skilled creators. Students explore and appreciate the diversity of art across time, place, and culture, developing their perceptual and analytical skills in the process. Students gain confidence in expressing ideas with competence and creativity by creating artwork influenced by personal, historical, and cultural contexts.

DRAMA Theatre is a dynamic, collaborative, and live art form. It is a practical subject that encourages discovery through experimentation, techniques, training, and polished final public performances. Theatre results in the development of both theatre and life skills, including building confidence, creativity, and working collaboratively.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC Instrumental music is focused on ensemble performance.

Students work together as a band. Students earn five credits through individual assessments in repertoire performance, technical development, theory, research, and critique, while working together toward campus performances, local festivals, and an annual trip.

MUSICAL THEATRE The musical theatre program enables students to work as part of a creative ensemble, gaining confidence in production and performance. Students also develop specialized skills in singing, dancing, and acting. Emphasis is placed on creating a full-scale theatrical production in December of each year.

MUSIC Music courses are ideal for students interested in composition, solo and ensemble performance, and music technology. Open to vocalists and instrumentalists of all skill levels and backgrounds, these courses explore diverse musical genres and cutting-edge technology. Students engage in performance, composition, and research tasks, fostering creativity and musical growth.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

MIDDLE SCHOOL (GRADES 7-9) FINE ARTS The Fine Arts program in the Middle School is designed to provide in-depth learning and the freedom to explore new opportunities, benefiting adolescent learners.

In Grades 7 and 8, students select ONE visual or performing arts course to pursue as a ‘major.’

The major course is scheduled twice/week.

Skill development and mastery are pursued over a three-year program.

Majors are selected in the spring before Grade 7, or upon admission in Grade 8.

Majors are taught by skilled specialist teachers.

Students complement their major with ‘two minors.’

The minor is scheduled once/week.

The focus is on exploration across a broad range of disciplines New minors are offered each semester and will be selected during the first few weeks of class.

Minor offerings may include technical theatre, Bollywood dance, ceramics, graffiti art, improv, and electronic music.

In Grade 9, the model evolves as mastery becomes a stronger driver to reach the requirements of Year 5 of the MYP program. This means: Band majors take band for the full year, all three classes/week Art, Drama, and Musical Theatre majors pursue their major for all three classes/week for one semester, while selecting a second major (from these three) for their second semester.

GRADES 7 & 8

The selections for Grade 9 are made in the spring of Grade 8, or upon admission to Grade 9.

MAJOR COURSE

MAJORS

September to June 2 classes/week | All year

MINOR COURSE 1 September to January 1 class/week | Half year

MINOR COURSE 2 February to June 1 class/week | Half year

ART

DRAMA

BAND

MUSICAL THEATRE

MINORS

New minors are offered each semester.

Minors may include choices such as electronic music composition, pottery, technical theatre, dance, etc.

GRADE 9

ART

BAND September to June 3 classes/week | All year

3 classes/week | Half year

OR

SELECT TWO

DRAMA

3 classes/week | Half year

MUSICAL THEATRE

3 classes/week | Half year

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ART 7 IB MYP

ART 8 IB MYP

This year-long course inspires creativity and skill development through diverse media and techniques. Students start by studying the art and history of bookbinding, crafting personalized sketchbooks that serve as both tools for feedback and records of artistic progress. The curriculum explores how still life and everyday objects can ignite creative projects, guiding students to observe and capture the world through sketching while enhancing their observational and technical drawing abilities. Throughout the course, students cultivate their artistic voice and complete projects that showcase their creativity and growth.

This year-long course builds upon the foundations of Art 7 IB MYP, encouraging students to advance their technical skills while exploring innovative approaches to artmaking. Students start by studying the art and history of bookbinding, crafting personalized sketchbooks that serve as both tools for feedback and records of artistic progress. With a focus on the theme of “the human form,” students experiment with various media, including acrylic paint, charcoal, printmaking, and textiles.

Through mixed-media portrait projects, they reflect on personal identity and representation. The course also develops critical thinking and communication skills, deepening students’ appreciation and understanding of artistic expression.

BAND 7 IB MYP Band 7 IB MYP is a year-long course designed to foster a lifelong connection to the arts by exploring music across diverse periods and cultures. Emphasizing the relationship between art and its context, the course develops essential skills for creating and performing music. Students progress through stages, such as "The Art of Playing," which focuses on ensemble performance for the first two months, “From Noise to Music," introducing foundational techniques for the Winter Concert. "The Big Performance" showcases individual growth within the ensemble at the Alberta International Band Festival, culminating in "Blend and Balance," where refined listening and ensemble skills shine at the Final Concert.

DRAMA 7 IB MYP This foundational drama course introduces students to theatre, emphasizing ensemble dynamics, creativity, and stage confidence. Students develop movement, voice, storytelling, and improvisation skills through active participation. Collaboration is a core focus, fostering a positive and cooperative mindset within the ensemble. A key component of the course includes completing a theatre critique that encourages analytical engagement with the art form.

MUSICAL THEATRE 7 IB MYP Musical Theatre 7 IB MYP immerses students in the genre of musical theatre through music, movement, and storytelling. The course fosters a climate of trust and collaboration through a series of creative projects and collective problem-solving exercises. Additionally, students delve into foundational performance skills essential for musical theatre, including acting, voice work, and dance. Assessments in Musical Theatre 7 are "growth-based,” allowing students to excel regardless of prior experience.

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BAND 8 IB MYP This course aligns with MYP Arts objectives, fostering sustained engagement with the arts, exploring music across various times and cultures, and understanding the relationship between music and its contexts. Students develop creative and performance skills through progressive units, beginning “Musical Language” focusing on mastering musical symbols to communicate intentions for the Winter Concert. The journey continues with "Music in Society," focusing on individual and ensemble excellence, culminating in participation in the Alberta International Band Festival. The final phase, "A Balancing Act," refines listening skills, providing a well-rounded musical education that emphasizes both technical proficiency and cultural awareness.

DRAMA 8 IB MYP This semester-long course immerses young actors in collaborative ensemble work, focusing on writing, devising, and performing scenes across styles. Students explore at least four theatrical genres—Melodrama, Greek Theatre, Physical Theatre and Shakespeare—developing unique characters through performance. Building on foundational IB MYP Year 3 Drama skills, the course introduces mime, staging techniques, and rehearsal strategies to refine and polish pieces. Emphasis on self-reflection and peer feedback helps students articulate insights using appropriate theatrical vocabulary. As in all IB MYP Drama levels, a theatre critique is required.

MUSICAL THEATRE 8 IB MYP This semester-long course focuses on cultivating consistency in acting, voice, and movement/dance performance skills. Applying these skills revolves around creating captivating and dynamic characters in musical scenes. Students broaden their understanding of the musical theatre genre by exploring the various roles involved in production. The course also emphasizes awareness of historical exclusions and underrepresentations in musical theatre creation and performance. Summative skill evaluations remain “growth-based,” encouraging excellence regardless of previous experience.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

ART 9 IB MYP This semester-long course builds on prior art experiences to establish a strong foundation for Senior School art studies.

Students start by studying the art and history of bookbinding, crafting personalized sketchbooks that serve as both tools for feedback and records of artistic progress. Centred on the theme of "place" as inspiration, students explore the relationship between landscape and personal meaning as a catalyst for creativity. Using both traditional and experimental materials, students interpret locations, experiment with perspective, and create abstract works that capture the essence of place. The course fosters higher-level thinking as students analyze and connect professional artworks, strengthening their ability to reflect thoughtfully and engage in meaningful critique.

BAND 9 IB MYP In this year-long course, students collaborate as members of the Grade 9 Band, dedicating themselves to rehearsing challenging repertoire, refining technical skills, conducting music research, and critically reflecting on their artistic growth. Highlights include designing a Halloween concert for the Elementary School, preparing a diverse repertoire for the Winter Concert, presenting new works at the Alberta International Band Festival, exploring jazz rhythms and instrumentation, and culminating in a final concert showcasing their musical journey. This course fosters both individual skill development and collective achievement within the ensemble.

DRAMA 9 IB MYP This semester-long course builds on prior skills, focusing on ensemble voice work, devising original creations, collaborative world-building, and integrating technology to enhance stage creativity. Students engage in watching, creating, and reflecting on their theatrical productions and those of their peers. The curriculum emphasizes advanced development in movement, voice, character creation, choral performance, improvisation, and exploring diverse theatre genres such as Slapstick and Children’s theatre. Collaboration remains central, with students expected to contribute positively and work harmoniously within the ensemble.

MUSICAL THEATRE 9 IB MYP This course culminates in rehearsing and performing excerpts from a selected musical. Students engage in character and design research, sharing insights on creators, characters, and technical and performance elements. Emphasis is placed on integrating vivid characterizations into choreography, singing, and acting while honing rehearsal etiquette, memorization, and collaboration skills. A "growth-based" approach to skill evaluation supports each student’s artistic development.

ART 10 IB MYP Art 10

FNA1400

5 credits

This course focuses on developing students’ technical skills, creativity, and self-expression through the use of two- and three-dimensional media. Students explore various techniques, including drawing, painting, ceramics, printmaking, mixed media, fibre arts, and alternative sculpture, all centred around the theme of Identity. Through their creative projects, students reflect on how they see and interpret the world, honing their ability to communicate through self-expression, critical thinking, and self-reflection.

DRAMA 10 IB MYP Drama 10

FNA1410

3 credits

Drama is both an art form and a medium for personal development, fostering emotional, physical, intellectual, imaginative, aesthetic, and social growth. In a supportive and collaborative environment, students explore life through roleplaying and developing dramatic skills. The course emphasizes growth as creators, performers, critics, and patrons while building self-awareness and understanding of others. Students will engage with multiple theatrical forms including devising original work, physical theatre, shadow theatre, script work, movement and character creation, and introductory scene work.

Through these experiences, students gain an appreciation for drama and theatre as both a process and an art form.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC 10 Instrumental Music 10

FNA1425

5 credits

Prerequisite: Band 9, equivalent experience or Head of Senior School approval

This course allows students to rehearse and perform as members of the Senior Band. Students earn five credits through individual assessments in repertoire performance, technical development, theory, research, and critique. Students work collaboratively toward performances on campus, at local festivals, and during an annual trip. The Senior Band performs a diverse repertoire for wind ensembles, and at least three years of instrumental experience are recommended to meet the course's challenges.

This full-year, cross-grade (10/11/12) class meets twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays, 7:15 - 8:30 am.

As class times fall outside the timetable, enrollment in this course does not count towards the three elective choices for Grade 10 students; this becomes a fourth elective option in addition to other elective choices.

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MUSIC 10 IB MYP General Music 10

ART 20 IB HL/SL FNA1424

5 credits

This course welcomes musicians of all experience levels to explore diverse music genres as performers, creators, and researchers. Students engage in solo and group performances, compose using traditional and digital methods, and build a strong foundation in music theory and analysis to support their musical goals. With a focus on fostering creativity, confidence, and artistic identity, the course inspires meaningful musicianship and prepares students for the IB Diploma Programme in Music.

Through performance, composition, and analysis projects, students delve into four key areas: Performance, Musical Lines, Music Together, and Composition, gaining a deeper understanding of music's technical and artistic elements.

MUSICAL THEATRE 15/25/35 Musical Theatre 15

LDC1979

3 credits

Musical Theatre 25

LDC2979

3 credits

Musical Theatre 35

LDC3979

3 credits 9 credits total

These courses immerse students in the musical theatre genre, combining performance and technical artistry through a fullscale theatrical production each December. Students develop skills in singing, dance, acting, character, and technical theatre, along with discipline, leadership, and commitment. They engage in written and performance work, using journals to reflect on their progress after each unit. Topics of study include movement/dance, character development and portrayal, vocal pedagogy and performance, and technical theatre.

