THE THORNHILL MESIVTA

Academic Program

The Thornhill Mesivta is a Ministry inspected private high school, offering a wide range of courses in various disciplines. All courses are based upon the new Ontario curriculum, satisfying the strands and expectations of the new Ministry documents. Students at The Thornhill Mesivta will achieve their secondary school diploma (OSSD) by passing the Grade 10 literacy test or the Grade 12 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course, fulfilling 40 hours of community service, and completing 30 high school credits of which 18 are mandatory and 12 are optional.  

Course Offerings 2021-2022

  1. Music, Grade 9, Open (AMU1O)  
  1. English, Grade 9, Academic (ENG1D) 
  2. Issues in Canadian Geography, Grade 9, Academic (CGC1D) 
  3. Science, Grade 9, Academic (SNC1D) 
  4. Civics and Citizenship, Grade 10, Open (CHV2O) 
  1. Canadian History since World War I, Grade 10, Academic (CHC2D) 
  2. Healthy Active Living Education, Grade 9, Open (PPL1O) 
  3. Mathematics, Grade 9, De-streamed (MTH1W) 
  4. Career Studies, Grade 10, Open (GLC2O) 
  1. Hebrew, Level 1, Academic (LYHBD) 
  2. Yiddish, Level 1, Academic (LWYBD) 
  1. Learning Strategies 1: Skills for Success in Secondary School, Grade 9, Open, (GLS1O) 
  1. English, Grade 10, Academic (ENG2D) 
  2. Principles of Mathematics, Grade 10, Academic (MPM2D) 
  3. Foundations of Mathematics, Grade 10,Applied (MFM2P) 
  4. Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology and Sociology, Grade 11, University Preparation (HSP3U) 
  5. Philosophy: The Big Questions, Grade 11, University/College Preparation (HZB3M) 
  1. English, Grade 11, University Preparation (ENG3U) 
  2. Science, Grade 10, Academic (SNC2D) 
  3. Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course, Grade 12 (OLC4O) 
  1. Hebrew, Level 2 , University Preparation (LYHCU) 
  2. Yiddish, Level 2, University Preparation (LWYCU) 
  1. Business Leadership: Management Fundamentals, Grade 12, Univesity/College Preparation (BOH4M)
  1. Functions and Applications, University/College Preparation (MCF3M) 
  2. Biology, Grade 11, University Preparation (SBI3U) 
  3. Canadian and International Law, Grade 12 University Preparation (CLN4U) 
  1. English, Grade 12, University Preparation (ENG4U)  
  2. Mathematics of Data Management, University Preparation (MDM4U) 
  3. Biology, Grade 12, University Preparation (SBI4U) 
  4. Philosophy: Questions and Theories, Grade 12, University Preparation (HZT4U) 
  1. Yiddish, Level 3, University Preparation (LWYDU) 
  2. Hebrew, Level 3, University Preparation (LYHDU)

Course Offerings for 2021-2022

All courses offered in The Thornhill Mesivta follow Courses of Study developed from 

the Ministry of Education curriculum documents. These Courses of Study contain 

information as to prerequisites, overall curriculum expectations, teaching strategies, 

and methods of assessment and evaluation as well as an outline of the course content. 

English, Grade 9 Academic, ENG1D 

This course is designed to develop the oral communication, reading, writing, and media literacy skills that students need for success in their secondary school academic programs and in their daily lives. Students will analyse literary texts from contemporary and historical periods, interpret informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on the use of strategies that contribute to effective communication. The course is intended to prepare students for the Grade 10 academic English course, which leads to university or college preparation courses in Grades 11 and 12.  

Prerequisite: None 

 

Science, Grade 9 Academic, SNC1D 

This course enables students to develop their understanding of basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and to relate science to technology, society, and the environment. Throughout the course, students will develop their skills in the processes of scientific investigation. Students will acquire an understanding of scientific theories and conduct investigations related to sustainable ecosystems; atomic and molecular structures and the properties of elements and compounds; the study of the universe and its properties and components; and the principles of electricity.  

Prerequisite: None 

 

Mathematics, Grade 9, De-streamed, MTH1W  

This course enables students to consolidate, and continue to develop, an understanding of mathematical concepts related to number sense and operations, algebra, measurement, geometry, data, probability, and financial literacy. Students will use mathematical processes, mathematical modelling, and coding to make sense of the mathematics they are learning and to apply their understanding to culturally responsive and relevant real-world situations. Students will continue to enhance their mathematical reasoning skills, including proportional reasoning, spatial reasoning, and algebraic reasoning, as they solve problems and communicate their thinking. 

