A Catalogue of the Ridley College Middle School Exploratory Sessions
Learn about the various sessions being offered to Ridley College Middle School students through our engaging Exploratory Programme
2024/25
EXPLORATORY PROGRAMME
FAQ Exploratory Session Registration
How many Exploratory sessions are students signing up for? Students will be signing up for three sessions this year.
How long will each session run? Each session will be approximately 15 blocks.
What are the dates for each session?
Session 1: October 1st to November 22nd - Showcase is December 6th
Session 2: January 8th to February 21st – Showcase is February 28th
Session 3: March 26th to May 14th – Showcase is May 23rd
How can I learn more about each offering? At the beginning of the school year, the aims and goals of the Exploratory programme will be outlined during a group assembly. An Exploratory Fair will allow students (and parents) to ask questions about the explorations before signing up. You can also refer to this catalogue!
When and how will students sign up? Students will be given time to consider all of the yearly explorations following the Exploratory Fair and will complete a survey on interests. Students will choose their top choices in each session through a form.
What happens if students don’t sign up? If registration is not received by the deadline, students will be placed in an available space.
Are Exploratory choices guaranteed? Every effort is made to register students in their top Exploratory choices, but unfortunately, it can’t be guaranteed. Many explorations are available throughout the year and all allocations are dependent on space, resources and enrollment.
Can Exploratory placements change after sessions have begun? Unfortunately, no. Once lists have been distributed and materials purchased, switches will not be an option. It is encouraged to consider all the options before choosing. Please also be aware of the many opportunities for growth in diverse offerings and groupings. Each of the teachers leading an Exploratory brings their own unique vision and passion to the topic.
Will the explorations change? Exploratory sessions are offered as a collaborative effort by the Middle School Faculty to provide opportunities appropriate for age and stage development and to explore interests and passions students may/may not know they have. The explorations may change as this is a working document.
TERM 1 OPTIONS
THE BUDGET GAME
In this session, you will have gained experience and knowledge on developing essential money management skills that can be applied throughout your life toward achieving your best standard of living possible. Personal Finance Lab’s simulation called “The Budget Game” will be frequently used as a supporting resource.
Students will be exposed to the process of making wise and decisions, to gain greater confidence in their ability to finances more effectively. This will be achieved using a variety that are both hands-on and online. In the case of "The Budget Game", students will have the opportunity to create their own scenarios and learn how to navigate their way towards financial growth. This knowledge and understanding will kickstart student’s moneymaking journey towards living the highest quality of life they can.
Statement of inquiry:
Mastering personal money management involves developing your identity and making logical financial decisions, influenced by factors that affect sustainability and relationships.
Learning experiences:
• Needs and wants
• Opportunity cost
• Budgeting and spending plans
• Creating and managing a budget using ”The Budget Game”
• Bill payment
• Credit card ownership
Projected learning outcome: Students will use a scenario provided to them and manage a budget for a simulated 6-12 month window of time.
Questions directed to: Mr. Luc Brodeur
CHESS CLUB
Join the Chess Club, where strategy meets fun! Learn chess from the ground up or take your game to the next level with tips from experienced players, enhancing your strategic thinking and decisionmaking skills in a fun and challenging environment while you connect with friends and share your passion for chess.
are invited to join this session as the perfect place to tactics, and challenge their friends in exciting matches. different aspects of the game from basic moves to advanced lessons, practice games, and friendly tournaments. opportunity to improve their critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and even make new friends who share their interest in this timeless game.
Statement of inquiry:
Logical thinking, communication, and decision-making impact our interactions and outcomes in both games and life.
Learning experiences:
• Rules of the Game
• Basic Piece Movements
• Understanding Check and Checkmate
• Opening Principles
• Introduction to Tactics
• Middlegame Strategy
• Endgame Fundamentals
• Advanced Tactical Combinations
• Advanced Opening, Middlegame and Endgame Techniques
• Tournament and Review
Projected learning outcome: Students will play various games leading up to tournament-style competition.