Held outside the regular timetable, this course aligns with the Senior Musical rehearsal schedule and may require additional time commitments.

ART 20 Art 20

FNA2400

5 credits

Prerequisite: Art 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This course empowers students to take greater ownership of their artwork and the concepts they wish to explore. In Art 20, students examine how art reflects and critiques the world around them. They develop skills in both two- and three-dimensional media, including drawing, painting, ceramics, printmaking, mixed media, and alternative sculpture, while exploring the influence of artistic movements on contemporary practice. Through selfexpression and creative inquiry, students refine their ability to communicate ideas and challenge conventions in art and society.

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Art 20

FNA2400

5 credits

Prerequisite: Art 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This course empowers students to engage in independent, critical inquiry and hands-on artistic exploration, culminating in original creative works. Students are encouraged to experiment with diverse media, focusing on art forms, skills, and concepts that reflect their personal interests. The curriculum includes three portfolios at each level, guiding students through the inquiry model as an essential part of the artmaking process. Students conduct comprehensive research, present their work, and explore the principles of curation. In IB DP Year 1, students undertake indepth investigations to complete either the Artist Project (HL) or the Connections Study (SL), producing five refined, self-directed artworks centred on a chosen theme for their Artmaking Inquiries Portfolio. Regular visits to galleries and museums are encouraged to deepen understanding of how to build a cohesive body of work and to enhance artistic vision and technique.

DRAMA 20 Drama 20

FNA2410

5 credits

Prerequisite: Drama 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This course immerses students in theatre as a performing art through both written and performance work. Students build selfdiscipline, leadership, and academic understanding while developing as creators, performers, historians, critics, and patrons.

Students engage in devising, movement, improvisation, character development, scene work, solo performance, playwriting, and technical theatre. They study theatre history, theory, styles, and genres—including Shakespeare, Meisner acting technique, and ensemble theatre—alongside technical skills to enhance performance and deepen their understanding of theatrical forms.

Process journals capture reflections and discoveries throughout seven units: Devising, Movement, Improvisation, Acting and Scene Analysis, Playwriting, Theatre Style and History, and Technical Theatre.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC 20 Instrumental Music 20

FNA2425

5 credits

Prerequisite: Instrumental Music 10 or Head of Senior School approval

See description for Instrumental Music 10.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

ART 30

MUSIC 20 IB HL/SL General Music 20

FNA2424

5 credits

Prerequisite: Music 10 IB MYP, Musical Theatre 15, Instrumental Music 10 IB MYP, or Head of Senior School approval

This course welcomes students of all musical backgrounds, from beginners to advanced performers, and provides opportunities to explore music as performers, creators, and researchers. In Year 1, students collaborate to arrange and perform a piece of music while building essential music theory knowledge. The curriculum focuses on the IB Music Areas of Inquiry, engaging students in diverse performance, composition, and research tasks exploring worldwide music. Students gain hands-on experience with music technology tools, including Avid Sibelius notation software, Ableton Live, MIDI controllers, synthesizers, and recording equipment. Open to vocalists and instrumentalists on any instrument, this course is ideal for students considering post-secondary music studies or careers in music.

FNA2410

FNA3400

5 credits

Prerequisite: Art 20 or Head of Senior School approval

This course empowers students to refine their technical skills across multiple media, foster personal artistic expression, and engage in inquiry-based learning. Students draw inspiration from influential artists and movements, researching to develop a cohesive portfolio of at least five original artworks. Emphasizing creativity, initiative, and resourcefulness, the course guides students through research, inquiry design, studio practice, and curation, culminating in a public exhibition. By integrating cultural experiences with artistic exploration, students strengthen their ability to evaluate their work critically, engage with diverse artistic contexts, and articulate their unique creative voices.

ART 30 IB HL/SL Art 30

FNA3400

5 credits

Prerequisite: Art 20 IB HL/SL or Head of Senior School approval

THEATRE ARTS 20 IB HL/SL Drama 20

Art 30

5 credits

Prerequisite: Drama 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This course introduces students to the academic history and theory of theatre as a cultural contributor and communication tool. Students develop skills as creators, performers, designers, directors, critics, and patrons while exploring the historical and theoretical significance of theatre. The curriculum emphasizes technical skills to enhance artistic choices and deepen understanding of theatre's forms and functions. Students maintain a process journal to reflect on discoveries throughout the four units of study.

1. Staging play texts: Students formulate a vision for the design and theoretical staging of an entire published play text they have not previously studied. This work leads to the Production Proposal assessment.

2. Exploring world theatre traditions: Students engage in academic and practical exploration of at least one unfamiliar world theatre tradition. This culminates in the Research Presentation.

3. Collaboratively creating original theatre: Students work in a group to create and perform an original piece of theatre from a starting point of their choice. This results in the Collaborative Project assessment.

4. Performing theatre theory (HL only): HL students exclusively research a theatre theorist and apply an aspect of that theory to create and present a solo theatre piece. This forms the basis of the Solo Theatre Piece assessment.

This course builds on the strong foundation established in Year 1, enabling students to refine and expand their independent artistic investigations further. In Year 2, students deepen their technical skills and conceptual understanding, continuing to develop their studio work and complete their portfolios. They finalize the written component (Artist Project at HL or Connections Study at SL) and focus on planning and curating a public exhibition that highlights each student’s artistic growth, creative achievements, and unique vision.

The Connections Study, Artist Project, and Artmaking Inquiries Portfolio are externally assessed by the IB, ensuring rigorous and objective evaluation.

The final public exhibition, showcasing each student’s curated selection of resolved artworks, is internally assessed in the spring in accordance with IB criteria.

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THEATRE ARTS 30 IB HL/SL

DRAMA 30 Drama 30

FNA3410

5 credits

Prerequisite: Drama 20 or Head of Senior School approval

Based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study curriculum, Drama 30 immerses students in theatre as a performing art through both written and performance work. Students refine fundamental theatre skills across eight units of study: devising, movement, improvisation, acting and scene analysis, playwriting, theatre style and history, directing, and technical theatre.

Emphasis is placed on developing students as creators, performers, historians, critics, and patrons. Students explore theatre history and theory—including Shakespeare, Renaissance and Reformation theatre, and Meisner acting technique—to enhance their understanding and performance. As a culminating experience, students direct their own work for final performance with Drama 20 students as their actors. Process journals document reflections and discoveries, fostering critical engagement and personal growth in the dramatic arts.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC 30 Instrumental Music 30

FNA3425

5 credits

Prerequisite: Instrumental Music 20 or Head of Senior School approval

See description for Instrumental Music 10.

MUSIC 30 IB HL/SL General Music 30

FNA3424

5 credits

Prerequisites: Music 20 IB HL/SL or Head of Senior School approval

In the second year of IB Music, students focus on creating their assessed music portfolios through performance, composition, and research on diverse musical traditions. They complete three portfolios: Exploring Music in Context, Experimenting with Music, and Presenting Music. Higher-level students complete an additional portfolio, titled "The Contemporary Music Maker."

Drama 30

FNA3410

5 credits

Prerequisites: Drama 20, Theatre Arts 20 IB HL/SL, Musical Theatre 25, or Head of Senior School approval

In this course, students build on foundations by deepening their understanding of theatre history and theory while refining their skills as theatre contributors. Emphasis is placed on selfdiscipline, leadership, and academic knowledge as students make creative decisions demonstrating their grasp of theatre's historical and theoretical significance. Students document their learning and planning through process journals, which support preparation for Internal Assessments (IA) and External Assessments (EA). SL students complete two EAs and one IA, while HL students undertake an additional assignment to expand their exploration and expertise in theatre. The curriculum emphasizes technical skills to enhance artistic choices and deepen understanding of theatre's forms and functions.

Students maintain a process journal to reflect on discoveries throughout the four units of study.

1.Staging play texts: Students formulate a vision for the design and theoretical staging of an entire published play text they have not previously studied. This work leads to the Production Proposal assessment.

2.Exploring world theatre traditions: Students engage in academic and practical exploration of at least one unfamiliar world theatre tradition. This culminates in the Research Presentation.

3.Collaboratively creating original theatre: Students work in a group to create and perform an original piece of theatre from a starting point of their choice. This results in the Collaborative Project assessment.

4.Performing theatre theory (HL only): HL students exclusively research a theatre theorist and apply an aspect of that theory to create and present a solo theatre piece. This forms the basis of the Solo Theatre Piece assessment.

Students utilize professional tools, including Avid Sibelius, Ableton Live, MIDI controllers, synthesizers, and recording equipment, to support their work. Open to both vocalists and instrumentalists, this course is well suited for those interested in pursuing post-secondary music studies or careers in the music industry.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION INTRODUCTION The Design, Technology, and Innovation (DTI) program empowers students to develop innovative solutions by integrating three core elements: human needs, technological possibilities, and entrepreneurial demands. Aligned with the IB Design Cycle, the program fosters creativity, critical thinking, and reflective practice through its structured yet flexible framework, guiding students through investigation, design, planning, creation, and evaluation. This approach encourages students to gain a deep understanding of challenges, develop thoughtful strategies, and critically assess outcomes to ensure solutions are effective and meaningful. Students also explore creative computing, which applies coding, digital tools, and computational thinking to design interactive projects, simulations, and digital solutions. By combining design thinking, iterative problem-solving, and technological innovation, the program prepares students to become adaptable, reflective, and innovative creators capable of addressing real-world problems in thoughtful and impactful ways.

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DESIGN 7 IB MYP This compulsory full-year course introduces students to the Design Cycle, a structured framework guiding them through investigating, designing, planning, creating, and evaluating innovative solutions, including models, prototypes, products, or systems. Students explore various design techniques, from technical sketching and 3D modelling with CAD software to producing designs fabricated through 3D printing. In the Creative Computing component, they apply programming skills to create functional tools for real-world clients using block coding platforms and integrate coding with product design through mini‑processors and circuits. This course develops creativity, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills, preparing students to innovate in a technology‑driven world.

DESIGN 8 IB MYP This compulsory full-year course empowers students to navigate change and solve real-world problems using the Design Cycle, a structured framework guiding them through investigating, designing, planning, creating, and evaluating solutions. In Product Design, students use graphic design software to create innovative, sustainable laser-cut packaging redesigns. The Creative Computing component builds on programming skills using block coding software, culminating in the design of a taskoriented utility vehicle that integrates building design, scientific principles, and environmental considerations. Through this course, students develop critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills essential for tackling complex challenges.

COMPUTER SCIENCE 10 IB MYP Computer Science 1

CSE1010

1 credit

Structured Programming 1

CSE1110

1 credit

Technical Design & Drafting 1

DES1060

1 credit 3 credits total

This 9‐week elective consists of three distinct one‐credit modules, introducing students to the design cycle with a focus on computer science programming and problem‐solving.

Students develop the basic knowledge, skills, and techniques necessary to draft drawings for visualizing and illustrating simple design problems, thereby enhancing their ability to conceptualize and communicate ideas effectively.

Throughout the course, students create structured algorithms and programs that process data through input, processing, and output stages while exploring programming fundamentals, the role of algorithms, and the interaction between hardware, software, and computing processes. The course emphasizes the societal impact of computers and fosters respect, integrity, and responsibility. Through hands‐on projects, research, and evaluation, students develop practical programming skills, problem‐solving strategies, and innovative solutions. Grading is based on performance across all course components.

DESIGN 10 IB MYP Design Thinking for Innovation 15

DESIGN 9 IB MYP This compulsory full-year course builds on prior learning, emphasizing product design, creative computing, and entrepreneurial thinking. In the Creative Computing component, students deepen their programming skills by developing interactive Python programs that apply concepts such as control flow, variables, functions, conditionals, lists, and loops. In Product Design, students explore sustainable design principles while refining their CAD skills through iterative design processes in Fusion 360. This course equips students with more advanced technical, creative, and problem-solving skills, preparing them to innovate in a rapidly evolving world.

