Through the study of literature, the English Department seeks to stimulate cultural awareness, elevate critical thought, promote clear writing, and encourage reflection on our lives and the lives of others. Our courses help students succeed in all other subject areas by building their understanding of the English language,and developing their communication and critical thinking skills. 


As documented in the Ontario Curriculum, successful English students at Bear Creek will: 

  • understand that language learning is a necessary, life-enhancing, reflective process;
  • communicate – that is, read, listen, view, speak, write, and represent – effectively and with confidence;
  • make meaningful connections between themselves, what they encounter in texts, and the world around them;
  • think critically;
  • understand that all texts advance a particular point of view that must be recognized, questioned, assessed, and evaluated;
  • appreciate the cultural impact and aesthetic power of texts;
  • use language to interact and connect with individuals and communities, for personal growth, and for active participation as world citizens. 

 

Ontario Secondary English Curriculum (Grades 9–12)

Grade 9 (2023 De-streamed Course: ENL1W)

The new Grade 9 curriculum is slightly different and focuses on foundational literacy.

Four Grade 9 Strands:

A. Literacy Connections & Applications (includes digital literacy)

B. Foundations of Language (grammar, conventions)

C. Comprehension (understanding texts)


D. Composition (creating written and media texts)


Emphasis:

  • Strong literacy foundation
  •  Real-world connections
  • Digital/media literacy skills

Core Strands (Grades 10–12)

Across Grades 10–12 (2007 curriculum), all English courses are organized into four key strands:

1. Oral Communication

  • Listening and speaking skills
  • Presentations, discussions, debates
  • Audience awareness and communication strategies

2. Reading & Literature Studies

  • Understanding novels, plays, poetry, and informational texts
  • Literary analysis (theme, symbolism, structure)
  • Critical thinking and interpretation

3. Writing

  • Essay writing (narrative, persuasive, analytical)
  • Grammar, structure, voice, and style
  • Writing process: drafting, revising, editing

4. Media Studies

  • Analyzing media (film, ads, social media, news)
  • Understanding bias, perspective, and influence
  • Creating media texts (videos, podcasts, digital content)

These strands are interconnected and build essential literacy skills across all courses.