# Learning Commons for Families # Curriculum Options Information on curriculum and resource suggestions. # Getting Started With Selecting Curriculum #### Curriculum Picks [Curriculum Picks](https://learningcommons.ca/curriculum-options/) provide just one suggestion for each of the core subjects for each grade, meeting the needs of most typical home-educating students. The trick to finding the Curriculum Picks quickly is to filter Curriculum Options ONLY by GRADE and the Feature “HCOS Pick.” [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-08/YBRimage.png) #### Curriculum Options If you would like more choices than our Curriculum Picks offer, the [Curriculum Options](https://learningcommons.ca/curriculum-options/) page on our website provides a searchable selection of resources. #### Curriculum Selection Tools and Tips Webinar This webinar provides an overview of the curriculum selection process and references many curriculum options that may work for your situation. Slide deck: [bit.ly/Curriculum-Selection-23](https://bit.ly/Curriculum-Selection-23) #### Curriculum Consultations If you need assistance selecting curriculum, please be in touch with your support teacher. Our Curriculum Consultant, Cynthia Duncalfe is also available for consultations with HCOS enrolled or registered families via her [online calendar](https://calendly.com/cynthia-duncalfe). # New Page ### What is this? Axis is a website geared toward building lifelong faith by helping parents and caring adults talk with teens about topics they might not otherwise discuss. Their vision is to see all caring adults equipped with the conversation, discipleship and cultural translation skills needed to reach the next generation for Christ. They began as a ministry offering resources to families and youth workers; several years ago, the ministry morphed into an online one and has since expanded. You will notice that this site does not tell you (or your teens) how to think. Instead, it gives up-to-date information and asks questions, which you may use to open discussion with your students or children.
NOTE: Some of the information may be sensitive to specific age groups. This site is recommended for middle grades and older with the guidance of an adult and/or teacher.
### How can it help me? ### How do I use it? ### Where do I find it? # Educational Apps for Tablets & Phones This page contains free and paid app suggestions in a variety of subject areas and grade levels. #### HCOS + Flex Apps These are the app versions of tools and platforms available to enrolled students through HCOS + Flex. Please search [SOPHIE](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/books/information-for-families) to learn more about accessing the Resources and visit the Learning Commons website to find passwords for our Subscriptions.**Name** | **Description** | **Links** |
Canva for Education | Graphic design | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/canva-design-photo-video/id897446215) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=canva&c=apps) |
Google Workspace | Calendar, Docs, Drive, Gmail | [Apple App Store](https://www.apple.com/ca/search/google?src=serp) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=google&c=apps) |
Grammarly | Writing and proofreading | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/grammarly-ai-writing-keyboard/id1158877342) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.grammarly.android.keyboard&hl=en_CA) |
Read&Write | Reading and assistive technology | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/read-write/id934749270) [Chrome Webstore](https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/readwrite-for-google-chro/inoeonmfapjbbkmdafoankkfajkcphgd) |
**Name** | **Description** | **Links** |
BrainPOP and BrainPOP Jr | Movies and quizzes from the BrainPOP website | [BrainPOP Apps](https://www.brainpop.com/about/apps/) (Apple App Store and Google Play) |
Matific | Skill-building numeracy games | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/matific-maths-game/id1440019986) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=matific+app&c=apps) |
Reading Eggs | Skill-based literacy games | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/reading-eggs-learn-to-read/id726696040?mt=8) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=reading+eggs&c=apps) |
RightNow Media | Bible study video resources | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/rightnow-media/id925747028) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=rightnow+media&c=apps) |
Sora | eBooks and audiobooks library | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sora-by-overdrive-education/id1376592326) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=sora&c=apps) |
Tynker | Coding-based math games | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/tynker-coding-for-kids/id805869467) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=tynker&c=apps) |
**Name** | **Description** | **Cost** | **Links** |
Adult Colouring Book | Digital colouring book | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/adult-colouring-book-pigment/id1062006344) |
DMD Panorama | Photo and video 3D camera app | $12.99 (Apple) Free (Google) | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/dmd-panorama/id441183050) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=dmd+panorama&c=apps) |
GarageBand | Music recording and editing app | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/garageband/id682658836?mt=12) |
iMovie | Movie editing app | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/garageband/id682658836?mt=12) |
Lapse It | Time-lapse and stop motion video creator | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lapse-it/id539108382) |
Paper | Digital sketchbook | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/paper-by-wetransfer/id506003812#?platform=ipad) |
PicCollage EDU | Photo editor and collage creator | $2.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/piccollage-edu-collage-maker/id977081997) |
Pixlr | Photo Editor | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pixlr-photo-editor-retouch/id526783584) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=Pixlr%20Photo%20Editor&c=apps) |
Procreate | Digital art creator and editor | $17.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/procreate/id425073498) |
Stop Motion Studio | Stop motion video creator | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/stop-motion-studio/id441651297) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cateater.stopmotionstudio) |
**Name** | **Description** | **Cost** | **Links** |
Articulation Essentials 2.0 | Speech therapy support | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/articulation-essentials-lite/id1180068605) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mts.articulationessentials.pro.lite) |
Articulation Station | Speech therapy support | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/articulation-station/id467415882) |
Audio Notebook | Voice recorder | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/audio-notebook-voice-recorder/id720435436) |
Mod Math | Adaptive math notation | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/modmath/id821892964?ls=1) |
SnapType | Worksheet digitization and editing | Free | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/snaptype/id1124115982?mt=8) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=SnapType&c=apps) |
**Name** | **Description** | **Cost** | **Links** |
Bible App for Kids | Interactive Bible stories for children | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/bible-app-for-kids/id668692393) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bible.kids) |
BibleProject | Interactive Bible resources and classes | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bibleproject/id1523687027) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=bible+project&c=apps) |
Keys for Kids Ministries | Daily devotionals | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/keys-for-kids-ministries/id1247475861) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.keysforkids.dailydevotional) |
Superbook Kids Bible | Interactive Bible stories and resources | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/superbook-kids-bible/id606378030) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=air.cbn.superbook.bible.app.android) |
YouVersion Bible | Digital Bible resource | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/bible/id282935706) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=youversion&c=apps) |
**Name** | **Description** | **Cost** | **Links** |
Be Focused (Apple) Focus To-Do (Google) | Time management support | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/be-focused-pomodoro-timer/id973130201) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.superelement.pomodoro) |
CamScanner | Document scanner | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/camscanner-pdf-scanner-app/id388627783) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=camscanner&c=apps) |
Evernote | Notes and task organizer | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/evernote-notes-organizer/id281796108) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=Evernote&c=apps) |
Genius Scan | Document scanner | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scanner-app-genius-scan/id377672876) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thegrizzlylabs.geniusscan.free) |
Noteability | Notes organizer | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/notability-notes-pdf/id360593530?ign-mpt=uo%3D4) |
Time Timer | Visual time management | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/time-timer/id332520417) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.timetimer.android) |
Vantage | Scheduling and calendar tool | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/vantage-calendar/id777313686#?platform=iphone) |
**Name** | **Description** | **Cost** | **Links** |
Blending Sounds 1 | Skill-building phonics games | $19.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/blending-sounds-1-phonics-words-for-beginners/id883245394) |
Brain Works | Sensory breaks | $11.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/brain-works/id524997517) |
Choiceworks Calendar | Visual calendar and time management | $17.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/choiceworks-calendar/id791053105) |
Conversation Builder Teen | Skill-building conversation tools | $39.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/conversationbuilderteen/id551522479) |
Exploring Emotions | Social emotional learning | $9.99 (Apple) $12.99 (Google) | [Apple App Store](https://learningcommons.ca/) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kuypers.zonesEE) |
First Then Visual Schedule | Visual calendar and time management | $19.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/first-then-visual-schedule-hd/id624035410) |
Keedogo Plus | Simplified keyboard layout | $3.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/keedogo-plus/id918496636) |
Letter Sounds 1 | Skill-building letter sounds games | $19.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/letter-sounds-1-phonics-graphemes-for-beginners/id771807063) |
School of Multi-Step Directions | Auditory comprehension and listening skills | $24.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/school-of-multi-step-directions/id668209269) |
Sight Words 1 | Skill-building sight words games | $19.99 | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/sight-words-1-common-english-words/id849060802) |
The Sounding Out Machine | Assistive reading tools | $3.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-sounding-out-machine/id1063090009?ign-mpt=uo%3D8) |
The Zones of Regulation | Social emotional learning | $7.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/the-zones-of-regulation/id610272864) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=The%20Zones%20of%20Regulation&c=apps) |
**Name** | **Description** | **Cost** | **Links** |
Book Creator | eBooks creator | $3.99 | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/app/book-creator-0-make-books/id661166101) |
IXL | Skill-building literacy games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/ixl-math-practice/id693689912) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=IXL%20-%20Math%20and%20English&c=apps) |
LetterSchool | Handwriting skills | $12.99 (Apple) Free (Google) | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/letterschool-block-letters/id435476174) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.letterschool.lite) |
Me: A Kid’s Story | Digital diary creator | $4.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/me-a-kids-diary-by-tinybop/id1126531257) |
Storybird | eBooks creator | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/storybird/id1461691231) |
Strip Designer | eComics creator | $4.99 | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/strip-designer/id314780738?mt=8) |
Tell About This | Photo prompt caption creator | $3.99 | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/tell-about-this/id781841086?mt=8) |
Text Twist | Letter games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/text-twist-word-games/id1576157508) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=Text%20Twist&c=apps) |
**Name** | **Description** | **Cost** | **Links** |
Doctor Lowhigh | Ordering values | $0.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/doctor-lowhigh/id876998884) |
Equilibrians | Balancing equations | $2.99 (Apple) Free (Google) | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/equilibrians/id1185452190) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=Equilibrians&c=apps) |
Euclidean Lands | Puzzle-based math games | $6.99 | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/euclidean-lands/id1181212221?mt=8) |
IXL | Skill-building numeracy games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/ixl-math-practice/id693689912) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=IXL%20-%20Math%20and%20English&c=apps) |
King of Math | Skill-building numeracy games | Free (Apple) $4.09 (Google) | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/king-of-maths/id473904402) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.oddrobo.kom) |
King of Math 2 | Skill-building numeracy games | $3.99 (Apple) $4.09 (Google) | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/king-of-math-2-full-game/id978643377) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.oddrobo.kom2) |
Lightbot | Coding-based math games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/lightbot-code-hour/id873943739) |
Math Slide | Multiplication and division | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/math-slide-multiply-divide/id588829554) |
Monument Valley | Geometry-based math games | $4.99 (Apple) $6.99 (Google) | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/monument-valley/id728293409) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=Monument%20Valley&c=apps) |
Odd Bot Out | Puzzle-based math games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/odd-bot-out/id919968216) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=Odd%20Bot%20Out&c=apps) |
Prodigy | Puzzle-based math games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/modmath/id821892964?ls=1) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=Prodigy&c=apps) |
ReflexMath | Skill-building numeracy games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/reflex-student/id892510181) |
ScratchJr | Coding-based math games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scratchjr/id895485086) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=scratch%20jr&c=apps) |
SET Pro HD | Puzzle-based math games | $6.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/set-pro-hd/id381004916) |
Swift Playgrounds | Coding-based math games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/swift-playgrounds/id908519492) |
**Name** | **Description** | **Cost** | **Links** |
Biodigital Human | 3D anatomy virtual model | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/biodigital-human-3d-anatomy/id771825569) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=BioDigital%20Human&c=apps) |
Frog Dissection | Virtual dissection lab | $4.99 | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/frog-dissection/id377626675) |
IXL | Skill-building science games | Free | [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/ixl-math-practice/id693689912) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/search?q=IXL%20-%20Math%20and%20English&c=apps) |
NASA Visualization Explorer | Space research and exploration | Free | [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/nasa-visualization-explorer/id448700202) [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.nasa.gsfc.nasavizprod) |
The Explorer’s Library by Tinybop | Skill-building science games | $2.99-$4.99 | [Tinybop Apps](https://tinybop.com/apps) (Apple Play Store) |
Parents should preview resources to ensure suitability for their students.
