Grade 8 Electives will be offered as a rotation. Students will take up to 6 electives in 6 week increments. Students who choose band or hockey academy will take 3 electives. Rotation electives may include the following:
*** Please note - there is a fee of $10.00 for all grade students to cover fee for all electives students will take in their rotation.
As computer skills are necessary in this modern age this course is designed to teach basic keyboarding and word processing skills as well as provide students with an introduction to the computer networks used at Valleyview Secondary School. There are also units on 3D Printing, Computer Programming and Animation.
In Woodwork 8, students will be introduced to the tools needed to do the ten step process in a safe and responsible way. The students will have to do a measurement unit, safety unit, and receive lessons along the building process.
In Textiles 8, students will learn basic sewing techniques and skills, and care and use of the sewing machine. They will learn to use patterns to create something to wear and enjoy.
Students will be introduced to the basic hand and machining processes of metalwork. Projects will include a Bottle Opener, a Metal Rose, and a Ring.
Students will explore multiple units in:
identifying interests and strengths using core competencies;
mental health;
healthy relationships;
study skills; and
career and personal development.
MUSIC 8
In this six-week Grade 8 music course, students will embark on an exciting journey to learn a new instrument while exploring the fundamentals of music. They will develop skills in reading music, understanding basic notation, and learning key musical terms in a fun and supportive environment. Through engaging activities and hands-on practice, students will experience the joy of making music together and build confidence in their creative abilities. No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiasm!
This is a beginner’s course designed to introduce each student to the fundamental skills in visual arts. Students will explore drawing, painting, sculpture and Art History. Different mediums will be used including, but not limited to, sketching, ink, 3 dimensional, collage and colour theory. Sketchbook assignments will be used to develop skills and are an integral part of the course.
At the introductory level, this course utilizes games and group activities to experience all of the basic skills needed for effective communication including trust, cooperation and imagination. Drama is an approach to learning that helps us discover the meanings of human interactions at a deeper level. We use movement, voice, mime, role play, improvisation and scripts as tools of personal expression and response.
During this 6-week introductory course, students will learn through experiential education using indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and many principles and learning from a book titled ‘Braiding Sweetgrass’ by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Outdoor Education weaves together personal development, outdoor exploration, preparedness, and “Leave No Trace” principles while looking at our surroundings with a new perspective. Students develop introductory outdoor skills through cooperative games, shelter building, hiking, nature interpretation, cooking over backcountry stoves, dehydrating foods, and other activities suitable to the season.
Students may choose to take Band 8 where they will be in band for one semester. The second semester students will then take 3 other elective courses.
In this six-week Grade 8 music course, students will embark on an exciting journey to learn a new instrument while exploring the fundamentals of music. They will develop skills in reading music, understanding basic notation, and learning key musical terms in a fun and supportive environment. Through engaging activities and hands-on practice, students will experience the joy of making music together and build confidence in their creative abilities. No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiasm!
*Please be advised that there is an enhancement fee associated with this course. For further details, refer to the "Course Enhancement Fees" section in the index.
In this six-week Grade 8 music course, students will embark on an exciting journey to learn a new instrument while exploring the fundamentals of music. They will develop skills in reading music, understanding basic notation, and learning key musical terms in a fun and supportive environment. Through engaging activities and hands-on practice, students will experience the joy of making music together and build confidence in their creative abilities. No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiasm!
* There is also an opportunity for a piano player to gain credit in this course if they act as an accompanist to the VSS Choir. Please see Miss. Daniels for more information.
**Please be advised that there is an enhancement fee associated with this course. For further details, refer to the "Course Enhancement Fees" section in the index.