Courses

Staff at Westgate strive to provide students with an excellent education, and we wish for students to develop academically, spritually, physically and emotionally during their time with us. We encourage students to be involed in our co-curricular programs and to take classes in a wide range of subject areas. Grade 9 and 10 students must select 10 credits. Grade 11 students are expected to take a minimum of nine credits per year and Grade 12 students a minimum of eight credits.

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Keyboarding (early morning) 25S

The primary goal of this course is to have students develop proficiency using a computer keyboard (specifically, touch-typing accurately at 25 words per minute). Components…

40S Visual Arts

The overall goal of the program is to develop students’ ability to represent and express their ideas through visual arts. Students will develop and apply…

30S Concert Band

Students must have successfully completed course 20S to enroll in this course. Students new to Westgate must first pass an audition before enrolling in this…

45S Advanced Strings

Students in any grade who have string playing experience will audition for placement in the Advanced String Orchestra. Students playing in the Advanced String Orchestra…

Vocal Jazz

This choir is an auditioned, high level, small choral ensemble of Grade 11 and 12 students. The repertoire for this ensemble is a mixture of contemporary,…

Concert Choir

This choir is an auditioned choral ensemble of 30-40 singers in Grades 10-12. Students will learn to sing at a high level. Students are expected…

School Chorus

This choir is open to any Grade 10-12 student attending Westgate. There are no auditions. If you want to sing you are welcome. A student…

40S German

While students continue to grow in their use of language and cultural knowledge, students will also explore ways to continue learning German after high school.…

Prerequisite: German 30S

40S French

This is the final of a six-year French program. It includes cultural information, oral presentation, discussions, lyrical analysis and short stories. Written, oral, reading and…

Prerequisite: French 30S

40S Psychology

This course exposes students to the major topics found in the field of psychology. Students explore the scientific methods upon which psychology is based. It…

40S Accounting Systems

This course builds and expands upon the principles and concepts introduced in Accounting Principles 30S. Students will explore adjusting entries, merchandise purchases and sales, merchandise…

Prerequisite: Minimum of 60% in Accounting Principles 30S

30S Accounting Principles

This course introduces students to financial principles and concepts which are valuable in both personal and business situations. Students will explore the steps involved in…

40S  Essential Mathematics

EssentialMathematics encourages mathematical literacy. Students explore a variety of intersections between mathematical concepts and real-world experiences, including varied careers, money management, and daily living. Topics…

45S Calculus

Calculus 45S is a half-credit course that serves as an introduction to calculus. Topics include:

Prerequisite: Minimum of 60% in Pre-Calculus Mathematics 40S

40S Pre-Calculus Mathematics

Pre-Calculus Mathematics is theoretical in nature with emphasis on the mastery of algebraic skills in preparation for higher level mathematics. This course will provide experiences…

Prerequisite: Minimum of 60% in Pre-Calculus Mathematics 30S

42S Advanced Placement Computer Science

This course requires the writing of the Advanced Placement examination. A student who successfully passes the exam as prepared and evaluated by the Advanced Placement…

40S Computer Science

The course teaches intensive programming using Java. Topics include: problem solving, sequential and random access files, OOP programming language, recursion, arrays, and sort and search…

Prerequisite: Minimum of 60% in Computer Science 30S

30S Computer Science

This course will instruct the students in Java Topics include: variables and data types, input/output, multiple branching, looping, subprograms with parameters, strings, arrays and sample…

40S Physics

Topics include mechanics, fields, electricity, and modern physics.

Prerequisite: Minimum of 60% in Physics 30S

40S Chemistry

Topics include atomic theory, kinetics, equilibria, acids and bases, solubility, and redox.

Prerequisite: Minimum of 60% in Chemistry 30S

40S Biology

Topics studied include: Genetics, DNA structure, function and technologies, evolution, zoology and botany.