Questions directed to: Dr. Derrick des Vignes
CONNECTIONS WITH NATURE FALL
Join this session for an an immersive experience, fostering a deep connection with nature. Through historical exploration, outdoor activities like biking and hiking, gardening, and community service, you will learn environmental stewardship and develop a sense of belonging. This program equips you with an appreciation for nature and the importance of sustainable actions.
The outcome of this exploratory is the development of environmentally and community-oriented students who have cultivated a profound nature, enriched by historical knowledge, hands-on experiences adventures, sustainable practices, and contributions to the community like United Way Niagara's Community Garden.
Statement of inquiry:
Through history, outdoor activities, and community involvement, we believe that connecting with nature fosters personal growth, environmental care, and community belonging.
Learning experiences :
• Hiking
• Mountain Biking
• Beekeeping
• Honey Harvesting
• Apple Picking
• Cider Making
• Sustainable Farming
• Modern Techniques in Gardening
• Tree Seed Collection
• Tree replanting
Projected learning outcome: Students will develop consciousness about the environment, through hands-on activities and through service to community partners.
CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP
Do you enjoy using your imagination? Does the dissection of ideas or arguments intrigue you?
Which stories would you like to tell? Do you find poetry to be a powerful medium?
If so, you are invited to take part in a series of writers’ workshops designed to help you hone your thinking skills, become a more robust editor, and publish your written work for others to enjoy.
Students will be given the opportunity to play with words, series of writers’ workshop formats.
Statement of Inquiry: Perspectives are conveyed through different forms of personal and cultural selfexpression.
Learning experiences:
• Developing Seeds of Inspiration: Hot Writing activities
• Writers’ Workshop #1: Creativity Nurtures Open-mindedness
• In Focus: Peer Editing Promotes Better Expression
• Writers’ Workshop #2: Depth of Understanding Enhances Our Perspective Through Informal Writing
• Crowdsourcing Resonance Across Writing Samples Identifies the Biggest Ideas
• Informal Writing Warm-Up Focussed on Point of View
• Writers’ Workshop #3: Writing to Read Nurtures Thinking Skills
• Crafting Openings Enhanced With Reflection
• Writers’ Workshop #4: Empathy Nurtures Perspective
• In Focus: Alternative Plotlines Broaden Perspectives
• Writers’ Workshop #5: Models Invite Reflection
• Preparation Enhances Expression x 2 (prep for Showcase & publishing)
Projected learning outcomes: Students will publish their written work and share some samples with the Middle School community.
Questions directed to: Ms. Andrea Charlton
CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATORS
Unlock the Mystery: Dive into CSI, Fingerprint Fun, and Crime-Solving Skills!
In this exciting adventure, you’ll explore the secrets of CSI techniques, from fingerprinting to evidence collection, and apply your newfound knowledge by creating and examining your own crime scenes.
Students will put their detective skills to the test in interactive they will solve puzzles and crack codes. They will also detectives who will share their experiences and explain in their work. This will be a fun and educational experience junior detectives in no time!
Statement of inquiry:
The structure and function of Crime Scene Investigation can be understood using perspective and logic.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation
• CSI Scavenger Hunts to explore practical applications of biology in CSI
• Crime Scene Protocol and Processing Evidence
• Escape room field trip and online escape rooms
• Importance of fingerprints
• “Unsolved Case Files”
• Murder Mystery!
• Visit with the Niagara Police
Projected learning outcome:
Students will learn from the Niagara Regional Police Service, but also learn from their problem-solving activities to explore the types of situations a detective may encounter.
Questions directed to: Miss Averee Mitchell
FITNESS GLADIATORS
“Your health account, your bank account, they’re the same thing. The more you put in, the more you can take out.” —Jack LaLanne
In this Exploratory session, you will actively participate in a diverse range of cardiovascular, fitness, and resistance training activities and deepen your understanding of the six essential components of fitness: muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular endurance, agility, flexibility, and balance.
Through hands-on experience, students will not only enhance their physical abilities but also gain valuable insights into the importance of maintaining a well-rounded fitness routine. Students will kick off this Exploratory by conducting a self-diagnostic test to assess their overall fitness, followed by setting personalized fitness goals. Throughout the programme, they will engage in weekly cardiovascular zone training, resistance exercises, and movement activities to improve their fitness levels. By the end of the programme, students will review their progress through post-assessment fitness scores and culminate their experience with a fun and challenging Gladiator-style obstacle course competition.
