Modified Courses

A Locally Modified (Basic) Course of Study is defined as a course where 50% of the course is determined by the Ministry of Education through outcomes listed from the provincial curriculum and the remaining 50% of the course is determined by the school division. The outcomes determined by the school division may include learning outcomes from previous grades and other areas of study. In many cases, locally chosen outcomes are used to develop students’ knowledge, skills, and abilities in order to prepare students for achieving the outcomes from the provincial curriculum guide. In other cases, locally chosen outcomes are used to extend students’ understanding, skills, and abilities in areas related to the outcomes listed from the curriculum guides. Modified courses (11, 21, 31) can be used to fulfil requirements in the required courses of study, specified areas of study, and electives. Modified courses (Basic) may not be accepted as entrance requirements at post-secondary institutions.

If it has been determined through assessment, observation, and collaborative team meetings that a student’s needs can best be met through placement in a Locally Modified Course, then all those involved in this decision must carefully consider the implications of such a placement. Everyone including parents/caregivers, students, teachers, administrators and coordinator of student achievement & supports must review the student’s formal and informal assessments to determine appropriateness of placement in modified courses. Learning disabilities and/or behaviour disorders should not be the sole criteria for placement in a Locally Modified Course. Nor, is it appropriate to place students in Locally Modified Courses because the usual language of instruction is their second language or a non-standard dialect.

Sacred Heart High School and Dreambuilders Learning Centre offer modified courses in the following subject areas:

English Language Arts

Mathematics

Science

Social Studies