### Accessing External Resources #### Kindergarten to Grade 5**[Curiosity Machine](https://www.curiositymachine.org/challenges/)** | Design challenges across various subject areas |
**[Design Squad Global](http://pbskids.org/designsquad)** | Compete to create solutions to engineering challenges |
**[Instructables](https://www.instructables.com/)** | Learn how to make anything, one step at a time. |
**[Makers Empire](https://www.makersempire.com/download/)** | 3D design tool to create, download, and print original or community-based objects |
**[The Tech at Home](https://www.thetech.org/athome)** | STEM and design challenge activities for K-12 learners |
**[The Young Inventors](https://www.theyounginventors.org/)** | Challenges designed to demonstrate how inventions can improve people’s lives |
**[Tinkercad](https://www.tinkercad.com/)** | Three workspaces where students can design: 3D Design, Codeblocks, and Circuits |
**[8notes.com](https://www.8notes.com/)** | Sheet music and resources for musicians, including tuners, chord charts, and lessons |
**[Blob Opera](https://artsandculture.google.com/experiment/blob-opera/AAHWrq360NcGbw?cp=e30.)** | Create your opera-inspired song; no music skills required |
**[GarageBand](https://www.apple.com/ca/mac/garageband/)** | Music creation studio with a complete sound library |
**[Institute for Arts Integration and STEAM](https://educationcloset.com/units/)** | Arts-integrated online learning experiences for students that include videos and lesson plans |
**[MetKids](https://www.metmuseum.org/collection/metkids/)** | Whimsical, kid-friendly intro to the wide art world with videos and interactive activities |
**[PBS Learning Media’s Arts Education](https://www.pbslearningmedia.org/subjects/the-arts/)** | Resources, videos, and interactive lessons in dance, music, theatre, and visual arts |
**[TedEd Visual Arts](https://ed.ted.com/lessons?category=visual-arts)** | Instructional videos with comprehension and guided discussion questions |
**[Yo Kidz](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTgJIG8ddlh4lXLv7tAuiog/videos)** | YouTube channel featuring dozens of drawing tutorials |
**[Calvary Curriculum](https://calvarycurriculum.com/ot-genesis-exodus/)** | Bible lessons for grades 1 – 6 |
**[Discover God 4 Kids](http://dg4kids.com/family-adventures/index.html)** | Learn about God's character through family activities and Bible study |
**[Douglas Talks](https://douglastalks.com/)** | Douglas, the puppet, uses stories from his life to explain God’s plan for him and you |
**[Elevate Kids](https://elevatekids.com/)** | Bible-based videos to show your child how to become the leader God designed them to be |
**[Keys for Kids](https://www.keysforkids.org/Programming/Keys-for-Kids-Daily-Devotional/Read-Listen)** | A daily audio devotional based on scripture passages |
**[Kids Corner](https://kidscorner.reframemedia.com/)** | Audio adventures, Bible stories and activities for kids |
**[Kids of Integrity](https://www.kidsofintegrity.com/)** | Downloadable lesson plans that help parents instil Christ-honouring character traits in their kids |
**[Kids World](http://ubdavid.org/kids-world/kids.html)** | Easy-to-read Bible lessons |
**[Superbook](https://us-en.superbook.cbn.com/)** | Engaging kids’ games, radio, interactive questions about God, and more. |
**[Bankaroo](https://www.bankaroo.com/)** | A virtual bank for kids where you can teach them about the value of money in a safe environment |
**[EVERFI](https://everfi.com/k-12/)** | Standards-aligned, research-based digital lessons to teach students to thrive in an ever-changing world. |
**[Thrively](http://www.thrively.com/)** | Guides students through a student-centred journey to discover their strengths, increase their self-awareness, set goals and track progress, build skills, and learn real-world problem-solving |
**[Lino](https://en.linoit.com/)** | A sticky-note tool to organize and collect information and can be shared with parents and teachers |
**[Screencastify](https://www.screencastify.com/)** | Empowering students to demonstrate and share their learning |
**[Seesaw](https://seesaw.com/)** | Students share their learning with others through digital portfolios |
**[Wakelet](http://www.wakelet.com/)** | Save, organize, and share any content from across the web |
**[Code.org](https://code.org/)** | Hundreds of computer science activities and tutorials |
**[Codeable Crafts](https://www.codeablecrafts.com/)** | Animate stories with accessible drawing tools and coding blocks |
**[CS First](https://csfirst.withgoogle.com/s/en/home)** | Makes coding easy to teach and fun to use |
**[Scratch](https://scratch.mit.edu/)** | Code, share, and remix stories, games, and animations |
**[ScratchJr](https://www.scratchjr.org/)** | As above, for ages 5-7 |
**[National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)](https://ywp.nanowrimo.org/)** | Draft an entire novel in just one month in motivational virtual spaces |
**[Quill](https://www.quill.org/)** | Free writing and grammar activities and tools |
**[ReadWorks](https://www.readworks.org/)** | Differentiated reading passages designed to improve comprehension |
**[StoryJumper](http://www.storyjumper.com/school)** | an easy way for students to write, narrate, and illustrate their stories. Find informative, expository, collaborative, narrative, and creative writing project ideas, suggestions on topics to write about and digital storytelling ideas. Your students can then use our tools to create and narrate a book, print it on-demand, and publish a book they can hold and hear |
**[Storyline Online](https://www.storylineonline.net/)** | read-along books read via video by actors and authors. Each book includes a supplemental curriculum a credentialed elementary educator developed to strengthen comprehension and verbal and written skills for English-language learners |
**[Whooo’s Reading](https://www.whooosreading.org/)** | a website with a clear mission: to help students think more critically about whatever they read through open-ended rather than multiple-choice reading quizzes. |
Please email Library Administrator Shandra Wiebe for more information: [swiebe@onlineschool.ca](mailto:shandra.wiebe@onlineschool.ca)
# Search Portal Instructions on how to access and use the Learning Commons Search Portal. # Getting Started The Search Portal is the place to access Learning Commons resources such as physical books and kits, eBooks, audiobooks, databases, curricula, hands-on resources, supplemental packs, and inclusive education support materials. Physical resources are shipped directly to your home if you live outside the Kelowna area (e.g., Lake Country to West Kelowna). #### What is Available to Me?HCOS Enrolled and Flex | HCOS Registered | |
---|---|---|
Books, eBooks, audiobooks | ✅ | ✅ |
Digital Unit Study Kits | ✅ | ✅ |
Inclusive Education General Collection books | ✅ | ✅ |
Curriculum | ✅ | ✅ |
Grades 10-12 Extended Loan General Collection Textbooks | ✅ | ✅ |
Robots | ✅ | ❌ |
ADST/Steam Resources\* | ✅ | ❌ |
Supplemental Packs | ✅ | ❌ |
Inclusive Education Support Material | ✅ | ❌ |
Individualized Course Extended Loan Textbooks | ✅ | ❌ |
Susan Barton Material | ✅ | ❌ |
Microscopes | ✅ | ❌ |
Physical Unit Study Kits | ✅ | ❌ |
Changing your password in Encom will also change your password for the Learning Commons Search Portal, so please keep track of your login information. It takes up to 24 hours for the credentials to update.
##### Students Students use their Encom username and password to access Sora eBooks and Subscription passwords. They cannot book physical items from the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home), but they can view them. Bookings must be made on the parent account. If you do not know your Encom password, you can reset it [here](https://encom.onlineschool.ca/public/forgotten-password).  #### Loan Periods & Shipping The default loan period for most items is **10 weeks**, which does not include shipping time. Grade 10-12 extended loan textbooks have a loan period of eight months with an option to renew for one month. Items can be booked up to a year in advance (September to June). Overlapping bookings are not allowed if they exceed 40 items within the 10-week loan period. Back-to-back bookings of the same items are not allowed. Items can be renewed twice for four weeks each time, provided the items have not been booked by someone else.Item Circ Type | Loan Limit | Loan Period |
Book Club | 2 | 10 Week(s) |
CD/DVD/CD-Rom | 8 | 10 Week(s) |
Curriculum | 40 | 10 Week(s) |
Kits | 6 | 10 Week(s) |
MakerEd Family | 4 | 10 Week(s) |
Mini Kits | 2 | 10 Week(s) |
NonFiction/Fiction | 40 | 10 Week(s) |
Reader Pen C Pen | 2 | 8 Month(s) |
S-KIT | 10 | 10 Week(s) |
Inclusive Education | 10 | 10 Week(s) |
Inclusive Ed Packs | 10 | 10 Week(s) |
Susan Barton | 4 | 8 Month(s) |
Textbooks | 6 | 8 Month(s) |
Thumb Drive | 1 | 10 Week(s) |
Please contact Kelly Wiebe with any shipping questions: [kelly.wiebe@onlineschool.ca](mailto:shipping@onlineschool.ca)
#### Fines Fines are charged for lost or damaged items. The fine can be paid with student funding or invoiced via Paypal. Avoid fines by: - Keeping kit items together in one area. Ensure the kit bag is not damaged or forgotten when preparing the return shipment - Check all kits for books and items as soon as you receive them. Contact us if anything is missing or damaged. - Prepare packages properly for shipping. Poorly packaged items result in damage!Items borrowed from HCOS should not be shared with other families not registered or enrolled with HCOS. These materials are specifically for HCOS families. You are responsible for replacement costs of all items signed out under your account, regardless of how they are lost or damaged, except for courier issues.
# How to Search This video is a visual walkthrough of using the search features in the Search Portal. You can use the timestamps to navigate to specific topics. Alternatively, if you prefer, there are written instructions with screenshots below the video. - 0:00-1:04 Search Portal homepage overview - 1:05-1:17 Downloading resources - 1:18-1:28 Grade 10-12 course textbooks - 1:29-1:35 Subscription links - 1:36-2:02 Using the search bar - 2:03-2:23 Refining searches - 2:24-3:03 Subscriptions, databases, and external websites - 3:04-3:38 Searching by topic - 3:39-4:01 Searching by grade - 4:02-4:18 Searching by series - 4:19-4:50 Advanced search ### Searching for Resources To search for an item, use the Search drop-down menu. The default search is by Keyword, but you can search by Title, Author, Subject, Series, etc. There is also an "Advanced" search feature.   You will see how many results were returned once you enter a term in the search bar. Use the “Refine Your Search” options in the left column to limit your results by Material Type, Audience, Author, and Series. The “+” sign adds further options to refine your search. Check the boxes you want to refine by, such as Books or Kits, then click on the "Refresh" button to see the refined search.  ##### Click “Topics” in the menu bar, which will visually search curated lists alphabetically.  Topics are organized by subjects and by grades. This is a great way to quickly find a list of items and the unit study kits by grade. Registered Families can only access the Digital Unit Study Kit Guides online.
# Booking Items This video is a visual walkthrough of how to book items in the Search Portal. You can use the timestamps to navigate to specific topics. Alternatively, if you prefer, there are written instructions with screenshots below the video. - 0:00-1:11 Searching for resources and refining results - 1:12-1:32 Viewing the availability of an item - 1:33-2:03 Determining shipping and loan periods - 2:04-2:18 Finding your shipping zone - 2:19-2:48 Adding items to a list to book later - 2:49-3:37 Booking multiple items for one date - 3:38-4:49 Viewing due dates and renewing loaned items - 4:50-6:44 Shipping multiple items on the same date - 6:45-8:29 Reviewing future bookings - 8:30-9:05 Cancelling future bookings - 9:06-10:36 Booking items for extended loans - 10:37-10:58 Viewing future shipping dates for items out on loan ## ### Booking Resources Click on a record to see the details. Click directly on the title to be taken to the Title Details page to book the item. The Title Record will show how many copies are available and the due date if it is already out. You can save the item to a list if you don’t want to book just one item at a time or save it to book later. **Even if an item is OUT or on HOLD, you can still book it for future dates**.  #### Determining Shipping and Loan Periods When you click "Book Item," a calendar will appear. You will see your unique shipping “Site” on the top right. In this example, the patron is HCOS5, which means they are five shipping days from Kelowna. The small red numbers indicate how many copies are available each day. Be sure to choose a date that allows the number of shipping days before you want to receive your items. The system will automatically change your date for the correct number of shipping days. Ensure that the item is available for the 10-week loan period. Patrons cannot book items for shorter periods.  Click on the day you want to receive the item. In this example, August 13 was chosen. Items are loaned for ten weeks, not including shipping. The calendar now shows the entire booking period. Shipping days are highlighted in dark orange on the calendar (weekends/holidays are not counted as shipping days, so seven shipping days are shown for the HCOS5 zone). The requested date is August 6. When you are ready, click “Book Items.” A pop-up will confirm if your booking went through, and you will receive a confirmation email. You can view due dates, renew, change dates or cancel items online. Please cancel items if your plans change so other families can use the materials.
