Business Technology 11 (Academic) 

This course will provide students with opportunities to learn the principles and practices of document production and become skilled in production and manipulation of documents to manage and communicate information and ideas. Students will learn about ethical, social, and legal implications of document production as they learn the. Students will learn to relate their learning to career pathways and further refine their career and education plans.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP 12 (Academic)

The Entrepreneurship 12 course focuses on ways in which entrepreneurs recognize opportunities, generate ideas, and organize resources to plan successful ventures that enable them to achieve their personal goals by satisfying the needs of others. Students learn about values, traits, and skills most often associated with successful entrepreneurial activity. This is both a theory and hands-on course with the teacher acting as a facilitator.  There are three components to the course which a student must do successfully in order to complete the course. They are: 

1. Theory Component: The students learn the specific knowledge associated with being an entrepreneur. 

2. Action Component: This component is in the hands of the student. He/she decides what mini-ventures (small businesses) he/she will operate, how he/she will do it, (the teacher must agree) and then the student must prove that he/she has accomplished what he/she set out to accomplish. 

3. Business Component: The students will be required to write a business plan for a summer business by the end of the semester.

TOURISM 12  (Academic)

This course will be helpful for students considering post-secondary studies in tourism as a career. Students will acquire the knowledge and develop skills found in the tourism workplace. Modules included in the course are: The Tourism Industry, The Tourism Professional, Effective Communication, Career Exploration, Tourism Sales and Services, and The Tourist or Traveler. Students will also look at issues in specific tourism sectors. In addition to the modules mentioned above, students will complete an in-depth study in a particular aspect of tourism that interests them. 

CO-OPERATIVE EDUCATION (Acad)

Co-op Education can be taken as a Grade 10, 11 or 12 credit.  CPE is a unique course that combines in-class work with a job site work placement.  The student must complete class assignments, a career portfolio, as well as 100 hours of work in the workplace.  Students should be entering Grade 11 or 12 and should be 16 years old in order to start their placement.

Students may take two Co-op Education credits – one at the Grade 11 level and one at the Grade 12 level. 

Please Note:  This course does not apply to O2 & Career Access students.

Career Access

This program provides students with an opportunity to develop employability skills while achieving their High School Graduation Diploma.  This program was specifically developed for students beginning at Grade 10, ages 16-21, who plan to enter the workforce directly after graduation and have often experienced difficulty with the regular programming offered at school.  Entrance into the program occurs each spring through referral by school personnel or family members.  Parents, students and a school admissions committee meet, expectations and requirements of the program are explained and a Career Access Agreement is signed by all participants.

Career Access differs from any other program offered at the high school level because of the extensive work experience component combined with the skill building component in many non-academic areas.  Students work in an area of their interest.  While at the work site, they assume the same responsibilities as their co-workers.  Students are closely monitored by the Career Access teacher.

* A Career Access student is still required to have 18 credits for graduation, 13 required and 5 electives.

Options and Opportunities (O2)

Options and Opportunities is a program designed for students with average or above average academic ability who are interested in attending a Community College, entering into an apprenticeship program, Trade or even University.  Students take regular courses towards his/her/their Nova Scotia High School Graduation Diploma.

Students take regular classes in English, Science, Math, plus required courses such as Canadian History 11 and Global Studies.  O2 students may select other specialty courses such as Technical Education, Energy 11, Career Development and Community Based Learning.  They may also take up to 4 Co-op courses at work sites which interest them.  (They would not be able to take Integrated French or Music). 

* O2 students are given a preferred status to enter Nova Scotia Community College

*PLEASE NOTE:  There is an application process to be a successful candidate for this program. Students in grade 9 going into 10 who are interested will participate in an application and interview process. 

ENGLISH 10 (Acad) (ENG 10)

English 10 provides an opportunity for students to apply their accumulated skills into consolidated, focused formats.  The course integrates reading and writing, speaking and viewing, listening and thinking skills into a variety of units and texts.  Students will gain experience through independent and collaborative work, with a focus on encouraging critical thinking skills.  Provincial Exam:  There is a mandatory provincial exam at the end of the course valued at 20%.

ENGLISH 11 (Acad) (ENG11)

The purpose of this course is to begin preparing students for a first year university English course, and to develop students’ skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, representing and viewing.  To satisfy the first of these goals, concentration will be placed on such subjects as:  the construction of opinion papers, proper research formats and techniques, and the reading and analysis of sophisticated works of literature.  To satisfy the second goal, emphasis is placed on public speaking, analysis of audio and visual media, and how to function in and organize group efforts.

ENGLISH COMMUNICATIONS 11 (Grad) (ECM11)

The English Communications pathway meets graduation requirements and most college entrance requirements, but not university entrance requirements.  Students are required to submit written responses to readings, discussions, and films.  Attention is given to the basic principles of the English language such as correct sentence structure, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization.  Additional objectives of the course are to help students enjoy and appreciate literature, as well as to improve their literacy skills to meet the demands of the outside world.

ENGLISH 12 (Acad) (ENG12)

The senior year of English concerns itself with an academic approach to literature and writing.  The course emphasizes the examination of major works of English literature.  Students are required to examine texts and respond in an academic manner.  Usually two or three novels, a Shakespearean play, a wide variety of poetry, media studies, short stories, and essays provide the basis for the writing.  Formal academic writing is the principle consideration.  Precise communication and thinking skills are accentuated.