Statement of inquiry:
By integrating scientific and technical innovations in fitness training with personal and cultural expressions of health, students can develop lifelong habits that contribute to a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Learning experiences:
• Understanding the Importance and Benefits of Fitness
• The Value of Starting with a Fitness Assessment
• Cardiovascular and Mobility Training
• Resistance Training
• Fitness Programming
• Gladiator Showcase – Design and Competition
Projected learning outcomes: Students will reflect on their pre and post fitness assessment results, along with their learning and overall understanding of fitness as a life-long journey of well-being. They will also create and participate in a Gladiator-style obstacle course competition.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Sandra Magee
Statement of inquiry:
THE HANDMADE MARKET
Explore ceramics, vinyl, and paper arts. Create artisanal pieces, package them with care, and make a difference at Ridley College Middle School’s Holiday Market. Unleash your creativity, empower your entrepreneurial spirit, and support our school's fundraising efforts. Together, let's create, inspire, and make an impact!
students will embark on a hands-on adventure in crafting ceramic, vinyl and paper to create beautiful, customized Students will have the opportunity to experiment with techniques, inspired by experienced artisans and mentors. be sold to the Ridley community while collecting funds
Artisans draw on personal and cultural expression as inspiration to create aesthetic and unique handmade pieces.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction and Overview of the Handmade Market Experience
• Exploring the Ceramics Studio
• Dive into the World of Cricut Crafting
• Learn to Navigate software; Adobe Illustrator and Design Space
• Packaging, Promotion and Market Preparation
Projected learning outcome:
Students will create a variety of items to sell at the Holiday Market. Students will proudly present their masterpieces to the wider community, sharing the stories behind their creations and connecting with customers who appreciate the value of handmade pieces.
Students will contribute to a greater cause through the fundraising efforts of our group, which are decided collectively. For example, following last year's session, students donated all proceeds to a local organization, Community Care.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Ashley Auld
RECORD PRODUCERS
Welcome to record producers where creativity meets technology! If you live and breathe music, find passion in humming in tune with chords, and have a heart that beats to the rhythm of a song, join other music-makers to create your own original music on a digital platform.
Record Producers is the perfect place to explore, create, and share original music. Students will learn the fundamentals of music composition, including melody, harmony, rhythm, and song structure. They will dive into advanced techniques, such as digital audio production, sound design, and mixing using Soundtrap, a powerful digital audio
Statement of inquiry:
Exploring the art, science, and technology of record production enables us to understand the creative and technical processes behind music creation.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to the World of Record Producers
• Using a Digital Audio Workstation
• Using the Circle of Fifths to Guide Chord Progression
• How to Use Song Structure and Form
• How to Layer Music to Create Harmony
• Goal-Setting for a Variety of Styles and Audiences
Projected learning outcomes: Students will create music using their own instruments and voice or experiment with a vast library of sounds and loops.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Eugenie Wiley
ROBOTICS
By participating in the Middle School Robotics programme, you will develop a strong foundation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) concepts while enhancing your teamwork, critical thinking and innovation abilities through the exciting process of designing and building functional robots.
The Middle School Robotics programme provides students learning experience where they design, build and program robots, and problem-solving skills in a collaborative and exciting environment
Statement of inquiry: Robotics uses logic and creativity to develop scientific and technical innovation.
Learning experiences:
• Building a predesigned robot using the Spike Prime Lego
• Understanding components and learning how they fit together
• Basic programming with predesigned code
• Integration : Learning how to solve a Rubiks cube
• Students using Spike to programme their own code
• Testing and iterating
• Designing a robot to achieve a variety of goals
• Prototyping and building
• Working as a team to troubleshoot issues as they arise
• Showcasing and sharing their final robot
Projected learning outcomes: Student robots will perform a challenge. Robots will be on display at the showcase and students will answer questions from the audience.
Questions directed to: Mrs.