#### Booking Multiple Items for One Date Add an item to My Lists by clicking the Save to My Lists button. A pop-up will ask you to create a New Favorite Title. Use dates of shipments or subjects as titles. You can search multiple subjects and add resources to your lists by creating different Titles.   Once you have added all the books to your lists, click the My Lists icon in the menu. You will see all of your lists in the left column.  Use the List view icon in the top right corner and book all items for the same date by clicking the “Book Items” button at the top right of the page. If you are in grid view, click the checkboxes for each item you want to book, then click Book Items. Choose a date on the calendar and click Book Items. A pop-up will confirm your bookings. Any items unavailable for your original date will be bumped to the next available date. Check your Future Bookings list to ensure all items have the same loan period, and cancel any items you do not want. This will avoid using one of your free shipments!
#### Viewing Due Dates and Renewing Items Hover over the “My Account” icon, then “My Borrowing,” and select “My Loans.” View the due dates.  Renew one item by clicking the check box on the left or renew all items by clicking "Select All," then clicking the "Renew" button. The renewal period is four weeks. Items booked by another patron will not renew. **Renew books no sooner than 1 - 2 weeks before they are due, or your loan period will be shortened.**  #### View all of your Bookings for the Year, Cancel or Change Booking Date ## Hover over “My Account”, then “My Borrowing”, and then select “Future Booking.” In List View enter the “From” and “To” dates (change to June of the school year to see the entire year’s bookings). All of your bookings will be displayed. Click the "Cancel" button to cancel your booking or the "Edit" button to change your booking date. If you are in Grid View, hover over the item record, and the "Cancel" and "Edit" buttons will appear. # Shipping Procedures ### Change of Address If you plan to move or have moved, please update your address in Encom and email Kelly Wiebe at [kelly.wiebe@onlineschool.ca](mailto:shipping@onlineschool.ca) with the new address so information can be updated.If you do not update the Learning Commons with a change of address and a shipment is sent to the wrong address, you will be charged for shipping fees and any lost items.
### Shipping Outside of Canada The Learning Commons does not ship physical items outside of Canada due to shipping costs, limitations of loan periods, and higher risk of damaged and lost items. Families who are travelling can access our online resources. ### Receiving Packages - KEEP the box/packages and all other packing materials for when you return the items. - Check KITS for missing items; emailArrange a courier pick up or prepaid return by connecting with Kelly Wiebe: 778-721-8309 [kelly.wiebe@onlineschool.ca](mailto:shipping@onlineschool.ca) or Jen **[ jennifer.mcnamara@onlineschool.ca](mailto:jennifer.mcnamara@onlineschool.ca)**
**Please follow all instructions included in your shipment. Every shipment is different. Proper packaging will reduce damage to books and other items.** - Due Dates: The due date is the date the item must arrive back in the Learning Commons. You must ship your package several days before the due date, depending on your shipping zone. - The shipping instructions are included with every package. You will need to contact Kelly or Jen several days before the item is due to arrange shipping. The time period is noted on your shipping instructions and is dependent on the shipping zone you are in and the method, (courier or Canada Post), of shipping. Returning Multiple Boxes/Packages - Please put all items into ONE box/package, or tape packages together if they are compatible in size. This saves on shipping costs. (One white Tyvek bag can hold 2 or more kits). - Please do not tape boxes together if you return items via Canada Post. **If you have more than one box/package which cannot be put into one, let us know immediately how many boxes you will be returning before the pick-up is issued. If a shipment includes 2 or more boxes, the driver is only permitted to pick up ONE if that is what is requested.** Tips for returning items: - Items must be packaged in boxes or Tyvek envelopes (save the packaging in which the items were sent!) - Please don’t use paper envelopes as they rip too easily. - Items damaged due to poor packaging will be billed to your account. - Families are responsible for paying for postage to return DVDs, CDs, and small items that can be mailed if they cannot be returned with a larger shipment. ### Local Patrons Patrons living in Kelowna, Lake Country, and West Kelowna need to pick up their items from the Learning Commons. Since no shipping time is involved, please get in touch with Library Administrator Shandra Wiebe ([swiebe@onlineschool.ca](mailto:shandra.wiebe@onlineschool.ca)) to have items booked for a shorter period. ### Learning Commons Hours and Location {{@8351#bkmrk-address-907-badke-rd}} **HCOS Learning Commons 907 Badke Rd, Kelowna, B.C. V1X5Z5** **Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.** # Sora eBooks & Audiobooks Sora is a digital reading platform for families to access eBooks, audiobooks and Read-Along books for education and enjoyment. # Intro to SORA RecordingSora is also available as an app from the [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/app/sora-by-overdrive/id1376592326?pt=211483&ct=Help&mt=8) and [Google Play Store](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.overdrive.mobile.android.sora&utm_source=help&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=sora).
# Book Formats There are three main book formats in Sora: eBooks, audiobooks, and read-along books. #### eBooks eBooks have text and images, but no audio.View the [eBook Reader Tutorial](https://help.soraapp.com/en-us/5024.htm) for more information about navigating this type of book in Sora.
#### Audiobooks Audiobooks are fully audio files. They have a cover image for the book, but no text or images. The headphones symbol  beneath the cover image indicates audiobook availability.View the[ Audiobook Reader Tutorial](https://help.soraapp.com/en-us/5025.htm) for more information about navigating this type of book in Sora.
#### Read-Along Books Read-along books have text, images, and audio. Some titles will highlight the text as the audio plays. In Sora, read-along books are available in both fiction and non-fiction genres. # Profiles & Badges Users can set up their Sora profile to add personalization and collect badge rewards. Go to [https://soraapp.com/profile](https://soraapp.com/profile). At the top left-hand corner, click "Edit profile" to add your nickname and change your image. Sora allows students to earn achievement badges as they learn about and use the program. Scroll down to view badges on your profile page. Badges that have been earned will show a coloured image of the badge. When the badge is earned, there will be a pop-up on the screen showing the badge and congratulating the student. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/qiGimage.png) Badges that still need to be earned will tell the badge's name in bold and how to earn the badge beneath the name and the empty badge placeholder. Can you collect them all? [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/AcPimage.png) # Assistive Technology Different fonts and formatting styles are available to meet many reading needs. #### OpenDyslexic [OpenDyslexic](https://opendyslexic.org/) is a font created by Abbie Gonzalez and made available for public use. Its goal is to help dyslexic readers overcome some of the most common stumbling blocks. The benefits of using OpenDyslexic include: - All letters are spaced further apart so individual letters can be more easily seen. - The lines used in the lettering change thickness in different areas so readers can more easily distinguish between similarly structured letters. - The first letter of the first word in a sentence is always bold to help readers know where the sentence starts. There are two steps to turn on OpenDyslexic in your browser or app: **Step 1:** Click on the hamburger menu (three lines) to open the dropdown menu. **Step 2:** Use the "Dyslexic Font" toggle switch to turn this feature on and off. #### High Contrast High contrast mode reverses the colours of background and texts while adding yellow accents, creating a stark contrast that some users desire. There are two steps to turn on High Contrast Mode in your browser or app: **Step 1:** Click on the hamburger menu (three lines) to open the dropdown menu. **Step 2:** Use the "High Contrast Mode" toggle switch to turn this feature on and off. # Changing the Loan Period The standard load period in Sora is 14 days, however, there are options for 7, 21, and 28 days. Some readers may benefit from longer loan periods for larger projects. There are four steps to adjust the loan period in your browser or app: --- **Step 1:** Click on the hamburger menu (three lines) to open the dropdown menu.  --- **Step 2:** Click on "All Settings." [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/WIoimage.png) --- **Step 3:** Click on "Lending Periods." [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/3Zvimage.png) --- **Step 4:** Adjust the lending periods as desired, then click on "Done." [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/rdUimage.png) # Adding Public Library Accounts You can use Sora to access eBooks, audiobooks, and read-along books through HCOS and your local public library. There are two steps to add your local library to Sora in your browser or app: --- **Step 1:** Click on the hamburger menu (three lines) to open the dropdown menu.  --- **Step 2:** Click on the "+Add library" button, then search for your local library and sign in using the information found on your library card. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/ADPimage.png) # Troubleshooting & Support in Sora #### Discovering Reading and Learning Success (November 2023)Enrolled and Flex | Registered | |
4Canoes | ✅ | ✅ |
Axis | ✅ | ✅ |
BC ExamBank | ✅ | ✅ |
BrainPOP, BrainPOP Jr. | ✅ | ❌ |
BrainPOP Français, BrainPOP Español | ✅ | ❌ |
BrainPOP Science | ✅ | ❌ |
Canadian Reader | ✅ | ❌ |
Currents4Kids, News4Youth | ✅ | ❌ |
Discovery Education | ✅ | ❌ |
Enchanted Learning | ✅ | ✅ |
EVERFI | ✅ | ✅ |
Explora Canada (Canadian Reference Centre) | ✅ | ❌ |
Flipster Magazines | ✅ | ✅ |
Focused Education (BC Digital Classroom) | ✅ | ✅ |
Gale Cengage Learning | ✅ | ✅ |
Gizmos | ✅ | ❌ |
Grammarly | ✅ | ❌ |
HearBuilder | ✅ | ❌ |
KnowBC | ✅ | ✅ |
Learn360 | ✅ | ❌ |
Live It Earth | ✅ | ❌ |
Matific | ✅ | ❌ |
myBlueprint | ✅ | ❌ |
Mystery Science | ✅ | ❌ |
National Film Board | ✅ | ✅ |
National Geographic Kids | ✅ | ✅ |
PebbleGo & PebbleGo Next | ✅ | ❌ |
ProQuest (Historical BC Newspapers) | ✅ | ✅ |
Read&Write | ✅ | ✅ |
Reading Eggs, Eggspress & Fast Phonics | ✅ | ❌ |
RightNow Media | ✅ | ❌ |
Teaching Books | ✅ | ✅ |
Touch-Type Read and Spell | ✅ | ❌ |
Twig Science | ✅ | ✅ |
Twig Science Reporter | ✅ | ✅ |
Tynker | ✅ | ❌ |
What in the World? Level 1 & 2 | ✅ | ❌ |
World Book Online | ✅ | ✅ |
World Watch News | ✅ | ❌ |
Subscription Passwords are updated annually in July, with some being updated throughout the year. If your password stops working, please check back on [the Learning Commons website](https://learningcommons.ca/subscriptions/) for up-to-date passwords.
#### Using Subscriptions in the Summer Enrolled, Flex, and Registered students who are re-enrolled for the next school year are welcome to continue using subscriptions through the summer, with the exception of Tynker(closed in July) and News4Youth and Currents4Kids(closed July and August). #### Troubleshooting - Always check the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/Library/Subscriptions) to make sure that the link, username, and password you are using are up-to-date. - Clear your browser cache, as your computer may have saved a broken link. Type “clear cache” into your search bar and follow the instructions from the drop-down menu for your browser. - Check that you are not adding an extra space at the beginning or the end of your username or password. Ensure usernames and passwords are located at the very beginning of the allowed space and that your cursor is right at the end of the password. - Check whether your username or password has upper and lowercase letters. Some subscriptions are case-sensitive. - Use a different browser to access the subscription. For example, if you usually work in Google Chrome, try using Internet Explorer, Safari, or Firefox. - Reboot your computer. Turn everything off, wait thirty seconds, and then turn it on again. Sometimes, waiting a day and then trying it again seems to work! - If you are still having trouble, please contact Margaret Basaraba through email or [LiveChat](https://tawk.to/chat/5f8e1af7f91e4b431ec5d93d/default). Don’t give up! We promise it will be worth your while! # 4Canoes 4Canoes magazine (K-Grade 12) has articles vetted by the Indigenous communities about which they were written. The 4Canoes website is accessed through Focused Education Resources and the BC Digital Classroom.Focused Education Resources is a not-for-profit, shared services organization that supports excellence in K-12 education in British Columbia. It is a consortium of BC public school districts and independent schools that work together to create accessible learning resources for BC schools. Within Focused Education Resources is the BC Digital Classroom, which houses many of the subscriptions available to HCOS and Flex families.