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LDC1131

3 credits

This 9-week elective course immerses students in the Design Cycle, emphasizing the creation of practical, innovative solutions to real-world challenges and their impact on global society.

Through a multidisciplinary approach, students develop the skills to access, process, and communicate information, model solutions, and solve complex design problems. The curriculum highlights the societal and environmental impacts of design innovations, fostering respect for diverse perspectives and ethical practices. Students gain hands-on experience in observational sketching, technical drawing, modelling, laser cutting, and foundational computer-aided design (CAD). They explore key design concepts, such as aesthetics, creativity, and ergonomics, while developing effective research methods to evaluate and refine their solutions. This course prepares students to think critically and creatively, equipping them to navigate and contribute to a rapidly changing world.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

STEM RACING ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING

DESIGN TECHNOLOGY 20 IB HL/SL Design Thinking for Innovation 25

Analyzing Ventures

ENT2010

1 credit

CAD 1

DES1050

1 credit

FAB Project A

FAB1910

1 credit

This course integrates theoretical knowledge with real-world application, fostering innovation, teamwork, and technical expertise through completion of the STEM Racing Engineering, Enterprise & Manufacturing suite.

Students develop essential skills in computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) as they design and fabricate their cars. They also build proficiency in project management and enterprise, applying these skills within a collaborative STEM Racing team venture.

Students prepare their cars for a virtual Regional competition in November, followed by continued portfolio development and further refinement of their designs. By the end of the semester, students complete three 1-credit modules taken outside the regular timetable.

The three modules above must be successfully completed to receive credit for F1 Engineering, Enterprise & Manufacturing.

CAD 2

DES2055

1 credit

Structural Engineering

FAB2010

1 credit

Teams that achieve success at the regional level advance to the national STEM Racing competition in April, competing against teams from across Canada and earning two additional credits.

Students assume responsibility for all associated costs. Teams placing in the top three nationally may qualify for the World Finals in the fall of the following school year, with students again responsible for covering participation costs.

NOTE: All STEM Racing Engineering, Enterprise & Manufacturing modules meet outside the regular timetable.

DESIGN & INNOVATION STUDIES 20 Design Thinking for Innovation 25

LDC2131

5 credits

Prerequisite: Design 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

In this elective semester course, students build on prior knowledge of the design cycle, focusing on problem-solving using design technology tools. This course emphasizes creating models, prototypes, products, or systems by combining technical skills with subject-specific knowledge. Students develop strong design literacy by exploring key topics, including sustainable design, types of modelling, material selection for final products, classic design principles, user-centred design, and innovation.

Through hands-on projects and theoretical study, this course prepares students to apply creative and practical solutions to real-world challenges.

LDC2131

5 credits

Prerequisite: Design 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

This is the first IB course in a two‐year program that develops internationally minded individuals with a deep understanding of design and technology. Aligned with the IB DP syllabus, the course also fulfills Alberta Education LDC credits in Design Thinking and Innovation, offering students a comprehensive foundation in design.

Students can choose between two pathways. Ideal for students interested in engineering, industrial design, architecture, or business, the course emphasizes inquiry, problem‐solving, and critical thinking.

Using the IB Design Cycle, students analyze problems, develop and test solutions, and evaluate outcomes. Their solutions may include models, prototypes, products, or systems that they have created independently. This course equips students with advanced design literacy and the creativity and innovation needed to address real‐world challenges by combining theoretical knowledge with practical application within an ethical framework.

DESIGN & INNOVATION STUDIES 30 Design Thinking for Innovation 35

LDC3131

5 credits

Prerequisite: Design & Innovation Studies 20, Design Technology 20 IB HL/SL, or Head of Senior School approval

This course allows students to continue exploring product design within the context of the design cycle, focusing on prototyping, innovation strategies, marketing, and manufacturing. The course centres on a broad inquiry project that enables students to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of design technology through an authentic investigation of a design problem.

This course is ideal for students who wish to expand their design literacy and critical thinking skills while creating a range of physical and digital models and prototypes.

DESIGN TECHNOLOGY 30 IB HL/SL Design Thinking for Innovation 35

LDC3131

5 credits

Prerequisite: Design & Innovation Studies 20, Design Technology 20 IB HL/SL, or Head of Senior School approval

This second year of the two-year IB Design Technology program equips students with a global perspective and a strong understanding of design’s role in a sustainable future. Aligned with the IB DP syllabus and fulfilling Alberta Education LDC credits in Design Thinking and Innovation, this course suits students pursuing careers in engineering, industrial design, architecture, or business.

Year 2 centres on the Internal Assessment (IA), where students address a real-world design problem using the IB Design Cycle. They conduct inquiry and analysis, develop practical solutions, and test and evaluate outcomes. Through this hands-on, rigorous approach, students strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills while applying their learning in authentic contexts.

This course prepares students for post-secondary study and future careers, fostering innovation and adaptability in a rapidly evolving world.

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PHYSICAL & HEALTH EDUCATION INTRODUCTION The Physical and Health Education (PHE) program encourages students to develop a lifelong connection to physical activity and healthy living. By combining physical education and health, the program helps students build the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to lead balanced, healthy lives. It focuses on physical, mental, and social well-being, offering opportunities for active learning and personal growth.

Students learn to appreciate different perspectives, work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and build positive relationships. These experiences foster a sense of responsibility toward others and an appreciation for the importance of teamwork and community. The program follows the Alberta Education curriculum through the IB framework of teaching and assessment. It supports students in making informed decisions and adopting habits that enhance their own well-being and contribute to the wellbeing of those around them.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

PHE 7 IB MYP In this course, students develop a meaningful connection to movement, fostering confidence, personal growth, and a lifelong commitment to physical activity. Through engaging units such as trail running, team games, aesthetic movement, net games, individual pursuits, and alternative environments like crosscountry skiing, students develop skills and experience the joy of movement. The program also emphasizes social development, encouraging positive peer interactions and a sense of belonging, ultimately enhancing students’ overall quality of life.

PHE 8 IB MYP In this course, students cultivate a meaningful connection to movement that encourages lifelong engagement in physical activity and overall wellness. They build confidence in their abilities, demonstrate a commitment to personal growth across a range of physical pursuits, and develop social skills that promote a sense of belonging within their community. The course also integrates learning about healthy behaviours—such as balanced nutrition, effective conflict resolution, and the building of positive, healthy relationships—to support students’ physical, mental, and social well-being. By discovering joy in movement, students enhance their overall quality of life. Units of study explore themes such as challenge, decision-making, aesthetics, communication, conflict, “further, faster, higher,” active community engagement, and alternative environments like canoeing.

PHE 9 IB MYP This course is designed to help students develop a meaningful connection to movement and inspire a lifelong commitment to physical activity. Through diverse experiences—such as trail running, team games, creative movement, net games, individual pursuits, and activities in alternative environments like backpacking—students build confidence in their abilities and demonstrate personal growth. The course also promotes holistic well-being by exploring healthy behaviours, including nutrition, conflict resolution, and the development of positive, respectful relationships. Emphasizing both physical and social health, the course fosters a sense of belonging among peers and encourages joy in movement as a foundation for lifelong wellness.

PHE 10 IB MYP Physical Education 10

PED1445

5 credits

This course aims to engage students in exploring physical and health education concepts through inquiry while fostering skills that promote lifelong well-being. Students participate in various activities, develop an appreciation for the value of physical activity, and work toward achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The course emphasizes effective collaboration and communication, building positive relationships, demonstrating social responsibility, and reflecting on personal learning experiences. It is structured around five key units of inquiry: endurance, individual activities, personal movement, alternative environments, and team games.

SPORTS MEDICINE 10 Health Services Foundations

HSS1010

1 credit

Injury Management 1

REC1020

1 credit

Anatomy of Joints

REC2030

1 credit

Rec Project A

REC1910

1 credit

Nutrition & Wellness*

HSS1020

1 credit

First Aid/CPR with AED

HCS2020

1 credit 5 credits total

Students earn five credits when they complete five of the six 1-credit modules.

The Sports Medicine 10 course is designed to lay a solid foundation for students interested in various careers in the medical and sports sciences. It introduces students to human anatomy, physiology, and the prevention and acute care of athletic injuries. The course places a strong emphasis on handson learning, including basic taping and strapping techniques, and encourages the application of classroom knowledge to reallife situations. By combining theory with practical skills, students develop the knowledge and competencies to explore medical, first aid, and sports-related career opportunities. *Students taking OE 10 must take Nutrition & Wellness to earn their fifth credit.

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CAREER AND LIFE MANAGEMENT (CALM) Career & Life Management

PED0770

3 credits

CALM is a mandatory course designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions in all areas of their lives. It fosters respect for the world around them and promotes well-being, offering a practical and flexible approach particularly relevant for 21st-century learners. The course is structured around three key units of study: career and life choices, resource choices, and personal choices, providing students with a versatile skill set applicable to various life situations.

CALM is offered both during the regular school timetable and the summer term, and can be taken by students entering Grade 10. Completing the course before Grade 11 is strongly recommended to ensure greater flexibility in students’ timetables. Successful completion is required for graduation.

This course is also offered through STAND School.

PHE 20 Physical Education 20

PED2445

5 credits

Prerequisite: PHE 10 IB MYP or Head of Senior School approval

The Physical Education 20 program follows Alberta Education guidelines and meets or exceeds all outcome-based objectives.

Building on the skills, personal fitness, leadership, and attributes introduced in PHE 10, Grade 11 students are provided opportunities to select activities that align with their interests and offer individual challenges to help them reach a higher level of achievement. By offering a range of activities that promote skill development and confidence, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead an active and fulfilling life.

kinesiology, sports medicine, fitness instruction, and other medical or sports-related fields, this course provides the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to succeed in these professions. Students will gain a foundational understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and the prevention and management of athletic injuries through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on experience. Real-world applications will also be emphasized, including basic taping and strapping techniques for injury prevention and care. The five units of study are: Pain and Pain Management, Technical Foundations for Injury Management, Injury Management 2, Chronic Conditions, and the HCS Project.

PHE 30 Physical Education 30

PED3445

5 credits

Prerequisite: PHE 20 or Head of Senior School approval

The PHE 30 program follows Alberta Education guidelines and meets or exceeds all outcome-based objectives. In Grade 12, students continue to build on the skills, personal fitness, leadership, and attributes developed in PHE 10 and 20. They are able to select activities that align with their interests and provide individual challenges, helping them achieve a higher level of performance. Students will develop the competency and confidence needed to maintain an active and enjoyable lifestyle in their post-secondary years through various activities. Students must complete a five-credit course to use their PHE 30 grade for admission to Alberta post-secondary institutions.

SPORTS MEDICINE 20 HCS Project B

HCS2910

1 credit

Sport Psychology 1

REC1050

1 credit

Technical Foundations for Injury Management

REC1030

1 credit

Pain & Pain Management

HCS2120

1 credit

Injury Management 2

REC2020

1 credit 5 credits total

Prerequisite: Sports Medicine 10 or Head of School approval

Sports Medicine 20 is a semester course that builds on the curriculum from Sports Medicine 10, offering five Career and Technology Studies (CTS) modules. Designed for students interested in careers in athletic therapy, physiotherapy, nursing,

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

PERSONAL FITNESS

SPORTS MEDICINE 30 Mental Health & Wellness

HSS3020

1 credit

Human Movement

REC3010

1 credit

Injury Management 3

REC3020

1 credit

Sport & Society

REC3140

1 credit

Rec Project D

REC3910

1 credit 3-5 credits total

Prerequisite: Sports Medicine 20 or Head of Senior School approval

This advanced-level course builds on the competencies developed in introductory and intermediate sports medicine courses. Students explore advanced perspectives on health, enhance their skills in career transitions and community health, and learn advanced taping and strapping techniques. The course covers assessment strategies for various musculoskeletal injuries, with a focus on human movement and biomechanics.

