Skills For Success in Secondary School

GLS10 – Skills for Success in Secondary School is a foundational course designed to help Grade 9 students thrive as they begin their high school journey. Centered around the development of personal, academic, and social competencies, this course empowers students to become confident, organized, and self-aware learners.

Through interactive lessons, goal-setting exercises, and reflective activities, students explore essential skills such as time management, study strategies, self-motivation, and teamwork. They learn how to take ownership of their learning process, manage challenges, and build the habits necessary for long-term academic success.

The course also supports students in developing interpersonal skills, including effective communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. These tools not only enhance classroom collaboration but also prepare students to engage positively within their broader school and community environments.

By connecting learning strategies to personal interests and future goals, GLS10 encourages students to see the relevance of education in their lives. Whether planning a course pathway, exploring careers, or managing daily responsibilities, students complete the course with a toolkit of practical strategies that will support them throughout high school and beyond.

Unit 1: Learning Skills
This unit focuses on essential learning techniques that support academic success. Students explore strategies to improve reading comprehension, organization, and motivation.
Lessons include:

• Enhancing Your Reading Skills
• Effective Organization Methods
• Boosting Motivation and Focus
• Study Strategies for Success
• Time Management Fundamentals

Unit 2: Personal Knowledge and Management Skills
Students investigate patterns, relationships, and algebraic models. They develop fluency in writing and solving equations and interpreting algebraic expressions.
Lessons include:

• Discovering Your Strengths & Interests
• Setting Smart Goals
• Managing Stress Effectively
• Building Self-Awareness
• Cultivating a Positive Mindset

Unit 3: Interpersonal Knowledge and Skills
This unit builds communication and collaboration skills through team activities and conflict resolution scenarios.
Lessons include:

• The Importance of Teamwork
• Communicating with Confidence
• Active Listening Techniques
• Resolving Conflict Constructively
• Building Empathy and Respect

Unit 4: Pathways to Success in Secondary School
Students learn how to plan their academic journey, explore future pathways, and connect their learning to real-world opportunities.
Lessons include:

• Employability Skills
• Learning Styles and Academic Planning
• Career Exploration and Planning
• Connecting School with Life Goals

Student achievement in GLS10 is based on a combination of reflective activities, goal-setting exercises, and practical assignments:

• 70% of the final grade comes from evaluations across the four course units. These include personal journals, self-assessments, peer feedback, and assignments.
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 10% Culminating personal growth portfolio
  • 20% Final exam focused on applied learning skills

All assessments align with Ontario curriculum expectations and are designed to help students understand themselves better while preparing for future academic and career success.