ISP CANADA.CA

Welcome to Kamloops, British Columbia

Cananda

Sahali Secondary (8-12)Valleyview Secondary (8-12)

South Kamloops Secondary (8-12) Westsyde Secondary (8-12)

NorKam Senior Secondary (10-12)Kamloops School of the Arts (K-12)

ADJUSTING TO A NEW CULTURE

There are several stages you may experience while adjusting to your new life in Canada. They include:

1. Honeymoon Period

You will probably be fascinated and excited by everything new in your surroundings. International students are usually elated to be in a new culture at first.

2. Culture Shock

You are immersed in new problems: housing/home-stay, transportation, food, language barriers, and new friends. You may feel tired from continuously trying to comprehend and use a new language. You may ask yourself, “Why did I come here?”

3. Initial Adjustment

You find problems such as housing and settling into classes are now manageable. Although you may not be perfectly fluent in the new language, basic ideas and feelings can be expressed.

4. Mental Isolation

After you have been away from your family and friends for a long period you may begin to feel lonely. Many international students still feel they cannot express themselves as well as they can in their native language. Frustration and sometimes a loss of confidence can result.

5. Acceptance and Integration

You have now established a routine. You have a good level of comfort with the habits, customs, food, and behaviours of people in the new culture.

6. Return Anxiety, Re-entry Shock, Reintegration

After having adjusted to and lived in the new culture for a long period of time, you must prepare to return home. Re-entry shock can be more difficult than the initial culture shock you experienced when you first arrived in Kamloops.

Helpful Hints

Give yourself lots of time to accomplish everything you need to do. It is too stressful to do things in a hurry.

Make sure you get enough sleep.

Experiment with food slowly.

Drink lots of water.

Ask questions.

Get involved and meet people.

Get a bus pass so that you can explore the city.

Join a sports team or a special interest group.

Remember that your school counsellor is ready to listen to your storyand help you adjust.

THE CANADIAN EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM

You may find some differences between the educational value/system in your home country and that of Canada. It is essential for you to understand the appropriate and accepted roles for students in the Canadian educational system. Here are some of the general characteristics of the Canadian educational system:

•Students are encouraged to ask questions for clarification, to challenge information, or to extend thinking. The philosophy of education in Canada includes the ideal that students should be involved in an interactive learning process; that is, they should not sit passively and accept or memorize what the teacher says.

•Teacher–student relationships tend to be relatively informal compared to those in other countries. It is important, however, to always be respectful and polite to teachers.

• Group work is an important part of school learning; it valuescooperation, tolerance, and compromise.

• Discussion is often used as a means of teaching. Students are expected to be ableto discuss in order to develop their ideas and opinions and to present them forreactions. One of the main objectives of a discussion is to arrive at a mutuallysatisfactory understanding or a solution to a problem.

• Students learn not just information, but how to arrive at conclusions, to solveproblems, and to analyze. As part of this process, students are often asked howthey got an answer, not just what the answer is.

• Plagiarism (submitting the work of another person as your own/copying the workand presenting it as your own) is a serious offence. This includes copying from theInternet.

SCHOOL TIMES AND SCHEDULES

The school year is divided into two semesters. The first semester is fromSeptember until January and the second semester is from February until June.

Each semester, a student takes four (4) courses or eight (8) in total during theyear.

Lunchtime is about one hour. Most students bring a lunch with them, but there isa small snack bar in school to buy sandwiches, soup, juice, and snacks.

Meetings for sports and groups often happen at lunchtime. Usually, studentstake their lunch with them to the meeting.

If a student is late, he/she should go to the office to get a late slip before going toclass. It is expected that students will have a note from the host family to explainwhy they are late or absent, or a host family can phone the school to explain. If astudent is frequently late or absent without an explanation, the vice-principal willphone home to find out what the reason is, and the student may expect adetention.

If a student is leaving the school for any reason before the end of the day,they should check out at the office first.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS

1. Be on time for your classes. If you cannot arrive on time, or if you must be away,notify the school in advance to explain the reason. If you miss classes, see theteacher the next day to find out what you missed.