ENGLISH COMMUNICATIONS 12 (Grad) (ECM12)

English Communications 12 is a course for students who typically are preparing for entrance into a variety of post-secondary training programs, other than university.  Practical communication experiences are emphasized to develop students’ critical thinking skills in reading, writing, listening and viewing a range of visual and print texts.  The course strives to provide exposure to a variety of issues that relate to students’ lives.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION 12  Advanced

This AP English Literature and Composition 12 course provides students with an enriched program of study on literature and writing, using a variety of texts as the means to achieving this goal.  The course explores literary elements such as a work’s structure, style and themes, as well as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism and tone.  It seeks to develop your writing skills as you express your ideas and analysis in expository, analytical and argumentative essays.  Course work is accelerated.  Students meet virtually with the AP English teacher twice per week beginning in September, ending upon completion of the AP English exam in May.  The AP English credit does satisfy the requirements as a third NS English credit.  The AP English course is designed to have a prerequisite of Advanced English 11 or English11. (Will be offered at MRHS in 2022-2023)

DEBATING 12 (Acad) (XDEBAT12)

The Debating 12 course concentrates on two areas:  performance and content.  Students will learn a variety of debating styles and regularly participate in debates in class.  They will also learn some fundamental content in philosophy, history, economics, political science and current events that debaters require in order to formulate informed, logical arguments.  This course does not meet the English requirements for graduation.

LEADERSHIP 12 (Acad)

Leadership 12 challenges students to develop and reflect upon leadership skills and strategies through a variety of theoretical and practical opportunities.  Students will develop lifelong skills in the areas of leadership styles and principles, personal values and goals, organization, time management, event planning, marketing and promotion, communication, critical thinking, stress management and team building.  The course requires students to participate in a hands-on project that benefits and engages the school and/or community.  NOTE:  There may be an interview process to be accepted into Leadership 12. 

CHILD STUDIES 11 (Open) (CHLDS11) Child Studies 11 is designed to explore the meaning and implications of responsible parenthood, to acquire current information regarding reproduction, pregnancy and childbirth, to explore significant issues of early childhood, and to apply the understanding of child development to the care and guidance of children.  This course is developed around five modules:  Decisions about Parenthood; The Beginning of Parenthood; Early Childhood Development; Special Concerns in Child Development; and Practical Experiences with Children.

CANADIAN FAMILIES 12 (Open) (CAN FAM 12)

Canadian Families 12 is a full credit course designed to broaden an understanding of families from a historical, social and cultural perspective.  This course is also intended to promote awareness of the relationship between finances, work and shelter when it comes to maintaining a successful family.  Students will work to gain a better understanding of the physical, social and emotional facets of family health.  Also covered in this course will be research into the challenges faced by today’s Canadian families and look at society’s response to those challenges that include employment, consumerism and providing the basic needs of shelter and food.

SERVICE TRADES 10 (Open) 

Service Trades 10 engages and exposes students to the service trades, where services are provided as opposed to goods being produced. Students explore the impact that skilled trades have on society and investigate career paths for skilled tradespeople. In addition to developing basic food preparation skills, students also learn the skills needed to be successful in the service sector.

FOOD & HOSPITALITY 12 (Open)  (FDHOSP12) - There is a laboratory component to this course. This introductory curriculum is designed to explore food studies through a hospitality perspective. Students will have the opportunity to learn about basic food preparation skills both for personal development and for entry-level employment possibilities. Professional food presentation and service are also explored.

HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES 12 (Academic)(HLHM12AC) or (Open) (HLHMSR12)

This course can be either an academic credit or an open credit depending on the outcomes completed by the individual student.

The Health & Human Services 12 course provides students with an introduction to the skills and knowledge involved in careers related to the health and human services domain.  Students will explore human developments, ethics, helping process, interpersonal and personal development, wellness, written and verbal communications and related computer applications.  Group work, case studies, community projects and agency interaction are some of the learning strategies used to ensure practical application of the theory studied.  Community Based Education (volunteer and/or service learning) is a required component used to enhance the knowledge and skills developed in the classroom.  This course is intended for students considering a program in the Health and Human Services Department at a Community College.

LIFE 11 Develops transferable skills by engaging with topics in Health Education and Career Education. Learners focus on self-exploration, the Social Determinants of Health, and advocacy and action in local communities. 

DANCE 11 (Acad) (DAN11)

Dance 11 is designed for all students, with or without previous formal dance training.  Learning experiences in this course offer students opportunities to explore a range of dance styles, create and present dance sequences, respond critically to their own dance works and to make connections with dance in the local and global contexts.  The course comprises five components:  elements of movement; creation and composition; presentation and performance; personal reflections; and dance and society.  Dance 11 may count as a Fine Arts or a Physical Education requirement for graduation, but not both.

DRAMA 10 (Acad) (DRA10)

Drama 10 is an introductory course in drama focusing on the personal, intellectual and social growth of the student.  Drama 10 provides a foundation for future course work in drama and theatre.  Through extensive work in improvisation, in both small and large groups, students gain confidence as they explore and communicate ideas, experiences and feelings in a range of dramatic forms.  Developing drama activities will include personal and group exercises in improvisation, movement, speech and role-playing.

DRAMA 11 (Acad) (DRA11) (*Offered during the 2025-2026 school year)
Drama 11 builds on the learning experiences provided in Drama 10 and focuses on the students’ personal development.  Beginning with the foundation experiences to develop student confidence and capability, the course allows students to explore movement and speech and to combine these in a greater range of dramatic forms.  Selected dramatic forms are explored in depth for presentation.  Drama 11 emphasizes the process of creating script and bringing script into production.  Students will create an original script or theatre pieces from other texts.  They will also explore script, using improvisation and other dramatic forms, both to understand the original text and to create a new script for performance.

DRAMA 12: THEATRE ARTS (Acad) (DRA12)  (*Offered during the 2026-2027 school year)
This course is a continuation of the developmental drama approach with the extension of an examination of traditional theatre elements.  These elements would include script analysis, directing, set design, script writing and work shopping among others.  The course is significantly more academically demanding than the previous drama programs.  There will correspondingly be more traditional written assignments, hands-on projects and individual performances.  A quick decision with the instructor will clarify the demands of the course.