Ellen Duffus-Salvatore
TERM 2 OPTIONS
THE ART OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Explore and experiment with different types of photography such as action/sport, abstract/fine art, landscape/city scape, and portrait, among others. Learn about the art of photography by investigating and applying various techniques, styles, and ideas from famous photographs and professional photographers to develop your own style and produce a photography portfolio.
Students will investigate different types of photography, analysing the work of famous contemporary and historical identify and interpret the artistic elements and contexts that to individual photographs and bodies of work. At the same experiment with these different approaches and ideas to develop their own style for each type of photography studied. They will create a portfolio of photographs representing each photography type covered and then select and curate one or two works to share with the community.
Statement of inquiry:
Photography offers opportunities to explore and experiment with personal and cultural expression to communicate and understand specific perspectives and contexts (time, place, and space).
Learning experiences:
• Photography techniques: framing, colour/black and white, depth, leading lines, rule of thirds, macro/micro, perspective, using light, etc.
• Research specific photographers, photographs, and bodies of work (collections)
• Action/sport photography
• Fine art/abstract photography
• Landscape (nature)/city scape photography
• Portrait photography
• Open choice: students go further in-depth on the types above or investigate other types of photography
• Apply techniques to edit photographs
• Give meaning to photographs with titles and accompanying descriptions
Projected learning outcome:
Students will exhibit one or two photographs that they have selected from their photography portfolio.
CONNECTIONS WITH NATURE WINTER
Join this session for an an immersive experience, fostering a deep connection with nature through winter activities like hiking, foraging, indoor gardening, and sustainable practices, all while contributing to the community and fostering environmental responsibility.
Winter" exploratory fosters a deep connection between natural world, even in winter. Over the winter session, like winter hiking, indoor plant cultivation using preparing seeds to grow trees for the campus. This experience environmental stewardship and community belonging, equipping and appreciation needed to shape a sustainable future throughout the seasons.
Statement of inquiry:
Through history, outdoor activities, and community involvement, we believe that connecting with nature fosters personal growth, environmental care, and community belonging.
Learning experiences:
• Winter Hiking Introduction and Winter Nature Immersion
• Indoor Gardening (Indoor Plant Cultivation)
• Hydroponics Basics + Winter Nature Immersion (Hiking)
• Winter Foraging
• Seed Collection and Overwintering
• Understanding Sustainable Practices in Winter
• Techniques in Winter Gardening
• Tree Seed Collection for Campus Replanting
• Reflection on Winter Sustainable Practices
Projected learning outcomes: Students will develop consciousness about the environment, through hands-on activities and service to community partners.
Questions directed to: Mr. Ben Smith
Statement of inquiry:
LEGO MASTERS
On your mark, get set, BUILD! Lego Masters invites you to unlock your creativity, learn essential engineering techniques and tackle exciting weekly challenges inspired by the hit TV show Lego Masters. . creativity and learn essential engineering principles through inspired by the popular TV show. Each session introduces key structural stability, modular design, and mechanical critical thinking and problem-solving. With weekly skills, students will collaborate, innovate, and showcase deeper understanding of engineering, teamwork, and
Designing and building structures can aesthetically showcase the intersection of engineering and artistic expression.
Learning experiences:
• Basic structural techniques using bricks, plates and tiles
• Interlocking techniques for stability
• Foundations and techniques for strong bases
• Symmetry and aesthetics in design
• Modular building and techniques for building detachable sections
• Advanced structural techniques such as arches, hinges and curves – distributing weight and load-bearing techniques
• Gears, pulleys, levels and moving parts
• Building with purpose : functional elements such as doors, windows, ramps
• Creativity and storytelling in Lego
• Complex mechanisms and automation with Lego Technic
Projected learning outcomes:
Students will apply learned techniques to create an innovative build that solves a real-world problem. They will explain the various techniques and elements of engineering involved in their builds.
Questions directed to: Mme Tricia Poulin
MODEL UNITED NATIONS
Have you ever thought about being a diplomat? Would you like to help build a world that is more peaceful and cooperative in nature? If so, Model United Nations is an activity for you. You will learn communication skills and develop a better understanding of the challenges that we face in an inter-connected world.