Designed for students interested in deepening their knowledge of sports medicine, this course offers a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology, as well as injury assessment, prevention, and rehabilitation.

Personal Fitness is available to Grade 11 and Grade 12 students through STAND School. Students complete various 1-credit modules that promote wellness, offering flexible scheduling to accommodate individual timetables.

Foundations of Training I

REC1040

1 credit

In this module, students explore and apply fundamental training and movement principles to improve health-related and performance-related fitness components. The module includes designing fitness activities and creating a personalized fitness plan to help individuals achieve their goals.

Foundations of Training II

REC2040

1 credit

In this module, students apply training and movement principles that focus on muscular and cardiovascular development, as well as speed, agility, quickness, and flexibility. Emphasis is placed on applying safe practices while leading and participating in training exercises and activities.

Sport Psychology

REC1050

1 credit

In this module, students explore the role of mental fitness in enhancing performance and motivation in sports, the arts, and academics. The module covers strategies for strengthening mental wellness, including relaxation techniques, visualization, and positive self-talk.

Nutrition for Recreation Activities & Sport

REC2010

1 credit

In this module, students explore the role of nutrition and hydration in optimizing physical performance for recreational activities and sports. The module provides knowledge and skills for planning nutrition and hydration strategies tailored to various activities and athletic events.

Rec Project B

REC2910

1 credit

In this module, students develop project design and management skills to enhance competencies gained in other REC courses by applying them to personally relevant contexts. To enroll, students must have completed at least two CTS courses, including one at the intermediate 20-level.

Group Exercise Trends

REC1045

1 credit

Students describe trends in group fitness, participate in various group fitness opportunities, and apply training and movement principles to analyze the viability of fitness trends.

Nature & Wellness

HSS1100

1 credit

Students explore the relationship between plants, animals, and the environment, with a focus on their impact on human health and wellness. They evaluate how nature influences individual and community well-being and apply this understanding to plan and modify public and personal spaces that enhance personal wellness through the use of natural elements.

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OUTDOOR EDUCATION INTRODUCTION The Outdoor Education (OE) program is an experiential learning opportunity that equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence for safe and inspiring outdoor adventures. Combining classroom instruction with field experiences, the program emphasizes key skills like The Ten Essentials, trip planning, Leave No Trace principles, backcountry cooking, wilderness first aid, and seasonal activities such as hiking, camping, snowshoeing, skiing, climbing, and paddling. Students explore personal interests like outdoor photography, Indigenous knowledge, or digital navigation while practicing leadership, group dynamics, and risk management. Advanced learners in OE 30 participate in flexible, self-directed learning, culminating in student-led expeditions and alignment with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award Adventurous Journey. Through hands-on experiences and tailored activities, the program fosters environmental stewardship, resilience, and the ability to organize and execute meaningful outdoor adventures that challenge and inspire.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

OUTDOOR EDUCATION 20

Learn more in the Outdoor Education Program Overview, including information about events and trips.

Winter Travel

LDC2491

3 credits

Introduction to Stewardship

ENS1010

1 credit

Wilderness Project B

WLD2910

1 credit

Outdoor Cooking Practice

WLD2100

1 credit 6 credits total

Prerequisite: OE 10 or Head of Senior School approval

OUTDOOR EDUCATION 10 Outdoor Survival Skills

WLD1130

1 credit

Wilderness Navigation

WLD1060

1 credit

First Aid/CPR with AED

HCS2020

1 credit

Winter Travel

LDC1491

3 credits 6 credits total

OE 10 is an experiential learning elective for Grade 10 students that combines classroom instruction with field-based activities to develop core outdoor skills. Students learn trip planning, clothing systems for varying conditions, camping techniques (sleep systems and camp craft), Leave No Trace principles, backcountry cooking and menu planning, remote first aid, winter travel skills, and foundational outdoor leadership. Field experiences are central to the course and may include hiking, camping, snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, ski touring, climbing, and paddling. Students also complete the Practice and Adventurous Journey components of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award and work toward three industry-recognized certifications: Remote Responder (RR) + Intermediate First Aid: A 24-hour wilderness first aid course recognized by Alberta Occupational Health & Safety.

Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 (AST1): A curriculum developed by the Avalanche Canada and recognized by the Canadian Avalanche Association.

Leave No Trace Certificate: An internationally respected program on minimum-impact practices used by national parks and outdoor organizations.

The winter travel component provides intensive safety training focused on avalanche hazard mitigation, the use of specialist technology and snow safety equipment, and winter navigation.

Students build confidence traveling in Rocky Mountain national and provincial parks while deepening their understanding of winter ecosystems, ecological integrity, hazard assessment, and leadership in dynamic environments.

OE 20 helps students deepen their connection to the outdoors, outdoor activities, and their sense of place. Building on foundational skills, they expand their understanding of outdoor service, environmental stewardship, sustainability, and adventure, while advancing the competencies needed for safe, enjoyable travel across seasons and terrain. The course encourages exploration of personal interests—such as outdoor photography, Indigenous ways of knowing, digital navigation, backcountry cooking, or other pursuits—and relies heavily on field experiences that apply course themes in real-world settings.

Students are eligible to complete the Practice and Adventurous Journey components of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Silver Award, and successful completion provides CTS credits and a locally developed course credit. The winter travel component, developed in partnership with Parks Canada, focuses on five topics: hazard awareness and mitigation, ecological integrity, historical importance, skill development with specialized technology and equipment, and appreciation of the mountain parks environment.

Through these experiences, students develop leadership by working collaboratively to solve real-world challenges, taking personal responsibility as adaptable team members, and gaining a strong understanding of avalanche safety, elemental and terrain hazards, and the use of snow safety equipment.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION 20 ACCESS Introduction to Stewardship

ENS1010

1 credit

Outdoor Cooking Practice

WLD2100

1 credit

Wilderness Project B

WLD2910

1 credit 3 credits total

Prerequisite: OE 10 or Head of Senior School approval

Students who cannot fit OE 20 into their regular timetable can opt for this asynchronous version of the course. They join their peers for all field experiences and follow the same trip schedule, but do not attend regular class sessions, so academic progression and expectations are adjusted.

To stay prepared, students meet during lunch to review trip details and requirements. Participants in OE 20 ACCESS earn credits for completing the program’s outdoor education modules.

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OUTDOOR EDUCATION 30

OUTDOOR EDUCATION 30 ACCESS

Outdoor Excursion

WLD2130

1 credit

Outdoor Leadership

WLD3130

1 credit

Introduction to Guiding

WLD3140

1 credit

Fostering Stewardship

ENS1020

1 credit

Wilderness Project C

WLD2920

1 credit 5 credits total

Prerequisites: OE 20 or Head of Senior School approval

This course is designed for students aspiring to lead and execute challenging outdoor expeditions, particularly those preparing for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award Adventurous Journey.

Through a balanced mix of theoretical learning and hands-on experiences, students gain advanced proficiency in outdoor skills, including navigation, campcraft, and trip planning, while developing critical leadership competencies such as group dynamics, risk assessment, and effective decision-making. The program emphasizes self-reliance and teamwork, guiding participants in planning and executing student-led expeditions.

Activities are customized to align with the group’s interests and goals, with annual expeditions evolving based on participants’ efforts and aspirations. By the end of the course, students have the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills to design, organize, and lead memorable outdoor adventures that challenge and inspire themselves and their peers.

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Outdoor Excursion

WLD2130

1 credit

Wilderness Project C

WLD2920

1 credit

Outdoor Leadership

WLD3130

1 credit 3 credits total

Prerequisites: OE 20 or Head of Senior School approval

Students who cannot fit OE 30 into their regular timetable can choose this asynchronous version of the course. They join their peers for all field experiences and follow the same trip schedule, but do not attend regular class sessions, so academic progression and expectations are adjusted.

Students meet regularly during lunch to review trip details and program requirements. Participants in OE 30 ACCESS earn credits for completing the program’s outdoor education modules.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

THE CLASS OF 2025

POST-SECONDARY OFFERS & ACCEPTANCES CANADA Acadia University University of Alberta* Alberta University of the Arts* University of British Columbia* University of British Columbia | Okanagan Brock University University of Calgary* Cape Breton University Carleton University* Concordia University Dalhousie University* Durham College Emily Carr University of Art & Design* Huron University* Ivey Business School King’s University College McGill University McMaster University* Memorial University Mount Allison University Mount Royal University* University of New Brunswick Ontario College of Art & Design Ontario Tech University* University of Ottawa* Queen’s University* St. Francis Xavier University* St. Mary’s University University of Saskatchewan* Simon Fraser University Southern Alberta Institute of Technology* Thompson Rivers University University of Toronto | Mississauga* University of Toronto | Scarborough* University of Toronto | St. George* University of Victoria* University of Waterloo Western University* Wilfrid Laurier University York University

UNITED STATES University of Arizona* Arizona State University* Babson College* Brigham Young University | Idaho University of California | Irvine University of California | Davis University of California | Riverside University of California | San Diego California Polytechnic State University* Carroll College University of Charleston University of Colorado Boulder* Colorado School of Mines University of Dallas Gonzaga University* University of Hawai’i Indiana University Massachusetts College of Pharmacy* Miami University University of Michigan University of Minnesota University of Montana Montana State University University of Oregon Pennsylvania State University Rochester Institute of Technology Sacred Heart University* St. Edward’s University St. Mary’s University San Diego State University University of Washington University of Wisconsin-Madison

INTERNATIONAL Aston University University of Birmingham Brunel University London University of Central Lancashire University College Dublin* Griffith University* King’s College London The London School of Economics & Political Science* Medical University of the Americas* RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences University of St Andrews* St. George’s University | Grenada Swiss Hotel Management School*

PROGRAMS OF STUDY ARTS & COMMUNICATION Acting, fine arts, journalism, and music BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP Finance, hospitality, and real estate DESIGN & INNOVATION Architecture, environmental science, and industrial design ENGINEERING Aerospace, automotive, biomedical, chemical, and mechatronics HEALTH & MEDICINE Direct-entry medicine, dentistry, and neuroscience HUMANITIES International relations, law, policy studies, and psychology SCIENCES Applied, biology, chemistry, health sciences, and life sciences

*where students accepted offers

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STAND SCHOOL GRADES 9-12

INTRODUCTION All STAND courses are designed and supported by STS teachers, meet the rigorous standards of the Alberta Education Programs of Study, and prepare students for a wide range of post-secondary pathways, including competitive programs.

HOW ONLINE LEARNING WORKS AT STAND STAND follows the same yearly calendar as Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School. This includes school opening and closing dates, holidays, instructional days, and schedules for Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs) and Diploma exams.

STAND online courses are offered in three pacing options to support different learning needs and schedules: Quarterly (accelerated or adjusted pacing with in-person final exams offered in November, January, April, and June).

Semestered (typical pacing with in-person final exams offered in January and June).

Year-long (for those wanting a slower pace with in-person final exams in June).

Hybrid courses are available to STS FLEX students who can attend classes on campus. FLEX students also have access to additional on-campus opportunities in design, fine arts, athletics, outdoor education, co-curricular activities, and clubs.