VISUAL ARTS 10 (Acad) (VISART10)

Visual Arts 10 is an introductory course which offers students a foundation in visual art-making.  This program focuses on developing students’ basic art skills and an understanding of the creative processes.  In this program, students will create a number of meaningful studio projects using a wide range of media processes, drawing, painting, collage and sculpture.  Visual Arts 10 aims to enhance the creative skills of all students, from the novice to the experienced young artist.

VISUAL ARTS 11 (Acad) (VISART11) (*Offered during the 2026-2027 school year)
Visual Arts 11 expands on the skills learned in Visual Arts 10.  Students will assume increased ownership of their art education, creating art of greater personal relevance, sophistication and intensity.  Students will also learn to clearly articulate perceptions of their own art as well as the art of their peers, popular media imagery, and the art masters.  Students will enhance their capacity to draw and respond to a range of visual and conceptual subjects while also engaging with greater depth, a range of wet and dry media, sculpture and a variety of elective media.  Further, Visual Arts 11 exposes students to studies in art history, contemporary art and art theory.

VISUAL ARTS 12 (Acad) (VISART12) (*Offered during the 2025-2026 school year)
Visual Arts 12 is designed primarily to prepare students for continuation in an arts-related field.  Visual Arts 12 leads students to become independent young artists who approach their physical and social world with a sense of critical and creative inquiry.  Along the way, students will have the opportunity to engage In a variety of projects; some of which are teacher-directed and others are student-directed.  The breadth of projects should allow each student to work through a range of media and aesthetic ideas while also gaining depth in a particular area of focus.  Students should also examine and respond to the art and visual ideas of others, art history and art from various cultures.  Attention will be given to the organization, construction and completion of an art portfolio.  A public exhibit of student work is encouraged.

FRENCH  

Based on the communicative/experiential approach, the Grade 10, 11 and 12 French courses are taught in French, using a wide variety of activities, strategies and independent and group work.  Through units, themes, which are of interest to the students, the four skills of the second language:  listening, reading, writing and speaking are learned and practiced. 

CORE FRENCH 10 (Acad) (FRE10)

This course is intended for students who want to become functional in a second language.  Theme studies include urban legends (story writing), the news, art, surviving in French and weather.  Evaluation will be based on listening exercises, projects, tests, exams, homework and assignments.  Prerequisite:  Grade 9 Core French.

CORE FRENCH 11 (Acad) (FRE11)

This course is intended for students who want to become functional in a second language.  The following themes will be studied during the semester:  travel in the Francophone world, Francophone culture, social awareness, French Canadian literature and poetry.  Evaluation will be based on projects, tests, exams, assignments and listening exercises.  Prerequisite:  Grade 10 French.

CORE FRENCH 12 (Acad) (FRE12)

This course is intended for students who want to become functional in a second language and perhaps continue their French studies at the university level.  The following themes will be studied during the semester:  independence, relationships and society, and a novel study.  Evaluation will be based on projects, tests, exams and assignments. Prerequisite:  Grade 11 French.

INTEGRATED FRENCH PROGRAM

The Integrated French Program is offered from grades seven through twelve.  At each grade level, a French course is paired with another course in French.  At the Grade 10 level, mode de actif (Physically Active Lifestyle) is twinned with the Integrated French 10 course.  In Grade 11, Canadian History (histoire du Canada) is the course offered with Integrated French 11.  Global Geography (géographie planétaire) is paired with Integrated French 12.  In order to complete the program and receive a certificate upon graduation, all credits must be completed from Grades seven to twelve. .

INTEGRATED FRENCH 10 (Acad) (FRE10IN)

This course is intended for students who have been following the Integrated French program.  The themes for this course may be chosen from the following:  Food in the Francophone Regions & Countries, Advertising/Media, Childhood Memories, Facing Challenges (Stress/Youth), Canada (Culture & Communities).  Evaluation is based on listening exercises, oral production, tests, exams and assignments.  Prerequisite:  Grade 9 Integrated French.

MODE DE VIE ACTIF 11 (Ouvert) See Physical Education section for description of course.

INTEGRATED FRENCH 11 (Acad) (FRE11IN)

This course is intended for students who have been following the Integrated French program.  Students will learn about Canada’s Francophone communities through novel studies, non-fiction texts, film studies, music and cuisine.  Evaluation will be based on four main categories:  Writing, Reading, Listening and Speaking.  Prerequisite:  Grade 10 Integrated French.

GÉOGRAPHIE PLANÉTAIRE 12 (Acad) (GEOPLA12) See Social Studies section for description of course.

ÉTUDES CANADIENNES CONTEMPORAINES 11 (Acad) (HCS11) See Social Studies section for description of course. 

INTEGRATED FRENCH 12 (Acad) (FRE12IN)

This course is intended for students who have been following the integrated French program.  The themes for this course are chosen from the following:  careers, freedom of speech, technology, French culture, and a novel study.  Evaluation will be based on listening exercises, projects, tests, assignments, an exam and a novel study. 

LEARNING STRATEGIES 10 (Grad) (LRNST10)

Students are recommended, on a limited basis, from the Senior High population to take part in a course designed to teach study skills and learning strategies to aid them in their high school courses.  The skills taught are designed to integrate with other courses chosen by the student.  Successful completion of the course will result in the granting of a full credit towards the Nova Scotia High School Graduation Diploma.

LEARNING STRATEGIES 11 (Open) (LRNST11)

Learning Strategies 11 continues the learning outcomes of the Learning Strategies 10.  The class will be individualized to accommodate students’ learning abilities and instructional needs.

LEARNING STRATEGIES 12 (Open) (LRNST12)

Learning Strategies 12 continues the learning outcomes of Learning Strategies 11.  The class will be individualized to accommodate students’ learning disabilities and instructional needs.

