Overall Aim: The overall aim of the secondary science program is to allow every student to develop scientific literacy. The goals of the Notre Dame science program are three-fold. It is our goal to have students understand the basic science concepts; to develop skills, strategies and habits of mind in relation to science and to relate science to technology, society and the environment. As a Catholic High School, Notre Dame presents their science program within the context of the church teachings and the Gospel. Thus, the study of science helps students to learn to be reflective, critical and creative thinkers as well as discerning believers who understand the theories of science and can apply them to the world around them to make appropriate decisions in light of the Gospel values and church teachings.

Evaluation Policy: The purpose of assessment, evaluation, and reporting are to provide information about student learning in order to establish a foundation for action and improvement. A variety of assessment and evaluation strategies will take place on an on-going basis to promote student success and excellence.

Course Descriptions for Science

Science, Grade 9, Academic SNC 1D

This course enables students to understand basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics; to develop skills in the processes of scientific inquiry; and to relate science to technology, society, and the environment. Students will learn scientific theories and conduct investigations related to cell division and reproduction; atomic and molecular structures and the properties of elements and compounds; the universe and space exploration; and the principles of electricity. Students will create, adapt and evaluate new ideas in light of the common good.
Prerequisite: None

Science, Grade 9, Applied SNC 1P

This course enables students to understand basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics; to develop practical skills in scientific investigation and to apply their knowledge of science to everyday situations. Students will design and conduct investigations into practical problems and issues related to cell division and reproduction, the structure and properties of elements and compounds, astronomy and space exploration, and static and current electricity. Students will create, adapt and evaluate new ideas in light of the common good.
Prerequisite: None

Science, Grade 9, SNC 1L

(Locally Developed)
This course enables students to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics; to develop practical skills in science investigation; and to apply their knowledge and skills to everyday situations. Students conduct investigations into practical problems and issues related to cells and reproduction, the structure and properties of elements and compounds, static and current electricity, and astronomy and space exploration. A variety of hands-on activities assist students to acquire concepts. Students will use different reporting strategies to facilitate the development of communication skills; they will present information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others.
Prerequisite: None

Science, Grade 10, Academic SNC 2D

This course enables students to develop a deeper understanding of concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics; to develop further their skills in scientific inquiry; and to understand the interrelationships among science, technology, and the environment. Students will conduct investigations and understand scientific theories related to: ecology and the maintenance of ecosystems; chemical reactions, with particular attention to acid-base reactions; factors that influence weather systems; and motion. Students will evaluate situations and solve problems reflectively and creatively and apply the skills for work relative to Christian vocation.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 9, Academic or Applied

Science, Grade 10, Applied SNC 2P

This course enables students to develop a deeper understanding of concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics; to develop further their practical skills in scientific investigations; and to apply their knowledge of science to real-world situations. Students will design and conduct investigations into everyday problems and issues related to ecological sustainability, chemical reactions, weather systems, and motion. Students will evaluate situations and solve problems reflectively and creatively and apply their skills for work relative to Christian vocation.
Prerequisite: Grade 9 Academic or Applied

Science, Grade 11 SNC 3E

Workplace Preparation
This course provides students with the science-related knowledge and skills they need to help them make informed decisions in the workplace and in their personal lives. Students will explore a range of topics, including materials and safety; electrical circuits; micro-organisms; the human immune system and defences against disease and the impact of humans on the environment. Emphasis placed on relating these topics directly to students’ experiences both in the world of work and in daily life. Students will present ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 9 Academic, Applied

BIOLOGY

Biology, Grade 11 SBI 3U

University Preparation
This course furthers students’ understanding of the processes involved in biological systems. Students will study cellular functions, genetic continuity, internal systems and regulation, the diversity of living things, and the anatomy, growth, and functions of plants. This course focuses on the theoretical aspects of the topics under study, and helps students refine skills related to scientific investigation.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 10, Academic

Biology, Grade 11 SBI 3C

College Preparation
This course focuses on the processes involved in biological systems. Students will learn concepts and theories as they conduct investigations 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 on the skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields. Students will learn to make decisions in light of Gospel values with an informed conscience.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 10, Academic or Applied

Biology, Grade 12 SBI 4U

University Preparation
This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes associated with biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, evolution, and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on achievement of the detailed knowledge and refined skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields. Students will learn to make decisions in light of Gospel values with an informed moral conscience.
Prerequisite: Biology, Grade 11, University Preparation

CHEMISTRY

Chemistry, Grade 11 SCH 3U

University Preparation
This course focuses on the concepts and theories that form the basis of modern chemistry. Through examination and evaluation of interdependent systems for the development of a just and compassionate society, 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. Emphasis will also be placed on the importance of chemistry in other branches of science. Students will learn to make decisions in light of Gospel values with on informed moral conscience.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 10, Academic

Chemistry, Grade 12 SCH 4U

University Preparation
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of organic chemistry, energy changes and rates of reaction, chemical systems and equilibrium, electrochemistry, and atomic and molecular structure. Students will further develop problem-solving and laboratory skills as they investigate chemical processes, at the same time refining their ability to communicate scientific information. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of chemistry in daily life, and on evaluating the impact of chemical technology on the environment. Students will be encouraged to think reflectively and creatively and to evaluate situations and solve problems.
Prerequisite: Chemistry, Grade 11,
University Preparation

Chemistry, Grade 12 SCH 4C

College Preparation
This course introduces students to the concepts that form the basis of modern chemistry. Students will study qualitative analysis, quantitative relationships in chemical reactions, organic chemistry and electrochemistry, and chemistry as it relates to the quality of the environment. Students will employ a variety of laboratory techniques, develop skills in data collection and scientific analysis, and communicate scientific information using appropriate terminology. Emphasis will be placed on the role of chemistry in daily life and in the development of new technologies and products. Students will learn to respect the environment and to use resources wisely.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 10, Academic or Applied

PHYSICS

Physics, Grade 11 SPH 3U

University Preparation
This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will study the laws of dynamics and explore different kinds of forces, the quantification and forms of energy (mechanical, sound, light, thermal, and electrical), 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. Students will also analyze the interrelationships between physics and technology, and consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment. Teaching will include moral and ethical values of Catholic traditions and students will critically analyze technological developments in light of the Catholic Faith tradition.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 10, Academic

Physics, Grade 12 SPH 4U

University Preparation
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of the concepts and theories of physics. Students will explore further the laws of dynamics and energy transformations, and will investigate electrical, gravitational, and magnetic fields; electromagnetic radiation; and the interface between energy and matter. They will further develop inquiry skills, learning, for example, how the interpretation of experimental data can provide indirect evidence to support the development of a scientific model. Students will also consider the impact on society and the environment of technological applications of physics and make decisions in light of gospel values with on informed moral conscience.
Prerequisite: Physics, Grade 11, University Preparation

Physics, Grade 12 SPH 4C

College Preparation
This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will explore these concepts as they relate to mechanical, electrical, fluid (hydraulic and pneumatic), and communications systems, as well as to the operation of commonly used tools and equipment. They will develop scientific-inquiry skills as they verify accepted laws of physics and solve both assigned problems and those emerging from their investigations. Students will also consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 10, Academic or Applied

 
 
 

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