### Logging In There are two steps to log in to 4Canoes. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [BC Digital Classroom](https://focusedresources.ca/en/district-access-iframe), then select the 4Canoes icon. --- **Step 2:** Enter the username and password for 4Canoes from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home). ### Navigation & Use A slider bar or forward arrow underneath the magazine allows you to move quickly from one place to another within the magazine. There is also an arrow in the magazine's middle, far-right, and far-left to turn page by page. The "Recommended Resources" section at the end of some of the articles will enhance teaching. The "Kids Fun Zone" has engaging activities for younger children. There are traditional interactive stories and activities to accompany them.It is possible to purchase the print version of these magazines at a 30% discount from [Goodminds.com](https://goodminds.com/) using the code **ERAC**.
# Axis Axis (Grades 5-12) is geared toward building lifelong faith by helping parents and caring adults talk with teens about topics they might not otherwise discuss. Their vision is to see all caring adults equipped with the conversation, discipleship, and cultural translation skills needed to reach the next generation for Christ. They began as a ministry offering resources to families and youth workers; several years ago, the ministry morphed into an online one and has since expanded. You will notice that this site does not tell you (or your teens) how to think. Instead, it gives up-to-date information and asks questions, which you may use to open discussion with your students or children. ### Logging In Navigate to [Axis](https://axis.org/) and start exploring the resources. You do not need to set up an account to use this website. ### Navigation & UseSome of the information may be sensitive to students. Parents are encouraged to supervise their children while using this site and to engage in regular conversation to discuss topics.
Explore resources by selecting the buttons in the top right menu on the home page. You can return to the home page by selecting the Axis logo in the top left corner. Click below to learn more about the specific features offered by Axis.If you cannot access tests when clicking the "Start test" button, you likely have a pop-up window blocker installed on your computer. Please add bc.exambank.com to your pop-up blocker's trusted sites list.
Once a test is completed, students can send results to their support teacher by scrolling to the bottom of the page and filling out the following form. # BrainPOP BrainPOP (K-Grade 8) is an educational platform with animated videos and engaging resources in various subject areas. There are three resources for different grade levels: **BrainPOP Jr.** (K-Grade 3) encourages young learners to ask questions and form their ideas. Each curricular topic includes an animated movie, learning games, concept mapping, and interactive features that help extend key concepts and meet the needs of students with different learning styles. Text is read aloud to facilitate comprehension. **BrainPOP** (Grades 4-6) topics include animated movies, concept mapping, learning games, playful assessments, and primary source activities. These engaging resources help build higher-order thinking, cognitive, and literacy skills while encouraging reflection and giving students multiple ways to share their learning. Following each movie clip, students can participate in quizzes, cartoons, and do-it-yourself experiments, and send their quiz results to their support teacher. **BrainPOP Français and BrainPOP Español** (Grades 4-8) are intended for students who speak these languages fluently or are looking to reinforce language skills. These sites are not for French or Spanish language learners.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are two account options to sign in with BrainPOP. - **Shared Account** – All HCOS Enrolled students share this account. All lessons are accessible. Progress is not saved. BrainPOP Science and Make-A-Movie are not available through this account. Find login information in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/Library/Subscriptions). - **Individual Student Account** – Support teachers set up accounts for the students. The student’s progress is saved. Make-A-Movie and BrainPOP Science are accessed here. #### Shared Account There are three steps to log in to the BrainPOP shared account. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [BrainPOP](https://www.brainpop.com/) and click the “Log In” button in the top right corner. --- **Step 2:** Enter the username and password for BrainPOP from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home). --- **Step 3:** Select “Keep using a shared account” at the bottom of the screen.Student work is **not saved** when using the shared account.
#### Individual Student Account There are six steps to log into the BrainPOP individual student account. --- **Step 1:** Contact your support teacher and request a BrainPOP code. --- **Step 2:** Navigate to [BrainPOP](https://www.brainpop.com/) and click "Enter Code" in the top right corner. --- **Step 3:** Enter the code from your support teacher.  --- **Step 4:** Select “Create Account."  --- **Step 5:** Complete the fields, then select "Create account."  --- **Step 6:** Use the "Log in" button for all future visits. ### Navigation & Use Students can select a specific subject or “Today’s Topic.” Once a topic is selected, explore the available resources. #### BrainPOP Educators Parents and teachers can access BrainPOP Educators without logging into the site. The great variety of information to be found there is free to them. The link can be found by scrolling down on the home page: [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2018-10-Oct/BrainPOP-Educators-icon.jpg) or in the navigation at the very bottom of the page: [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2022-01/image-1641490238996.png) # BrainPOP Science **BrainPOP Science** (Grades 6-8) empowers students to do, discuss, and analyze scientific ideas through inquiry-based investigations, virtual science and engineering experiments, and claim-evidence-reasoning processes.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are five steps to log in to BrainPOP Science. --- **Step 1:** Contact your support teacher and request a BrainPOP code. --- **Step 2:** Navigate to [BrainPOP Science.](https://www.brainpop.com/science/) Select the “Log in” button at the top right of the page, and select “I am a kid” from the drop-down menu. --- **Step 3:** Select “Have a class code?” in the bottom right of the screen. --- **Step 4:** Enter the code from your support teacher. --- **Step 5:** Select "Create Account" or "Log in"(if your teacher gave you a username and password), to access your classroom.  ### Navigation & Use Your support teacher will assign work for you to complete. Follow the instructions and complete the assignments.Assignments will be cleared on July 1st. Please take screenshots of anything you'd like to save or recreate.
# Canadian Reader The Canadian Reader (Grades 3-5) is a current events resource that combines current Canadian events and geography issues to encourage students to expand their knowledge of Canada while enhancing their ability to read and understand informational text. The magazine is published eight times a year from September to May. Each issue includes: - A focus on key reading comprehension strategies (making connections, questioning, visualizing, inferring, summarizing, and synthesizing/transforming) - Three news stories written at a level students can understand - Detailed literacy-based lesson plans, including ready-to-use graphic organizers and assessment criteria - A map assignment featuring a region of Canada highlighted in one of the articles - A non-fiction comic strip featuring background information related to one of the news stories, accompanied by a lesson plan and supporting materialThis subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging InAccess to Canadian Reader has changed. Contact your teacher to receive access to the Canadian Reader resources
### Navigation & Use Your support teacher will need to forward the documents to you. #### Magazine Formats Magazines are available in two formats: .pdf and .docx. - The .pdf file contains the complete document and cannot be changed. It has helpful information for parents and **answer keys** at the bottom of the document. - The .docx file contains only the articles and questions. Students can complete assignments directly in the .docx document using Microsoft Word or Google Docs. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-10/W3kimage.png) #### Resource Links Students resource links that co-ordinate with the current magazines can be found [here.](https://www.lesplan.com/en/links) # Currents4Kids and News4Youth These Canadian Social Studies Subscription resources (Grades 3-12) and learning tools feature weekly articles about important news stories and empower students to understand and explore current events around the world.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In Contact your support teacher and request a Currents4Kids or a News4Youth account. Next, navigate to [Currents4Kids](https://www.currents4kids.com/login) or [News4Youth](https://www.news4youth.com) and log in using the provided information. ### Navigation & Use Select "Home" from the blue bar to find the articles. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-03/TqOimage.png) Read below to learn more about the specific features offered by Currents4Kids.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are two steps to log in to the Discovery Education shared parent account. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [Discovery Education](https://app.discoveryeducation.ca/learn/signin) and select "Student." (Be careful to log in to the Canadian site .ca.) [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/nkHimage.png) --- **Step 2:** Enter the username and password for Discovery Education from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home). You may need to hand-type the username and password into Discovery Ed to log in. You do not need to set up an account to use this Subscription. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/Jw1image.png) ### Navigation & Use Watch this short video to learn more about how students can use the Discovery Education site. # Enchanted Learning Enchanted Learning (K-Grade 5) provides crafts and activities to capture the imagination while maximizing creativity, learning, and enjoyment. Their mission is to produce the best educational material, emphasizing creativity and the pure enjoyment of learning. ### Logging In There are two steps to log in to Enchanted Learning. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [Enchanted Learning](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/) and select "Login." [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/5mDimage.png) --- **Step 2:** Enter the username and password for Enchanted Learning from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home). You may find that you are not logged in the first time you try. A second attempt will usually get you into Enchanted Learning. ### Navigation & Use Use the [Site Index](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/siteindex.shtml) to view major topics(eg. **[astronomy](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/astronomy/), [geography](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/geography/), [K-3 Themes](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/themes/), [printable books](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/books/), [Spanish](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/themes/spanish.shtml), etc.)**. Students may find it easier to explore the site using the [Little Explorers Picture Dictionary](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/dictionary.shtml). To find a topic, look it up in the dictionary and click on the picture to go to a page on that picture. For example, to find the topic “dinosaurs,” go to the [D Page](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/Disfor.shtml), scroll down until you find the entry for dinosaurs, and select the dinosaur. To find an activity related to an event that happened on a particular day in history, go to the [activity calendar](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/activitycalendars/). To see newly added pages, visit the [What’s New](https://members.enchantedlearning.com/Whatsnew.shtml) section. # EVERFI EVERFI (K-Grade 12) covers digital citizenship, STEM, financial literacy, health education, and career readiness. Activities are short, relevant, and engaging. ### Logging In There are six steps to log into EVERFI. --- **Step 1:** Email our Subscriptions Facilitator, Margaret Basaraba, for the EVERFI registration code. --- **Step 2:** Navigate to [EVERFI](https://platform.everfi.net/), then select the “Register” button next to “Don’t have an account?” --- **Step 3:** Select "Student." --- **Step 4:** Enter the registration code.  --- **Step 5:** Select an age range. --- **Step 6:** Complete the form to create your account. Remember your username and password so you can log in again. ### Navigation & Use Below are the subject areas and suggested grade levels for EVERFI courses. Students can use the "Listen" option, which allows them to hear text read aloud.[Word Force](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/56?show_action_button=true&slug=homepage) is the only course available for K - 2.