Students will gain an appreciation for the inter-connected world that they live in, understand the need for cooperation in affairs between nations, and develop skills of diplomacy that are necessary for living in the modern world. Students will learn to recognize that they have a shared responsibility to look after our planet.
Statement of inquiry:
The global interactions of our inter-connected world can be leveraged to live peacefully and develop sustainability to secure our future.
Learning experiences:
• Understanding the United Nations
• Member states
• Developing position papers
• Writing a position paper on global issue
• Communicating to the General Assembly
• Planning a Model United Nations
• Connecting with stakeholders
• Hosting a MUN event
• Getting feedback
• Identifying key issues
• Position statements
Projected learning outcomes:
Students will host a Model UN event, as well as present about a global issue using various perspectives including a position statement.
Questions directed to: Mr. Paul O’Rourke
ROWING ACADEMY
You will gain an enhanced technical understanding of how to properly execute an efficient rowing stroke and will use this training to prepare you for the opportunity to compete at the Nancy Storrs Ontario Indoor Rowing Championships set to take place on March 1, 2025. This session could be a pathway towards our Upper School rowing team.
Athletes represented Ridley at national and/or international rowing competitions make a boat go fast, they need to row technically sound while Rowing technique is often neglected during the early stages of development, meaning are limiting their long-term ability to perform in the sport without realizing it. Students in this session, who may be developing a passion for rowing, will learn how to row the stroke more like a national team athlete by developing their technique both on the ergometer and at the tank facility off campus.
Statement of inquiry:
Through the exploration of rowing as a physical discipline, we investigate how the technical principles of change, development, and form influence overall performance, revealing how athletic endeavors can reflect and transform cultural narratives and personal identities.
Learning experiences:
• The stroke sequence
• Blade preparation
• Catch angle
• Drive phase
• Tapping down
• Chain of strength
• Training on the ergometers
• Training in the “tank” (indoor boat)
Projected learning outcomes:
Students will share technical progress and training. Students will have the opportunity to participate at the Nancy Storrs Ontario Indoor Rowing Championships.
Statement of inquiry:
STAGECRAFT
Stagecraftis the art and design that go into staging a story. Join Stagecraft to create and experience the magic that happens on stage and behind the scenes. You will learn about the technical aspect of theatre, film, and video to support the production of this year’s musical, "Diary of a Wimpy Kid”.
musical, there's a complex and coordinated effort involving departments working together to bring the production to life. opportunity to explore many aspects of theatre, film, and video
Understanding the intricate elements of theatre allows us to explore how behind-thescenes work, profoundly influencing the overall impact and storytelling of a theatrical production onstage.
Learning experiences:
• Designing props
• Lighting
• Stage design
• Sound engineering
• Constructing and rigging scenery
• Planning set changes
• Wardrobe design
• Costume fittings
• Make-up
Projected learning outcomes: Students will create a variety of props for Puppet Shows. Students will contribute to the set and lighting design of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid”.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Eugenie Wiley
STAR PERFORMERS
“Next stop, Hollywood!” You will collaborate with peers and industry professionals to enhance your performance abilities. You will have the unique opportunity to showcase your talents at long-term care facilities, experiencing firsthand the powerful impact of music and art on these vibrant communities. Refine your craft and make a meaningful difference through performance!
sessions, students will master the art of performing on performance style that resonates with them, they will refine practice both on and off stage. Throughout the session, opportunity to perform in front of their peers and seasoned professionals alike. These sessions will conclude with community performances in long-term care facilities.
Statement of inquiry:
Technical and expressive performance skills can be developed to enhance our ability to connect with and impact an audience during a live performance.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to Performing – Instrument and Song choice
• Exploring different aspects of performance
• Peer performance
• Reflection and Connection
• Showcase Video creation
• Performance Masterclass with professional artists
• Community Performance
Projected learning outcomes: Students will perform for their peers, as well as various community partners.
Questions directed to: Miss Jocelyn Fralick
THE STICKER SHOPPE
Design, Create, and Sell: Dive into the world of sticker art and entrepreneurship while supporting a cause you care about!