TIME EXPECTATIONS To help students plan realistic daily and weekly schedules when choosing their online courses, they should plan for: Approximately 25 hours for each 1-credit course Approximately 75 hours for each 3-credit course Approximately 125 hours plus assignments, tests, and study time for each 5-credit course These are guidelines only. The time each course takes will look a little different for every learner, depending on their skills, how long they can comfortably focus, and what helps them do their best work.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

DELIVERY, EXAMS & SUPPORT COURSE DELIVERY AND FLEXIBILITY STAND online courses are primarily asynchronous, meaning students can work through modules and assignments at their own pace via our learning management system (LMS) at learn.stand.school. Asynchronous learning is flexible, as it can happen whenever and wherever works best for the student.

Teachers provide live online sessions during regular school days, which can include: Live tutorials – optional sessions offered each week in core academic courses.

Group discussions and presentations – regular attendance required in Humanities, English, and Social Studies.

1:1 support and assessment feedback – during office hours and by appointment, as needed.

Teams messaging – for announcements, technical support, or short conversations during regular school hours.

While most work can be completed independently, attendance in as many live sessions as possible is strongly recommended. Students consistently achieve stronger results when they connect with teachers weekly for core academic subjects.

MAJOR ASSESSMENT WEEKS AND EXAM PERIODS Core academic courses include a midterm and a final exam, both completed in person at the STS campus. Students with exceptional circumstances may request a remotely proctored midterm, but final exams, PATs, and Diplomas must be written in-person. Assessment timing depends on the student’s pacing plan. Major in-person assessment weeks occur in November, January, April, and June.

ADVISING AND STUDENT SUPPORT Each STAND and FLEX student is assigned an advisor for support, including guidance on building a manageable daily, weekly, and yearly learning plan. Online learning requires self-motivation, organization, responsibility, and strong timemanagement skills. It is important to recognize that online learning is not less work than in-person learning; it is simply more flexible in when and where the work can be completed.

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HOW TO READ COURSE DESCRIPTIONS ENGLISH 20-1 English Language Arts

ELA2105

5 credits

Prerequisite: English 10-1 or Principal of STAND School approval

ONLINE | HYBRID | IN-PERSON This Alberta Education Programs of Study course offers an in-depth exploration of short stories, novels, poetry, nonfiction, drama, and visual/multimedia texts. Organized primarily by genre, it incorporates thematic connections to deepen students’ understanding of literature and media. Students study a novel, a Shakespearean play, a film, a modern drama, and a diverse selection of essays, short stories, poetry, and visual media from various sources. This course is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and an appreciation for literature and media in their many forms.

STAND COURSE NAME ALBERTA EDUCATION COURSE NAME ALBERTA EDUCATION COURSE CODE ALBERTA EDUCATION CREDITS EARNED UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF COURSE PREREQUISITE(S) OR COREQUISITE(S) REQUIRED TO ENROLL IN COURSE PROGRAM DELIVERY AND COURSE OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION TO STAND ONLINE HOW TO BE A SUCCESSFUL ONLINE LEARNER (REQUIRED FOR ALL STUDENTS NEW TO STAND) E-Learning & Learning Management Systems

COM1255

1 credit

ONLINE How to Be a Successful Online Learner is a short, mandatory asynchronous course for all students taking an online class. It introduces practical strategies for time management, organization, online communication, and self-motivation, while also teaching students how to navigate our online platforms and manage their workload independently. Adapted from the Alberta Education CTS course E-Learning and Learning Management Systems, students learn to use digital tools appropriately, communicate clearly through email and messaging, recognize and overcome barriers to online learning and prepare effectively to learn across time and distance. Through practical activities, the course equips students with the essential skills needed to succeed in future online or hybrid courses.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

HUMANITIES HUMANITIES 9 ONLINE Humanities 9 is an integrated course that combines English Language Arts (ELA) 9 and Social Studies 9 to explore the connections between literature, history, and society. Through novels, media, and historical inquiry, students develop critical reading, writing, and communication skills while examining topics like governance, democracy, and global citizenship. By analyzing diverse perspectives and exploring real-world issues, students build a deeper understanding of how stories and systems shape individuals and communities. This engaging, interdisciplinary approach encourages critical thinking, creativity, and meaningful connections to the world around us.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS ENGLISH 10-1 English Language Arts 10-1

ENGLISH 20-1 ELA1105

5 credits

English Language Arts 20-1

ELA2105

ONLINE

Prerequisite: English 10-1 or Principal of STAND approval

This Alberta Education Programs of Study course develops students’ ability to understand and appreciate a wide range of texts, with a strong focus on literary forms. Students learn to respond personally, critically, and thoughtfully to diverse texts, including visual, print, and multimedia. English 10-1 emphasizes the reading, annotation, critical thinking, and analytical skills that build a strong foundation for success in senior ELA courses.

ONLINE

ENGLISH 20-2 English Language Arts 20-2

ELA2104

5 credits

Prerequisite: English 10-1 or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE English 20-2 offers a strong and appropriate route for learners pursuing applied or career-focused studies. This course develops students’ abilities to understand and respond to a variety of everyday, popular, and literary texts. Students build essential communication skills, make personal connections to what they read and view, and learn strategies to express ideas clearly and confidently across real world contexts.

5 credits

This Alberta Education Programs of Study course offers an in-depth exploration of short stories, novels, poetry, non-fiction, drama, and visual/multimedia texts. Organized primarily by genre, it incorporates thematic connections to deepen students’ understanding of literature and media. Students study a novel, a Shakespearean play, a film, a modern drama, and a diverse selection of essays, short stories, poetry, and visual media from various sources. This course is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and an appreciation for literature and media in their many forms.

ENGLISH 30-2 English Language Arts 30-2

ELA3104

5 credits

Prerequisite: English 20-1 or 20-2, or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE English 30-2 provides a strong and appropriate route for learners pursuing applied or career-focused post-secondary pathways. The course aligns with the Alberta Education Programs of Study by helping students explore ideas, understand and appreciate a range of popular and literary texts, and respond personally and critically. Students strengthen their ability to manage information, create clear and effective oral, print, visual, and multimedia texts, and communicate confidently in real-world contexts.

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ENGLISH 30-1 English Language Arts 30-1

ELA3105

5 credits

Prerequisite: English 20-1 or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE This Alberta Education Programs of Study course offers a rich exploration of literature and multimedia, focusing on novels, short stories, poetry, drama, non-fiction, and visual media. Organized by genre with thematic connections, the course includes novel study, modern drama, Shakespearean analysis, film study, and a curated selection of essays, poetry, short fiction, and visual texts.

Students refine critical thinking, interpretation, and creative expression through engagement with these diverse works.

SOCIAL STUDIES SOCIAL 10-1 Social 10-1

SOCIAL 30-1 SST1771

5 credits

Social 30-1

SST3771

ONLINE

Prerequisite: Social 20-1 or Principal of STAND approval

Social Studies 10-1, following the Alberta Education Programs of Study, introduces students to the changing meaning of identity and citizenship in a globalizing world. Students examine how globalization affects people and communities, considering both its positive and negative impacts. They learn to interpret and analyze sources as they explore key issues connected to global interdependence. Assignments gradually build the skills needed for later Social Studies courses and the Alberta Diploma exam.

ONLINE

SOCIAL 20-1 Social 20-1

SST2771

Social Studies 30-1, following the Alberta Education Programs of Study, explores the major political and economic ideologies that shape modern democratic societies, with a focus on classical and modern liberalism. Students examine how different ideologies influence identity, citizenship, and responses to issues in Canada and around the world. They also investigate real policies and events to understand how governments make decisions and how citizens can respond. Four key inquiry questions guide the course, helping students consider identity, resistance, the viability of liberal principles, and the role ideology plays in everyday civic life.

5 credits

Prerequisite: Social 10-1 or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE Social Studies 20-1, following the Alberta Education Programs of Study, examines the complexities of nationalism in both Canadian and international contexts. Students explore the origins of nationalism and how it affects regional, national, and global relationships. By considering multiple perspectives, they deepen their understanding of how nationalism shapes citizenship and identity. The course encourages thoughtful responses to contemporary issues and builds appreciation for diverse viewpoints. Learning is organized around four key units: identity and nationalism, national interest and conflict, internationalism and Canadian nationalism.

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5 credits

NIITSITAPI “THE PEOPLE”: INDIGENOUS STUDIES 10/20/30 Aboriginal Studies 10

SSN1154

5 credits

Aboriginal Studies 20

SSN2154

5 credits

Aboriginal Studies 30

SSN3154

5 credits 15 credits total

Prerequisite: Social 10-1 or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE The title begins with Niitsitapi, the Blackfoot word for “The People,” to honour the Blackfoot language, the land where our schools are located, and the guidance of our Blackfoot Elder in Residence, Saa’kokoto. We want to express our gratitude for the relationships and support that helped shape this course. This

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

modernized online version of Alberta Education’s Aboriginal Studies 10/20/30 program explores the diverse languages, cultures, histories, and worldviews of Indigenous peoples in Alberta, across Canada, and around the world. Alongside the provincial curriculum, students learn from local Indigenous knowledge keepers who help connect traditional teachings, contemporary issues, and community understandings. The course invites personal and thoughtful reflection on identity, culture, and relationships, and culminates in a required capstone project where students demonstrate their learning in creative and meaningful ways. There is no Diploma exam for this course.

HUMANITIES 9

SOCIAL STUDIES 10-1

ENGLISH 10-1

SOCIAL STUDIES 20-1

ENGLISH 20-1

SOCIAL STUDIES 30-1

ENGLISH 30-1

English Language Arts 20-2 are available with Principal approval.

MATHEMATICS MATH 9 AND 10C Mathematics 10C

MATH 20-1 MAT1791

5 credits

Mathematics 20-1

MAT2791

ONLINE

Prerequisite: Math 10C or Principal of STAND approval

Our Math 9 and 10C courses are informed by the Alberta Education Programs of Study and address key topics in the study of mathematics: algebra, geometry, logical reasoning, mathematics research project, measurement, numbers, permutations, combinations and binomial theorem, probability, relations and functions, statistics, trigonometry. Students develop mathematical process and mindset skills as they tackle each of these topics.

ONLINE

MATH 20-2 Mathematics 20-2

MAT2792

5 credits

Based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study, this course is designed to equip students with the mathematical understanding and critical thinking skills necessary to enter mathematicsintensive post-secondary programs requiring calculus. The course covers nine units of study: sequences and series, trigonometry, quadratic functions, quadratic equations, radical expressions and equations, rational expressions and equations, absolute value and reciprocal functions, systems of equations, and linear and quadratic inequalities, providing a solid foundation for advanced mathematical study.

5 credits

Prerequisite: Math 10C or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE Math 20-2 is designed for students who plan to continue in the -2 mathematics sequence toward post-secondary pathways that do not require higher-level algebra or calculus. This course develops quantitative reasoning and practical problem-solving through Alberta Education’s key strands: measurement, geometry, numbers and logic, statistics, and relations and functions.

Students explore topics such as proportional reasoning, trigonometry, properties of triangles, statistics and probability, and quadratic functions. Math 20-2 emphasizes real-world applications, reasoning, and clear mathematical communication, and it prepares students for Mathematics 30-2.

MATH 30-2 Mathematics 30-2

MAT3792

5 credits

Prerequisite: Math 20-1 or 20-2, or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE Math 30-2 is designed for students pursuing post-secondary programs that do not require higher-level algebra or calculus.

Students and families should review admission requirements regularly, as they vary by institution and program. Math 30-2 develops strong quantitative reasoning through eight units of study, including rational expressions, logic and set theory, counting methods, probability, exponential and logarithmic functions, polynomial and sinusoidal functions, and problemsolving with puzzles and games. Completion of this course includes the Alberta Diploma Exam for Mathematics 30-2.

