English:
As language is fundamental to thinking, learning, and communicating in all cultures, St. Thomas Aquinas' English Department strives to develop each student's ability to understand and use language more effectively. The English Curriculum, in providing students with the opportunity to study literature and various forms of media, allows them to experience the power of language in all its forms. Coursed offered: English 8-12, Honours English 11 & 12, Communications 11 & 12, English Literature 12, Writing 12.
In keeping with curricular objectives, students are encouraged to become avid readers through designated silent reading time in English classes. In addition, they are provided with opportunities for both formal and informal public speaking, as well as enrichment through various writing contests.

A grade 12 student reads an ode he has written at a nearby beach.

Information Technology:

The Information Technology Department is constantly working to stay abreast of changes in the IT field. In information technology courses and throughout other subjects, students work with the latest applications and deploy emerging technologies.

" Wireless campus
" Gigabit backbone network
" Student email addresses and web space
" 1:4 computer to student ratio
" Multimedia editing and animation
" Commitment to cross-curricular integration

Math

The Math Department provides students with the opportunity to take mathematical courses that reflect their abilities and meet their needs. Students develop mathematical skills and knowledge to help them achieve their academic goals and future career choices.

n addition to offering courses within the Principles of Math and Essentials of Math pathways, the Math Department provides students with enrichment opportunities through its Accelerated Math 8/9 Program, Honours Math 11 and 12 courses, Calculus 12, Advanced Placement Calculus and participation in national math contests.

The Learning Assistance Department provides service to students with or without a diagnosed learning disability. Students in the program learn effective organizational, study and interpersonal skills and are supported through their individual educational needs. Referrals are made by students themselves, teachers and parents. S.T.A.'s Learning Assistance Department strives to provide a positive learning experience for all students.

Ms. Nix, head of the LAC department assists a student in the daily after school "homework club". LAC Homework Board

The study of a second language provides students with the skills, attitude and knowledge necessary to communicate authentically in a language which is not their mother tongue.

S.T.A. offers French as a second language instruction from Gr. 8-12, as well as Beginner's Spanish 11 and Spanish 11. Students who have attended a French Immersion elementary school will be asked to write a placement exam in June of their Gr. 7 year. This, and an oral assessment, will help us determine the appropriate grade level placement. Maximum acceleration: 2 years.

Religion:

The Religion Department strives to build the faith of our students by handing on the knowledge of the Church's history and teachings in the following areas:
Grade 8: The Old Testament
Grade 9: The Liturgical year and The New Testament
Grade 10: Catholic Morality
Grade 11: Church History
Grade 12: Vocations, Beatitude Living, Christian Witness

Mr. Grossling assists his Religion 11 students in finding resources for a research project in the library.

Science Department:

The Science program consists of highly developed Junior and Senior Science components. Junior Science students develop basic skills of scientific enquiry and learn fundamental content of physical, earth/space, and life sciences. Grade 8 students design an experiment to demonstrate their knowledge of the scientific method. These projects are displayed at our annual Science Fair. Senior Science students study courses with a more specific focus such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Science & Technology. Throughout the program, students are provided with opportunities to develop their skills and increase their knowledge through formal labs, field trips, and outside contests (such as the Physics Olympics, the University of Toronto Biology Competition, and the Michael Smith Science Challenge). The common theme through all Junior and Senior Science courses is the acquisition of a wide range of knowledge, methods, and approaches that allow critical thinking. Outside of regular classes, students can join the Science Club and participate in the Science Olympics, a competitive high school event. By graduation, students should have the scientific background to meet their post-secondary goals as well as fully appreciate the scientific endeavour.

Social Studies:

The intent of the Social Studies Department is to expand students' understanding of the political and geographical world that surrounds them. Program highlights include an Honours 9/10 course at the junior level and a full complement of senior electives including: History, Grography, Comparative Civilizations, and Law 12. History comes alive with the study of original documents, as well as paintings and pictures through multimedia teacher presentations. Students gain valuable geographic skills using Geographic Information Systems. The department actively collaborates in developing learning resources with other teachers and hosts workshops on the integration of technology into the Social Studies Curriculum.

The Physical Education and Recreation Department is committed to challenging, encouraging and instructing ALL students of ALL abilities and interests in a wide variety of sports, fitness and recreation activities. These include:

" Fitness
" Team Sports
" Individual and Dual Activities
" Aquatics
" Dance
" Outdoor Challenge Activities
" Intramural Sports
"Recreation and Sport Leadership

The mission of our Department is to develop the skills, attitudes, knowledge and fitness which will enable our students to enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle.