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The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)

The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is a prestigious qualification recognized globally. It signifies the completion of a rigorous and well-rounded education, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary for higher education and the workforce.

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Key Points

The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is a globally recognized qualification. To earn the OSSD, students must complete 30 credits (18 compulsory, 12 elective), 40 hours of community service, and pass the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). The curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education, preparing students for success in higher education and their future careers

Total Credits Required

30 credits (18 compulsory, 12 elective)

Compulsory Courses

English, Mathematics, Science, Canadian History, Canadian Geography, Arts, Health and Physical Education, French as a Second Language, Civics and Careers

Elective Courses

Students choose from a wide range of subjects based on their interests and career goals

Community Involvement

40 hours of community service

Literacy Requirement

Successful completion of the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)

Summary of Requirements

Compulsory Courses

These courses form the foundation of the OSSD curriculum, ensuring students acquire essential skills and knowledge.

  • English (4 credits): Develops literacy, communication, and critical thinking skills.

  • Mathematics (3 credits): Covers algebra, geometry, and data management.

  • Science (2 credits): Introduction to biology, chemistry, and physics.

  • Canadian History (1 credit): Explores key events and developments in Canadian history.

  • Canadian Geography (1 credit): Examines physical and human geography of Canada.

  • Arts (1 credit): Encourages creativity through visual arts, music, or drama.

  • Health and Physical Education (1 credit): Promotes physical fitness and healthy living.

  • French as a Second Language (1 credit): Enhances language skills and cultural understanding.

  • Civics and Careers (0.5 credits each): Teaches the responsibilities of citizenship and career planning.

Examples of Elective Courses

Elective courses allow students to explore their interests and specialize in areas that align with their career aspirations.

  • Advanced Functions

  • Calculus and Vectors

  • Biology

  • Chemistry

  • Physics

  • Business Studies

  • Computer Science

  • Social Sciences and Humanities

  • Arts and Media Studies

Pathways and Streams

  • Arts/Business/Humanities/Liberal Arts

  • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

  • Business and Commerce

  • Social Sciences and Humanities

  • Health and Life Sciences

  • Information Technology and Computer Science

Community Involvement and Literacy Requirement

To graduate with an OSSD, students must complete 40 hours of community service and pass the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).

Community Involvement:

  • Encourages civic responsibility and personal growth.

  • Can include volunteer work, community service projects, and other approved activities.

Literacy Requirement:

  • Assesses reading and writing skills across all subject areas up to the end of Grade 9.

  • Typically in Grade 10.

How We Support Our Students

At CIC Ontario Secondary School, we provide a supportive and engaging learning environment to help students succeed.

Support Services Include:

  • Certified Ontario Teachers: Experienced and dedicated faculty.

  • Virtual Labs and Interactive Learning Tools: Enhance understanding of complex concepts.

  • Discussion Forums and Collaborative Projects: Promote peer interaction and teamwork.

  • Comprehensive Academic Advising: Helps students plan their academic pathways.

  • Access to Online Resources and Textbooks: Ensures students have all the materials they need.

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