Welcome to the Science Department

During the twentieth century, science played an increasingly important role in the lives of all Canadians. It underpins much of what we now take for granted, from life-saving pharmaceuticals to clean water, the places we live and work in, computers and other information technologies, and how we communicate with others. The impact of science on our lives will continue to grow as the twenty-first century unfolds. Consequently, scientific literacy for all has become a goal of science education throughout the world and has been given expression in Canada.

The three goals of the science program at York Memorial C.I. are as follows:

  1. to relate science to technology, society, and the environment
  2. to develop the skills, strategies, and habits of mind required for scientific inquiry
  3. to understand the basic concepts of science.

 

 

Science

Science is a way of knowing that seeks to describe and explain the natural and physical world. An important part of scientific literacy is an understanding of the nature of science, which includes an understanding of the following:

  • what scientists, engineers, and technologists do as individuals and as a community
  • how scientific knowledge is generated and validated, and what benefits, costs, and risks are involved in using this knowledge
  • how science interacts with technology, society, and the environment
(Adapted from:  Ontario Ministry of Education. The Ontario Curriculum Grades 9 & 10 Science, 2008. p. 5 & 6.)