MATHEMATICS 10 (Academic = 2 credits) (MTH10)

This course will be presented as a 220 hour two credit course.  This will mean that students will have mathematics class every day for their Grade 10 year.  Mathematics 10 is an academic high school mathematics course which is a prerequisite for all other academic and advanced mathematics courses.  Students who select Mathematics 10 should have a solid understanding of mathematics from their junior high years.  There are two typical pathways for students who successfully complete Mathematics 10.  For those students intending to follow the academic pathway, Mathematics 10 will be followed by Mathematics 11 and then Mathematics 12.  (Mathematics 11 and Mathematics 12 are designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in programs that do not require the study of theoretical calculus).  For those students intending to follow the advanced pathway, Mathematics 10 will be followed by Mathematics 11, then Pre-Calculus 11 and Pre-Calculus 12.  Alternatively, students who successfully complete Mathematics 10 may choose to select a graduation credit in Grade 11.  Students in Mathematics 10 will explore the following topics:  measurement systems, surface area and volume, right triangle trigonometry, exponents and radicals, polynomials, linear relations and functions, linear equations and graphs, solving systems of equations and financial mathematics.  Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Grade 9 Math and demonstrated good to excellent performance in relation to the Grade 9 outcomes and recommendation from the Math 9 teacher.

INVESTIGATIONS IN MATHEMATICS 10 (Graduation = 1 credit)
** Description coming soon**

MATHEMATICS ESSENTIALS 10 (Graduation = 1 credit) (MTHE10)

This course will be presented as a 110 hour course.  Mathematics Essentials 10 is an introductory high school mathematics course designed for students who may consider entering post-secondary programs that do not have any mathematics prerequisites or who are not planning to pursue post-secondary study but going directly to work.  Mathematics Essentials courses are designed to provide students with the development of the skills and understandings required in the workplace, as well as those required for everyday life at home and in the community.  Students will become better equipped to deal with mathematics in the real world and will become more confident in their mathematical abilities.  Students in Mathematics Essentials 10 will explore the following topics:  mental math, working and earning, deductions and expenses, paying taxes, making purchases, buying decisions, probability, measuring and estimating, transformation and design, and buying a car.  Eligibility:  Recommendation from the Grade 9 Math teacher.  Mathematics Essentials 10 satisfies one of the two mathematics credit requirements for graduation.

The typical pathway for students who successfully complete Mathematics Essentials 10 is Mathematics Essentials 11 followed by Mathematics Essentials 12.  However, students who have successfully completed Mathematics Essentials 10 and demonstrated an outstanding performance in relation to the learning outcomes prescribed for Mathematics Essentials 10 may wish to transition to Mathematics at Work 10.  In such a case, a student may count both credits towards graduation; however, only one Grade 10 mathematics course may count towards the two mathematics credits needed for graduation.  The other credit would be considered an elective.  Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Grade 8 Math and recommendation from the Math 9 teacher.

MATHEMATICS 11 (Acad) (MTH11)

This course will be presented as a 110 hour course.  Mathematics 11 is an academic high school mathematics course.  Students who select Mathematics 11 should have a solid understanding of the Mathematics 10 curriculum.  Mathematics 11 is a prerequisite for Pre-calculus 11.  These courses are to be taken consecutively, not concurrently.  There are two typical pathways for students who successfully complete Mathematics 11:

• For those students intending to follow the academic pathway, Mathematics 11 will be followed by Mathematics 12.  (Mathematics 11 and Mathematics 12 are designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical-thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in programs that require an academic or Pre-calculus mathematics credit.)

• For those students intending to follow the advanced pathway, Mathematics 11 will be followed by Pre-calculus 11 and then Pre-calculus 12.
  
  

Alternatively, students who successfully complete Mathematics 11 may choose to select a graduation level course in Grade 12.  Students in Mathematics 11 will explore the following topics:

• application of rates; scale diagrams and factors; inductive and deductive reasoning; an introduction to proof; cosine law; sine law; spatial reasoning; statistics; systems of linear inequalities; and quadratic functions.

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Mathematics 10.

MATHEMATICS AT WORK 11 (Grad) (MTW11)

This course will be presented as a 110 hour course.  Mathematics at Work 11 demonstrates the application and importance of key mathematical skills.  The typical pathway for students who successfully complete Mathematics at Work 11 is Mathematics at Work 12.  The Mathematics at Work pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical thinking skills identified for direct entry into the work force or for entry into programs of study that do not require academic mathematics.  Students in Mathematics at Work 11 will explore the following topics:  measurement systems volume; 2-D and 3-D geometry; scale; exploded diagrams; numerical reasoning; personal budgets; compound interest; financial institution services; and formula manipulation for various contexts.  Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Mathematics at Work 10 or Mathematics 10

MATHEMATICS ESSENTIALS 11 (Grad) (MTHE11)

This course will be presented as a 110 hour course.  Mathematics Essentials 11 is designed for students who either do not intend to pursue post-secondary study or plan to enter post-secondary programs that do not have any mathematics prerequisites.  The Mathematics Essentials pathways is designed to provide students with the development of the skills and understandings required in the workplace, as well as those required for everyday life at home and in the community.  Students will become better equipped to deal with mathematics in their everyday life and will become more confident in their mathematical abilities.

The typical pathway for students who successfully complete Mathematics Essentials 11 is Mathematics Essentials 12.  Students in Mathematics Essentials 11 will explore the following topics:  mental mathematics; collecting, organizing and graphing data; borrowing money; renting or buying; household budgets; investing money; measuring; and 2-D and 3-D design, mathematics in content areas such as science and social studies.  Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Mathematics Essentials 10 or Mathematics at Work 10.