Prerequisite: Science 20F

40F Active Healthy Lifestyles

These compulsory full-credit courses are designed to help youth take greater ownership of their own physical fitness, to encourage them to seek out activities that…

42S Advanced Placement Literature

This college-level literature course allows students to engage in analysis and discussion of literature in preparation for the AP exam in May. An emphasis will…

Prerequisite: Minimum of 75% in Comprehensive Focus 40S

40S Transactional Focus

This course is focused on literacy beyond literature —It aims to deepen students’ understanding of everyday forms of the English language. It examines communication in…

Prerequisite: Literary Focus 30S

40S Literary Focus

This course focuses on literary theories. The emphasis will be on analyzing text critically through: Psychoanalytical, Feminist, and Marxist lenses. Authors may include Atwood, Fitzgerald,…

Prerequisite: Literary Focus 30S

40S Comprehensive Focus

This course will incorporate study of selected novels and other literary and visual texts with a variety of writing and public speaking skills to provide…

Prerequisite: Literary Focus 30S

Service Credit

Students may earn a credit for work done in the community.  Students are limited to 1 credit within the 34 credits required for a Westgate…

Keyboarding (early morning) 25S

The primary goal of this course is to have students develop proficiency using a computer keyboard (specifically, touch-typing accurately at 25 words per minute). Components…

30S Visual Arts

The overall goal of the program is to develop students’ ability to represent and express their ideas through visual arts. Students will develop and apply…

Senior Jazz Band (Grade 10, 11 and 12)

This is an elite and demanding ensemble which includes trumpets, trombones, saxes and rhythm section, for students who are also members of the Senior Concert…

Keyboarding (early morning) 25S

The primary goal of this course is to have students develop proficiency using a computer keyboard (specifically, touch-typing accurately at 25 words per minute). Components…

30S Accounting Principles

This course introduces students to financial principles and concepts which are valuable in both personal and business situations. Students will explore the steps involved in…

20S Visual Arts

The overall goal of the program is to develop students’ ability to represent and express their ideas through visual arts. Students will develop and apply…

30S Concert Band

Students must have successfully completed course 10S to enroll in this course. Students new to Westgate must first pass an audition before enrolling in this…

20S Dramatic Arts

These are hands-on courses — students actively play various games and roles, learning by doing and observing along with coaching and a little theory. In…

Vocal Jazz

This choir is an auditioned, high level,  small choral ensemble of Grade 11 and 12 students. The repertoire for this ensemble is a mixture of…

25S Digital Film Making/Digital Pictures

This course provides students with the skills and knowledge to tell stories by combining sound, still images, moving images, text and graphics into a video…

Concert Choir

This choir is a demanding choral ensemble of 30-40 singers in Grades 10-12. Students will learn to sing at a high level, and are expected…

21G Outdoor Education

The goal of this course is to foster an appreciation for creation and nature in students, while equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed…

School Chorus

This choir is open to any Grade 10-12 student attending Westgate. There are no auditions. If you want to sing you are welcome. A student…

20G German

In this course students continue to develop their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The course is differentiated so that students coming from the beginner,…

Prerequisite: German 10G

20F French

In this course students continue to develop their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The course is differentiated so that students coming from the regular…

Prerequisite: French 10F

30G German

While we continue to develop reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, this course has a stronger cultural focus. Through literature, media, and film, students examine…

Prerequisite: German 30F

30S French

Expansion of French 20F including literature, poetry and articles by French and French Canadian authors. Emphasis on oral and written communication. Students are expected to…

Prerequisite: French 20F

30S Physics

Topics include the nature of physics, mechanics, fields, waves and radiation. An emphasis is placed on advanced problem solving and engineering.

Prerequisite: Students need at least 60% in the grade 10 Physics unit or special permission to register for this class. Corequisite: Pre-Calculus Mathematics 30S

30S Current Topics in Science

Current Topics in Science is a unique alternative to the three classic sciences offered in high school. Instead of examining several topics within a specific…

30S Chemistry

Topics include atomic theory, physical properties of matter, chemical reactions, gases and organic chemistry.

Prerequisite: Students need at least 60% in the grade 10 Chemistry unit or special permission to register for this class.

30S Biology

This course involves the study of human body structures and functions. Topics studied include biochemistry, cell biology, and many systems within the human body. 

Prerequisite: Students need at least 60% in the grade 10 Biology unit or special permission to register for this class.