##### Financial Literacy - [Vault – Understanding Money](https://everfi.com/k-12/vault-understanding-money/) (Grade 4-6) - [Venture Entrepreneurial Expedition](https://everfi.com/courses/k-12/youth-entrepreneurship-curriculum/) (Grade 7-10) - [EVERFI Financial Literacy](https://everfi.com/courses/k-12/financial-literacy-high-school/) (Grade 9-12) - [Minding Your Money](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/95?show_action_button=true&slug=homepage): Skills For Life (Gr. 9-12) - [Marketplaces: Investing Basics](https://everfi.com/offerings/listing/marketplaces-investing-basics/) (Grade 9-12) - [Crypto Foundations](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/90?show_action_button=true&slug=homepage) (Gr. 9-12) - [Data Science Foundations](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/70?show_action_button=true&slug=homepage) (Gr. 9-12) - [Data Science Exploration](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/82?show_action_button=true&slug=homepage): Financial Wellness (Gr. 9-12) - [Econ Foundations](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/98?show_action_button=true&slug=homepage): Economics For High School (Gr. 9-12) - [Keys To Your Future: College & Career Readiness](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/53?show_action_button=true&slug=catalog) (Gr. 8-12) ##### STEM - [Future Goals – Hockey Scholar](https://everfi.com/k-12/hockeyscholar/) (Gr. 4-7, Science or Math) - [Ignition – Digital Wellness and Safety](https://everfi.com/courses/ignition-digital-literacy-relaunched/) (Gr. 6-9) - [Endeavour – STEM Career Exploration](https://everfi.com/courses/endeavor-stem-career-exploration/) (Gr. 6-9) ##### Physical and Health Education - [AlcoholEdu®](https://everfi.com/k-12/alcoholedu-highschool/) (Gr. 8-12) - [Prescription Drug Safety](https://everfi.com/offerings/listing/prescription-drug-safety/) (Gr. 8-12) - [Character Playbook](https://everfi.com/offerings/listing/character-playbook/) (Gr. 6-9) - [Healthier Me – Wellness Fundamentals for Middle School](https://everfi.com/offerings/listing/healthier-wellness-fundamentals-middle-school/) (Gr. 6-8) - [Healthier Me: Intro to Wellness](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/123?show_action_button=true&slug=homepage) (Gr. 4-6) - [Honour Code – Bullying Prevention](https://everfi.com/offerings/listing/honor-code/) (Gr. 8-10) - [The Compassion Project](https://everfi.com/offerings/listing/compassion/) (2 Courses Gr. 2-4 and Gr. 4-6) - [Understanding Mental Wellness](https://everfi.com/offerings/listing/mental-wellness/) (Gr. 8-12) - [Sustainability Foundations: Ready to Recycle](https://everfi.com/courses/k-12/plants-animals-our-world/) (Gr. 5-8) - [Sustainability Foundations](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/65?show_action_button=true&slug=homepage) (Gr. 5-8) - [Sustainability Foundations: Plants, Animals, and Our World](https://platform.everfi.net/teacher/content/63?show_action_button=true&slug=homepage) (Gr. 5-8) - [WORD Force](https://everfi.com/courses/wordforce/): an Early Literacy Adventure (Gr. K-2) # Explora Canada Explora Canada (Grades 8-12) supports student research with rich, reliable content and easy-to-use functionality. It is a modern and efficient research experience designed specifically for schools and public libraries. ### Logging In Navigate to [Explora Canada](https://www.ebsco.com/products/explora). Enter the username and password for Explora from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home).Student work is **not saved** when using the shared account. Students must set up a personal account in [EBSCOhost Student folders](https://connect.ebsco.com/s/article/My-EBSCOhost-Folder-Tutorial?language=en_US) to save their research in Explora Canada.
### Navigation & Use [Research Made Easy With Explora](https://vimeo.com/191195612) video.EBSCOhost has improved its interface to make searching easier. Check out the [Explora Quick Start Guide](https://connect.ebsco.com/s/article/Explora-Quick-Start-Guide?language=en_US) for helpful articles.
Research and writing tips for students are found under “**Research Guide**” at the bottom of the left-hand menu: Here are some recommended tutorials: - [Basic Search on EBSCOhost](https://vimeo.com/355540054) - [Browsing Subject Terms in EBSCOhost Databases](https://vimeo.com/355541217) - [Advanced Search on EBSCOhost](https://vimeo.com/355538515) # Flipster Magazines Flipster Magazines (K-Grade 12) is an innovative digital magazine platform that allows easy browsing on various topics. ### Logging In Navigate to [Flipster](https://www.ebsco.com/products/flipster). Enter the username and password for Flipster Magazines from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home). You do not need to set up an account to use these magazines. ### Navigation & Use Click below to learn more about specific magazines available through this subscription.Focused Education Resources is a not-for-profit, shared services organization that supports excellence in K-12 education in British Columbia. It is a consortium of BC public school districts and independent schools that work together to create accessible learning resources for BC schools. Within Focused Education Resources is the BC Digital Classroom, which houses many of the subscriptions available to HCOS and Flex families.
Read below to learn more about the specific databases available through Gale.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are four steps to log into Gizmos. --- **Step 1:** Contact our Subscriptions Facilitator, Margaret Basaraba, through email or [Live Chat](https://tawk.to/chat/5f8e1af7f91e4b431ec5d93d/default) on regular school days from 9 am. to 3 pm. for the Gizmos class codes. --- **Step 2:** Navigate to [Gizmos](https://gizmos.explorelearning.com/) and click the "Student Login" button in the top right corner. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/lf2image.png) --- **Step 3:** Click "Have a Class Code?" [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/eJGimage.png) --- **Step 4:** Enter the class code. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/PKuimage.png)Gizmos has classrooms that students can sign into and work in independently. Student work is saved, and support teachers can log in to view progress.
### Navigation & Use Select “Launch” to begin using a Gizmos. When your Gizmo opens, you will see “Lesson Info” and the arrows to select to make the Gizmo fullscreen in the top right corner. Click your keyboard escape button to exit the fullscreen view. Selecting the “Lesson info” drop-down menu will display the student exploration sheet, which explains how to use the Gizmo. Students can type directly into the document by saving the file to their computer and then typing in either Microsoft Word or Google Docs. There are also vocabulary sheets available for student use. Assessment questions are located below the Gizmo. Exit fullscreen mode, then scroll to the bottom. Here are some suggestions for families wishing to use Gizmos with K-Grade 2 students: - [Math Gizmos for Grades-K-2](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EioqL9h0zOYA9Ry1xWU8kbc8UWb8Ig7d/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=114007751982538162537&rtpof=true&sd=true) (.docx file) - [Math Gizmos for Grades-K-2](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1N3PEmK3EToWZMvrTbg4fRu3M6GycawEl/view?usp=sharing) (.pdf file) - [Science Gizmos for Grades K-2](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zGOB_UnZZfG-lKB6NogBTTRb2arWJ1pN/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=114007751982538162537&rtpof=true&sd=true) (.docx file) - [Science Gizmos for Grades K-2](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TKiMArvokJqCOmO3BlD8Vm7EnGExhoMQ/view?usp=sharing) (.pdf file) # HearBuilder HearBuilder (K-Grade 8) is an online literacy program that provides systematic instruction in basic concepts, following directions, phonological awareness, sequencing, and auditory memory.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In Navigate to [HearBuilder](https://my.hearbuilder.com/student/login.aspx), then enter your username, password, and the login code given to you by your support teacher.HearBuilder has a limited number of seats. It is available by referral from your support teacher.
### Navigation & Use Once logged in to HearBuilder, choose one of the four programs. Select the "Home" button in the top left corner to return to the home screen. HearBuilder recommends 15 minutes per day for four to five days per week.  # KnowBC (Encyclopedia of BC) KnowBC (K-Grade 12) is BC's leading general reference site. It combines many resources, including the Encyclopedia of BC, which contains 4,000 articles and 1,000 pictures about British Columbia. The KnowBC website is accessed through Focused Education Resources and the BC Digital Classroom.Focused Education Resources is a not-for-profit, shared services organization that supports excellence in K-12 education in British Columbia. It is a consortium of BC public school districts and independent schools that work together to create accessible learning resources for BC schools. Within Focused Education Resources is the BC Digital Classroom, which houses many of the subscriptions available to HCOS and Flex families.
### Logging In There are two steps to log in to KnowBC. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [BC Digital Classroom](https://focusedresources.ca/en/district-access-iframe), then select the KnowBC icon. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/hfgimage.png) --- **Step 2:** Enter the username and password for KnowBC from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home).  ### Navigation & Use Use the search bar on the left side of the page and select “Searching KnowBC” to find a list of links for the many resources that are available to you through KnowBC. Use the green bar on the top of the home page to find the resources listed there. Use the advanced search button on the top right of the page to search multiple resources at once. # Learn360 Learn360 (K-Grade 12) is the ultimate streaming multimedia resource. Users can access 200,000 media resources, including videos, interactives, printables, audio content, maps, flags, and more. It is a powerful tool for blended instruction and project-based learning.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In Navigate to [Learn360](https://learn360.infobase.com/login), then enter the username and password for Learn360 from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home). [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/nNbimage.png)If you would like to set up a personal student account, Contact our Subscriptions Facilitator, Margaret Basaraba, through [Live Chat](https://tawk.to/chat/5f8e1af7f91e4b431ec5d93d/default) on regular school days from 9 am. to 3 pm. for the student passkey.
### Navigation & Use When you enter Learn360, you will see the main menu at the top of your screen. **Topic Centers** pull together many resources found in Learn360 for a given topic. **Bread crumbs** along the top make it easier to return to previous topics. You can simplify your search by selecting the hamburger menu (three lines) to the left of the Learn360 logo and selecting a grade range. Learn360 will use this grade range to filter as you search for new topics. You can save research information by selecting the icon next to “Hi Heritage” and then selecting “My Content” from the drop-down menu. Create a folder, give it a title, and save your items in the folder. Select the Learn360 logo to return to the home page. # Live It Earth Live It Earth (K-Grade 8) features new cross-curricular activities and challenges throughout the school year. Once a month, a live video presentation called "Feature Show" can be accessed, which is then saved to the dashboard for future use. The Live It Earth website is accessed through Focused Education Resources and the BC Digital Classroom.Focused Education Resources is a not-for-profit, shared services organization that supports excellence in K-12 education in British Columbia. It is a consortium of BC public school districts and independent schools that work together to create accessible learning resources for BC schools. Within Focused Education Resources is the BC Digital Classroom, which houses many of the subscriptions available to HCOS and Flex families.
This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are four steps to log in to Live It Earth. --- **Step 1:** Contact your support teacher and request a Live It Earth passcode. --- **Step 2:** Navigate to [BC Digital Classroom](https://focusedresources.ca/en/district-access-iframe), then select the Live It Earth icon. --- **Step 3:** Select the “Login” button. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/gfCimage.png) --- **Step 4:** Enter the passcode from your support teacher. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/Nypimage.png) ### Navigation & Use Click on the tabs at the top of the home page to access the various resources. You can toggle between English and French by using the drop-down menu at the top right corner of the page. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/hWUimage.png) # Matific Matific (K-Grade 6) is a game-based platform for building specific mathematical concepts and skills. Each episode is 5-15 minutes, engaging students in playing math games while helping them master core math concepts.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are two types of accounts: student accounts and parent accounts. #### Student Account There are three steps to log into the student account. --- **Step 1:** Contact your support teacher and request a username and password. --- **Step 2:** Navigate to [Matific](https://www.matific.ca/ca/en-ca/login-page), enter the username provided by your support teacher, then click the orange "Continue" button.  --- **Step 3:** Enter the password provided by your support teacher, then click the orange "Log in" button.  #### Parent Account There are five steps to log in to the parent account. --- **Step 1:** Email your support teacher to request and ask for your email address to be added to your child's account. You will receive an email to verify your account and set up a password. --- **Step 2:** Log in to your child’s [Matific](https://www.matific.ca/ca/en-ca/login-page/) account and click on the blue cog in the upper right corner. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/ka4image.png) --- **Step 3:** Choose “Parent” from the list of options. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/qWZimage.png) --- **Step 4:** Sign in using your parent password, then click the green "Continue" button. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/mrximage.png) --- **Step 5:** Select your child's name to see their report and progress. ### Navigation & Use Students will be given a placement test called “Pilot Training.” Students need to complete the placement test without assistance so they are placed at the appropriate level. First, students can choose to set up an avatar and a nickname. Then, students will enter Adventure Island and begin their “Pilot Training.” When they finish the placement test, they will see their Pilot Badge on the screen and begin to travel down the Adventure Island path. ##### Parent-Assigned Activities Parents can choose to assign their children's activities using the "Parent Assigned" category on the "Assigned Work" map by logging in to their parent account and following these four steps. --- **Step 1:** On the Parent Dashboard, scroll down to "Skill Performance" and select the drop-down arrow. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/lTMimage.png) --- **Step 2:** Select up to five activities by clicking the title, then clicking "Assign 5 activities." Click the "X" to close the page. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/B59image.png) --- **Step 3:** Once you have assigned work, select "Switch user" at the top of the page to return to your child's workspace. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/NW5image.png) --- **Step 4:** View the "Assigned Work" island to confirm that work is assigned (look for the green circle). As each of the assignments is completed, the number on the island will decrease. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-01/jqWimage.png) ##### Stuck on a Problem If your student is on a problem and cannot move forward, use the bookmark tab to go to the next problem. It is found on the top right corner of the page. # myBlueprint MyBlueprint (Grades 7-12) is a Career Education planner. The platform is a great asset as our students prepare for the creation of their digital portfolios and the world of work. Some of the features students will find in myBlueprint are: - **Goals:** Create goals with interactive action plans and monitor your progress. - **Who Am I:** Complete five career life assessment surveys and take compatibility surveys to explore available occupations related to personal strengths and areas of interest. - **High School:** Develop a graduation plan and map out course progress. Using the pathway eligibility box, determine eligible post-secondary programs based on the course’s input onto the grid. - **Post-Secondary:** Explore the post-secondary database of over 12,000 post-secondary programs across Canada and learn more about admission requirements. - **Occupations:** Investigate over 500 occupations in our database, determine requirements, and create a plan for the future.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are five steps to log in to myBlueprint. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [myBlueprint](http://www.myblueprint.ca/) and click the "Sign Up" button in the top right corner.  --- **Step 2:** Enter the activation key for myBlueprint from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home).  --- **Step 3:** Select "Student" for the account type.  --- **Step 4:** Select your grade level, then click on the green "Continue" button.  --- **Step 5:** Complete the form, then click on the green "Continue" button. Once your account is set up, visit [myBlueprint](https://www.myblueprint.ca/) and click the "Log In" button to enter your username/email and password. Your teacher may have done this in advance and you will be able to bypass the steps above.
### Navigation & Use The best place to start is by visiting the [Education Planner Resources](https://www.myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner) hub. There are many resources on a variety of topics, including Getting Started, Implementation & Curriculum, Exemplar Portfolios & Checklists, Lesson Plans, and Course Packages. Be sure to select "British Columbia" in the province filter box to access the resources for BC students. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/qw4image.png) Here are some selected highlights from the Education Planner Resources hub: - The [Getting Started Guide For Students](https://drive.google.com/file/d/151abwJwKW9EuxRrhxghj6JCUj64ULt5A/view) is a four-page booklet written in student-friendly language with visuals and includes a helpful checklist of everything needed to get started on myBlueprint. - The [Getting Started Guide for Family](https://www.myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner/1vSP1XvhVCwa4uQSicWOMS/) provides parents and guardians with a step-by-step explanation of creating a Family account, linking it with a student, and exploring its features. - The [Education Planner Videos](https://myblueprint.ca/support/videos/education-planner) for quick help in using each step. #### Career and Life Assessment Surveys The ["Who Am I?" video](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/video%20explains%20the%20five%20career%20and%20life%20assessment%20surveys.) explains how students can use the five career and life assessment surveys. #### Year At A Glance The Year at a Glance documents offer a month-by-month breakdown of learning goals, student activities, and valuable resources for successfully implementing the Education Planner for Grade 7-12 students. Click the links below to access the resources for each grade level: - - ##### [Year at a Glance 7](https://www.myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner/3ZFKxKCnbOcGUeiYo0Ekqc/) - ##### [Year at a Glance 8](https://myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner/4OjprqQflYq4mmicKuWimk/) - ##### [Career Ed 8 Course Package](https://myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner/4yQdD64cMwoqKkUwWuSGOi/) - ##### [Year at a Glance 9 ](https://myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner/1pwS4dOsYosQA40K6soqCm/) - ##### [Career Ed 9 Course Package ](https://myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner/5CilyMDNPUee2QIW24Wqkm/) - ##### [Year at a Glance 10](https://www.myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner/3oW99OWI6cU4EsoIuu2uui/) - ##### [Year at a Glance 11](https://www.myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner/WHk7Jdvj420SUMWiyYk84/) - ##### [Year at a Glance 12](https://www.myblueprint.ca/support/resources/education-planner/2ray6HSJxyEUCy4giCGUcu/) #### Beyond Graduation When students reach the end of their Grade 12 year and are ready to graduate, myBlueprint will prompt them to update the email on their account from a school email to a personal one. Adding a personal email will ensure that students will retain full access to their myBlueprint accounts **free of charge** after graduation.According to their [Privacy Policy](https://myblueprint.ca/privacy#:~:text=Prior%20to%20the,with%20that%20account.), myBlueprint will delete accounts that have been inactive for more than 24 months. Before deletion, students will be notified via email to prompt them to log in to their accounts to keep access. If they do so, the 24-month window resets. If the student still does not log in, the account will be deleted.
# Mystery Science [Mystery Science](https://mysteryscience.com/r1) (K-Grade 5) contains hands-on, low-prep, easy-to-use activities to engage students in learning the "doing" of science and engineering. There are three levels for families to choose from: - **Mini-Lessons** are for families on the go looking for quick lessons. (5-15 minutes per week) - **Core Lessons** are for families who enjoy hands-on science learning. (40-60 minutes per week) - **Anchor Layer** is for families who want to dive deep and thoroughly explore science topics (60-120 minutes per week).This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In First, select which mysteries you want to use by visiting the [Mystery Science Lessons by Grade Level](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1OwvEj_5MGI_acI1Op4ZB9pm-bfJ0-71x6lxMjfL_xZc/edit?gid=271366565#gid=271366565) spreadsheet. The previous link also contains the titles of the "Mini-Mysteries" which are each about five minutes long. You may also find it useful to select your mysteries from the [Mystery Science Year Plan](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1JKbJqnp5nfRuRC2gtkeRutDXBGAKsJif51Oen3wkCiE/edit?gid=1907475162#gid=1907475162). Once you have selected your lessons, email your support teacher with the lesson names to receive a student link. ### Navigation & Use For information about getting started, visit the [Mystery Science – Getting Started](https://mysteryscience.com/getting-started) hub. [Mystery Doug](https://mysterydoug.com/) is a weekly video series from the creators of Mystery Science that inspires students to ask questions! It’s the perfect five-minute break for morning meetings, snack time, or any transitions in your day. Mystery Doug can also be found on [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@MysterySci). #### Purchasing Access to Mystery Science Families can sign up for a paid account through the HCOS purchasing department at a cost of $99.00 USD. Mystery Science offers discounts on homeschool memberships during their early April and August sales of about $69.00 USD. If parents purchase an account in Mystery Science and their teacher sends them a link, it will not open if the parent is signed in to their purchased account. Parents will need to sign out and clear their browser cache before clicking the link sent by the teacher. Parents do not need to log in to be able to open the link. # National Film Board Education The NFB Education (K- Grade 12) includes creative documentaries, animation, interactive stories, and participatory experiences. Their mission is to provide new perspectives on Canada and the world from Canadian points of view that serve Canadian and global audiences through an imaginative exploration of who we are and what we may be. The National Film Board website is accessed through Focused Education Resources and the BC Digital Classroom.Focused Education Resources is a not-for-profit, shared services organization that supports excellence in K-12 education in British Columbia. It is a consortium of BC public school districts and independent schools that work together to create accessible learning resources for BC schools. Within Focused Education Resources is the BC Digital Classroom, which houses many of the subscriptions available to HCOS and Flex families.
### Logging In #### The Education Menu There is no longer a username and password to enter the Education Menu. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [BC Digital Classroom](https://focusedresources.ca/en/district-access-iframe), then select the National Film Board icon.  --- #### The Media School Media school is for teachers and students aged 13+. Logging in is required. **Step 1:** Navigate to [BC Digital Classroom](https://focusedresources.ca/en/district-access-iframe), then select the National Film Board icon.  **Step 2:** Select "Sign In" from the left menu bar. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-10/oBVimage.png) **Step 3:** Select "Create your NFB account." [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-10/s6rimage.png) **Step 4:** Set up your account. - Create your password. - Select the box "I have read and agree to the NFB Privacy Policy." - Select "Sign up." [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-10/FyAimage.png) The next time you log in go to nfb.ca. and select "Sign in" from the menu on the left. ### Navigation & Use Select “Education” from the menu on the left of the page.  Select “More Resources” from the top menu bar. Then select “Professional Development” from the drop-down menu. **[Digital Storytelling](https://www.nfb.ca/education/mediaschool/)** is an introductory workshop on media production. Students can navigate through videos and interactive activities related to the different stages of film production. They will acquire the tools to create digital stories and dynamic videos using accessible equipment (e.g., smartphones, software). [Ocean School](https://www.nfb.ca/education/oceanschool/) is an environmental resource that aims to create a generation of ocean-literate citizens. A team of educators and scientists take learners on a global aquatic expedition that provides the knowledge and tools to produce innovative solutions to the world’s oceans' growing challenges. [Mini-Lessons](https://bit.ly/3JpFyFj) are set up within school subjects and recommended age groups. They include an educational synopsis, overarching questions, activities, short films, historical context, and online resources. [Educational Playlists](https://www.nfb.ca/education/educational-playlists/) are selections of films on curricular themes which address the important issues of the day. Many of the playlists are also linked to the study guides. [NFB Study Guides ](https://www.nfb.ca/education/guides/?page=1)are designed to facilitate the integration of films into student learning. Study guides are written by Canadian educators and are designed to be a starting point for creating personalized lesson plans. #### Difficulties streaming a film? Please update your browser if the player window does not appear on the film page. If you still cannot see the film player, please get in touch with Margaret Basaraba through [LiveChat](https://tawk.to/chat/5f8e1af7f91e4b431ec5d93d/default) on school days from 9 am. to 3 pm. She will need to know your browser type and version, and if you are trying to watch our films on a school network or via a proxy server. If you can see the player but can’t play the film you wish to view, please check whether you experience the same problem when viewing other films or the same film at a different resolution. The player window should automatically adapt the quality to your connection quality, but you can also choose your quality level. If you experience this problem with only one film, please contact Margaret Basaraba with the film's name and the resolution setting so the National Film Board team can investigate further. If you experience this problem with all films, please upgrade your browser and/or use a different internet browser (e.g., Safari, Firefox, Chrome). If the film you are trying to watch starts and stops, try selecting a lower resolution for video playback. Using a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi and reducing the traffic on your network (e.g., downloading other files simultaneously) may also improve playback. # National Geographic Kids National Geographic Kids (K-Grade 7) is a children's magazine published by the National Geographic Society. It is a one-stop shop for elementary and middle school students interested in the cultural or natural world. The National Geographic Kids website is accessed through Focused Education Resources and the BC Digital Classroom.Focused Education Resources is a not-for-profit, shared services organization that supports excellence in K-12 education in British Columbia. It is a consortium of BC public school districts and independent schools that work together to create accessible learning resources for BC schools. Within Focused Education Resources is the BC Digital Classroom, which houses many of the subscriptions available to HCOS and Flex families.
### Logging In There are two steps to log in to National Geographic Kids. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [BC Digital Classroom](https://focusedresources.ca/en/district-access-iframe), then select the National Geographic Kids icon. --- **Step 2:** Enter the username and password for National Geographic Kids from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home).  ### Navigation & Use National Geographic has magazines, books, videos, and pictures. Headings on the site can be changed to different languages through the drop-down menu at the top right of the page. The language and font size of articles can be changed in the menu above the article. Articles can be cited, downloaded, saved, and printed. Advanced Search can be used to make your search more specific. # PebbleGo and PebbleGo Next PebbleGo and PebbleGo Next (K-Grade 5) are searchable databases covering animals, science, biographies, social studies, and health. It is a fantastic tool to build basic research skills. **PebbleGo** (K-Grade 3) has built-in reading and research tools such as levelled texts, consistent navigation, fun educational games, and spoken-word audio that models correct pronunciation and fluency. **PebbleGo Next** (Grades 3-5) provides curriculum-connected articles designed for intermediate-aged students.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In Use the PebbleGo link in the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home). ### Navigation & Use Visit the [Resources Centre](https://www.pebblego.com/resources) to locate videos, lesson plans, and content maps. PebbleGo and PebbleGo Next use visual navigation tools. Users can search by either typing into the search bar or clicking on the bread crumb pictures underneath the search bar. Selecting any of the pictures will take you back to that specific page. Students can choose to play games or answer the question of the day. PebbleGo and PebbleGo Next also include assistive technology. Hover your mouse over headings in to hear them read aloud. Articles are read aloud by selecting the arrow at the article's beginning. Select highlighted words to read or hear the definition. Once students have chosen an article, a new bar appears at the bottom of the page with several options. # ProQuest (Historical BC Newspapers) ProQuest (Historical BC newspapers) (Grades 8-12) includes over 365 million pages of world-class collections, 325 years of historical periodical content, and 350 years of global, national, and regional newspapers. ProQuest gives researchers access to more than 125 years of the historical archives of The Province (1894-2010), the Vancouver Sun (1912-2010), and the Times-Colonist (1884 -2010), including in-depth insights into how stories and perspectives evolved over the decades. Students can review primary source material through local and regional stories, events, and people. ProQuest is accessed through Focused Education Resources and the BC Digital Classroom.Focused Education Resources is a not-for-profit, shared services organization that supports excellence in K-12 education in British Columbia. It is a consortium of BC public school districts and independent schools that work together to create accessible learning resources for BC schools. Within Focused Education Resources is the BC Digital Classroom, which houses many of the subscriptions available to HCOS and Flex families.