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MATH 30-1 Mathematics 30-1

MATH 31 MAT3791

5 credits

Mathematics 31

Prerequisite: Math 20-1 or Principal of STAND approval

MAT3211

5 credits

Prerequisite: Math 20-1 or Principal of STAND approval Corequisite: Math 30-1

ONLINE

ONLINE

This Alberta Education Programs of Study course equips students with the mathematical understanding and critical thinking skills necessary to enter math-intensive post-secondary programs. It emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and precise communication while covering nine units: function operations, transformations, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, unit circle trigonometry, trigonometric functions and graphs, trigonometric identities, radical and rational functions, and permutations and combinations. Completion of this course includes the Alberta Diploma Exam for Mathematics 30-1.

Based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study, Math 31 is particularly valuable for students planning to pursue further studies that require or strongly recommend calculus. While not required for high school graduation, the course provides a strong foundation for success in first-year post-secondary calculus.

Students study limits and first principles, techniques and applications of differentiation, second derivatives, derivatives of trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions, antiderivatives, applications of antiderivatives, and techniques of integration, supported by a review of prerequisite algebra and functions.

Math 9 Math 10C

MATH 20-1

MATH 20-2

MATH 30-1

MATH 30-2

MATH 31 Note: Accelerated math students need approval from their division head before enrolling online.

SCIENCES SCIENCE 9 ONLINE Based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study, this online course builds on students’ prior science learning and deepens their understanding of how scientific knowledge develops and impacts society. Students explore science as a human endeavour, recognizing both its benefits and its limitations. Through gamified learning experiences, instructional videos, virtual labs, and interactive simulations, students learn to ask questions, solve problems, and evaluate evidence. The course supports students in designing digital inquiries, analyzing results, and communicating conclusions in a variety of online formats. It also emphasizes responsible action and sensitivity to the environment. Units of study include Biological Diversity, Matter and Chemical Change, Environmental Chemistry, Electrical Principles and Technologies, and Space Exploration.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

CHEMISTRY 20

SCIENCE 10 Science 10

SCN1270

5 credits

Chemistry 20

SCN2796

ONLINE

Prerequisite: Science 10 or Principal of STAND approval

Based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study, this online course introduces students to foundational scientific principles and prepares them for further study in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Science 20-level courses. Students explore science as a human endeavour, examining how scientific knowledge develops, its strengths and limitations, and its impact on society and the environment. Through gamified learning tasks, instructional videos, virtual labs, and interactive simulations, students investigate key scientific concepts and learn to ask meaningful questions, analyze evidence, and communicate findings in digital formats. The course emphasizes inquiry, critical thinking, and responsible action within real-world contexts. Units of study include energy and matter in chemical change, energy flow in technological systems, cycling of matter in living systems, and energy flow in global systems.

ONLINE

SCN2270

5 credits

Prerequisite: Science 10 or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE Science 20 is suited for students who want a broad, applied science program and who are not planning to enter university pathways that require academic sciences. This Alberta Education Programs of Study course extends the overview of biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science from Science 10 and emphasizes real-world problem solving and scientific inquiry.

Students explore four major themes: changes in motion (dynamics and Newton’s laws), chemical changes (hydrocarbons and solutions), the changing Earth (geological processes and plate tectonics), and changes in living systems (human systems and ecology). The course supports students in developing practical scientific reasoning, interpreting data, and making connections across scientific disciplines.

BIOLOGY 20 Biology 20

Based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study, this online course introduces students to foundational chemical principles related to matter, energy, change, and chemical systems. Through virtual labs, videos, gamified activities, and interactive simulations, students explore how substances interact, react, and transform. Chemistry 20 includes four units of study: solutions, gases, stoichiometry, and thermochemistry.

PHYSICS 20 Physics 20

SCN2797

5 credits

Prerequisite: Science 10 or Principal of STAND approval Corequisite: Math 20-1

ONLINE

SCIENCE 20 Science 20

5 credits

SCN2231

5 credits

Prerequisite: Science 10 or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE

This Alberta Education Programs of Study course introduces students to the foundational principles of motion, forces, energy, and mechanical systems. Through interactive modules, students explore how objects move, how energy is transferred, and how physical systems operate in the real world. Physics 20 includes four units of study: kinematics, dynamics, circular motion, and work and energy. Strong demonstrated success in both Math 10 and Science 10 is recommended prior to taking this course.

BIOLOGY 30 Biology 30

SCN3230

5 credits

Prerequisite: Biology 20 or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE This Alberta Education Programs of Study course builds on foundational biological concepts and explores advanced themes such as systems regulation, adaptation, and energy flow. Through virtual labs, videos, gamified activities, and interactive simulations, students investigate how organisms maintain balance, respond to change, and pass on genetic information.

Biology 30 includes four units of study: nervous and endocrine systems, reproduction and human development, cell division and genetics, and population and community dynamics, finishing with the Biology 30 Diploma Exam.

This Alberta Education Programs of Study course introduces students to key biological themes such as energy, matter, change, and systems. Through virtual labs, videos, gamified activities, and interactive simulations, students explore how living systems function and interact. Biology 20 includes four units of study: energy and matter exchange in the biosphere, ecosystems and population change, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, and human systems.

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PHYSICS 30

CHEMISTRY 30 Chemistry 30

SCN3796

Physics 30

5 credits

SCN3797

5 credits

Prerequisite: Chemistry 20 and Math 20-1, or Principal of STAND approval

Prerequisite: Math 20-1 and Physics 20, or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE

ONLINE

This Alberta Education Programs of Study course builds on foundational chemical principles and examines more advanced concepts related to energy changes, equilibrium, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry. Through virtual labs, videos, gamified activities, and interactive simulations, students investigate how chemical systems behave and how reactions can be controlled, predicted, and applied in real-world contexts. Chemistry 30 includes four units of study: thermochemical changes, electrochemical changes, chemical changes of organic compounds, and chemical equilibrium focusing on acid–base systems, finishing with the Diploma Exam.

This Alberta Education Programs of Study course builds on fundamental physics concepts and explores the principles that govern motion, forces, energy interactions, and the nature of matter. Through virtual labs, videos, gamified activities, and interactive simulations, students investigate how physical systems behave and apply mathematical models to explain real-world phenomena. Physics 30 includes four units of study: momentum and impulse, forces and fields, electromagnetic radiation, and atomic physics, finishing with the Diploma Exam.

Science 9 Science 10

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Science 20

BIOLOGY 20

CHEMISTRY 20

PHYSICS 20

BIOLOGY 30

CHEMISTRY 30

PHYSICS 30

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

PHYSICAL & HEALTH EDUCATION (PHE) PHE 9 & 10 Physical Education 10

PED1445

5 credits

ONLINE or HYBRID In this program sequence, students develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to lead active, healthy lifestyles. PHE 9 & 10 is a mandatory course required for the Alberta High School Diploma. In Grades 9 and 10 students are encouraged to make a habit of daily fitness through MiMove activity logging and join grade level curricular or co-curricular outdoor education trips.

PHE 20 Physical Education 20

PHE 30 PED2445

3-5 credits

Physical Education 30

PED3445

3-5 credits

Prerequisite: PHE 10 or Principal of STAND approval

Prerequisite: PHE 20 or Principal of STAND approval

ONLINE or HYBRID

ONLINE or HYBRID

The Physical Education 20 course explores a variety of activities to further develop healthy habits and lifestyles. At the 20 level, there are 3 streams within that a student can select:

The Physical Education 30 course explores a variety of activities to further develop healthy habits and lifestyles. At the 30 level, there are 3 streams within that a student can select: PAGE #

1. REGULAR STREAM All students will log in-person/online activity through MiMove. Students will have the opportunity to join OE 20 trips that are appropriate for their skills and experience.

2. HIGH PERFORMANCE ATHLETE All students will log in either in person or asynchronously through MiMove. Students will complete sport-specific assignments related to their chosen sport.

Supporting one credit courses: Sport Psychology I, Sport Nutrition 3. ACTIVE IN COMMUNITY Students will select a community-based event (e.g., a half-marathon, triathlon, etc.) and develop a training plan. Students will be expected to present confirmation of registration. Students will log activity through Strava, preferred, depending on their chosen event.

Supporting one credit courses: Sport Psychology I, Sport Nutrition

CAREER & LIFE MANAGEMENT (CALM) Career & Life Management

PED0770

3 credits

ONLINE CALM is a required course for graduation and is based on the Alberta Education Programs of Study. This fully asynchronous, online, project-based course allows students to work at their own pace and complete the required learning hours independently with teacher support as needed. Through journal reflection, interactive games, videos, assignments, projects and quizzes, students explore four key units: personal health and wellness, financial well-being, post-secondary planning, and career planning. This course supports students in developing practical life skills, reflecting on their goals, and preparing for life beyond high school.

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PERSONAL FITNESS

FOODS Food Basics

FOD1010

1 credit

Contemporary Baking

FOD1020

1 credit

Snacks & Appetizers

FOD1030

1 credit

ONLINE This 3-credit course introduces students to essential principles and skills in food preparation, with an emphasis on safety, sanitation, and efficient kitchen practices. Students will learn proper foodhandling procedures and equipment care, and will develop the ability to accurately read and interpret recipes. Through hands-on experiences, students will explore both traditional and contemporary baking techniques. Instruction focuses on fundamental measuring methods, preparation techniques, ingredient functions, and the correct use of baking equipment to produce a variety of baked goods. In addition, students will examine the role of snacks and appetizers in supporting a healthy lifestyle. They will prepare a range of nutritious and appealing snack and appetizer options, applying both creativity and practical skills to create balanced, delicious foods.

Students are responsible for supplying their own ingredients for practical work and for recording their cooking processes as part of their learning and assessment.

ONLINE or HYBRID Foundations of Training I

REC1040

1 credit

In this module, students explore and apply fundamental training and movement principles to improve health-related and performance-related fitness components. The module includes designing fitness activities and creating a personalized fitness plan to help individuals achieve their goals.

Foundations of Training II

REC2040

1 credit

In this module, students apply training and movement principles that focus on muscular and cardiovascular development, as well as speed, agility, quickness, and flexibility. Emphasis is placed on applying safe practices while leading and participating in training exercises and activities.

Sport Psychology

REC1050

1 credit

In this module, students explore the role of mental fitness in enhancing performance and motivation in sports, the arts, and academics. The module covers strategies for strengthening mental wellness, including relaxation techniques, visualization, and positive self-talk.

Nutrition for Recreation Activities & Sport

REC2010

1 credit

In this module, students explore the role of nutrition and hydration in optimizing physical performance for recreational activities and sports. The module provides knowledge and skills for planning nutrition and hydration strategies tailored to various activities and athletic events.

Rec Project B

REC2910

1 credit

In this module, students develop project design and management skills to enhance competencies gained in other REC courses by applying them to personally relevant contexts. To enroll, students must have completed at least two CTS courses, including one at the intermediate 20-level.

Group Exercise Trends

REC1045

1 credit

Students describe trends in group fitness, participate in various group fitness opportunities, and apply training and movement principles to analyze the viability of fitness trends.

Nature & Wellness

HSS1100

1 credit

Students explore the relationship between plants, animals, and the environment, with a focus on their impact on human health and wellness. They evaluate how nature influences individual and community well-being and apply this understanding to plan and modify public and personal spaces that enhance personal wellness through the use of natural elements.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION (DTI) FOUNDATIONS IN DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION 15 ---GRADES 9 & 10

EVOLUTION OF DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION 25 ---GRADE 11

APPLICATIONS OF DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION 35 ---GRADE 12

DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION CHANGEMAKER PROGRAM (GRADES 9-12) Design, Technology & Innovation

LDC 1131, LDC2131, LDC3131

5-15 credits

HYBRID or IN-PERSON AT STS Exclusive to STAND and STS FLEX students, this in-person program offers a full-year, once-per-week, multi-age learning experience that immerses students in the world of design, technology, and real-world problem-solving. Rooted in a changemaker mindset, this pathway guides students in Grades 9-12 from foundational skills to advanced application as they explore how innovation can create meaningful impact. Projects are interest-based and student-driven, encouraging learners to identify authentic challenges and design solutions with humanitarian, charitable, or community-focused purpose. Through hands-on creation, collaboration, prototyping, and iterative design, students develop the skills, confidence, and curiosity to become thoughtful changemakers who use technology and creative thinking to make a difference in the world. Weekly in-person attendance is required.