Prerequisite: None 

                   

Geography of Canada, Grade 9 Academic, CGC1D 

This course examines interrelationships within and between Canada’s natural and human systems and how these systems interconnect with those in other parts of the world. Students will explore environmental, economic, and social geographic issues relating to topics such as transportation options, energy choices, and urban development. Students will apply the concepts of geographic thinking and the geographic inquiry process, including spatial technologies, to investigate various geographic issues and to develop possible approaches for making Canada a more sustainable place in which to live. Prerequisite: None 

 

Music, Grade 9 Open, AMU1O 

This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience and is aimed at developing technique, sensitivity, and imagination. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop an understanding of the conventions and elements of music and of safe practices related to music, and will develop a variety of skills transferable to other areas of their life.  

Prerequisite: None 

 

Healthy Active Living Education, Grade 9 Open, PPL1O 

This course equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to make healthy choices now and lead healthy, active lives in the future. Through participation in a wide range of physical activities, students develop knowledge and skills related to movement competence and personal fitness that provide a foundation for active living. Students also acquire an understanding of the factors and skills that contribute to healthy development and learn how their own well-being is affected by, and affects, the world around them. Students build their sense of self, learn to interact positively with others, and develop their ability to think critically and creatively.  

Prerequisite: None 

 

Learning Strategies 1: Skills for Success in Secondary School, Grade 9, Open, GLS1O 

This course focuses on learning strategies to help students become better, more independent learners. Students will learn how to develop and apply literacy and numeracy skills, personal management skills, and interpersonal and teamwork skills to improve their learning and achievement in school, the workplace, and the community. The course helps students build confidence and motivation to pursue opportunities for success in secondary school and beyond. 

Prerequisite: None 

English, Grade 10 Academic, ENG2D 

This course is designed to extend the range of oral communication, reading, writing, and media literacy skills that students need for success in their secondary school academic programs and in their daily lives. Students will analyse literary texts from contemporary and historical periods, interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on the selective use of strategies that contribute to effective communication. This course is intended to prepare students for the compulsory Grade 11 university or college preparation course. 

 Prerequisite: English, Grade 9, Academic or Applied 

 

Foundations of Mathematics, Grade 10, Applied, MFM2P 

This course enables students to consolidate their understanding of linear relations and extend their problem-solving and algebraic skills through investigation, the effective use of technology, and hands-on activities. Students will develop and graph equations in analytic geometry; solve and apply linear systems, using real-life examples; and explore and interpret graphs of quadratic relations. Students will investigate similar triangles, the trigonometry of right triangles, and the measurement of three-dimensional figures. Students will consolidate their mathematical skills as they solve problems and communicate their thinking.  

Prerequisite: Grade 9 Mathematics, Academic or Applied 

 

Principles of Mathematics, Grade 10, Academic MPM2D 

This course enables students to broaden their understanding of relationships and extend their problem-solving and algebraic skills through investigation, the effective use of technology, and abstract reasoning. Students will explore quadratic relations and their applications; solve and apply linear systems; verify properties of geometric figures using analytic geometry; and investigate the trigonometry of right and acute triangles. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.  

Prerequisite: Grade 9 Mathematics, Academic 

 

Canadian History Since World War I, Grade 10 Academic, CHC2D 

This course explores social, economic, and political developments and events and their impact on the lives of different individuals, groups, and communities, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals and communities, in Canada since 1914. Students will examine the role of conflict and cooperation in Canadian society, Canada’s evolving role within the global community, and the impact of various individuals, organizations, and events on identities, citizenship, and heritage in Canada. Students will develop an understanding of some of the political developments and government policies that have had a lasting impact on First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals and communities. They will develop their ability to apply the concepts of historical thinking and the historical inquiry process, including the interpretation and analysis of evidence, when investigating key issues and events in Canadian history since 1914.  

Prerequisite: None 

 

Civics, Grade 10 Open, CHV2O 

This course explores rights and responsibilities associated with being an active citizen in a democratic society. Students will explore issues of civic importance such as healthy schools, community planning, environmental responsibility, and the influence of social media, while developing their understanding of the role of civic engagement and of political processes in the local, national, and/or global community. Students will apply the concepts of political thinking and the political inquiry process to investigate, and express informed opinions about, a range of political issues and developments that are both of significance in today’s world and of personal interest to them.  