#### Logging In There are two steps to log in to ProQuest. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [BC Digital Classroom](https://focusedresources.ca/en/district-access-iframe), then select the ProQuest icon.  --- **Step 2:** Enter the username and password for ProQuest from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home).  ### Navigation & Use To begin using ProQuest, you must accept cookies at the bottom of the page. Until you do this, the homepage is grayed out. You can search for Historical BC Newspapers using a basic or advanced search. You can also search by publications or databases. You can see in the picture below that you are searching three databases. In the advanced search, you can limit your search by source, document type, and language after entering your search terms. Once you have started a search, you can return to the home page by clicking on the ProQuest logo at the top left. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-04/WZCimage.png) Select the hamburger menu (three lines) and choose “All Databases (5)” from the drop-down menu. You can also access the Support Center by clicking the button at the bottom of this menu.  # Reading Eggs, Fast Phonics, & Reading Eggspress Reading Eggs (K-Grade 7) focuses on a core phonics and sight words curriculum using skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success. **Reading Eggs** (K-Grade 2) makes learning to read interesting and engaging for kids with great online reading games and activities. Games, songs, golden eggs, and other rewards motivate students to keep exploring and learning as they build foundational literacy skills. **Reading Eggspress** (Grades 2-7) is designed for older readers and provides a unique and effective learning environment. It focuses on building reading fluency and comprehension, spelling and vocabulary, and writing skills, including grammar and punctuation, in an exciting and relevant way. Teachers can assign a read-aloud activity via Reading Eggspress assignments. Students record themselves reading for one minute in a stress-free environment of their choice. Teachers can then remotely listen to these recordings, assess fluency and provide personalized, constructive feedback on student performance. **Fast Phonics** (K-Grade 5) is an online synthetic phonics program where children learn essential phonics skills, including letter‑sound recognition, blending, and spelling. Children explore fun activities, decodable reading books, and meet lovable characters like the Reading Eggs Yeti.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are three steps to log in to Reading Eggs, Reading Eggspress, or Fast Phonics. --- **Step 1:** Contact your support teacher and request login information. --- **Step 2:** Navigate to [Reading Eggs](https://readingeggs.ca/) and select your desired subscription, then click the blue "Login" button in the top right corner. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/Aj8image.png) --- **Step 3:** Enter the login information from your support teacher. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/keoimage.png) ### Navigation & Use Here are some helpful videos to review during the initial start-up process: You can also review more [tutorial video content](https://support.3plearning.com/distance-teaching-resources/#reading-eggs) on the Reading Eggs site or try a [sample lesson](https://readingeggspress.com/about/sample-lesson/) in Reading Eggspress. [Reading Eggs printable library](https://readingeggs.ca/free-resources/). [Teacher resource pack](https://go.edmentum.com/NzgwLU5SQy0zMzkAAAGGULYUDJlg3jNR2xtksQ1BBWclO2W1P_IS9Wqb05NVB1PlYbGDUBL98K2hgtqyzKzJcFp93Ns=) [Worksheet bundles](https://info.edmentum.com/Volume-2-Worksheet-Bundles_Downloads.html) If you would like to share your student's reading progress with your support teacher, consider using a voice recorder (e.g., [Vocaroo](https://vocaroo.com/)) and sharing the file.Please preview content before using it with your students, especially in Reading Eggspress, as there may be secular content. These books are optional and are not required reading. Families are advised to actively check texts to make choices that align with their family’s values.
#### Additional Learning Opportunities**** **Story Factory (Less****ons** **11+)** invites students to practice writing skills and storytelling by creating their own storybooks. Students can save their books to My House for later rereading or submit them to a weekly contest. **Reggie’s Shop Arcade (Lessons 7+) and My House (Lessons 11+)** motivate learners by awarding Golden Eggs to celebrate their learning achievements. In Reggie’s Shop, students can cash in their Golden Eggs to decorate their house or dress their avatars. In the Arcade, students can also spend their Golden Eggs and play educational games. **Spelling Skills Bank (Lessons 41+)** incorporates lessons that test spelling strategies, including word structure, word families, meaning, segmentation, phonics, and repetition to build spelling knowledge. **Puzzle Park** **(Lessons 41+)** allows students to experience brain-stretching puzzles that reinforce comprehension, high-frequency sight word knowledge, vocabulary development, and problem-solving. **Driving Tests (Lessons 41+)** assess reading skills such as high-frequency sight words, phonics skills, and vocabulary. Students are rewarded with an exciting racing game when they answer questions correctly. **Storylands (Lessons 61+) **focuses on expanding vocabulary and building comprehension skills using activities, levelled texts, and a comprehension quiz in each lesson. #### Troubleshooting - Refresh your page. - Ensure you have a strong internet connection. - Ensure you access the Reading Eggs via the internet address bar and not through shortcuts or bookmarks. - Delete your browsing history (temporary internet files/cache/cookies), as your computer may continually memorize the same error. Google “clear cache” and choose your browser for instructions. - Upgrade to [Google Chrome](http://www.google.com/chrome). - Investigate whether you have a parental lock or anti-virus software blocking the site. Ensure the following URLs are on your safe list: - readingeggs.com - readingeggspress.com - student.readingeggspress.com # RightNow Media RightNow Media (K-Grade 12) is a video library of Bible study topics for students of all ages, including a "Just for Kids" section.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In Find the login link under the Subs/Password tab on [the Search Portal.](https://hcs.insigniails.com/Library/Subscriptions) Follow the instructions to set up an account. ### Navigation & Use Select the "Browse" button in the top left corner to get a quick idea of what is available. Once on the "Browse" page, you can refine your search by selecting the "Advanced Search" button at the far right. Assistive technology options include "audio only" and picture-in-picture settings. You can find RightNow Media Kids by selecting the "Kids" button in the top left corner. Select the logo at any time to return to the homepage. Explore the [RightNow Media Roadmaps](https://www.rightnowmedia.org/roadmaps) for in-depth ideas on how to implement a year-round Christian Studies curriculum. # TeachingBooks TeachingBooks (K-Grade12) is an online database that explores children’s books and young adult literature. The database provides access to additional materials (e.g., short movies, audio book readings, book discussion guides) to enhance learning, including the following features: - Meet authors and illustrators with exclusive movies and recordings - Experience thousands of read-along audiobook performances - Hear authors pronounce and tell the stories of their names - Enjoy almost 2,000 complete book recordings - Explore book trailers, Meet-the-Author recordings, and more - Support assignments about books and author studies - Find the right book for you (Reader’s Advisory) ### Logging In Navigate to [TeachingBooks](https://www.teachingbooks.net/signin.cgi#t_student), then enter the username and password for TeachingBooks from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home).  ### Navigation & Use TeachingBooks can also be accessed through Sora. TeachingBooks has [Early Childhood Resources](https://school.teachingbooks.net/show.cgi?f=early_childhood_resources) available for parents. These include book suggestions, printables, instructional supports, timely topics, and ready-to-use ideas. Digital Escape rooms are a fun way to engage students and enhance learning. Navigate to [Digital Escape Rooms](https://school.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?lid=12739), then select a book title from the list. Scroll down to select "Book Guides, Activities, and Lessons." Scroll down the next page to the Digital Escape Room button. Games include [Book Cover Jigsaw Puzzles](https://school.teachingbooks.net/jigsawpuzzle.cgi), [Book Description Word Search](https://school.teachingbooks.net/wordsearch.cgi), [Concentration](https://school.teachingbooks.net/wordsearch.cgi), and [Author/Illustrator Name Game](https://school.teachingbooks.net/show.cgi?f=instruct/ANPquiz). Fluent French and Spanish speakers may wish to use [French Language Resources](https://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?adv=title&go=1&curriculum=FRN) or [Spanish Language Resources](https://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?adv=title&go=1&curriculum=SPAN). Please note these resources are not for French or Spanish language learners. # Touch-type Read & Spell Touch-type Read and Spell (TTRS) (Grades 3-12) is a typing course that is a highly accessible, multi-sensory course that teaches touch-typing, reading, and spelling at the same time. TTRS has 24 levels, each with 31 modules. Modules contain words organized into groups of spelling patterns. Students practice typing these patterns using the correct fingering for touch-typing. At the end of every four modules, there is a dictation module to reinforce patterns previously practiced. The keyboard and screen can be customized for sensory comfort and support. This course is designed for students who also have difficulty synthesizing phonemes. Engaging the skill of touch-typing aims to provide an additional avenue of learning. It is an excellent resource for students challenged by dyslexia.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are three steps to log in to TTRS. --- **Step 1:** Complete the TTRS request form found in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/Library/Subscriptions). --- **Step 2:** Wait for an email from Subscriptions Coordinator Margaret Basaraba with a username and password. --- **Step 3:** Navigate to [TTRS](https://www.ttrsonline.com/Account/LogOn) and enter the username and password from Margaret.If you are a Flex family don't use the steps above. Navigate to [TTRS](http://www.ttrsonline.com) and enter the username and password that your Flex teacher has given you.
### Navigation & Use Once you have logged in to the dashboard, you will see a bar at the top to access the TTRS main course, including statistics, subjects, messages, settings, notifications, and your profile information. The Subjects tab allows students to practice words within specific areas of interest (e.g., Art, Fitness, Gaming, Music, GCSE Religious Education through Christianity) or English Language Arts content (e.g., spelling, grammar, parts of speech). [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-05/rWgimage.png)Parents are encouraged to preview [age range suggestions for subjects](https://help.ttrsonline.com/en/articles/767816-reading-and-spelling-ages#:~:text=and%20spelling%20ages-,US%20Subjects,-TTRS%20Subject) to be sure the subjects chosen are age appropriate.
Visit the [TTRS Help Centre](http://help.ttrsonline.com/en/articles/423721-settings) for more information on adjusting settings. It may also be helpful to download this printable [daily checklist](https://www.readandspell.com/sites/default/files//Checklist_print_0.pdf) to keep track of progress. #### Turning Audio Off The default setting is for TTRS to read the words that are being typed. The audio track accompanies the letters as they appear on screen reinforcing sound-letter correspondence, which is a crucial skill for sounding out words in reading. If you wish to turn the audio off, select "Settings" from the top menu bar. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-05/U4kimage.png) Next, click on "Audio Setting" from the left menu bar. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-05/HGJimage.png) Toggle the "Play word audio" button off, then click the green "Apply Changes" button on the left of the screen. You may also want to turn off "Announce Spacebar," and "Training. The" Announce module praise" feature gives a brief amount of applause as students finish a module. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-05/0DLimage.png) #### Finding Reports Select the "My Stats" tab to see how your student is doing. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-05/gumimage.png) The next page to load will show you the reports from the "Main Course." If your student is working in the "Subjects" area of the course, you will need to select "Subjects" to see those reports. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-05/5M6image.png) # Twig Science Twig Science (Grades 6-10) is an interactive science program that immerses students in the exciting world of science and natural phenomena. It has thousands of short videos covering math and science, plus 80+ hands-on experiments. The Twig Science website is accessed through Focused Education Resources and the BC Digital Classroom.Focused Education Resources is a not-for-profit, shared services organization that supports excellence in K-12 education in British Columbia. It is a consortium of BC public school districts and independent schools that work together to create accessible learning resources for BC schools. Within Focused Education Resources is the BC Digital Classroom, which houses many of the subscriptions available to HCOS and Flex families.