2. Hats are not allowed to be worn inside the school.

3. Swearing is not permitted at school.

4. Do not talk during class if the teacher is talking or presentinginformation.

5. It is expected that you will speak English during class time.

6. Use your agenda each day to stay organized.

7. Do not be afraid to ask questions if you do not understand. If you are quiet, itwill be assumed that you have understood.

8. Make sure assignments and homework are completed on time. If you cannot dothis, make sure you talk to your teachers to explain your situation.

9. Many teachers, including E.S.L. teachers, are available before and after school (orat lunch) to provide extra help for students who do not understand.

10. Do not take expensive electronic equipment or large sums of money to school. Ifyou must, make sure they are placed in your locker.

11. If you choose to complete extra class projects, there may be a cost. In woodwork,for example, if you choose a very expensive type of wood, you may be asked topay it.

Helpful Hint – the monthly newsletter that you receive will list all the upcomingevents and holidays. It is useful to make note of these days in your agenda.

GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION

Personal Property Schools cannot be held responsible for lost or damaged personal property. We recommend that students:

Not bring large amounts of money to school. Not allow anyone to know your locker combination. Leave expensive Ipods and computers at home. Check at the office if you require safekeeping of items. Check at the office Lost and Found if they lose something.

Lunch Facilities Most students bring a lunch; however, the school provides a lunch and a snack service for the convenience of students.

Lockers Homeroom teachers will assign lockers on the first day of school. You will be given a lock to use for the duration of your stay. Please keep the locker combination sticker on the back of the lock in a safe place so that you can replace it when you return the lock. Lockers may be checked by the administration from time to time.

Personal Technology Devices (School District Policy # 403.2)The use of all telecommunication and audio or video recording devices, including cellular phones, pagers/beepers and cameras, at school and school sponsored or school-related activities on or off school property, is prohibited during the school day except where expressly authorized. Students shall be allowed to possess such devices; however, such devices must not be visible and must remain turned off during the school day. Rules for use are as follows:

• Lunch hour - phones outside only• Listening devices - breaks and lunch acceptable• Cameras - only with authorization• Recording devices - only with authorization

All filming on school property, and all footage on tapes used for school projects, must be approved by the Administration and/or Teacher. Consent must be obtained before filming any individual. Students must obey all copyright laws. Violation of copyright laws is not acceptable. Telephones and Messages A telephone is available to students (at the main office) and should be used in case of emergencies or for school business. Messages for students from homestay parents can be left at the main office. Notices of messages will be announced over the PA during the last few minutes of class, both for the morning and afternoon classes. In an emergency, homestay parents may call the office and the staff will do their best to locate your student.

Students with Medical Alert Conditions Parents must notify the school if their child is likely to require emergency care by the school staff. These are conditions that are diagnosed by a physician as potentially life threatening. Life threatening conditions include:

• Diabetes• Epilepsy/Seizure disorder• Anaphylaxis and/or history of severe allergic reactions• Severe asthma• Blood clotting disorders such as haemophilia• Other conditions which may require emergency care• Medic Alert planning forms are available

Helpful Suggestions

Try to take advantage of opportunities in class to get to know others. Do this byhaving conversations with people, especially during group or partner activities.

Communicate with your teachers. If you do not understand something, stay afterclass for a few minutes to get help. It may be easier for the teacher to explainsomething to you when the other students are gone.

Listen carefully to the announcements that are read at your school each morning.These announcements have valuable information about special events, groups,and sports meetings.

Do not bring large amounts of money or expensive items to school. If you do,make sure they are kept in your locker.

You will be given an agenda book to keep track of your homework and activities.Studies have shown that students who use an agenda will do better in school, sotry it.

Take part in at least one school sport or group. This will help you to meetmore people and practice your English skills.

Get a bus pass. This will give you some freedom to move around and get toknow the community.

SCHOOL SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

The existence of school sports teams is dependent on student interest, and the availability of coaches and a teacher sponsor. All students participating in extra-curricular athletic activities must complete a Medical Form and have an athletic contract for each sport they participate in. International students must be attending classes for a minimum of one semester to represent the school on a team. There are other regulations related to city and Provincial teams regarding international students. Students who participate on school teams will incur additional expenses.