Students will have the opportunity to design and produce their own unique stickers, both hand-drawn and digitally created in a variety of styles including kawaii, doodle and pixel art. They will learn the process of transforming artistic ideas into professional level sticker sheets and packs. These custom stickers will then be sold at a popup market, with proceeds going to a charity or community service group chosen by the students. This hands-on experience will not only enhance creativity and design skills, but also teach students about small business and the impact of giving back to the community.
Statement of inquiry:
The products we own communicate a lot about our beliefs and values.
Learning experiences:
• The entrepreneurial elements of product creation
• Inspiration: Discuss themes and designs that interest the group
• Brainstorming : Mood Board
• Sketching: Kawaii, doodle and pixel art
• Digitizing: Creating sheets and die cut stickers
• Software for sticker making: Practice using software for the printer and the Cricut
• Marketing and Product Presentation
• Promotion and Shoppe Set Up
Projected learning outcomes:
Students will sell their creations at a pop-up market occurring before/after the showcase. They will share their reflections, product images and their fundraising efforts.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Ashley Auld
TIGER TUBE
Unlock your creative potential! With Tiger Tube you will leverage Adobe CC programs like After Effects and Premiere Pro to create engaging video shorts.
Tiger Tube introduces students to the dynamic world of Through this program students will learn the art of conducting professional mastering audio collection techniques, and understanding the fundamentals and lighting theory. They will gain hands-on experience in creating video clips using industry-standard software such as Adobe Premiere By the end of the program, students will have developed a that prepares them for future endeavors in media and communication
Statement of inquiry:
Students can use various software and filming techniques to expand their curiosity and express their creativity; effectively communicate to a wide range of audiences.
Learning experiences:
• Using Adobe Creative Cloud & apps
• Premiere Pro, Audition, After Effects
• Scene preparation
• Lighting a scene
• Conducting an interview
• Collecting Audio/Video
• Editing Audio/Video
• Special effects
Projected learning outcomes: Students will create video shorts in a combined Tiger Tube segment to be shown at the showcase.
Questions directed to: Mr. Aaron Smajda
TERM 3 OPTIONS
Statement of inquiry:
BASKETEERS
Are you interested in basketball and want to learn and develop tricks that involve developing fundamental skills of the game? You will experience a new appreciation for the style and flair that the Harlem Globetrotters use to entertain basketball fans around the world.
have been waiting for who want to develop fundamental as spinning the ball on their finger, through their legs, By the end of this session, students will perform a highlight their skills and techniques as basketeers.
Adaptations of movement will be explored through creativity and relationship building that will reflect individual and team expression.
Learning experiences:
• Tricks with basketballs used to entertain fans
• Basic ball handling skills, passing and dribbling
• Developing ball handling and introducing spinning on the finger
• Developing passing and spinning individually and with partners
• Rehearsing and presenting a choreographed routine
Projected learning outcome: Students will work collaboratively on an entertaining choreographed routine to be performed for their peers.
Questions directed to: Dr. Derrick des Vignes
Statement of inquiry:
CREATIVE THREADS
Whether you're a seasoned pro or picking up a hook or needle for the first time, this session offers a space to explore your artistic side, share tips, and craft beautiful works of art and functional items from yarn and thread.
and practice crochet and embroidery techniques. They while troubleshooting new skills and will present their Threads offers a supportive environment for honing skills, and connecting with others who share a passion for
Crochet and embroidery uses aesthetics and creativity to develop personal and cultural expression.
Learning experiences:
• Crochet
• Yarn types, hooks, and basic crochet terms
• Demonstrate how to hold the hook and yarn
• Practice making a simple chain stitch
• Practice basic stitches: single crochet, double crochet, and slip stitch
• Embroidery
• Introduction to embroidery hoops, needles, and threads
• Practice embroidery stitches: running stitch, backstitch, and satin stitch on fabric swatches
• Combining crochet and embroidery to create thread craft projects
Projected learning outcomes:
Students will display their finished works (scarf, embroidered wall hanging, small stuffed animal) in Middle School and the opportunity to sell their pieces at TigerFest
Questions directed to: Mme
Ellen Duffus-Salvatore
Statement of inquiry:
DEBATE CLUB
Would you like to hone your ability to weigh ideas with others?
Do you enjoy developing indestructible arguments?
Are you a research whiz who loves listening to those who get a reaction from their audience?
Then join us in the Debate Club! Roles will be refined to suit every participant.
to identify key elements of an argument, apply multiple counterarguments, and gain confidence as public speakers. collaborate, and apply creativity will be refined. encouraged to take risks and to apply balanced analysis as
By applying logic and communication skills, ideas can be expressed through compelling arguments.
Learning experiences:
• Gaining comfort with impromptu speaking
• "Headlining" an argument
• Collaborative development of arguments using the PEEL format
• Considering the impact of vocabulary/gestures/intonation
• Speaking roles in parliamentary debate
• Developing rebuttal and understanding Points of information
• Researching topics relevant to Middle School life and historic events
Projected learning outcomes: Students will practice debating skills through activities and then perform short demonstrations that include impromptu speaking, definition of a resolution and clips of debate scenarios in front of their peers.
Questions directed to: Ms. Andrea Charlton
INVESTORS CLUB
Unleash your financial potential, explore the stock market and cryptocurrency and make savvy investment decisions using a Stock Market Trading Game in this engaging session designed exclusively for middle school students!
Investors Club is an engaging exploratory session designed to introduce students to the exciting world of investing. This hands-on session aims to provide students with a fundamental understanding of how different investment avenues work and how decisions are made by investors. Through interactive discussions, real-world examples, and the use of an online investment simulator, students will gain practical knowledge and experience in the field of investing, both in traditional stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and commodities.
Statement of inquiry:
Using logic to explore investing can help students analyze the personal and global impacts of financial decisions.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to investing
• Basics of the stock market
• Risk and reward
• Investment strategies
• Fundamental and technical analysis
• Investment portfolios
• Ethical investing
Projected learning outcome:
Students engage in a stock market trading game where they are divided into teams and given virtual capital to invest.
Students create an investment portfolio report showcasing their selections, rationale behind their decisions, and the performance of their virtual portfolio. They will present their findings and experience to a panel of judges.
Questions directed to: Mme Tricia Poulin
MS PERFORMANCE BAND
“Can’t stop the beat - Dive into Rock, Jazz, and R&B!” Join our performance band to explore diverse musical styles with your friends! Discover new genres, artists, and play a variety of songs. Get ready to expand your musical skills and adapt to any ensemble with flexibility and flair.
such as funk, rock and roll, jazz, and R&B, guided by By studying the history and characteristics of these songs, students will gain a deeper appreciation of impact on contemporary music. This exploration will allow express individuality while connecting with the rich heritage of different musical styles.
Statement of inquiry:
Exploring and performing various musical genres enhances our understanding of musical history and personal expression.
Learning experiences:
• Discovery of R&B, Jazz and Funk (genres subject to change based on student interest)
• Learn to play, rehearse and perform with others
• Practice a variety of pieces
• Peer/professional reflection and feedback
• Community performances
Projected learning outcomes: After working on various genres throughout the session, students will choose several pieces to perform within the community and at the showcase.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Jocelyn Fralick
RASPBERRY PI IN THE SKY
Looking to take your coding to the next level? With Raspberry Pi in the Sky you can launch it into the stratosphere! In this exploratory session you will code a Raspberry Pi data logger with video cameras, build a microsat style payload, observe and predict wind patterns and launch a payload into the stratosphere with a high-altitude weather balloon.
Students will dive into the world of coding and data collection using a Raspberry Pi. They will learn to program the Raspberry Pi to gather crucial atmospheric data such as temperature, pressure, and altitude, as well as record video footage. The highlight of the program is the launch of a large helium balloon carrying the Raspberry Pi payload into the stratosphere. Students will engage in hands-on calculations to determine the volume of helium needed for the balloon, predict the altitude at which it will burst, and analyze wind patterns to select the optimal launch site. This project not only enhances their coding skills but also introduces them to real-world applications of physics and meteorology.