ARCHITECTURE See Like an Architect | Sketch, Draw & Model

DES1010

1 credit

Introduction to Drafting | Technical Design & Drafting 1

DES1060

1 credit

CAD for Architects | CAD 1

DES 1050

1 credit

Tiny Home Design 1 & 2 CAD 2 & Technical Drafting 2

DES 2055

Architectural Design

DES3095

DES2075

2 credits 1 credit

ONLINE or HYBRID This 6-credit course sequence offers a comprehensive introduction to architectural design, blending creativity with technical skill development. Students begin by learning to observe and represent the built environment through sketching and modeling, then progress into technical drafting and computer-aided design. As their skills advance, they apply both hand-drawn and digital techniques to increasingly complex projects, including designing a functional pavilion and modeling interior spaces. The program culminates in immersive, real-world applications such as creating a sustainable tiny home and developing an innovative architectural concept inspired by biomimicry, emphasizing both human experience and environmental responsiveness.

iD iD

The STAND School Innovation Diploma (iD) is a unique distinction available to students who participate in the STAND Design, Technology, and Innovation Changemaker pathway. This program transforms students into real-world changemakers, responding to genuine community needs and creating projects that make a meaningful difference beyond the classroom. Along the way, students gain powerful design skills using CAD and Adobe Creative tools, and bring ideas to life through 3D printing, laser cutting, and rapid prototyping.

Every project blends empathy, innovation, creativity, and purpose, giving students the confidence and capability to design solutions that will make a positive impact. Graduates who earn the STAND iD leave with a portfolio of impactful work, modern skills, and the mindset to be great leaders in whatever field they choose.

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ARTS VISUAL ARTS

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

Art 10

FNA1400

3 or 5 credits

Instrumental Music 10

FNA1425

5 credits

Art 20

FNA2400

3 or 5 credits

Instrumental Music 20

FNA2425

5 credits

Art 30

FNA3400

5 credits

Instrumental Music 30

FNA3425

5 credits

ONLINE or HYBRID or IN-PERSON AT STS

IN-PERSON AT STS or PRIVATE MUSIC EVALUATIONS

Art 9, 10, 20, and 30 invite students to explore their creativity through various artistic media and techniques. From painting and drawing to sculpture and photography, students develop their skills while learning to think critically and conceptually. Projects are enriched through the study of art history, providing inspiration and a deeper understanding of how art connects to culture, identity, and self-expression. Weekly studio time is provided on campus, with instructional content delivered asynchronously.

Students may drop in on campus for studio time.

FLEX students can earn Instrumental 10/20/30 credits by participating in STS on-campus, in-person music programs (see page 46 for details).

Students may also choose to receive music credits through Private Music Evaluations completed outside of school. The Alberta Education Transcript includes a dedicated section for these evaluations, recording the fine arts credits and percentage marks earned through formal organizations such as The Royal Conservatory of Music. Both the percentage mark and the credits approved by the school principal appear in this section and count toward credentialing.

DUAL CREDIT & WORK EXPERIENCE WHAT IS DUAL CREDIT, AND WHAT IS COLLEGIATE SCHOOL STATUS? Dual Credit courses give high school students the opportunity to take an introductory course at a post-secondary school while still attending high school, earning credits at both schools simultaneously. These courses allow students to explore unique areas of interest that are not always available in regular high school programming. Students should be aware that some courses require scheduled attendance at the post-secondary school, either in person or online, and should consult with their principal to ensure it fits their schedule. Dual Credit courses are not guaranteed to transfer to a different post-secondary.

STAND has Collegiate School Status, which means we have formal partnerships with several Alberta post-secondary institutions, allowing students to access Dual Credit opportunities. This status strengthens our connections with colleges and universities and gives students more choice, more pathways, and more opportunities to explore what inspires them before graduation.

LEARN MORE AT: Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

University of Calgary

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CAREER INTERNSHIP Career Internship 10

OTH1910

3-5 credits

Work Experience 15

OTH1998

3-5 credits

Work Experience 25

OTH2998

3-5 credits

Work Experience 35

OTH3998

3-5 credits

Career Internship and Work Experience courses let students gain practical, hands-on experience in real workplaces while exploring career interests and developing employability skills. Career Internship 10 introduces students to workplace learning, while Work Experience 15, 25, and 35 represent deeper opportunities where students take on responsibilities, apply skills, and reflect on their growth. It is the student’s responsibility to find an appropriate workplace, confirm work hours and expectations, and obtain approval from their principal before beginning any placement.

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

EQUINE STUDIES EQUINE TECHNICIAN (THROUGH LETHBRIDGE POLYTECHNIC) Agriculture Safety

AGR3000

1 credit

Equine Operations & Care

OTH9924

6 credits

Equine Husbandry & Systems

OTH9926

5 credits

Equine Processes & Practices

OTH9925

6 credits

Equine Entrepreneurship

ENT1010 ENT2010

2 credits

ONLINE and OFF-CAMPUS

What is Green Certificate/Equine Technician (in partnership with Lethbridge Polytechnic)?

The Green Certificate Program gives high school students the opportunity to earn credits while gaining real, hands-on experience working with horses. Through the Equine Technician stream, students train in active equine facilities under the supervision of qualified industry mentors. Students develop practical skills in horse care, handling, nutrition, health monitoring, and stable management. This program is offered in partnership with Lethbridge Polytechnic and supports pathways in equine care, agriculture, and related fields.

To participate, students must already be connected to an equine facility and have consistent hands-on experience working with horses, as the program combines online learning with apprenticeship-style training. Each student must have a designated “trainer,” who is at least 18 years old, experienced in equine care and able to teach and supervise the required skills. The trainer may be a coach, parent, employer, barn owner, 4-H leader, or another qualified adult approved by the school.

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APPENDIX A | REGISTERING FOR STS COURSES SPRING COURSE REGISTRATION OVERVIEW At STS, we use a Student Information System (SIS) called PowerSchool, which supports administrative functions such as scheduling, attendance tracking, provincial compliance reporting, and student registration. PowerSchool is used to establish best-fit timetables and class schedules for students. Students will access PowerSchool directly during the course registration process.

LOGGING INTO POWERSCHOOL Link to Student Portal for PowerSchool: https://powerschool.sts.ab.ca This interface will look like:

Students should log in with their STS login (credentials email, bring your own device, Microsoft 365, Google Drive).

The username is the part of their email before the @sts.ab.ca. Ex: DoeJ@sts.ab.ca If you have any issues, please connect with the IT Centre in person or email itsupport@sts.ab.ca Once in PowerSchool, students should see this screen:

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For Course Selection, students need to click on the course registration icon on the left (circled in red).

ORGANIZATION OF THE REGISTRATION SCREENS For Grade 10, the selection menus are as follows: Grade 10 Core All MYP core classes, including English, Math, Physical Education, Science and Social Grade 10 Languages All MYP language options offered (students must select one as part of the MYP program) Grade 10 Electives All Electives offered in Grade 10 Grade 10 STAND School Electives CALM STAND For Grades 11 and 12, the selection menus are organized by the following: Grade 11 Alberta Courses English, Math, Science and Social All Alberta Program classes Grade 11 IB DP Courses IB DP Courses offered IB DP SL Languages Grade Electives All Alberta Program electives Grade 11 STAND School Electives Personal Fitness CALM STAND

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

APPENDIX B | IB DP PATHWAYS THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAM (IB DP) AT STS Most IB DP courses begin in Grade 11 (DP Y1) and end in Grade 12 (DP Y2). Given the nature of the Alberta Education Programs of Study, aspiring full IB DP students must take some Grade 11 Alberta curriculum subjects in Grade 10 (IB DP Y1) to prepare for the rigorous IB DP programming ahead. IB DP courses are taken simultaneously with Alberta Education courses. For example: IB DP Chemistry HL/SL Y1 = Chemistry 20 (5 credits).

At STS, students can pursue different IB DP pathways that align with their interests and post-secondary goals.

These include: ARTS PATHWAY: ART, MUSIC OR THEATRE ARTS HL/SL

BIOLOGY SL

ENGLISH HL

HISTORY HL

LANGUAGE SL

MATH SL

ENGLISH HL

MATH HL

HISTORY SL

LANGUAGE SL

PHYSICS SL

HISTORY SL

LANGUAGE SL

MATH HL

PHYSICS SL

ENGINEERING: CHEMISTRY HL

DESIGN AND/OR ARCHITECTURE: DESIGN & INNOVATION HL

ENGLISH HL

HUMANITIES AND/OR LAW PATHWAYS: 1).

CHEMISTRY SL

ECONOMICS HL

ENGLISH HL

HISTORY HL

LANGUAGE SL

MATH SL

2).

BIOLOGY HL

ECONOMICS HL

ENGLISH HL

HISTORY HL

LANGUAGE SL

MATH SL

3).

DESIGN & INNOVATION SL

ECONOMICS HL

ENGLISH HL

HISTORY HL

LANGUAGE SL

MATH SL

1).

BIOLOGY HL

CHEMISTRY HL

ENGLISH HL

HISTORY SL

LANGUAGE SL

MATH SL

2).

BIOLOGY HL

CHEMISTRY HL

ENGLISH HL

HISTORY SL

LANGUAGE SL

MATH HL

3).

BIOLOGY HL

CHEMISTRY SL

ENGLISH HL

HISTORY HL

LANGUAGE SL

MATH SL

MEDICINE:

NOTE: Students will also need to complete CALM before their Grade 12 year as part of the Alberta Education graduation requirement.

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

It is important to note that IB DP students are required to complete the basic IB DP requirements: 3 HL courses to a maximum of 4 3 SL courses as well as the three IB DP core requirements, which are not directly reflected in the sample pathways/timetables provided: Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Extended Essay (EE) Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) Portfolio In some examples, students taking IB DP SL courses write both their Alberta Diploma and IB DP exams in Grade 11; these are noted with an asterisk (*) wherever applicable.

All other IB DP exams take place in April or May of the Grade 12 year. The IBO schedules IB exam writing dates/times. Alberta Diploma exams are scheduled by Alberta Education in January or June, depending on the course.

NOTE: While these pathways are viable for students to complete as part of their IB DP, course availability is always dependent upon student enrolment.

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IB DP WITH A FOCUS ON ARTS ARTS (BIOLOGY) PATHWAY & COURSE SEQUENCING GROUP

SUBJECT

1

English HL

2

French SL or Spanish SL

3

Social/History SL Social/History HL Economics HL/SL

4

Biology SL Biology HL Chemistry SL Chemistry HL Physics SL

5 6

SEMESTER 1

SEMESTER 2

GRADE 10 (IB MYP) ELA 10-1 OR Social 10-1 Biology 20+ Science 10

Math 20-1+

Math 10C+

PHE 10 Social 10-1 OR ELA 10-1

Language

Complete Art 10, Drama 10, or Music 10 outside the timetable.

