Programs - Option Course's 2010-2011
Art
The Art program introduces the use of the elements of design such as line, colour, and texture. Students learn to use a variety of mediums ranging from charcoal to paint to digital design. Each grade level completes projects in 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional form. Students will use higher-order thinking skills to solve problems of composition within their work.
Students enrolled in the band program at Steele Heights will learn fundamentals of music theory and performance. Many aspects of musical notation, dictation, rhythm, and pitch are explored through learning woodwind, brass, or percussion instruments. One of the highlights of band each year is the opportunity to attend band camp with instruction provided by Edmonton's premier musicians. Students are also given the opportunity to showcase their developing skills through a number of performances.
This course is designed for students interested in learning about digital imaging, photography, animation and audio/video production. This is a module based course, in which students are provided with a hands-on introduction to the various segments of communication and media. A wide variety of different multi-media will be covered including studio and landscape photography, commercials, movie shorts, animation and newscasts.
Drafting and Design
Drafting and Design allows students to explore how wood, metal, and glue can be combined to make a functional and exciting project. Students learn design fundamentals (cost, materials, planning, aesthetics) as well as gain skills that allow them to carefully plan for success. The correct and safe use of power tools as well as conscientious workplace behaviours are integrated into lessons. Roll up your sleeves and put your safety glasses on ? it?s time to go to work!
Drama
Students will learn to improve their stage presence through activities focused on mime, movement, voice, and improvisation. Students will demonstrate their skills through games, theatre sports and a variety of performances.
Outdoor Environmental Education
Students will be examining all of the skills that they will need in order to have a safe and environmentally responsible experience in the wilderness. They will look into present day issues concerning the human impact on the environment and review a wide variety of ecosystems around the world. Students also learn the importance of effective group interaction while participating in outdoor activities, and learn how to survive in the wilderness alone and as part of a group.
Food Studies
Foods Studies is a comprehensive, introductory course designed to teach students how to prepare a variety of foods. Students discover the importance of kitchen safety and food safety when working in the kitchen. Practical lab experiences emphasize the development of basic food preparation skills. The Canada Food Guide is studied and applied in the choice of food selection and menu items available in the course. Students learn the value of team work, managing resources and demonstrating responsibility as their competency in the kitchen develops and advances.
Information Technology
The Information Technology course begins with basic keyboarding and works through modules of computer operations, word processing, spreadsheets, database, publishing, graphics, hypermedia tools, hypertext mark up language (html), and other applications.
Leadership
Every teen can be a leader. That?s because leadership is not only about taking the lead in big ways, but in everyday interactions too. This option will allow you to develop personal skills to feel confident, respected, being heard and making a difference in both the school and the community. You will have opportunities to plan and run school wide events, work on your communication skills, team-building skills and develop a leadership attitude.
Extra Language Arts
This option is designed to teach students strategies that will allow them to improve reading skills. Tasks and assignments are structured to support and parallel objectives outlined in the Language Arts curriculum. This class is provided for students who require additional instruction in reading in grades seven, eight and nine. This class has a low student teacher ratio which yields positive results for each child.
Extra Mathematics
This option is designed to supplement students' understanding and practice with math concepts. Tasks and assignments are structured to support and parallel objectives outlined in the mathematics curriculum. This class is provided for students who require additional instruction for math topics studied in grades seven, eight and nine. The option has a low student to teacher ratio and is intended to increase performance and results for each student.