Grade 11 Program
University Preparation Begins
Grade 11 marks the transition into university-preparatory learning and academic specialization.
Preparing for University Pathways
Grade 11 is a critical turning point in the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) pathway. Students move beyond foundational learning and begin focusing on subject areas aligned with their future academic goals.
At this stage, students select courses at the university (U) or mixed (M) level, which play a key role in preparing for Grade 12 and university admission. Academic decisions made in Grade 11 directly influence future pathways and opportunities.
University Pathway
How Grade 11 shapes University Admission
Academic Progression
Grade 9 → Foundation
Grade 10 → Strengthening Core Skills
Grade 11 → University Preparation (U/M Courses)
Grade 12 → University Admission
In Grade 11, students begin taking university-preparatory (U-level) and mixed (M-level) courses that are essential for future academic pathways.
These courses build the knowledge and skills required for Grade 12, where final grades are used for university applications. Choosing the right courses in Grade 11 is an important step in aligning academic plans with future university goals.
Grade 11 is where students begin actively preparing for university pathways.
Grade 11 Courses
Students select courses that align with their academic strengths and future university goals.
ENG3U - English
Prerequisite: ENG2D
This course emphasizes the development of literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyse challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures, as well as a range of informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using language with precision and clarity and incorporating stylistic devices appropriately and effectively. The course is intended to prepare students for the compulsory Grade 12 university or college preparation course.
MCR3U - Functions
Prerequisite: MPM2D
This course introduces the mathematical concept of the function by extending students’ experiences with linear and quadratic relations. Students will investigate properties of discrete and continuous functions, including trigonometric and exponential functions; represent functions numerically, algebraically, and graphically; solve problems involving applications of functions; investigate inverse functions; and develop facility in determining equivalent algebraic expressions. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.
ICS3U - Introduction to Computer Science
Prerequisite: None
This course introduces students to computer science. Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs. Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, and global career trends in computer-related fields.
SPH3U - Physics
Prerequisite: SNC2D
This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will explore kinematics, with an emphasis on linear motion; different kinds of forces; energy trans- formations; the properties of mechanical waves and sound; and electricity and magnetism. They will enhance their scientific investigation skills as they test laws of physics. In addition, they will analyse the interrelationships between physics and technology, and consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.
SCH3U - Chemistry
Prerequisite: SNC2D
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of the properties of chemicals and chemical bonds; chemical reactions and quantitative relationships in those reactions; solutions and solubility; and atmospheric chemistry and the behaviour of gases. Students will further develop their analytical skills and investigate the qualitative and quantitative properties of matter, as well as the impact of some common chemical reactions on society and the environment.
SBI3U - Biology
Prerequisite: SNC2D
This course furthers students’ understanding of the processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biodiversity; evolution; genetic processes; the structure and function of animals; and the anatomy, growth, and function of plants. The course focuses on the theoretical aspects of the topics under study, and helps students refine skills related to scientific investigation.
BAF3M - Financial Accounting Fundamentals
Prerequisite: None
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and procedures of accounting. Students will develop financial analysis and decision-making skills that will assist them in future studies and/or career opportunities in business. Students will acquire an understanding of accounting for a service and a merchandising business, computerized accounting, financial analysis, and ethics and current issues in accounting.
HSP3U - Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, and Sociology
Prerequisite: ENG2D or CHC2D
This course provides students with opportunities to think critically about theories, questions, and issues related to anthropology, psychology, and sociology. Students will develop an understanding of the approaches and research methods used by social scientists. They will be given opportunities to explore theories from a variety of perspectives, to conduct social science research, and to become familiar with current thinking on a range of issues within the three disciplines.
AVI3M - Visual Arts
Prerequisite: AVI1O or AVI2O
This course enables students to further develop their knowledge and skills in visual arts. Students will use the creative process to explore a wide range of themes through studio work that may include drawing, painting, sculpting, and printmaking, as well as the creation of collage, multimedia works, and works using emerging technologies. Students will use the critical analysis process when evaluating their own work and the work of others. The course may be delivered as a comprehensive program or through a program focused on a particular art form (e.g., photography, video, computer graphics, information design).
What Students Build in Grade 11
Grade 11 prepares students for the academic expectations of senior-level courses and university pathways.
• Academic direction aligned with future goals
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
• Subject specialization for university preparation
• Confidence in independent learning and decision-making
Start Planning Your University Pathway
Connect with our academic advisors to explore course selection and build a personalized university pathway.