40S Accounting Systems

This course builds and expands upon the principles and concepts introduced in Accounting Principles 30S. Students will explore adjusting entries, merchandise purchases and sales, merchandise…

Prerequisite: Accounting Principles 30S

30S Accounting Principles

This course introduces students to financial principles and concepts which are valuable in both personal and business situations. Students will explore the steps involved in…

30S Essential Mathematics

Essential Mathematics encourages mathematical literacy, the understanding of math in daily life, business and industry. Cooperative, interactive, and communicative skills will be developed for the…

30S Pre-Calculus Mathematics

Pre-Calculus Mathematics is theoretical in nature with emphasis on the mastery of algebraic skills in preparation for higher level mathematics. This course will provide experiences…

Prerequisite: Students need at least 60% in grade 10 pre-Calc or special permission to register for this class.

30S Computer Science

This course will instruct the students in Java Topics include: variables and data types, input/output, multiple branching, looping, subprograms with parameters, strings, arrays and sample…

30F Active Healthy Lifestyles

These compulsory full-credit courses are designed to help youth take greater ownership of their own physical fitness, to encourage them to seek out activities that…

30F History

Students study the history of Canada from pre-European contact to the present, focusing on themes of colonization, British nation-building, and social changes under industrialization. Students…

30S Literary Focus

This course includes the in-depth study of both classic and contemporary texts. Students will analyze/produce many different creative forms (short fiction, poems, podcasts, visuals, etc.).…

Prerequisite: Language Arts 20F

31 G Christian Studies: Christian Ethics

In our Christian Studies program, we remain grounded in our Anabaptist principles, working with students as their faith develops and grows throughout their time at…

20S Concert Band

Students must have successfully completed course 10S to enroll in this course. Students new to Westgate must first pass an audition before enrolling in this…

Concert Choir

This choir is an auditioned choral ensemble of 30-40 singers in Grades 10-12. Students will learn to sing at a high level. Studentsare expected to…

School Chorus

This choir is open to any Grade 10-12 student attending Westgate. There are no auditions. If you want to sing you are welcome. A student…

20S Essential Mathematics

Essential and Consumer Mathematics encourages mathematical literacy, the understanding of math in daily life, business and industry. Cooperative, interactive, and communicative skills will be developed…

20S Introduction to Pre-Calculus Mathematics

This introductory course prepares students for both Applied and Pre-Calculus Mathematics. Topics include: Student will need to achieve 60% in order to continue on in…

Prerequisite: Students need at least 60% on the grade 9 Pre-Calc Unit or special permission to register for this class.

20F Physical Education

These courses are designed to help students acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitude to lead physically active and healthy lifestyles. A variety of learning experiences…

20F Geography

This course focuses on a variety of issues and challenges in the contemporary world. Students develop skills related to geographical thinking while studying concepts related…

20F Science

The Grade 10 course offers students topics in chemistry, physics and biology. Students have the opportunity to expand their knowledge in these areas, and to…

20F Literary Focus

This course continues to develop the six areas of language arts. Areas of study include public speaking, introduction to Shakespeare, and novel study. Understanding and…

Prerequisite: Language Arts 10F

9 Co-curricular Programing

Games Club, Photo Club, Volleyball, Basketball, Ultimate Frisbee, Track and Field, Cross Country, Soccer, Golf, Badminton, One Act Plays (acting, sound, props, costumes, lights, make-up,…

9 Keyboarding (early morning) 25S

The primary goal of this course is to have students develop proficiency using a computer keyboard (specifically, touch-typing accurately at 25 words per minute). Components…

Junior Jazz Band

Students in Grade 8 and 9 with previous band experience are welcome to join this ensemble. We will explore the basic style, articulation, phrasing, and…

9 Senior Strings

This class is open to students in grades 7-12 who have at least 3+ years of private lessons on their instrument (violin, viola, cello, bass).…

9 Beginner Strings

This class is open to students in grade 7-12. It is once per week after school, Thursdays 3:30-4:30pm Students will choose a string instrument (violin,…

9 Outdoor Education

Outdoor experiential learning is one of the defining characteristics of Westgate’s approach to holistic education. We want to foster an appreciation for creation and nature…