Athletic Teams

Winter Basketball Wrestling

Curling

Fall Volleyball

Field Hockey Boys Soccer Swimming Badminton

Spring Rugby

Girls Soccer Tennis Track &

Field Golf

Sportsmanship and Academics

“It is your sportsmanship and attitude that are remembered after the game is over – not who won.”

All students who participate on teams are expected to do their best both as a team member and in their schoolwork. All students are expected:

i. To maintain a minimum standard of “satisfactory” in classroom efforts.

ii. To keep all classroom assignments and projects up to date.

iii. To show a co-operative attitude towards their teachers.

iv. To display a responsible attitude in personal conduct.

v. To show a responsible attitude towards their peers.

vi. To show courtesy and honesty towards others.vii. To display a positive attitude towards learning and good work habits.

Extra-Curricular Activities Valuable experience and personal growth related to career aspirations can be obtained by getting involved in school clubs, teams and other activities. Students are encouraged to ask school personnel for information and also listen to morning announcements. Some activities that may be at your school: Astronomy Club, Peer Helpers, Drama Productions, Grad Committee, Intramural Games, Mathematic Contests, Music Productions, Water Project, Christian Club, Global Awareness, Canadian-International Alliance (CIA), Peer Tutoring, Reading is Rewarding, Scorekeeping, Senior Book Club, Sports Teams, S.T.A.A.R. (Students Taking Action Against Racism), Students’ Council, Talent Shows, Environmental Group, Yearbook, Young Authors’ Conference, First Nations Centre, and Chess Club.

Intramural Program In order to help promote active living and provide alternative activities for students at lunch hour, we provide an extensive intramural program. Activities such as indoor soccer, three-on-three basketball, floor hockey, dodgeball, softball and many other activities provide enjoyment for players and spectators alike. Students are encouraged to participate.

STUDENT SERVICES

Counselling School counsellors are available to deal with personal, educational or career issues. We encourage students to take advantage of our counselling services in order to obtain confidential assistance with personal issues, to plan their courses, set up peer tutoring, and to investigate their post-secondary plans. Parents and/or host-parents can make appointments by phoning the school and asking for Student Services.

Course Selection Through the counselling department, course selections are made for international students once an assessment of English skills has been completed. Course selection booklets and forms can be previewed prior to arrival, but classes cannot be guaranteed due to space limitations and/or the English level of students.

Changing or Dropping Courses Course changes may be made for appropriate reasons. If a student needs a course changed, he/she should make an appointment to see the International Student Counsellor.

Peer Tutoring Grade 10 students have an opportunity to apply to tutor students from Grades 8 to 10. One week of training is given to selected tutors. These peer tutors find the experience as valuable as do the tutees. Tutors also earn credit for their graduation volunteer hours. Tutoring occurs daily during IRA period for about 20 minutes. Students who experience difficulty in any course can request assistance from a peer tutor.

Learning Assistance Center A school’s Learning Assistance Department is a support system designed to help those students who have difficulties in certain areas of study. Students may receive assistance in studying certain topics or alternate materials may be provided with teacher input.

Library School libraries are open and available for students before and after school and at lunch hour. We expect proper Library etiquette to be observed during these times. You may read for pleasure, work on assignments, complete homework, or utilize any of the computer terminals available.

Textbook Use There is no rental charge for textbooks during the school year; however, books are on loan and they are the responsibility of the student. At the end of the semester, books must be returned in good condition. Damages and losses will be assessed. If a student loses a book it should be reported to their class teacher. The student is expected to pay for the original and a replacement will be issued. If the lost book is found, the student will receive a refund.

The Student Council or Student Leadership Group The Student Council consists of an elected Executive body (selected in June) and an appointed Grade Representative body (selected in September). The Executive is open to senior students who have been involved in leadership roles in past years. The Grade Representative body has three spaces for each grade level and past experience is not required.

