Design & Technology
IB MYP Design
MYP Design is one of the eight core subjects of MYP, and in Grade 10 is taught both as a stand-alone subject and reinforced by integration into other areas. Interdisciplinary units also contribute to Holistic Learning. There is a strong emphasis on Approaches to Learning; in particular, organization, collaboration, information literacy and thinking skills. Inquiry and problem solving, taught through a Design Cycle, are at the heart of MYP Design. Students are presented with a variety of challenges or problems to be solved and working through the cycle of Investigate, Design, Plan, Create and Evaluate, students solve the problems through the creation of a solution or product. Products and solutions may be computer-based, such as videos, presentations or coding, or they may involve a variety of tactile materials such as robotics, woodworking or recycled materials. Wherever possible, the problems are real-life situations that involve authentic investigations and naturally develop Learner Profile attributes of open-mindedness, risk-taking, inquiry and reflective thinking. Communication is at the heart of the design journals as students record the process and reflect on the outcomes. Assessment is based on the MYP Technology assessment criteria.
Grade 10 - IB Year 5
Technology and the Skilled Trades Grade 10 Open (TAS2O)
This hands-on course enables students to further explore the engineering design process through the lens of the MYP design cycle and to develop other technological knowledge and skills introduced in earlier grades. Students will design and safely create prototypes, products, and/or services, working with tools and technologies from various industries such as laser cutters, 3D printers, robotics and programming tools. Students may apply some of the skills developed in this class to develop their Personal Projects. As students develop their projects to address real-life problems, they will apply technological concepts such as precision measurement, as well as health and safety standards. Students will begin to explore job skills programs and education and training pathways, including skilled trades, that can lead to a variety of careers.
IB DP Computer Science
The Diploma Program in Computer Science teaches students about coding, the software development process and the role of software development in our society. Students will use several programming languages, though primarily Python, to create small and large programming projects (including an IA). We will also investigate hardware, emerging technologies and the effects of programming and technology on the environment, culture and the economy. In addition to object-oriented programming, students will study networking, computer technology, databases, web technologies, artificial intelligence and physical computing.
Students entering Grade 11 may choose to include the Computer Science Grade 12 course as part of their Diploma requirements for Group 4 (Sciences). Students will write the Standard exam, which will take place in May of Grade 12.
Grade 11 and 12
Computer Science, University Preparation (ICS3U and ICS4U)
This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyze algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field.
Prerequisite: None