May 26th, 2011 – Ubisoft visits the Academy!

YMCA Academy Community, Experiential Learning, Science and Math

The grade 11 media art class, grade 9 information tech class and grade 10 careers class gathered to listened to an engaging presentation by video-gamer extraordinaire Rick Hoskinson from UBISOFT in Toronto.  He spoke about his illustrious career in the gaming industry and the many popular games that he has worked on over the years.  He also gave students some guidance around post-secondary programs in a variety of jobs the technical, artistic and business sides of things.  Best game of the year:  Barbie Horse Adventures!!!  Thanks, Rick, and keep up the good work.

May 26th, 2011 – Academy: Behind the Scenes

YMCA Academy English and Humanities, Student Spotlight

The grade 10 English class is hard at work on their personal documentaries, taking the roles of cinematographers, directors and editors. Today’s shoot involved the class members, a world record, and many delicious junior mints. The red carpet premiere is slated for next week- stay tuned!

May 17th, 2011 – Safe bike riding at Brickworks

YMCA Academy Community, Environmental Stewardship, Experiential Learning, Healthy Living

Yesterday, we participated in a Bike Workshop as part of our Healthy Choices Program.  We learned about safe riding (including helmets and bike checks), hand signaling and did some safety drills.  We then took the bikes out on the Rosedale Ravine trails for a bit of a muddy tour of the surrounding area.  We not only got out into our environment – it also got all over us!  It’s a good reminder for city folks that we don’t have to go far to experience real nature.  Thanks to Shah and Brian for a great workshop and ride.

Check out the rest of the pictures on our Facebook Page!

May 9th, 2011 – Science Centre Field Trip Photos

YMCA Academy Experiential Learning, Science and Math

On Friday May 6th the grade 9 and 10 science classes went to the Ontario Science Centre. Our first stop was on level 5 where we explored the wonders of the human body. This gave the grade 10 class an up close and hands on experience about cells, tissues and organisms. Next we stopped off at two separate exhibits and discovered how optical illusions work as well as observed various animals in their ecosystems. After lunch we finally got to see the IMAX film Hubble, allowing the grade 9 class to see how the instrument that took all the amazing pictures they have been witnessing in the Earth and space science unit was placed into orbit.  Our trip concluded with a tour of our solar system and the universe through presentation in the center’s planetarium.

Check out the rest of the pictures on our Facebook Page!

May 5th, 2011 – Six Weeks and Counting Pictures

YMCA Academy Science and Math, Student Spotlight

The Grade 9 Math Class has just completed six weeks of growing and tracking the growth of vegetables.  All veggies survived except one small cucumber that didn’t make it through this past weekend.  We will continue to tend our garden until we can arrange to go to Brickworks and plant them in their community garden.  We will keep you posted!

Check out the rest of the pictures on our Facebook Page!