Statement of inquiry:
Students can apply logic to connected scientific and technical innovations in the exploration and anticipation of time, place and space.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to high altitude launches
• Introduction to coding with Raspberry Pi
• Working with various I/O systems
• Analyzing wind patterns and projected trajectories
• Preparing and filing a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM)
• Experience with Amateur Radio (APRS)
• Launching a payload into the stratosphere
• Data/video analysis
Projected learning outcomes:
LAUNCH SATURDAY May 10th 2025
Students will plan and execute a high-altitude ballon launch and analyse the data collected. Students will discuss the process of preparing for launch and data collected.
Questions directed to: Mr. Aaron Smajda
SCRAPBOOKING
Craft Your Story: A Scrapbooking Adventure for Creative Minds! Use various techniques like layering, stamping, and embellishing to highlight memories and tell stories. You will express your creativity, preserve cherished moments, and develop artistic skills while enjoying a collaborative and social experience. Get ready to capture, create, and celebrate your memories in a whole new way!
Students begin by taking photos, learning how to pick very own scrapbook, and then dive into the creative mementos. With guided instruction and plenty of hands the principles of storytelling through scrapbooking while of the session, each student will have created a personalized own story, ready to cherish for years to come.
Statement of inquiry:
Students draw on personal and cultural expression to create aesthetic and personal scrapbooks.
Learning experiences:
• Photography Process
• Categories
• Scrapbook Design
• Paper Selection
• Field trip to Michaels
• Visit with Lower School students to assist them in making Mother’s Day cards
Projected learning outcomes: Students will create a scrapbook ranging from 10-15 pages to document memories from throughout the year. They can present this scrapbook to peers and at the showcase.
Questions directed to: Miss Averee Mitchell
SOCCER MANAGERS
Start on your path to becoming a soccer coach, enhance your understanding of the game, and improve your skills as a player by exploring innovations in soccer tactics and formations, technical development, and team training, amongst other areas.
Soccer provide an introduction for students to the managerial side of the coaches in both soccer and other sports. Students will learn about and contemporary innovations in team principles, tactics, and specifically formations, set pieces, and penalties. They will also be introduced practices of coaching and running training sessions (e.g. the importance games) to develop their leadership skills and understanding of how to instruct and motivate others.
Statement of inquiry:
Coaches select and communicate systems to develop and enhance player and team performance, identities, and relationships.
Learning experiences:
• Attacking and defending principles, styles of play, and tactics
• Formations: strengths and weaknesses of 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 4-4-2. 3-4-3, etc.
• Historical and current innovations from professional and national team managers (e.g. zonal vs. person-marking, counterattacking, build-up, inverted wingers, inverted backs, false nine, set pieces, penalties, etc.)
• Approaches to team training: tactical and technical
• Approaches to team selection
• Practice running drills/activities for peers
• Support MS/LS soccer teams
Projected learning outcomes: Opportunities will be provided to each learner to practice running soccer activities for their peers and to support MS/LS soccer teams during the spring
Questions directed to: Mr. Jay Randall
TOXIC FREE TOMORROW
“Wellness is a connection of paths: knowledge and action.” ~ Joshua Holtz
Toxic Free Tomorrow is designed for students interested in improving overall health by transitioning from toxic skincare and home products to cleaner, non-toxic natural alternatives.
Students will expand their knowledge of the chemical household and skincare products, along with the associated communication, and the creation of non-toxic alternatives, students will learn how systems of production and consumption can be transformed to promote safer, more sustainable choices within their communities.
Statement of inquiry:
Exploring the impacts of toxic household and skincare products enables students to understand the broader implications on personal health and the environment.
Learning experiences:
• Non-Toxic Products
• Examining the chemicals in daily skin and household products.
• Potential risks (short/long term) related to these chemicals
• Personal Evaluations of products
• Comparing toxicity and clean ingredients
• Developing and Selecting Products
• Dividing roles and responsibilities (product research, supplies, product/packaging production and marketing)
• Making the products
• Marketing and packaging
Projected learning outcomes:
The group will create a variety of products using safer and more natural ingredients. An informational brochure will be shared with the community to promote and educate about the products created to be sold at TigerFest.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Sandra Magee