### Logging In There are two steps to log in to Twig Science. --- **Step 1:** Navigate to [BC Digital Classroom](https://focusedresources.ca/en/district-access-iframe), then select the Twig Science icon. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/Eb0image.png) --- **Step 2:** Enter the username and password for Twig Science from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home).  ### Navigation & Use Using the main menu, users can explore Twig Science resources by subject. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-05/eSrimage.png) Click the "Find videos" button on the top right corner to access the drop-down menu to select how you would like to use Twig Science. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-05/aTpimage.png) #### Mindmaps and Twig Videos There are many different types of Twig videos available for Science and Math. Select "Mind Maps" from the drop-down menu and select a topic. Each heading branches into more specific headings as you narrow your search. - **Experiment Videos** are a series of short videos that show actual experiments in lab conditions. Setup, Method and Analysis are shown, along with real-world applications of the science, all accompanied by extensive learning materials. - **Curriculum Videos** get straight to the facts in just three minutes. They are directly linked to core learning, and these videos will fit neatly into your lesson plans. Top tip: These videos sit in the larger circles in the center of each topic Mindmap. - **Context Videos** place learning in the real world and show students the relevance of their studies. Twig’s context videos show abstract concepts in action in the real world. Top tip: Context videos sit in smaller circles around the edge of the topic Mindmap. - **Science Glossary Videos** contain key scientific terms that are defined in just 60 seconds and reinforce abstract concepts. Top tip: Related glossary videos are in the Glossary tab underneath the video player. # Twig Science Reporter Twig Science Reporter (K - 8) is a weekly science news service. The brainchild of Twig Education and Imperial College London, it has been created to help families connect science lessons with real-world news. ### Logging In 1. Enter [Focused Education.](https://focusedresources.ca/en/district-access-iframe) 2. Scroll down to the "Twig" icon at the bottom of the page and select it.[](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-11/image.png) 3. Select "sign up for free." [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-11/dTOimage.png) 4\. Fill in the form. Fill in the form using "Central Okanagan #23" as your school district and "Heritage Christian Online School" as your school. Select finish. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-11/aSvimage.png) 5\. To continue to your account, select the "skip" button at the bottom of the page. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/Mvmimage.png) Alternatively, you can also go to YouTube and subscribe to this [link.](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/youtube.com/@ImagineLearningChannel) This gives you access to many of the Twig Science Reporters' videos from Imagine Learning. Scroll down after using the link. ### Navigation & UseHCOS Enrolled students who wish to receive teacher-guided instruction in Tynker can email Mr Mark Lamden for more information about enrolling in the online ADST: Leveled Coding module. Check with your support teacher for Mr Lamden's contact information.
Tynker courses include: - Icon coding 7-Course Pack, Space Cadet and Dragon Spells, Programming 1A and 1B - Programming 100, 300, Barbie, You Can Be Anything - Programming 101, 102, 201, 202, 301, 302 - JavaScript, Python, Web Development 101 - Drones 101, WeDo Coding, Augmented Reality, micro: bit 101 and MicroPython 101This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In There are eight steps to log in to Tynker. --- **Step 1:** Email Margaret Basaraba for help setting up an account. If your students already have a Tynker account, email Margaret Basaraba to ask for additional classes to be added to their account. --- **Step 2:** Navigate to [Tynker](https://www.tynker.com) and select "Log In" from the top right corner. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-01/t5mimage.png) --- **Step 3:** Select "Student." [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-01/nK7image.png) --- **Step 4:** Enter the username and password provided by Margaret, then click the orange "Log in" button. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-01/Qklimage.png) --- **Step 5:** Select "school" from the drop-down menu by the Tynker logo. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/wUFimage.png) --- **Step 6:** Select the "join a class" button. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/2vTimage.png) --- **Step 7:** Enter the class code provided by Margaret. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/D7zimage.png) --- **Step 8:** Select the course you wish to enter by clicking on the picture. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-01/E0Qimage.png) ### Navigation & Use Watch this short video to learn more about how students can use Tynker. Additional video tutorials are available at the [Tynker Support Centre](https://www.tynker.com/support/videos). #### Completing Lessons Each lesson will be brightly lit up before it has been completed. There will be many steps inside of the lesson to complete it. Select the picture to open the lesson. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/GU2image.png) As each lesson is completed, it will be grayed out. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/yIeimage.png) As you start each lesson you will see locks on each of the parts of the lesson that are not completed. Tynker will move you through each of these steps. When the lesson is complete, all the locks will be gone, and only numbers will remain. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/6Sximage.png) To log out during a lesson, select "Replay." Go to the top right and select "log out." [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/GfZimage.png) A progress bar will appear if you have only partly completed a lesson. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/6Roimage.png) Students can repeat previous parts of a lesson by selecting an earlier number. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/XPhimage.png) Students can move forward to a new lesson by selecting the gray arrow by the Tynker logo in the top left corner. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/I1Jimage.png) All of the numbers will be shown when a lesson is complete. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-05/fGnimage.png) Sound can be turned off by selecting the three dots at the top right corner and then toggling the "Sound" switch. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2023-01/ehaimage.png) # What in the World? What in the World? (Grades 5-10) is a current events resource that enhances understanding of current Canadian and international events. The magazine is published eight times a year from September to May. Each issue includes: - Four news articles - Relevant background information to enhance understanding of each event or issue - On-the-line, between-the-line, and beyond-the-line questions - Assignment to analyze a political cartoon and examine a news photo - Crossword and quizzesThis subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging InAccess to "What in the World?" magazine has changed. Contact your teacher to receive access to the "What in the World?" resources.
### Navigation & Use Your support teacher will need to forward the documents to you. #### Magazine Formats Magazines are available in two formats: .pdf and .docx. - The .pdf file contains the complete document and cannot be changed. It has helpful information for parents and **answer keys** at the bottom of the document. - The .docx file contains only the articles and questions. Students can complete assignments directly in the .docx document using Microsoft Word or Google Docs. [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-10/VUcimage.png) - The Maps pdf has printable maps that co-ordinate with the stories found in the magazines. There are answer keys included in this document. #### Resource Links Students resource links that co-ordinate with the current magazines can be found [here.](https://www.lesplan.com/en/links) # World Book World Book (K-Grade 12) is the leading online encyclopedia. The website is accessed through Focused Education Resources and the BC Digital Classroom.Focused Education Resources is a not-for-profit, shared services organization that supports excellence in K-12 education in British Columbia. It is a consortium of BC public school districts and independent schools that work together to create accessible learning resources for BC schools. Within Focused Education Resources is the BC Digital Classroom, which houses many of the subscriptions available to HCOS and Flex families.
Click below to learn more about the specific features offered by World Book.This subscription is not available to HCOS Registered students.
### Logging In Navigate to [World Watch News](https://login.worldnewsgroup.com/), then enter the username and password for World Watch News from the Subs/Passwords tab in the [Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Home). (Use your Encom username and password to log in.) [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-06/knKimage.png) ### Navigation & Use Download the [World Watch News app](https://worldwatch.news/app) on your preferred streaming service.  World Watch News uses Vimeo to play videos. If your content blocker is not allowing you to view their pages, you may need to add Vimeo as a trusted site. If you would like to receive daily email reminders, Scroll to the bottom of the home page and select “Add an email address” to sign up for automatic emails. # Unit Study Kits Unit Study Kits are a carefully researched compilation of reading and listening resources, curated subscriptions, and choice-based activities based on BC's curriculum's Big Ideas and Core and Curricular Competencies. Learners will engage in questioning, researching, discussing, exploring, creating, reflecting, and designing as they interact with these engaging activities and topics while inquiring about the world around them. This short video will help you get started with Unit Study Kits on the [Learning Commons website](https://learningcommons.ca/unit-kits/).In fall 2024, we pulled the physical Gr 7 - 9 Unit Study Kit Guides from the website until they can be updated. If you need to access these Guides, please reach out to the Learning Commons team via Live Chat accessible at [www.learningcommons.ca](https://www.learningcommons.ca). If you are using a guide and find that a link does not work, please contact Rachael by email at
Digital Unit Study Kits are available to all HCOS students.
#### Physical Unit Study Kits Physical Unit Study Kits can be booked through the [Learning Commons Search Portal](https://hcs.insigniails.com/LibrarySAML/Kiosk?type=kiosk&libraryID=0001&v=938&at=1726846662216). When you order a physical kit from the Learning Commons, you will be mailed an assortment of physical books to accompany your learning. The kit will be shipped to your home, and HCOS will send a courier to pick it up after use.Physical Unit Study Kits are available to HCOS-enrolled students only.
#### Unit Study Kit Guides All HCOS Unit Study Kits guides use eBooks, audiobooks, and subscriptions linked directly within the kit guides. **Blended Guides** are available for all K-Grade 6 kits. Blended guides are digital documents with fully clickable links. K-6 kits are available in digital and physical formats, but both types of kits use the same blended guide. **Digital and Physical Guides** are available for Grades 7-9 kits. You will still need to access the digital guide to utilize clickable links when using a physical kit. Families using physical kits can still select digital books to enhance their learning.Blended Guide | Digital Guide | Physical Guide | Physical Book Pack | |
Kindergarten to Grade 5 | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Grade 6 Social Studies | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Grade 6 Science | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Grades 7-9 | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
We are in the process of creating updated blended guides for Grade 6 Unit Study Kits.
#### French Unit Study Kits These kits have been written for students in grades 5 - 9 but can also be used for older students. They provide reading and viewing content as well as offering listening, speaking and writing suggestions. Any work completed by students should be shared with their support or course teacher for evaluation. They are intended to be supplementary in nature and will not cover all aspects of Core French, especially conversational components. These kits can be found on our [website](https://learningcommons.ca/unit-kits/) by selecting "French" in the subjects filter: [](https://sophie.onlineschool.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-11/fgmimage.png) **Watch the video below to learn more about how to use French Kits:** 0:25 - 0:45 Receiving and reviewing physical books from the Learning Commons 1:08 - 1:12 Table of Contents - components of each kit 1:12 - 1:41 Vocabulary 1:42 - 3:39 Reading 3:40 - 4:14 Post-reading Questions 4:15 - 4:49 Reference book activity ideas 4:50 - 5:24 Comic Book Activity suggestions 5:25 - 5:56 Videos and Music 5:57 - 6:14 BrainPOP suggested videos 6:15 - 6:49 Writing Project Ideas 6:50 - 7:30 Speaking and Conversation Ideas 7:31 - 8:04 Reflection 8:05 - 8:13 Standards**\*\*If there is a sale with a percentage off coupon (i.e. thanks10), it must be entered as the FIRST coupon before the HCOS PO coupon to receive the discount.**
#### 5\. Click Apply Coupon - the total should show the discount after the coupon is applied. 6\. If the HCOS PO coupon is used to pay, the total will show as zero. The discount amount will not show but has been applied. 7\. Choose your shipping method: - Shipping is free if you have an order of 3 items or more from the Learning Commons library booked within 3 weeks of your purchase. Let us know when you have booked your LC items so we can include purchases. Email Kelly Wiebe atIt is your responsibility to ensure you are purchasing the correct edition or volume needed.
#### Returns & Refunds We do not offer returns or refunds but will issue a credit if an item is not working (e.g., CD, DVD). # Visiting the Physical Learning Commons **Pick ups/Drop offs** -The physical Learning Commons in Kelowna is open Monday – Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. **Browsing Resources** - You can browse the curriculum and used book store anytime, but the main library conducts classes. Call or email to find the best time to come; after 3:00 p.m. is usually fine. Email Kelly Wiebe at