GRADING AND ASSESSMENT

Course outlines, grading criteria and expectations are provided to the students at the beginning of each course. Students should also be aware of the objectives of the assignment, essay, quiz, or test assigned and the criteria for marking. For each major objective of a course, marks are recorded, using an appropriate instrument for obtaining marks in sufficient numbers to be able to identify a valid letter grade.

Each department has developed grading criteria so that there is consistency in determining final letter grades. Such grading criteria shall focus on work habits, the format assignments are to take, and the relative weighting of class assignments, quizzes, tests and final examinations.

Achievement Indicators This is subject to change by The Ministry of Education. The letter grades below indicate a pupil’s achievement in relation to the standard of performance widely expected for that course.

A Excellent achievement 86-100% B Very Good achievement 73-85% C+ Good achievement 67-72% C Satisfactory achievement 60-66% C- Low level Achievement 50-59% I

F

Incomplete – student has the opportunity to change this grade based on requirements of subject teacher Failure – students not attaining course objectives 0-40%

Audit: students may audit (no letter/mark/credit); however, full participation in class is still expected, including completion of assignments to the best of the student’s ability.

Effort symbols are: G = Good S = Satisfactory N = Needs Improvement

SAMPLE OF AN “EFFORT” ACHIEVEMENT GRID All decisions are made at the teacher’s discretion and are based on classroom performance.

Criteria G = Good S = Satisfactory N = Needs Improvement Attendance:

Attendance

Punctuality

Excellent attendance record

Absences are excused

Rarely, if ever, late (provides note)

Rarely finds cause to leave class

Some classes missed with no note of explanation

Occasional late, but no discernable pattern exists

Unexcused absences

Misses scheduled tests/due dates

Attendance is unreliable

Frequently late to class

Finds excuses to leave class

Assignments:

Submission of work

Accuracy

Quality

Work completed & submitted on time

Work reflects students ability Student strives for quality

Some gaps in assigned work

Doesn’t exert him/herself beyond completion of work

Quality of work is occasionally inconsistent with student ability level

Work often submitted late

Work often not submitted

Completed work often shows little care or effort

Behaviour:

Attitude

Focus

Attention

Exhibits a positive attitude

Models expected classroom behaviour

Maintains focus & is on-task

Is respectful of others rights

Seeks assistance when necessary

Generally meets behavioural expectations

Although needed, infrequently seeks assistance

Occasionally lacks focus in class

Exhibits a negative attitude

Lacks focus in class

Frequently off-task

Often uninterested

Chooses not to participate

Rarely, if ever, seeks assistance

Displays inappropriate behaviour

Citizenship:

Cooperation

Involvement

Cooperates with teacher

Cooperates with peers

Contributes positively to the learning environment

Makes limited contribution

Is generally cooperative

Periodically disengages from class business

Argumentative or uncooperative with teacher/peers

Undermines teacher authority

Detracts from the learning environment

Organization:

Preparation

Up-to-date

Responsibility

Arrives in class with appropriate materials

Demonstrates good organizational skills

Conscientious in obtaining/ submitting missed work

Occasionally needs reminding of missing and late assignments

Sometimes arrives in class unprepared (missing materials, missing homework, etc)

Frequently comes to class unprepared or without the appropriate materials

Lacks organization

Student is not meeting teacher expectations

Makes little effort to keep up with missed work

SCHOOL POLICIES

School Dress Policy Students are expected to dress in a manner that reflects purpose and propriety. Students wearing inappropriate attire will be asked to cover up, change, or go home.

• Clothing is expected to be appropriate to a working and learning environment.

• Students must refrain from wearing clothes that promote drugs and alcohol, or portray sexual, violent or racist themes.

• Students must refrain from wearing clothing that is derogatory regarding a person’s ethnic background, national origin, religious belief, sexual orientation or disability.

• Clothing must cover underwear, cleavage, bottoms, and midriffs. Skirts must be no shorter than mid-thigh.

• Hats and head apparel must not be worn other than for religious reasons.

Smoking Policy The Board of School Trustees of School District No. 73 (Kamloops/Thompson) encourages all efforts to eliminate and prevent the use of tobacco products by students and employees of the District. The Board's goal is to assist in the creation of a smoke free society by ensuring that all School District facilities, vehicles and grounds are smoke free.