PRE-CALCULUS 11 (Adv) (PCAL11)

This course will be presented as a 110 hour course.  Pre-calculus 11 is an advanced high school mathematics course.  Students who select Pre-calculus 11 should have a solid understanding of the Mathematics 11 curriculum.  Pre-calculus 11 is a prerequisite for Pre-calculus 12.  These courses are to be taken consecutively, not concurrently.  The typical pathway for students who successfully complete Pre-calculus 11 is Pre-calculus 12.  (Courses in the Pre-calculus pathway are designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in programs that require the study of theoretical calculus.)  Some students who successfully complete Pre-calculus 11 may choose to take Mathematics 12.  Alternatively, students who successfully complete Pre-calculus 11 may choose to select a graduation credit in Grade 12.  Students in Pre-calculus 11 will explore the following topics:  absolute value; radical expressions and equations; rational expressions and equations; angles in standard position; analyze and solve quadratic equations; linear and quadratic equations and inequalities in two variables; arithmetic and geometric sequences; and reciprocals of linear and quadratic functions.  Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Mathematics 11.

CALCULUS 12 (Adv) (CAL12)

This course will be presented as a 110 hour course.  This course includes the following topics:  the concept of a limit; simple derivatives; properties of derivatives; derivatives of trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions; applications of derivatives – tangents, rates of change, motion, curve sketching, anti-derivatives, differential equations and applications of anti-derivatives.  Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Pre-calculus 12.

MATHEMATICS 12 (Acad)

This course will be presented as a 110 hour course.  The Mathematics pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in programs that do not require the study of theoretical calculus.  Mathematics 12 is the third course in this pathway.  Students who select Mathematics 12 should have a solid understanding of the Mathematics 11 curriculum.  Students in Mathematics 12 will study the following topics:  borrowing money; investing money; set theory; logical reasoning; counting methods; probability; polynomial functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; sinusoidal functions.   Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Mathematics 11 or Pre-calculus 11.  The prerequisite for Mathematics 12 must be taken and successfully completed prior to starting Mathematics 12.  Therefore, these courses are to be taken consecutively, not concurrently, and the order may not be reversed.

MATHEMATICS AT WORK 12 (Grad) (MAW12) 

This course will be presented as a 110 hour course.  The Mathematics at Work pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical thinking skills identified for direct entry into the workforce or for entry into programs of study that do not require academic mathematics.  Mathematics at Work 12 is the third course in this pathway.  Students in Mathematics at Work 12 will study the following topics:  measurement and probability; measures of central tendency; scatterplots; linear relationships; owning and operating a vehicle; properties of polygons; transformations; trigonometry.  Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Mathematics at Work 11 or Mathematics 11.  The prerequisite for Mathematics at Work 12 must be taken and successfully completed prior to starting Mathematics at Work 12.  Therefore, these courses are to be taken consecutively, not concurrently, and the order may not be reversed.

MATH ESSENTIALS 12 (Grad) (MTHE12)

This course extends student understanding of financial literacy as well as teaching skills that directly relate to math that is used in a workplace setting.  The math is practical and “hands on”.  This course will help students to understand the relationships between their high school studies and a range of post-secondary destinations.  Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Math Essentials 11 or Mathematics at Work 11.

PRE-CALCULUS MATHEMATICS 12 (Adv) (PCAL12)

This course will be presented as a 110 hour course.  The Pre-calculus pathway is designed to provide students with the mathematical understandings and critical thinking skills identified for post-secondary studies in programs that require the study of theoretical calculus.  Students who select Pre-calculus should have a solid understanding of the Pre-calculus 11 curriculum.  Students in Pre-calculus 12 will study the following topics:  transformations; radical functions; polynomial functions; trigonometry; exponential and logarithmic functions; rational functions; function operations; permutations; combinations and the binomial theorem.  Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Pre-calculus 11.  Pre-calculus 11 must be taken and successfully completed prior to starting Pre-calculus 12.  Therefore, these courses are to be taken consecutively, not concurrently, and the order may not be reversed.

Guidelines for Choosing Math Pathways

More information at this link

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 10 (Open) (PHE10)

This course will provide students with a variety of fitness and sport experiences to enhance their understanding of personal fitness and growth.  Physical Education 10 includes some theory components, coupled with predominantly active experiences whereby students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of indoor and outdoor fitness, sport and recreational experiences.  The emphasis of this curriculum is to provide students with experiences that require them to take and reflect on their personal responsibility for active, healthy living now and throughout life.  The course is divided into four modules:  Outdoor Pursuits, Exercise Science, Personal Fitness and Leadership.

DANCE 11 (Acad) (DAN11)

Dance 11 is designed for all students, with or without previous formal dance training.  Learning experiences in this course offer students opportunities to explore a range of dance styles, create and present dance sequences, respond critically to their own dance works and to make connections with dance in the local and global contexts.  The course comprises five components:  elements of movement; creation and composition; presentation and performance; personal reflections; and dance and society.  Dance 11 may count as a Fine Arts or a Physical Education requirement for graduation, but not both.

FITNESS LEADERSHIP 11 (Open)

Fitness Leadership 11 provides students with opportunities to participate in a variety of group fitness experiences; assess their own level of personal fitness; broaden their understanding of human anatomy and exercise physiology; examine the benefits of active, healthy living; foster leadership apply the principles of conditioning to design; and foster leadership skills to deliver safe group fitness experiences to children and youth. Upon successful completion of this full-credit course, students will receive Level-C CPR certification. 

MODE DE VIE ACTIF 11 (Ouvert) (MVA11)

Mode De Vie Actif 11 fournit aux élPves une variété d’activités de sport de forme physique pour mettre en valeur la compréhension de la forme physique personnelle et du bien-Ltre.  Ce cours comprend des composants de théorie avec des travaux actifs oj les élPves auront l’occasion de participer aux activités qui encouragent la responsabilité d’une vie active et la bonne santé pour la vie.  Il y a quatre divisions: les activités en plein air, les sciences de l’exercice, la forme physique personnelle et le leadership.

PHYSICALLY ACTIVE LIVING 11 (Open) (PHEAL11)  - Physically Active Living 11 is designed to engage students in a wide range of physically active experiences, with an overall theme of exploring options and opportunities for being active for life, both in school and in their community.  