GRADE 11 (IB DP) IB Arts (Art/Music/Theatre) 20 HL

Biology 30 HL

Biology 25 HL

ELA 20-1 HL

Math 30-1 SL

Language SL

Social 20-1 HL

Math 31 SL

Design & Innovation (HL/SL)

Math SL courses sit an IB exam in April or May and a Diploma exam in June

Math SL

GRADE 12 (IB DP)

Math HL

IB Arts (Art/Music/Theatre) 30 HL

*Visual Arts HL

ELA 30-1 HL

Elective

*Music HL

Elective

History 35 HL

*Theatre Arts HL

Social 30-1 SL

Language SL

ELA 35 HL

*select one subject from Group 6

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STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

IB DP WITH A FOCUS ON ENGINEERING ENGINEERING (CHEMISTRY/PHYSICS) PATHWAY & COURSE SEQUENCING GROUP

SUBJECT

1

English HL

2

French SL or Spanish SL

ELA 10-1 OR Social 10-1

Elective

3

Social/History SL

Language

Math 20-1+

Social/History HL

Math 10C+

PHE 10

Economics HL/SL

Science 10

Social 10-1 OR ELA 10-1

4

Chemistry SL Chemistry HL Physics SL Design & Innovation (HL/SL) Math SL Math HL 6

Music SL Theatre Arts SL Visual Arts HL/SL

SEMESTER 2 GRADE 10 (IB MYP)

Biology SL Biology HL

5

SEMESTER 1

GRADE 11 (IB DP) Chemistry 20 HL

ELA 20-1 HL

Math 30-1 HL

Elective

Physics 20 SL

Language SL

Social 20-1 SL

Math 31 HL GRADE 12 (IB DP)

Chemistry 30 HL

Chemistry 35 HL

ELA 30-1 HL

ELA 35 HL

Physics 30 SL

Language SL

Social 30-1 SL

Math 35 HL

IB DP WITH A FOCUS ON DESIGN AND/OR ARCHITECTURE DESIGN AND/OR ARCHITECHTURE (DESIGN/PHYSICS) PATHWAY & COURSE SEQUENCING GROUP

SUBJECT

1

English HL

2

French SL or Spanish SL

ELA 10-1 OR Social 10-1

Computer Science/Design 10

3

Social/History SL

Language

Math 20-1+

Social/History HL

Math 10C+

PHE 10

Economics HL/SL

Science 10

Social 10-1 OR ELA 10-1

4

Chemistry SL Chemistry HL Physics SL Design & Innovation (HL/SL) Math SL Math HL 6

Music SL Theatre Arts SL Visual Arts HL/SL

SEMESTER 2 GRADE 10 (IB MYP)

Biology SL Biology HL

5

SEMESTER 1

GRADE 11 (IB DP) Elective

Design 20 HL

Math 30-1 HL

ELA 20-1 HL

Physics 20 SL

Language SL

Social 20-1 SL

Math 31 HL GRADE 12 (IB DP)

Design 30 HL

Elective

ELA 30-1 HL

ELA 35 HL

Physics 30 SL

Language SL

Social 30-1 SL

Math 35 HL

80

IB DP WITH A FOCUS ON HUMANITIES AND/OR LAW HUMANITIES (CHEMISTRY) PATHWAY & COURSE SEQUENCING SEMESTER 1

GROUP

SUBJECT

1

English HL

2

French SL or Spanish SL

ELA 10-1 OR Social 10-1

Elective

3

Social/History SL

Language

Math 20-1+

Social/History HL

Math 10C+

PHE 10

Economics HL/SL

Science 10

Social 10-1 OR ELA 10-1

4

5

GRADE 10 (IB MYP)

Biology SL

GRADE 11 (IB DP)

Biology HL

Economics 20 HL

ELA 20-1 HL

Chemistry SL

Chemistry 20 SL

Elective

Chemistry HL

Math 30-1 SL

Physics SL

Language SL

Social 20-1 SL

Math 31 SL

Design & Innovation (HL/SL)

Math SL courses sit an IB exam in April or May and a Diploma exam in June

Math SL

GRADE 12 (IB DP)

Math HL 6

SEMESTER 2

Music SL Theatre Arts SL Visual Arts HL/SL

ELA 30-1 HL

Elective

Economics 30-1 HL

ELA 35 HL

Chemistry 30 SL

History 35 HL

Social 30-1 SL

Language SL

HUMANITIES (BIOLOGY) PATHWAY & COURSE SEQUENCING GROUP

SUBJECT

1

English HL

2

French SL or Spanish SL

ELA 10-1 OR Social 10-1

Biology 20+

3

Social/History SL

Language

Math 20-1+

Social/History HL

Math 10C+

PHE 10

Economics HL/SL

Science 10

Social 10-1 OR ELA 10-1

4

Chemistry SL Chemistry HL Physics SL Design & Innovation (HL/SL) Math SL Math HL 6

Music SL Theatre Arts SL Visual Arts HL/SL

81

SEMESTER 2 GRADE 10 (IB MYP)

Biology SL Biology HL

5

SEMESTER 1

GRADE 11 (IB DP) Economics 20 HL

Biology 30 SL

Biology 25 SL

ELA 20-1 HL

Math 30-1 SL

Language SL

Social 20-1 SL

Math 31 SL

Math SL courses sit an IB exam in April or May and a Diploma exam in June

GRADE 12 (IB DP) Economics 30-1 HL

ELA 35 HL

ELA 30-1 HL

Elective

Elective

History 35 HL

Social 30-1 SL

Language SL

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

HUMANITIES (DESIGN) PATHWAY & COURSE SEQUENCING SEMESTER 1

SEMESTER 2

GROUP

SUBJECT

1

English HL

2

French SL or Spanish SL

ELA 10-1 OR Social 10-1

Computer Science/Design 10

3

4

Social/History SL

Language

Math 20-1+

Social/History HL

Math 10C+

PHE 10

Economics HL/SL

Science 10

Social 10-1 OR ELA 10-1

Biology SL Economics 20 HL

Design 20 SL

Chemistry SL

Math 30-1 SL

ELA 20-1 HL

*AB 20-level Science

Language SL

Social 20-1 SL

Math 31 SL

Physics SL Design & Innovation (HL/SL) Math SL Math HL 6

GRADE 11 (IB DP)

Biology HL Chemistry HL

5

GRADE 10 (IB MYP)

Music SL Theatre Arts SL Visual Arts HL/SL

Math SL courses sit an IB exam in April or May and a Diploma exam in June

GRADE 12 (IB DP) Design 30 SL

ELA 35 HL

Economics 30-1 HL

Elective or *AB 20-level Science

ELA 30-1 HL

History 35 HL

Social 30-1 SL

Language SL *required for graduation

IB DP WITH A FOCUS ON MEDICINE MEDICINE PATHWAY #1 WITH COURSE SEQUENCING GROUP

SUBJECT

SEMESTER 1

SEMESTER 2

1

English HL

2

French SL or Spanish SL

ELA 10-1 OR Social 10-1

Biology 20+

3

Social/History SL

Language

Math 20-1+

Social/History HL

Math 10C+

PHE 10

Economics HL/SL

Science 10

Social 10-1 OR ELA 10-1

4

Biology SL Biology HL Chemistry SL Chemistry HL Physics SL Design & Innovation (HL/SL)

5

Math SL Math HL

6

GRADE 10 (IB MYP)

Music SL Theatre Arts SL Visual Arts HL/SL

GRADE 11 (IB DP) Biology 25 HL

Biology 30 HL

Chemistry 20 HL

ELA 20-1 HL

Math 30-1 SL

Language SL

Social 20-1 SL

Math 31 SL

Math SL courses sit an IB exam in April or May and a Diploma exam in June

GRADE 12 (IB DP) Biology 35 HL

Chemistry 35 HL

Chemistry 30 HL

ELA 35 HL

ELA 30-1 HL

Elective

Social 30-1 SL

Language SL

82

MEDICINE PATHWAY #2 WITH COURSE SEQUENCING GROUP

SUBJECT

1

English HL

2

French SL or Spanish SL

ELA 10-1 OR Social 10-1

Biology 20+

3

Social/History SL

Language

Math 20-1+

Social/History HL

Math 10C+

PHE 10

Economics HL/SL

Science 10

Social 10-1 OR ELA 10-1

4

Chemistry SL Chemistry HL Physics SL Design & Innovation (HL/SL) Math SL Math HL 6

Music SL Theatre Arts SL Visual Arts HL/SL

SEMESTER 2 GRADE 10 (IB MYP)

Biology SL Biology HL

5

SEMESTER 1

GRADE 11 (IB DP) Biology 25 HL

Biology 30 HL

Chemistry 20 HL

ELA 20-1 HL

Math 30-1 HL

Language SL

Social 20-1 SL

Math 31 HL

Math SL courses sit an IB exam in April or May and a Diploma exam in June

GRADE 12 (IB DP) Biology 35 HL

Chemistry 35 HL

Chemistry 30 HL

ELA 35 HL

ELA 30-1 HL

Language SL

Social 30-1 SL

Math 35 HL

MEDICINE PATHWAY #3 WITH COURSE SEQUENCING GROUP

SUBJECT

1

English HL

2

French SL or Spanish SL

ELA 10-1 OR Social 10-1

Biology 20+

3

Social/History SL

Language

Math 20-1+

Social/History HL

Math 10C+

PHE 10

Economics HL/SL

Science 10

Social 10-1 OR ELA 10-1

4

Chemistry SL Chemistry HL Physics SL Design & Innovation (HL/SL) Math SL Math HL 6

Music SL Theatre Arts SL Visual Arts HL/SL

83

SEMESTER 2 GRADE 10 (IB MYP)

Biology SL Biology HL

5

SEMESTER 1

GRADE 11 (IB DP) Biology 25 HL

Biology 30 HL

Chemistry 20 SL

ELA 20-1 HL

Math 30-1 SL

Language SL

Social 20-1 SL

Math 31 SL

Math SL courses sit an IB exam in April or May and a Diploma exam in June

GRADE 12 (IB DP) Biology 35 HL

ELA 35 HL

Chemistry 30 SL

Elective

ELA 30-1 HL

History 35 HL

Social 30-1 HL

Language SL

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

APPENDIX C | ALBERTA EDUCATION DAR UNDERSTANDING AN ALBERTA EDUCATION DETAILED ACADEMIC REPORT (DAR)*

Students can register for myPass through the School. Once they have signed up for myPass they can download their DAR.

84

APPENDIX D | SENIOR SCHOOL COURSE PLANNING SENIOR SCHOOL COURSE PLANNING WORKSHEET Grade 10 (IB MYP)

Grade 11

Grade 12

Need a minimum of 8 courses

Need a minimum of 7 courses

Need a minimum of 6 courses

1

English Language Arts 10-1

1

English Language Arts 20-1

1

English Language Arts 30-1

2

Social Studies 10-1

2

Social Studies 20-1

2

Social Studies 30-1

3

Math 10C

3

Math 20-1

3

4

Science 10

4

Biology, Chemistry, and/or Physics 20

4

5

Language 10

5

5

6

PHE 10

6

6

7

CALM

7

7

8

8

8

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS CHECKLIST: MINIMUM 100 CREDITS

85

10-level Physical Education

3-5 credits

Career & Life Management (CALM)

3 credits

20-level Math course

5 credits

20-level Science course

5 credits

30-level English Language Arts course

5 credits

30-level Social Studies course

5 credits

Additional 30-level course(s)

Min 10 credits

Additional credit course(s)

Min 10 credits

STS UPPER SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION HANDBOOK 2026–2027

SENIOR SCHOOL COURSE PLANNING WORKSHEET Grade 10 (IB MYP)

Grade 11

Grade 12

Need a minimum of 8 courses

Need a minimum of 7 courses

Need a minimum of 6 courses

1

1

1

2

2

2

3

3

3

4

4

4

5

5

5

6

6

6

7

7

7

8

8

8

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS CHECKLIST: MINIMUM 100 CREDITS 10-level Physical Education

3-5 credits

Career & Life Management (CALM)

3 credits

20-level Math course

5 credits

20-level Science course

5 credits

30-level English Language Arts course

5 credits

30-level Social Studies course

5 credits

Additional 30-level course(s)

Min 10 credits

Additional credit course(s)

Min 10 credits