Drug and Alcohol Policy Any student using, possessing or under the influence of drugs or alcohol during any time while under the jurisdiction of the School District, including extra-curricular activities sponsored by the school, or at a school other than that attended by the student, will be dismissed by the Principal, and may be suspended by the Board of Trustees from attending any school in the District for a determined period.

School Dance Policy 1. Dances are for students only. Tickets are by pre-sales only, no tickets are

available at the door. Administration/Teachers have the right of refusal.

2. All rules apply at school dances.

• Time: 7:00 – 10:00 pm – usually held mid-week• Doors: Students may enter from 6:30 to 8:00 pm

• The door is a one-way door… once you have decided to enter, you must remain. If you choose to go out, you are not allowed to return.

• Lates: Anyone arriving after 8:00 pm must have received a late pass ahead of time from the Vice-Principal.

• Access to lockers is not allowed. Coats and backpacks must be checked into the coatroom and the coat check is one way. Once you have checked your property in, you can only check it out when you leave the school.

• If a student has an unexcused absence the day of the dance they will not be permitted to attend.

Homework Policy As a general guideline, students are advised to establish a study plan at the beginning of the year. This plan should permit time for both assigned (homework) and review (study work). Following is a guideline:

Half hour to one hour daily Grade 8: Grade 9/10: Grade 11/12:

One hour to one-and-a-half hours daily Two to two-and-a-half hours daily

The following statements summarize the reasons for the necessity and importance of homework in assisting a student’s educational progress.

• Homework reinforces material presented in the classroom, supplementing and building on classroom experience.

• Homework creates readiness for learning by providing background knowledge.

• Homework provides practice drill in specific skills areas.• Homework provides follow up to classroom activities.• Homework provides students with activities for individualized learning.

• Homework is an evaluative tool.

Student’s role: Students are expected to complete homework assignments on time in order to develop self-discipline and time management skills and to enhance their knowledge of each subject.

Teacher’s role: Teachers will assign meaningful homework that will be promptly evaluated.

Host Parent’s role: Host parents are expected to provide students with an environment that promotes good study habits and to enrich the student’s learning through their support and encouragement. Host parents have an opportunity to be informed about the materials students are studying by direct contact with the teacher.

BRITISH COLUMBIA GRADUATION PROGRAM

(* = mandatory government examination)

4 credits

4 credit

4 credits

4 credits

4 credits

Language Arts (English) 10* Language Arts (English) 11 Language Arts (English) 12* Social Studies 10 Social Studies 11, BC First Nations, Or Canadian Civics 11*

4 credits 4 credits 4 credits 4 credits 4 credits 4 credits

Science 10* Science 11 or 12 Mathematics 10* Mathematics 11 or 12 Physical Education 10 Planning 10 Fine Arts and/or Applied Skill 10, 11, or 12 4 credits = 48 Elective Courses – students must earn at least 28 elective credits for Grade 10 – 12 courses. Graduation Transitions 4 credits OVERALL TOTAL = 80 credits

Summary: To graduate, you need at least 48 credits from required courses, a minimum of 28 elective credits, and 4 credits for Graduation Transitions. A minimum of 16 credits must be at the Grade 12 level, including Language Arts 12 courses and other 12 course credits. These may be from required courses or electives. If you are planning to continue your education beyond secondary school graduation, make sure you have all the courses and prerequisites you need.

For information about the graduation program www.bced.gov.bc.ca/graduation/grad2004.htm

For information about scholarships go to www.bcawardsonline.sd61.bc.ca

To learn more about post-secondary options and careers www.educationplanner.bc.cawww.bced.gov.bc.ca/careers

Although the International Counsellor may assist, university applications are the responsibility of the student and family. To apply to a Canadian university, visit the university website for current information

MEETING PEOPLE

• A common greeting practice for Canadians is “hand shaking.” People shake hands when meeting an adult for the first time. They do not bow.

• If people already know each other, they will generally just say “Hi” or “Hello” the next time they meet.