Physically Active Living 11 encompasses both an activity component and a theory component. The activity component of the course is designed to provide opportunities for students in active experiences that engage youth in traditional and non-traditional forms of physical activity. The emphasis in the classroom theory component will be developing an understanding of the human body and how to maintain optimal health. This includes an understanding of healthy eating, injury prevention, mental and emotional health, highlighting the connection between healthy living and being physically active.

Physically Active Living 11 comprises four modules:  Outdoor Recreation, Community, Service Learning, and Healthy Living.

YOGA 11 (Acad) (YOGA11)

Yoga 11 will introduce students to the tradition of yoga with its various forms and styles.  The intention is that students will develop a lifelong personal practice of yoga to maintain vibrant health, develop healthy relationships with self and others, while enjoying it as a regular form of physical and leisure activity.  Students will be participating in various activities that will include physical practice, personal reflection, group discussion and classroom theory.  The physical aspect of yoga will include the acquisition and development of skills, including strength, flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, balance, regulation of energy through breathing and mental focus.  All of these skills are of great benefit to overall health and to other physical pursuits.  Classroom sessions will address topics such as:  history of yoga, meditation, the essentials of good nutrition, yogic principles like kindness and generosity and discussion on becoming positive contributing members of society.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 12 (Open) (PHE12)

The Physical Education 12 course is designed to aid students in developing greater self-confidence and moral responsibility through serving in an effective and positive youth leadership role.  The course consists of three modules:  Defining Leadership, Effective Leaders and Learning through Service, with a heavy emphasis on promoting physical activity within the school community.

SCIENCE 10 (Acad) (SCI10)

Science 10 consists of the following four units:  Weather Dynamics, Chemical Reactions, Motion and the Sustainability of Ecosystems.  The course encourages students to combine scientific knowledge with critical thinking to make decisions for themselves.  It is intended as a stepping stone for further study in the following sciences:  Chemistry 11, Physics 11 and Biology 11.  By the end of this course students will demonstrate a greater scientific literacy related to these topics (Mandatory Science credit at MRHS)

AGRICULTURE/AGRIFOODS 11 (Acad) (AGRICC11)

This course will give students an introduction to the agriculture and agrifood industry.  Agriculture/Agrifood 11 offers students opportunities to explore the processes of agriculture and agrifood in provincial and global contexts.  Students will gain an understanding of the role of technology, science and government in the production of primary agricultural products, of the role of systems with support production, and of agriculture and agrifood related activity beyond the farm gate.  Learning experiences generally have a strong applied focus with an emphasis on integrating, applying and extending learning, making connections with learning in other courses, and exploring career opportunities.

BIOLOGY 11 (Acad) (BIO11)

Biology is the study of life.  This course provides an introduction to the knowledge and skills needed for further work in science and biology.  A broad overview of representative topics in biology, with an emphasis on the biodiversity of our world and the human body make up the course content.  Recommended prerequisite:  Successful completion of Science 10 or a minimum mark of 80% in Science 9.

CHEMISTRY 11 (Acad) (CHE11)

Chemistry 11 is an introductory first level course in general chemistry.  Topics include matter and energy in chemical change, atomic structure, chemical bonding, quantitative relationships in chemical changes, and introductory organic chemistry.  Integrated classroom and laboratory work is a feature of the course.  Recommended prerequisite:  Successful completion of Science 10.

OCEANS 11 (Acad) (OCNS11)

Oceans 11 is an academic course that satisfies the second science credit requirement for high school graduation.  This course offers students the opportunity to explore aspects of global and local oceanography and current ocean-related issues.  There is a compulsory field trip involved and this offers a unique hands-on learning venue.  This course delves into all aspects of oceanography and gives the students a new view on our water planet.

PHYSICS11 (Acad) (PHY11)

Physics is an important science course designed to increase a student’s knowledge about and appreciation of the world around us.  This introduction to physics includes units on kinematics (motion), dynamics (forces), energy and momentum, and wave theory.  Recommended prerequisite:  Successful completion of Math 10 with a mark of at least 80%.

BIOLOGY 12 (Acad) (BIOL12)

Biology 12 is a continuation of Biology 11.  The course is designed to assist students to develop an understanding of the fundamental science concepts and principles and to develop an awareness of the tremendous impact of biology and its association with technology and society.  Students who plan to enrol in the courses are encouraged to take Chemistry 11 prior to or concurrently with Biology 12.  Topics include:  cell biology, with an emphasis on genetics, regulation and control of hormones and anatomy and physiology.  Recommended prerequisite:  Successful completion of Biology 11.

AP BIOLOGY 12 AP Biology is designed to offer students a solid foundation in introductory-level biology.  In this course, you will be held to high expectations and mature responsibilities just like a university freshman taking Intro Biology.  What we know today about biology is a result of inquiry.  Science is a way of knowing.  Therefore, the process of inquiry in science and developing critical thinking skills is the most important part of this course.  This course will emphasize how scientists use their observations and readings to ask questions that can lead to new experiments.  These experiments build on the work of others and eventually lead to additional evidence on different topics.  This investigative process will be used throughout this AP Biology course.  It is important for students to become excited with discovery as they ask and answer their own questions about natural /biological phenomena that they see, read about, or experience in the laboratory and field. Recommended prerequisite:  Successful completion of Biology 11 with a 90%. Students will only get credit for either AP Bio 12 or Bio 12 but can take both if they wish.

CHEMISTRY 12 (Acad) (CHE12)

Chemistry 12 is a second level course in general chemistry and a foundational year for college chemistry.  Topics include:  solutions, chemical equilibrium, thermochemistry, acids and bases, and electrochemistry.  Recommended prerequisite:  Successful completion of both Chemistry 11 and Math 11.

NETUKULIMK 12 (Acad) is an environmental science course guided by Etuaptmumk (Two-Eyed Seeing) that weaves the strengths of Mi’kmaq and western science. Learners will observe and explore patterns and cycles in local environments, across Mi’kma’ki, and globally guided by a growing understanding of Netukulimk. 

