SNC1D/1P

 

Prerequisite

None.

 

Curriculum Expectations

This course enables students to develop their understanding of basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and to relate science to technology, society, and the environment. Throughout the course, students will develop their skills in the processes of scientific investigation. Students will acquire an understanding of scientific theories and conduct investigations related to sustainable ecosystems; atomic and molecular structures and the properties of elements and compounds; the study of the universe and its properties and components; and the principles of electricity.

 

Course Strands and Major Themes

Biology

• Ecosystems are dynamic and have the ability to respond to change, within limits, while maintaining their ecological balance.
• People have the responsibility to regulate their impact on the sustainability of ecosystems in order to preserve them for future generations.

 

Chemistry

• Elements and compounds have specific physical and chemical properties that determine their practical uses.
• The use of elements and compounds has both positive and negative effects on society and the environment.

 

Earth and Space Science

• Different types of celestial objects in the solar system and universe have distinct properties that can be investigated and quantified.
• People use observational evidence of the properties of the solar system and the universe to develop theories to explain their formation and evolution.
• Space exploration has generated valuable knowledge but at enormous cost.

 

Physics

• Electricity is a form of energy produced from a variety of non-renewable and renewable sources.
• The production and consumption of electrical energy has social, economic, and environmental implications.
• Static and current electricity have distinct properties that determine how they are used.

 

Evaluation

Final Mark = 70% term work + 30% Summative

 

Weighting of Achievement Categories

Knowledge and Understanding                        30%

• knowledge of content (e.g., facts, terminology, definitions, safe use of equipment and materials)
• understanding of content (e.g., concepts, ideas, theories, principles, procedures, processes)

 

Thinking, Inquiry, Problem Solving                30%

• use of initiating and planning skills and strategies (e.g., formulating questions, identifying the problem, developing hypotheses, selecting strategies and resources, developing plans)
• use of processing skills and strategies (e.g., performing and recording, gathering evidence and data, observing, manipulating materials and using equipment safely, solving equations, proving)
• use of critical/creative thinking processes, skills, and strategies (e.g., analysing, interpreting, problem solving, evaluating, forming and justifying conclusions on the basis of evidence)

 

Communication                                                        20%

• expression and organization of ideas and information (e.g., clear expression, logical organization) in oral, visual, and/or written forms (e.g., diagrams, models)
• communication for different audiences (e.g., peers, adults) and purposes (e.g., to inform, to persuade) in oral, visual, and/or written forms
• use of conventions, vocabulary, and terminology of the discipline in oral, visual, and written forms (e.g., symbols, formulae, scientific notation, SI units)

 

Applications                                                              20%

• application of knowledge and skills (e.g., concepts and processes, safe use of equipment, scientific investigation skills) in familiar contexts
• transfer of knowledge and skills (e.g., concepts and processes, safe use of equipment, scientific investigation skills) to unfamiliar contexts
• making connections between science, technology, society, and the environment (e.g., assessing the impact of science on technology, people and other living things, and the environment)
• proposing courses of practical action to deal with problems relating to science, technology, society, and the environment

 

Lab Safety

Students are expected to observe all safety procedures in the laboratory.  Students that jeopardise the safety of themselves or others may be restricted in their laboratory participation.