• A person leaving others in informal situations will say “Bye” or “See you later”. Sometimes, they will say something like, “Talk to you soon” or “I’ll talk to you later”.

• An adult may invite you to use their first name after you meet them, which is common. Otherwise, use Mr. Ms. or Mrs. as appropriate and the person’s last name (for example, Mr. Smith).

• Canadians maintain eye contact when conversing.• Generally people stand two or three feet apart from each other when

conversing.

ETIQUETTE IN PUBLIC PLACES

People are generally uncomfortable with touching in public places. If you bump into somebody, say “sorry” or “excuse me.”

Walk on the right side.

It is not acceptable to spit in public.

Hold swinging or heavy doors forpeople who are following you in and out of rooms.

You may have to adjust your voice level to ensure it’s not too loud. Take your cue from the tones of other people.

It is acceptable to ask people to speak more slowly or repeat words.

If you’re the first person on an elevator, it’s common to hold the door for others, either physically, or by pressing the appropriate button on the control panel.

DIFFICULT RELATIONSHIPS

If you want to stop a friendship, be very clear that you do not want to see the person anymore. If they continue to bother you, tell a teacher or friend about the situation.

If someone is bothering you, tell him or her to stop. For example, you say “GO AWAY” or “STOP BOTHERING ME”. Do not worry about hurting their feelings or being nice. If you are not clear, they might not stop. If they continue to bother you, then tell someone nearby.

Assault is illegal in Canada. A husband cannot hit his wife, a boyfriend cannot hit his girlfriend, and a roommate cannot hit you.

If you are having difficulties with a relationship in your life and are uncertain about what to do, make an appointment to see your school counsellor. When you talk to a counsellor at school your conversation is confidential unless you threaten to hurt yourself or someone else.

CANADIAN HOLIDAYS AND SPECIAL DAYS

As a nation, Canada recognizes and celebrates a number of statutory holidays. On these days, most places of business – such as banks and

grocery stores - are closed, including Universities and colleges.

Labour Day – First Monday in September, last holiday weekend of summer.

Honouring working men and women.

Thanksgiving Day – Second Monday in October. Celebration of harvest.

Remembrance Day – November 11th . Memorial services are held for those who served their country in the Armed Forces.

Christmas Day – December 25th (Christian Celebration)

Boxing Day – December 26th

New Year’s Day – January 1st. Most celebrations occur on the evening of the 31st day of December, as Canadians celebrate the end of the old year and the beginning of the New Year.

Good Friday – Late March or early April (Christian Celebration)

Easter Sunday – Late March or early April (Christian Celebration)

Victoria Day – Third Monday in May. First holiday of summer; commemorates the birthday of Queen Victoria

Canada Day – July 1st. Canada’s birthday.

Other Celebrated Days in Canada

Valentine’s Day – February 14th St. Patrick’s Day – March 17th Mother’s Day – May 14th Father’s Day – June 17th Hallowe’en – October 31st

USEFUL COMMUNITY CONTACTS

Transportation

• Kamloops Transit (city bus) – 250-376-1216• Taxi Services – Kami Cabs 250-374-5151 / Yellow Cabs 250-374-3333• Greyhound Bus – 250-374-1212• Airport Shuttle – 250-314-4803

Recreation Centres

• YMCA-YWCA – 250-372-7725• Tournament Capital Centre – 250-828-3655• Bowlertime – 250-554-1610• Falcon Lanes Bowling – 250-372-7933• Sun Peaks Resort – 250-578-5484• Kamloops Recreation Department – 250-828-3500 (City Sports)• Public Skating Information – 250-828-3387

Downtown Library (has internet access) – 465 Seymour Street North Kamloops Library (has internet access) – 693 Tranquille

Road City Hall – 250-828-3311

Churches • See “Churches” in the phone book

Emergency Numbers

• If you are in an emergency situation call “911”• Police – 250-828-3000• Fire – 250-372-5131• Hospital – 250-374-5111• Summit Medical Centre – 250-374-9800• KIDS Helpline – 1-800-668-6868

School District No. 73(Kamloops/Thompson)