In grades 9 and 10, you'll build on concepts you already know, like Number Sense, Algebra, Measurement, Geometry, Data Management, and Probability. These years are about strengthening your foundation in math. Grade 11 introduces new concepts that might be less familiar. You'll encounter different math courses like Functions/Advanced Functions, Data Management, and Calculus and Vectors. It's a step up in complexity and depth. Desmos is a fantastic tool for creating graphs, and it's worth getting familiar with. It can help you visualize mathematical concepts and understand them better. If you decide to take Functions and Relations, you should also consider taking Calculus and Vectors. These courses often go hand in hand and build on each other's concepts. Also people may try to tell you that Data Management is the easier math course to take in grade 12, that is wrong! Data Managemen isn't necessarily easier or harder than Functions or Calculus and Vectors—it depends on your strengths and interests.
In high school, you'll learn how to write essays in MLA format, which is a way of organizing your papers and citing sources. Google Docs can help with this by automatically formatting your paper in MLA style. When you cite sources, you'll use either MLA or APA style, depending on what your teacher asks for. Instead of the old "paragraph burger" method, you'll use the "Point, proof, analysis" approach, where you start by making a point, then provide proof or evidence to support your point, and finally, analyze how the proof supports your point. You'll study Shakespeare's plays like "Romeo & Juliet," "Macbeth," and "Hamlet," which are a big deal in high school English. You'll also look at poetry, stories, and books to understand them better. In high school, you might write different types of essays. For example, a compare and contrast essay looks at the similarities and differences between two things, while a persuasive essay tries to convince the reader of a certain point of view. In class, you'll do presentations, listen to lectures, write book reviews, and work on creative projects. These activities help you understand literature better and improve your writing skills. Overall, English class in high school is about exploring new perspectives and learning how to express yourself effectively.
EQAO (Grade 9)
Format: The test consists of one session with two stages, totaling 27 questions.
Content: The questions are based on grade 9 mathematics, covering number, algebra, data, geometry and measurement, and financial literacy.
Duration: The test is divided into two parts, session A and session B. Each session takes one hour to complete.
Stage Breakdown:
Session A: Stage one with 14 questions and stage two with 13 questions.
Session B: Stage three with 14 questions and stage four with 13 questions.
Mode: The test is conducted online.
*French Immersion students are allowed to use a French dictionary during the test.
OSSLT (Grade 10)
Format: The test consists of 35 multiple-choice questions and two written response questions. It includes a reading booklet and a writing booklet.
Content: The test assesses reading and writing skills based on the Ontario Curriculum for Grade 9.
Question Types: Multiple-choice questions and open response questions.
Preparation: Schools often review OSSLT content in class, and students may have the opportunity to take practice tests for additional practice.
Assessment: Students are presented with a questionnaire at the end of the two assessment sessions.
Use the Cornell method for taking notes, especially in English classes. This method helps organize and review information effectively
Consider studying at a local library to minimize distractions and create a focused environment for learning.
When taking notes, rephrase the information in your own words, to keep your brain engaged and help with understanding.
Develop a study schedule and share it with someone who can help keep you accountable, such as a parent, guardian, friend, or teacher.
Before class ends, preview the homework questions so you can ask the teacher for help if needed before leaving.
Use flashcards, whether physical or digital, to reinforce learning and memorize information effectively. Websites like Quizlet.com can be helpful for this.
Study with friends who are serious about their studies to stay motivated and focused.
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Don't rely solely on class notes; read the textbook to deepen your understanding of the material.
Especially if you have ADHD, break up your study sessions into shorter, focused blocks to maintain concentration.
Experiment with different study techniques to find what works best for you. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to studying.
VOLUNTEERING
Your guidance counselor's office can provide you with a volunteering sheet template to track your hours. Consider doing more than the required 40 hours of volunteering, as it can enhance your university/college transcripts. Look for volunteer opportunities in places that align with your interests and values. Avoid volunteering at places where you will profit from, such as work-related opportunities. There are many volunteer opportunities so check your high school's clubs and list of events for volunteer opportunities. Some clubs may offer hours that count toward your community service requirements. Additionally, school libraries often need volunteers, especially during exam times. Consider volunteering at non-profit organizations or food banks. These organizations often have ongoing opportunities for volunteers.
EARLY GRADUATION
Check Your Homework Daily
Study Guides For Exams
Ask For Help
Use School Resources
Don't Stress About Your Future Career Yet
Find Balance In Your Life
Stay Organized
1. Stay on top of your assignments so you're not overwhelmed by your work piling up and exams.
2. Use study guides and resources that can help you prepare for tests and exams. There are study sheets provided by your highschool to get you prepared for exams.
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3. Don't be afraid to ask parents, teachers, tutors, or friends for help if you're struggling with a subject. Ask your parents for tutoring early on, so you don’t fall behind and think about giving up.
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4. Take advantage of the resources at your school, like libraries, clubs specific to subject areas (like a Math club) and tutoring, to help you stay focused.
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5. Focus on doing well in school now and explore as many areas of interests as you can. More exposure will eventually help you to narrow down your career choices.
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6. Join clubs that you find interesting even if you don’t know anything about the subject area (like how to play chess), go to school events to have fun, take breaks from studying…find a good balance between school and fun.
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7. Use a Planner or an App to keep track of your assignments, tests, and activities, so you stay on top of your schoolwork.
Eligibility: Students must be at least 16 years old and have completed at least 16 credits towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) to participate.
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Certification: The program allows students to become certified in their chosen trade, which can lead to employment opportunities in that field.
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Integrated Learning: OYAP integrates course curriculum with learning at a work placement, allowing students to earn credits while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
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Co-op Credits: Students can earn four co-op credits per semester, up to a maximum of 12 co-op credits towards the OSSD.
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Youth Employment Services (YES): YES provides career counseling, resume writing workshops, and skills training for youth in Ontario.
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Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU): This organization provides employment opportunities, mental health services, and housing support to youth in Ontario.
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Ontario Youth Action Plan: The Ontario government's Youth Action Plan includes programs that help the youth with mental health, employment programs, and youth outreach workers.
RELATIONSHIPS
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