Our Learning Commons offers students a variety of programs, clubs and services to enhance literacy and learning. Speak to a member of our staff for more information.
| Name of Program or Service | Description |
| 3D Printer |
What? Our Learning Commons has a 3D printer for use on class assignments, design contests, and general interest projects. In June, 2017 we wrapped up our "ND Branded Phone Stand - 3D Printer Contest". There were six excellent final submissions, all very different designs; all very creative and functional. Who? Any student wishes to use the 3D printer should speak to a member of the Learning Commons staff.
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| Accelerated Reader Progra |
What? An accelerated reader program is provided and administered by the Learning Commons or Library. An additional orientation session is provided to Grade 9 students, outlining how the Accelerated Reader program works and offers strategies for making wise book choices. A STAR reading assessment is done with every accelerated reader student in order to determine their reading level as they must read books that fall within this level for the Accelerated Reader program. For a list of available novels and their quizzes, please go online to www.arbookfind.com
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| Board Games |
What? We offer a variety of board games for students to use during your free time at Notre Dame. We have Connect Four, Battleship, backgammon, and Monopoly. An unofficial chess group has sprung up in the Learning Commons, usually during our two lunch periods. Who? Games are available to all students. Our only rule: Please clean up when you are finished. |
| Forest of Reading |
What? Forest of Reading is an Ontario Reading program which promotes the reading for enjoyment of the best of Canadian young adult fiction. A celebration is hosted by one of our Durham Catholic District School Board secondary schools in May of each year. White the Battle of the White Pine Books is hosted in May by our local Durham Public Libraries. Who? This program is available to students in Grades 9 - 12. When? This program is offered in Semester 2.
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| Maker Space |
What? The Maker Space room is located in the Learning Commons and can be booked for students interested in creating something such as robotics, computer programming, knitting, crafting, etc. Our "Notre Dame Television" (NDTV) uses the Maker Space as their filming studio with a teleprompter and news desk. NDTV published about 5 newscasts this year which were very professionally produced and shown to all homerooms. Who? The room is available for all students. Please speak to our staff to book the Maker Space room in advance. |
| Reach for the Top |
What? Test your trivia knowledge! This game-show style game is played in teams of four. Be the first to buzz in with a correct answer and earn 10 points for your team. Who? Notre Dame as a junior team (Grades 9 and 10) and a senior team (Grades 11, 12). When? Reach for the Top practices at least once a week starting in early September. Our initial tournament is a two-day event at Durham College/UOIT in February. The best teams move on to a regional final, with the seniors having a change to play in the provincial tournament.
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| Stationary Stop |
What? Do you need school supplies such as Bristol board, writing implements, page protectors, a calculator, glue stick, white-out, or a highlighter? Where? Come to our Learning Commons and we can help. Our prices are very reasonable. |