15S Family Studies

Students will explore their identity and improve their capacity as members of a changing world. We will discuss relationships, self-understanding, communication, diversity in Canadian society,…

15G Dramatic Arts

These are hands-on courses — students actively play various games and roles, learning by doing and observing along with coaching and a little theory. In…

15S Life/Work Exploration

Life/Work Exploration is a half-credit course that will help students acquire and apply knowledge and skills to make appropriate decisions for life, work, and the…

11G Robotics

Robotics teaches the principles of programming, physical science, and mathematics. Using Lego Mindstorm EV3 education kits, pairs of students will be engaged in fun, hands-on…

15S Visual Arts

The overall goal of the program is to develop students’ ability to represent and express their ideas through visual arts. Students will develop and apply…

10S Band

Previous experience is mandatory and independent home practice is expected to prepare all performance repertoire. More emphasis will be put on the performance requirements such…

Prerequisite: Grade 7 and Grade 8 Band

10G German

The German program is based on the communicative approach, encompassing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills as well as German cultural information and appreciation. Students…

10F French

The French program is based on the communicative approach, encompassing reading, writing, listening and speaking skills as well as French cultural information and appreciation. Students…

10F Physical Education

These courses are designed to help students acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitude to lead physically active and healthy lifestyles. A variety of learning experiences…

10F Social Studies

This course explores Canada  in the contemporary world through an examination of immigration, government, the legal system, and other aspects of our society.  Students will…

10F Mathematics

Grade 9 Mathematics is a foundation course intended to prepare students for multiple possible pathways in Grades 10 to 12. The course builds on the…

10F Science

The junior high science program works at attaining basic knowledge and attitudes needed to function in today’s scientific and technological world and also at developing…

10F English Language Arts

This course gives students many opportunities to gain competency in the six language arts skills. They have the opportunity to listen, speak, read, write, view,…

9 Choir

From the very beginning choral music has been at the core of how we as Mennonites have expressed our faith. At Westgate, we know that…

8 Co-curricular Programing

Games Club, Art Club, Photo Club, Volleyball, Basketball, Ultimate Frisbee, Cross Country, One Act Plays (acting, sound, props, costumes, lights, make-up, etc).

8 Keyboarding (early morning) 25S

The primary goal of this course is to have students develop proficiency using a computer keyboard (specifically, touch-typing accurately at 25 words per minute). Components…

8 Junior Jazz Band

Students in Grade 8 and 9 with previous band experience are welcome to join this ensemble. We will explore the basic style, articulation, phrasing, and…

8 Senior Strings

This class is open to students in grades 7-12 who have at least 3+ years of private lessons on their instrument (violin, viola, cello, bass).…

8 Beginner Strings

This class is open to students in grade 7-12. It is once per week after school, Thursdays 3:30-4:30pm Students will choose a string instrument (violin,…

8 Outdoor Education

Outdoor experiential learning is one of the defining characteristics of Westgate’s approach to holistic education. We want to foster an appreciation for creation and nature…

8 German

The German program is based on the communicative approach, encompassing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills as well as German cultural information and appreciation. Students…

8 French

The French program is based on the communicative approach, encompassing reading, writing, listening and speaking skills as well as French cultural information and appreciation. Students…

8 Social Studies

This course explores the social and political histories of ancient civilizations by focusing on their laws, behaviours and values. Topics covered include: early humans, ancient…

8 Science

The junior high science program works at attaining basic knowledge and attitudes needed to function in today’s scientific and technological world and also at developing…

8 Mathematics

In Grade 8 the mathematics course emphasizes problem solving, basic skills and the ability to communicate mathematically. Strands include:

8 ELA

This course develops a variety of communication skills focusing on effective expository writing as well as critical and creative responses to texts. Independent reading, book…

8 Physical Education

These courses emphasize the acquisition and application of the skills that are considered the building blocks for developing physical, social and emotional well-being. The intent…

8 Band

Students continue their study in their chosen instruments. More technical demands will be made with emphasis on the development of embouchure, articulation, intonation and rhythm.…

8 Music

For the first five months theory rudiments are taught. We will then turn our attention to music and composers.