PHYSICS 12 (Acad) (PHY12)

This is a continuation of Physics 11.  This course does a more in-depth study of the topics presented in Physics 11, using vectors and trigonometry as aids in understanding.  It then uses this information in introducing fields (electric and gravitational),  and modern physics topics.  Recommended prerequisites:  Successful completion of Physics 11 with a mark of at least 70% and Pre-calculus 11.

GEOGRAPHY 10 (Acad) (GEOG10)

This is an introductory physical geography course that examines the natural environment in which we live.  Students will be expected to develop an understanding in constructing and using the image, map and graph skills commonly used by geographers.  Students will also study the various land, ocean and atmospheric processes that sculpt the shape of the earth.

HISTORY 10 (Acad) (HIST10)

Ancient History deals with the origins of civilization and a comparison of civilizations which have shaped the modern world.  A number of points of view, including geography, archaeology, sociology, religion and politics will be used to evaluate early cultures such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome and India.  Students will have an opportunity to make connections between ancient cultures and contemporary life.

AFRICAN CANADIAN STUDIES 11 (Acad) (ACS11)

The African Canadian Studies 11 course focuses on the history of people of African descent in Canada and abroad.  It is divided into six units:  Unit 1:  Evolution and Change; Unit 2:  Pre-colonial African Societies; Unit 3:  Triangular Slave Trade and the Movement of People of African Descent; Unit 4:  Colonial Expansion; Unit 5:  Pursuit of Political, Economic Justice and the Journey to Empowerment; and Unit 6:  Local Community Study (Independent Study).  This course is designed to equip students with a sound understanding of the global and local experiences, achievements and contributions of people of African descent.  It focuses on the 31 experiences, struggles and life stories of people of African descent who have contributed to world history.  Designed to be inclusive, African Canadian Studies 11 will appeal to learners of all ability levels and ethnic and racial backgrounds.  This course may be used to fulfill the required Canadian Social Studies credit for high school graduation.

CONTEMPORARY CANADIAN STUDIES (Acad) explores issues in contemporary Canadian history to support learners in thinking critically about local and national contexts. The course examines historical events through a range of perspectives to support learners to become engaged citizens. 

ÉTUDES CANADIENNES CONTEMPORAINES 11 explore des questions portant sur l’histoire contemporaine du Canada afin d’encourager les apprenants à s’adonner à des réflexions critiques sur les contextes locaux et nationaux. Le cours examine des évènements historiques à partir de différentes perspectives afin d’aider les apprenants à devenir des citoyens engagés. Please note: this course will be offered in the 2025-2026 school year. 

GÉOGRAPHIE PLANÉTAIRE 12 (Acad) (GÉOPLA12)

Ce cours tente de répondre aux questions « Comment le monde est-il arrivé à son état actuel à l’aube du 21e siècle? » et « Quels sont les grands enjeux de la géopolitique? » Il traite également de l’interdépendance dans une perspective géographique. Le programme comprend six thèmes : la méthode géographique et le phénomène de la mondialisation, la population, le développement et l’inégalité, l’alimentation et l’eau, l’environnement, et la géopolitique.  Please Note:  Géographie Planétaire will be offered in the 2024-2025 school year.

GLOBAL GEOGRAPHY 12 (Academic)

Global Geography 12 explores major contemporary global issues, using the discipline of geography, in an attempt to answer the question, “How did the world arrive at its current state at the beginning of the twenty-first century?” Global Geography 12 is organized into six units: The Global Geographer, The Planet Earth, Population, Resources and Commodities, and Urbanization. The Global Geographer introduces students to the discipline of geography and establishes important year-long expectations related to skills and understandings, including the concept of interdependence. The Planet Earth examines the unique planet Earth, its ecosystems, the planetary state of health, and the relationship between humans and natural disasters. Population examines measures of quality of life, population distributions and densities, and vital statistics. Urbanization looks at patterns of urbanization, models of urban structure, growth trends, and urban improvement strategies. Global Geography 12 students will also be expected to employ research methods appropriate to the discipline of geography.

GLOBAL HISTORY 12 (Academic)

Global History 12 explores major contemporary global issues, using the discipline of history, in an attempt to answer the question, “How did the world arrive at its current state at the beginning of the twenty-first century?” Global History 12 is organized into six units: The Global Historian, The Dynamics of Geo-Political Power, The Challenge of Economic Disparity, The Pursuit of Justice, and Societal Change. The Global Historian introduces students to the discipline of history and establishes important year-long expectations related to skills and understandings, including the concept of interdependence. The Dynamics of Geo-Political Power examines the “Cold War” as well as the current and future geo-political situation in the world. The Challenge of Economic Disparity investigates the economic disparity between the countries of the “North” and those of the “South” in the world today. The Pursuit of Justice looks at the events and forces that have shaped contemporary conceptions of justice. Societal Change looks at technological development, societal change, as well as the ethical and moral implications of both. Global History 12 students will also be expected to employ research methods appropriate to the discipline of history.

GLOBAL POLITICS 12 (Acad)

Global Politics 12 explores a cross-section of global political issues through a critical inquiry process and is organized into five units: The Global Citizen introduces students to a range of issues associated with global politics and establishes important year-long expectations related co critical inquiry and research skills, including the importance of engaging in active citizenship; Political Systems provides an opportunity for students to examine a range of global political ideologies, political organizations, and political systems; The Canadian Political System examines the historical roots of the Canadian political system; the structures of Canadian federal, provincial, territorial, First Nations, and municipal governments; and the division of power among federal, provincial, territorial, First Nations, and municipal governments; Comparative Politics explores various contemporary global governing systems and compares and contrasts Canadian and United States governing systems and electoral systems; and, International Relations looks at the issues related to global interconnectedness, organizations that govern relations among nations, the influences of cultural beliefs on global policies, and the role of media/technology on global politics.

GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS 12 explores global issues through the geographic method. The course aims to support learners in developing sustainable solutions for the health of the planet and human populations.

LAW 12 (Acad) (LAW12)

The Canadian Law course is designed to provide students with a knowledge of law and its function in society and the opportunity to develop skills and attitudes that will enable them to understand the process of law.  Topics include the origins of law, the Canadian legal system, criminal law, human rights and civil law.

MI’KMAW STUDIES 11 (Acad) (MKS11)

Mi’kmaw Studies 11 is a course that serves not only to highlight the Mi’kmaw experience, but also to provide opportunities for learners to gain an understanding of how they are connected to the history and culture of the First Peoples of the Maritimes.  The course incorporates an inquiry-based approach and examines broad concepts such as governance, culture, justice, spirituality and education.  Students will analyze historical and contemporary Mi’kmaw issues, which will enable them to achieve a greater understanding of, and respect for, both Mi’kmaw society and Mi’kmaw contributions to Canadian society.

PSYCHOLOGY 12 (Acad) (PSY12)

Psychology 12 is the scientific study of behaviour and mental processes.  Its aim is to examine and explain how humans and animals think, feel and behave.  The course exposes students to the major psychological perspectives and approaches while applying them to the study of behaviour, learning, memory and personality theories.  Through class activities, simulations, case studies, discussions, analysis, and personal reflections, students will learn about the essential concepts and fundamental components of psychology.

SOCIOLOGY 12 (Acad) (SOCAC12)

This is an introductory course to the study of Sociology.  The focus in this course is on Canadian Society with an emphasis on issues such as values, beliefs, cultures and institutions and how they apply to the current Canadian social scene.  There are various sociological themes examined in this course and many of these are examined in such a way as to apply them to real life situations so that students may obtain a good understanding of how popular theory applies to modern Canadian society.  It is intended to be a university preparatory course, but has relevance for students who have a variety of post-secondary intentions. 

CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY

The construction technology course helps develop in students an understanding of construction technology, of its applications related to the residential construction industry, of the organization of construction, and of construction’s impacts on society and the environment. The course offers a broad range of opportunities for students to experience hands-on learning activities in traditional and alternative residential construction technology projects, student enterprise, and building construction as it relates to a variety of structures.  

SKILLED TRADES 10 (Open)

Students in Skilled Trades 10 work on developing basic trades skills in four areas: Skilled Trades Living, Safety, Measurement and Calculation for Trades, and Tools and Materials. They develop an appreciation for, and an understanding of the benefits of a career in the skilled trades. Skilled Trades courses are designed to give students the most realistic and current picture of what a career in the trades would be like. They are designed to be both true to the trades and pedagogically sound. 

COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY 11 (Open)

Communications Technology 11 is an academic credit that involves using a hands-on, minds-on approach to electronic, print, and web communication concepts. Students will be provided with hands-on activities at an introductory to intermediate level in a broad spectrum of technological concepts, both in traditional media and new media in the areas of digital photography, technical design, graphic design, web publishing, video production, broadcasting, and animation. By the end of the course students are able to use a range of technological tools, processes and applications, integrate communications technology with other academic disciplines, design and create communication materials that solve technological problems, and explain the consequences of technology and how it affects society.

ENERGY, POWER AND TRANSPORTATION 11 (Open) (ENERGY11)

Energy, Power and Transportation 11 is a course where students will be able to demonstrate in a variety of ways an understanding of different forms of energy, the ways energy is harnessed, and the application of energy to modern day transportation systems.  Students are required to obtain a non-working 4-stroke gas engine, ie. tiller motor, and not to expect the motor to be in working order when the project is completed.

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING 12 (ACAD) (COMP12)

Computer Programming 12 teaches students to think critically.  Students will learn how to solve various problems using computer programming.  Students will work independently and in small groups to solve problems and create various applications using various programming language algorithms.  This is an introductory course and students will begin the course by learning the basics of programming.  No previous experience or skill with computers is necessary.

FILM & VIDEO PRODUCTION 12 (Acad) (FVP12)

Film & Video Production 12 involves students in the production of a film or video.  Students work independently and as part of a production team to explore roles in the film industry, develop skills required in production roles, develop a critical awareness of historical and cultural aspects of film, and work through the process of producing a film or video from script development to final edit.  Modules for this course include:  Fundamentals, Production Team Skills, Film Industry Disciplines and Careers, and Film Development and Production.

MULTIMEDIA 12 (Acad) (MM12)

As multimedia technology becomes increasingly apparent within our society, the demand for individuals with an understanding and interest within these processes grows each year.  Careers in advertising and marketing, film, music, web content and development, production, etc. are increasingly placing a growing demand on the workforce.  The course is composed of the following modules:  Creating and Manipulating Images (Photo Editing), Creating and Manipulating Sequenced Images (Animation), Sound, and Collaborative Project and Personal Portfolio.

PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY 12 (Academic)

By the end of each production technology course, students are able to demonstrate the processes required to create and manufacture products using a variety of materials, tools, and methods. Entrepreneurship in manufacturing processes is an integral part of the grade 12 Production Technology course. 

As of September 2012, students who have successfully completed a course or a program approved by the Department of Education will be eligible for a personal development credit.  The credit will be entered on a student’s high school transcript and may count toward one of the five elective credits required for graduation.  A Personal Development Credit may be awarded as a Grade 10, 11 or 12 credit and depending on the time required to complete the course or program, may qualify as a full or half credit.  More information is available about the Personal Development Credit on the Department of Education’s website:  https://pdc.ednet.ns.ca/.

Students complete the program and receive certification and course documentation from the approved institution.  That document is then taken to the school counsellor and a Student Notification form will be filled out by the student, parent and school for the course credit.

Although only one elective credit can be used for graduation requirements, other approved courses that a student has completed may be listed on the student’s transcript.