Financial Accounting Principles

BAT4M introduces students to advanced accounting principles used in business decision-making. The course focuses on the accounting cycle, financial reporting, and ethical standards in corporate finance

• Students explore partnerships
• Corporations,
• financial analysis tools
• Developing a deeper understanding of how accounting supports organizational planning
• Control.

This course is ideal for students interested in finance, business, or postsecondary commerce programs.

Unit 1: The Accounting Cycle
Students gain an in-depth understanding of fundamental accounting practices and the steps involved in the accounting cycle.
Lessons include:

• Accounting Principles and Practices
• Roles of Accounting Bodies
• The Accounting Cycle
• Accounting Entries
• Ethical Issues
• Current Issues in Accounting
• Technology in Accounting

Unit 2: Accounting for Assets
This unit focuses on the management and reporting of short-term and long-term assets.
Lessons include:

• Short-Term Assets
• Accounts Receivable
• Inventory Procedures
• Inventory Valuation Methods
• Capital vs. Revenue Expenditures
• Tangible & Intangible Assets
• Amortization

Unit 3: Partnerships and Corporations
Students learn how different business structures impact financial transactions and reporting.
Lessons include:

• General & Limited Partnerships
• Partnership Transactions & Accounting
• Corporations and Share Structures
• Common vs. Preferred Stocks
• Dividends
• Preparing Financial Statements

Unit 4: Financial Analysis and Decision Making
This unit develops skills in interpreting financial data for business decisions.
Lessons include:

• Methods of Financing
• Funding Sources
• Understanding Annual Reports
• Financial Analysis Techniques
• Horizontal and Vertical Analysis
• Financial Ratios
• Cash Flow Statements

Unit 5: Final Evaluation
Students complete a final exam and culminating project demonstrating mastery of financial concepts.
Lessons include:

• Final Exam
• Culminating Project

• 70% of the final grade is based on coursework, including:
  • Applied accounting tasks and case studies
  • Financial report creation and analysis
  • Unit assignments and discussion participation
  • Ethical scenario evaluations
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 10% Culminating financial analysis project
  • 20% Final exam assessing accounting proficiency

All assessments follow Ontario curriculum standards and are designed to build financial literacy, analytical thinking, and real-world business competencies.