Prerequisite: None 

 

Career Studies, Grade 10, Open, GLC2O 

This course gives students the opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge, and habits that will support them in their education and career/life planning. Students will learn about global work trends, and seek opportunities within the school and community to expand and strengthen their transferable skills and their ability to adapt to the changing world of work. On the basis of exploration, reflective practice, and decision-making processes, students will make connections between their skills, interests, and values and their postsecondary options, whether in apprenticeship training, college, community living, university, or the workplace. They will set goals and create a plan for their first postsecondary year. As part of their preparation for the future, they will learn about personal financial management – including the variety of saving and borrowing tools available to them and how to use them to their advantage – and develop a budget for their first year after secondary school. 

Prerequisite: None 

 

 

Science, Grade 10, Academic SNC2D 

This course enables students to enhance their understanding of concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and of the interrelationships between science, technology, society, and the environment. Students are also given opportunities to further develop their scientific investigation skills. Students will plan and conduct investigations and develop their understanding of scientific theories related to the connections between cells and systems in animals and plants; chemical reactions, with a particular focus on acid–base reactions; forces that affect climate and climate change; and the interaction of light and matter.  

Prerequisite: Science, Grade 9, Academic or Applied  

English, Grade 11 University Preparation, ENG3U 

This course emphasizes the development of literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyse challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures, as well as a range of informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using language with precision and clarity and incorporating stylistic devices appropriately and effectively. The course is intended to prepare students for the compulsory Grade 12 university or college preparation course.  

Prerequisite: English, Grade 10, Academic 

 

Biology, Grade 11 University Preparation, SBI3U  

This course furthers students’ understanding of the processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biodiversity; evolution; genetic processes; the structure and function of animals; and the anatomy, growth, and function of plants. The course focuses on the theoretical aspects of the topics under study, and helps students refine skills related to scientific investigation.  

Prerequisite: Science, Grade 10, Academic 

 

 

Philosophy: The Big Questions, Grade 11, University/College Preparation, HZB3M 

This course encourages exploration of philosophy’s big questions, such as: What is a meaningful life? What separates right from wrong? What constitutes knowledge? What makes something beautiful? What is a just society? Students will develop critical thinking and philosophical reasoning skills as they identify and analyse the responses of philosophers to the big questions and formulate their own responses to them. Students will explore the relevance of philosophical questions to society and to their everyday life. They will develop research and inquiry skills as they investigate various topics in philosophy.  

Prerequisite: None 

 

 

Functions and Applications, Grade 11, University/College Preparation, MCF3M  

This course introduces basic features of the function by extending students’ experiences with quadratic relations. It focuses on quadratic, trigonometric, and exponential functions and their use in modelling real-world situations. Students will represent functions numerically, graphically, and algebraically; simplify expressions; solve equations; and solve problems relating to applications. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.  

Prerequisite: Principles of Mathematics, Grade 10, Academic, or Foundations of Mathematics, Grade 10, Applied 

 

Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology and Sociology, Grade11, University Preparation, HSP3U 

This course provides students with opportunities to think critically about theories, questions, and issues related to anthropology, psychology, and sociology. Students will develop an understanding of the approaches and research methods used by social scientists. They will be given opportunities to explore theories from a variety of perspectives, to conduct social science research, and to become familiar with current thinking on a range of issues within the three disciplines. 

Prerequisite: The Grade 10 academic course in English, or the Grade 10 academic history course (Canadian and world studies) 

English, Grade 12 University Preparation, ENG4U 

This course emphasizes the consolidation of the literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyse a range of challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures; interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts; and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using academic language coherently and confidently, selecting the reading strategies best suited to particular texts and particular purposes for reading, and developing greater control in writing. The course is intended to prepare students for university, college, or the workplace.  

Prerequisite: English, Grade 11, University Preparation 

 

Philosophy: Questions and Theories, Grade 12 University Preparation, HZT4U 

This course enables students to acquire an understanding of the nature of philosophy and philosophical reasoning skills and to develop and apply their knowledge and skills while exploring specialized branches of philosophy (the course will cover at least three of the following branches: metaphysics, ethics, epistemology, philosophy of science, social and political philosophy, aesthetics).∗ Students will develop critical thinking and philosophical reasoning skills as they formulate and evaluate arguments related to a variety of philosophical questions and theories. They will also develop research and inquiry skills related to the study and practice of philosophy. 

Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world studies 

 

Business Leadership: Management Fundamentals, Grade 12, University/College Preparation BOH4M  

This course focuses on the development of leadership skills used in managing a successful business. Students will analyse the role of a leader in business, with a focus on decision making, management of group dynamics, workplace stress and conflict, motivation of employees, and planning. Effective business communication skills, ethics, and social responsibility are also emphasized.  

Prerequisite: None 

 

Mathematics of Data Management, University Preparation MDM4U 

This course broadens students’ understanding of mathematics as it relates to managing data. Students will apply methods for organizing and analysing large amounts of information; solve problems involving probability and statistics; and carry out a culminating investigation that integrates statistical concepts and skills. Students will also refine their use of the mathematical processes necessary for success in senior mathematics. Students planning to enter university programs in business, the social sciences, and the humanities will find this course of particular interest.  

Prerequisite: Functions, Grade 11, University Preparation, or Functions and Applications, Grade 11, University/College Preparation 



 

Canadian and International Law, Grade 12 University Preparation CLN4U 

This course explores a range of contemporary legal issues and how they are addressed in both Canadian and international law. Students will develop an understanding of the principles of Canadian and international law and of issues related to human rights and freedoms, conflict resolution, and criminal, environmental, and workplace law, both in Canada and internationally. Students will apply the concepts of legal thinking and the legal studies inquiry process, and will develop legal reasoning skills, when investigating these and other issues in both Canadian and international contexts.  

Prerequisite: Any university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and world studies, English, or social sciences and humanities. 

 

Biology, Grade 12 University Preparation SBI4U 

This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on the achievement of detailed knowledge and the refinement of skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields.  

Prerequisite: Biology, Grade 11, University Preparation 

 

 

Ontario Secondary School Literacy CourseGrade 12 OLC4O 

 This course is designed to help students acquire and demonstrate the cross-curricular literacy skills that are evaluated by the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). Students who complete the course successfully will meet the provincial literacy requirement for graduation. Students will read a variety of informational, narrative, and graphic texts and will produce a variety of forms of writing, including summaries, information paragraphs, opinion pieces, and news reports. Students will also maintain and manage a portfolio containing a record of their reading experiences and samples of their writing. 

International Languages Courses

This course provides opportunities for students to begin to develop and apply skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the language of study. Students will communicate and interact in structured activities, with a focus on matters of personal interest and familiar topics, and will read and write simple texts in the language. Throughout the course, students will acquire an understanding and appreciation of diverse communities in regions of the world where the language is spoken. They will also develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.  

Prerequisite: None 

This course provides opportunities for students to begin to develop and apply skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the language of study. Students will communicate and interact in structured activities, with a focus on matters of personal interest and familiar topics, and will read and write simple texts in the language. Throughout the course, students will acquire an understanding and appreciation of diverse communities in regions of the world where the language is spoken. They will also develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.  

Prerequisite: None 

This course provides opportunities for students to increase their competence and confidence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the language of study. Students will communicate about academic and personally relevant topics in increasingly spontaneous spoken interactions, and will develop their creative and critical thinking skills through exploring and responding to a variety of oral and written texts. Students will continue to enrich their understanding and appreciation of diverse communities in regions of the world where the language is spoken. They will also investigate personal and professional contexts in which knowledge of the language is required, and develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.  

Prerequisite: International Languages, Level 1, Academic 

This course provides opportunities for students to increase their competence and confidence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the language of study. Students will communicate about academic and personally relevant topics in increasingly spontaneous spoken interactions, and will develop their creative and critical thinking skills through exploring and responding to a variety of oral and written texts. Students will continue to enrich their understanding and appreciation of diverse communities in regions of the world where the language is spoken. They will also investigate personal and professional contexts in which knowledge of the language is required, and develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.  

Prerequisite: International Languages, Level 1, Academic 

This course provides extended opportunities for students to communicate and interact in the language of study in a variety of social and academic contexts. Students will refine and enhance their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as their creative and critical thinking skills, as they explore and respond to a variety of oral and written texts, including complex authentic and adapted texts. They will also broaden their understanding and appreciation of diverse communities where the language is spoken, and develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.  

Prerequisite: International Languages, Level 2, University Preparation 

 

This course provides extended opportunities for students to communicate and interact in the language of study in a variety of social and academic contexts. Students will refine and enhance their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as their creative and critical thinking skills, as they explore and respond to a variety of oral and written texts, including complex authentic and adapted texts. They will also broaden their understanding and appreciation of diverse communities where the language is spoken, and develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.  

Prerequisite: International Languages, Level 2, University Preparation