About the Course
Course Outline
Students are also given opportunities to further develop their scientific investigation skills. Students will plan and conduct investigations and develop their understanding of scientific theories related to the connections between cells and systems in animals and plants; chemical reactions, with a particular focus on acid–base reactions; forces that affect climate and climate change; and the interaction of light and matter.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 9, Academic or Applied
Module 1 Overview: Tissues, Organs, And Systems Of Living Things
Guiding Question:What is the definition of life? Why is learning about biology important?
In this module, you will analyze some of the current technologies or medical treatments that have an impact on human tissues, organs, and systems and evaluate their effects on human health. You will also learn and assess the ethics of using these technologies and treatments in society. You will carry out investigations on cell division, cell specialization, and the organization of systems in plants and animals, including humans, using various laboratory techniques. You will gain an understanding of the biological levels of organization from tissues, to organs, to systems in animals and plants, including humans and frogs.
Module 2 Overview: Chemistry
Guiding Question:What are safety and environmental issues associated with chemical reactions, including the ways in which chemical reactions can be applied to address environmental challenges?
In this module, you will gain an understanding of simple chemical reactions and the language and ways to represent these chemical reactions. You will investigate, through inquiry, the characteristics of simple chemical reactions. These investigations will include constructing molecular models of simple chemical reactions; observing synthesis, decomposition, and displacement reactions; exploring the Law of Conservation of Mass; performing acid-base neutralization reactions, and using simulations. As well, you will analyze how chemical reactions are employed in environmental challenges of acid precipitation and in careers that require chemical knowledge. You will then identify practical applications of chemical reactions in various fields and assess the hazards associated with the handling and disposal of chemicals.
Module 3 Overview: Optics
Guiding Question:What are the various features of light? What are its properties? And how is it produced?
In this module, you will demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics and properties of light, with respect to reflection, refraction, and the electromagnetic spectrum. Through inquiry, you will investigate the properties of light, and predict its behavior in mirrors and when it passes through different media. As well, you will analyze how properties of light are applied in modern technology and the impact of these optical devices in society. You will complete the unit with a test to display the knowledge you have gained throughout the activities.
Module 4 Overview: Climate Change
Guiding Question:What are natural and human factors that influence Earth’s climate and contribute to climate change?
In this module, you will analyze the effects of human activity on climate change, and the effects of climate change on living things and natural systems. You will investigate a variety of natural and human factors that have an impact on climate change and global warming. For example, you will examine the amount of greenhouse gas emissions Canada and other countries produce. You will also investigate your personal carbon footprint and plan a course of action to reduce your footprint. You will gain an understanding of various natural and human factors that contribute change and global warming and community/government programs that aim to reduce global warming.