Course Profiles

Courses in the Science Department

The science department offers junior and senior science courses at all levels to prepare students for all post-secondary pathways. In all courses, skills of scientific inquiry, literacy and numeracy are emphasized, and programming is enhanced through STEM activities, Integrative Thinking, field trips and other opportunities for experiential learning.

Pre-AP Program in Science 

The Pre-AP program provides an enriched learning environment for highly motivated students. Pre-AP courses in grades 9, 10 and 11 academic and university level science courses prepare students for Advanced Placement courses in grade 12. Advanced Placement courses are recognized by many Canadian and International universities for advanced standing in first-year university courses. Students must complete an application in grade 8 for admission to the grade 9 Pre-AP program.

Grade 9

Academic Science
SNC 1D1/3 - This introductory course in science enables students to develop their understanding of ecology, chemistry, astronomy, and electricity. Theoretical and practical applications of scientific principles are stressed. Students will develop inquiry skills that will serve as a foundation for future science courses. Connections between science, technology and the environment are emphasized.

Applied Science 
SNC 1P1 - This is an introductory course in science that enables student to develop their understanding of basic concepts of ecology, chemistry, astronomy, and electricity. Students will be given opportunities to learn the practical applications of scientific concepts, apply scientific techniques, handle equipment and understand the applications of science to everyday life.

 

Grade 10

Academic Science
SNC 2D1/3 - This course enables students to deepen their understanding of biology, chemistry, physics and earth science, to develop their skills in scientific inquiry, and to understand the interrelationship among science, technology and the environment. Students will conduct investigations and understand scientific theories related to systems of living things, chemical reactions, optics, and climate change. 
Prerequisites: SNC 1P1 or SNC 1D1 
Recommended Preparation: SNC 1D1(academic)

Applied Science
SNC 2P1 - Students will design and conduct investigations into everyday problems and issues related to systems of living things, chemical reactions, optics and climate change. Students will apply scientific concepts to real life situations. 
Prerequisites: SNC 1P1 or SNC 1D1
Recommended Preparation: SNC 1P1(applied)

 

Grade 11

Biology - University
SBI 3U1/3 - Students will study evolution, genetic continuity, internal systems and regulation, the diversity of living things and the anatomy, growth and functions of plants. This course focuses on theoretical aspects of the topics under study and helps students refine skills related to scientific investigation. 
Prerequisite: Grade 10 Academic Science

Biology - College
SBI 3C1 - Students will learn concepts and theories in the areas of cellular biology, microbiology, animal anatomy and physiology, plant structure and physiology and environmental science. Emphasis will be placed on the practical application of concepts and skills needed for further study in the various branches of the sciences and related fields. 
Prerequisites: Grade 10 Academic or Applied Science

Chemistry - University
SCH 3U1 - This course focuses on the concepts and theories that form the basis of modern chemistry. Students will study the behaviours of solids, liquids, gases, and solutions; investigate changes and relationships in chemical systems; and explore how chemistry is used in developing new products and processes that affect our lives and our environment.
Prerequisite: Grade 10 Academic Science 

Physics - University
SPH 3U1/3 - Students will study the laws of dynamics and explore different kinds of forces, the quantification of forms of energy and the way energy is transformed and transmitted. They will develop scientific-inquiry skills as they verify accepted laws and solve both assigned problems and those emerging from their investigations. 
Prerequisite: Grade 10 Academic Science 
Recommended Preparation: MPM 2D1 or MCR 3U1

Environmental Science - University/College
SVN 3M1 – This course explores topics such as the role of science in addressing contemporary environmental challenges, human health and the environment, sustainable agriculture and forestry, waste management and reduction, and energy conservation. Students will increase their scientific and environmental literacy and examine the relationships between science, the environment and society.
Prerequisite: Grade 10 Academic or Applied Science

 

Grade 12

Biology - University
SBI 4U1 - This course is a university preparatory course. Students will study metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, cellular functions and population dynamics. 
Prerequisite: Grade 11 University Biology 
Recommended Preparation: SCH 3U1

Chemistry - University
SCH 4U1 - This course is a university preparatory course. Students will study organic chemistry, energy changes and rates of reaction, chemical systems and equilibrium, electrochemistry and the structure and properties of matter. 
Prerequisite: Grade 11 University Chemistry 

Physics - University
SPH 4U1 - This course is a university preparatory course. Students will study forces and motion; energy and momentum; electric fields; the wave nature of light; and modern physics.
Prerequisite: Grade 11 University Physics 

Chemistry - College
SCH 4C1 - This course introduces students to the concepts that form the basis of modern chemistry. Students will study qualitative analysis, organic chemistry, electrochemistry, quantitative relationship in chemical reactions, and chemistry as it relates to the quality of environment.
Prerequisite: Grade 10 Academic or Applied 

Physics - College
SPH 4C1 - This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will explore these concepts as they relate to motion, mechanical, electricity, energy transformations and fluids.
Prerequisite: Grade 10 Academic or Applied
Recommended Preparation: MPM 2D1 or MCR 3C1