PROGRAM OVERVIEW
STEM+ is a unique program at Georges Vanier Secondary School focusing beyond the rigorous theoretical STEM curriculum and integrating practical global leadership skills.
GVSS is excited to offer this enriched program catering to the new generation of learners; preparing them to be the astonished leaders in our Globalized world.
Click here for our grade 8 open house presentation - details about grade 9 STEM+ are included
Overview:
The Georges Vanier STEM+ program is designed to:
develop critical thinkers through an enriched curriculum
focusing on the Science and Math disciplines with experiences reaching beyond the traditional classroom and curricular model.
The program provides:
an enriched learning opportunity for students interested in applying their knowledge in Science, Math and Computer Technology
this occurs by offering an interdisciplinary methodology to deepen their critical thinking skills.
What's so special about STEM+?
The framework will encourage the application of a global perspective and active citizenship.
The program will lead to the selection of AP courses and AP examinations in their graduating year.
The program will equip students to meet the demands of our ever-changing and inter-connected world.
Unique Aspects of the Program:
Computer Science Programming
Starting in Grade 9 year (ICS2OP)
Experiential learning that focuses on skill development
Addressing Social Justice and Equity issues on local, national and global levels through courses of study:
Civics & Careers - Grade 10
Equity & Social Justice - Grade 12
Anti-Black Racism - Grade 12 (optional)
All other required courses embed themes of Social Justice and Equity
Interdisciplinary Cross-Curricular Culminating Activities:
Science/Geography (Junior Years)
Math/ICS (Junior Years)
Preparation for Senior Level AP Courses
Biology (SBI4U0)
Chemistry (SCH4U0)
Physics (SPH4U0)
Advanced Functions / Calculus and Vectors (MHF4U0/MCV4U0)
Volunteer Hours
40 Hours of Community Service by Graduation with a focus on Social Justice
Enrichment Opportunities:
Math:
University of Waterloo Math Contests
Grade 9 - Pascal
Grade 10 - Cayley
Grade 11 - Fermat
Canadian Math Contests
Grade 9 & 10 - Intermediate
Grade 11 & 12 - Senior
Math League
Grade 9 - 12
University of Waterloo Euclid
Grade 12
Canadian Team Mathematics Contest
Grade 9 - 12
Sun Life Math Contest
Grade 12
Calculus AP
Science:
Various field trips and hands on labs (AP)
Grade 9 - 12
AMGEN Biotech Experience (Senior Biology)
Avogadro Exam ~ Chemistry
University of Waterloo
Da Vinci Exam ~ Physics
University of Waterloo
National Biology Competition
University of Toronto (temporarily on hold by UofT)
Computer Science:
Canadian Computing Contest
University of Waterloo
ECOO Programming Contest
Educational Computing Organization of Ontario
Robotics
Mentoring Elementary Lego Robotics Teams
Mentoring Elementary Coding Clubs