8 Choir

From the very beginning choral music has been at the core of how we as Mennonites have expressed our faith. At Westgate, we know that…

7 Co-curricular Programing

Games Club, Art Club, Photo Club, Volleyball, Basketball, Ultimate Frisbee, Cross Country, One Act Plays (acting, sound, props, costumes, lights, make-up, etc).

7 Senior Strings

This class is open to students in grades 7-12 who have at least 3+ years of private lessons on their instrument (violin, viola, cello, bass).…

7 Beginner Strings (after school)

This class is open to students in grade 7-12. It is once per week after school, Thursdays 3:30-4:30pm Students will choose a string instrument (violin,…

7 Keyboarding (early morning) 25S

The primary goal of this course is to have students develop proficiency using a computer keyboard (specifically, touch-typing accurately at 25 words per minute). Components…

7 Outdoor Education

Outdoor experiential learning is one of the defining characteristics of Westgate’s approach to holistic education. We want to foster an appreciation for creation and nature…

7 German

The German program is based on the communicative approach, encompassing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills as well as German cultural information and appreciation. Students…

7 French

The French program is based on the communicative approach, encompassing reading, writing, listening and speaking skills as well as French cultural information and appreciation. Students…

7 Social Studies

This course explores people and places in the world and examines global quality of life. Social justice issues are explored through projects delving into the…

7 Science

The junior high science program works at attaining basic knowledge and attitudes needed to function in today’s scientific and technological world and also at developing…

7 English Language Arts

This course is designed to develop an appreciation for language through reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing and representing.  Topics include the theme of belonging, historical…

7 Physical Education

These courses emphasize the acquisition and application of the skills that are considered the building blocks for developing physical, social and emotional well-being. The intent…

7 Band

All grade 7 students will choose a wind or percussion instrument with the guidance of the teacher and are then instructed on the basic playing…

7 Music

For the first five months theory rudiments are taught. We will then turn our attention to music and composers from around the globe as we…

7 Choir

From the very beginning choral music has been at the core of how we as Mennonites have expressed our faith. At Westgate, we know that…

6 Outdoor Education

Outdoor experiential learning is one of the defining characteristics of Westgate’s approach to holistic education. We want to foster an appreciation for creation and nature…

6 Advanced German

Advanced German is for students coming to Westgate from the bilingual program or who have lived in Germany. Through film, novels, media, and language activities,…

6 Keyboarding & Computer Skills

This course has two primary goals: that students develop proficiency using a computer keyboard (specifically, touch-typing accurately at 25 words per minute); and that students…

6 Social Studies

Grade 6 Social Studies explores the history of Canada since 1867. Students explore themes in Canadian history through project work and story.

6 Science

The junior high science program works at attaining basic knowledge and attitudes needed to function in today’s scientific and technological world and also at developing…

6 English Language Arts 

This course is designed to develop an appreciation for language through reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing, and representing. Students build skills through daily reading, writer’s…

6 Physical Education 

These courses emphasize the acquisition and application of the skills that are considered the building blocks for developing physical, social and emotional well-being. The intent…

6 Choir

From the very beginning choral music has been at the core of how we as Mennonites have expressed our faith. At Westgate, we know that…

6 Music

This course is a bridge between student experiences from elementary music and future Westgate music courses.  It is based on Western European music. Students will…

6 Christian Studies

In our Christian Studies program, we remain grounded in our Anabaptist principles, working with students as their faith develops and grows throughout their time at…

Private Lessons: Voice

These lessons include voice development and ear training. Each student learns a repertoire of songs. Lessons are half an hour in length once per week.

Private Lessons: String Instruments

Lessons from professional private teachers are available for all string instruments including violin, viola, cello and bass. Lessons are usually given once a week, for…

Private Lessons: Piano

The Royal Conservatory of Toronto and/or Western Board of Music books are used as a basis for the lessons. These books offer the basic groundwork…

Private Lessons: Band Instruments

Lessons from professional private teachers are available for all wind instruments including flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba and percussion. These…