Sciences
Science Grade 9, De-streamed (SNC1W)
This course enables students to develop their understanding of concepts related to biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth and space science, and to relate science to technology, society, and the environment. Throughout the course, students will develop and refine their STEM skills as they use scientific research, scientific experimentation, and engineering design processes to investigate concepts and apply their knowledge in situations that are relevant to their lives and communities. Students will continue to develop transferable skills as they become scientifically literate global citizens.
Prerequisite: None
Additional Note: Students will start by investigating ecosystems, examining the effects of human activities on biodiversity. This unit will involve field work, discussions, and labs which lead to students taking action in the community. In the chemistry unit students focus on how scientific models of atoms and elements allow them to learn about the natural world and predict its behaviour. Students will explore static and current electricity through hands-on activities and evaluate alternative forms of energy. The year ends with an independent exploration into discoveries in space.
Science Grade 10, Academic (SNC2D)
This course enables students to enhance their understanding of concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and of the interrelationships between science, technology, society, and the environment. 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, De-streamed
Additional Note: Students will start by looking at human health issues by studying cells, organs and systems and will learn how they all work together to form an organism. They will then explore biology further through a moral lens and evaluate the role of science in making decisions in their daily lives. A short enrichment unit on kinematics allows students to investigate the physics of motion and design their own independent investigations. Chemical processes will be explored when the students plan experiments to discover the factors that affect rates of reaction. Students will learn about human body systems and investigate the causes of disease. The year will end with a unit on optics in which students discover that seeing has more to do with the brain than the eye itself.
IB Description
With inquiry at the core, the MYP sciences framework aims to guide students to independently and collaboratively investigate issues through research, observation and experimentation. The MYP sciences curriculum explores the connections between science and everyday life. As they investigate real examples of science applications, students discover the tensions and dependencies between science and morality, ethics, culture, economics, politics, and the environment. Scientific inquiry fosters critical and creative thinking about research and design, as well as the identification of assumptions and alternative explanations. Students learn to appreciate and respect the ideas of others, gain good ethical-reasoning skills and further develop their sense of responsibility as members of local and global communities.
Grade 11 and 12 Science Offerings
Biology
IB Diploma Program: Standard and Higher Level Ministry Credits: SBI3U, SBI4U
Biology Grade 11, University Preparation (SBI3U)
This course furthers students’ understanding of the processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biodiversity; evolution; genetic processes; the structure and function of animals; and the anatomy, growth, and function of plants. The 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 12, University Preparation (SBI4U)
This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on the achievement of detailed knowledge and the refinement of skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields.
Prerequisite: Biology Grade 11, University Preparation
IB Description
As part of their studies, students will be required to complete an individual scientific investigation of an area of the course of their choice (worth 20%). Assessment is based on this investigation and two external examinations (worth 80%). Students also participate in the Collaborative Sciences Project, a collaborative effort of all the DP students in the school. This is an interdisciplinary science project, and investigates a single issue or problem. Students who have effectively learned the skills and content in the Grade 10 science course and who are comfortable with the effort needed to earn at least 80% are suitable candidates for Higher Level Biology.
Chemistry
IB Diploma Program: Standard and Higher Level Ministry Credits: SCH3U, SCH4U
Chemistry Grade 11, University Preparation (SCH3U)
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of the properties of chemicals and chemical bonds; chemical reactions and quantitative relationships in those reactions; solutions and solubility; and atmospheric chemistry and the behaviour of gases. Students will further develop their analytical skills and investigate the qualitative and quantitative properties of matter, as well as the impact of some common chemical reactions on society and the environment.
Prerequisite: Science Grade 10, Academic
Chemistry Grade 12, University Preparation (SCH4U)
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of organic chemistry, the structure and properties of matter, energy changes and rates of reaction, equilibrium in chemical systems, and electrochemistry. Students will further develop their problem-solving and investigation skills as they investigate chemical processes, and will refine their ability to communicate scientific information. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of chemistry in everyday life and on evaluating the impact of chemical technology on the environment.
Prerequisite: Chemistry Grade 11, University Preparation
IB Description
As one of the three natural sciences in the IB Diploma Programme, chemistry is primarily concerned with identifying patterns that help to explain matter at the microscopic level. This then allows matter’s behaviour to be predicted and controlled at a macroscopic level. The subject therefore emphasizes the development of representative models and explanatory theories, both of which rely heavily on creative but rational thinking. As part of their studies, students will be required to complete an individual scientific investigation of an area of the course of their choice (worth 20%). Assessment is based on this investigation and two external examinations (worth 80%). Students also participate in the Collaborative Sciences Project, a collaborative effort of all the DP students in the school. This is an interdisciplinary science project, and investigates a single issue or problem. Students who have effectively learned the skills and content in the Grade 10 science course and who are comfortable with the effort needed to earn at least 80% are suitable candidates for Higher Level Chemistry.
Environmental Systems and Societies
Note: This is an interdisciplinary course and can be used to satisfy either the humanities requirement of the IB Diploma OR the science requirement.
IB Diploma Program: Standard and Higher Level Ministry Credits: SVN3M, CGR4M
Environmental Science Grade 11, University/College Preparation (SVN3M)
This course provides students with the fundamental knowledge of, and skills relating to environmental science that will help them make informed environmental decisions in life after secondary school. Students will explore a range of topics, including the role of science in addressing contemporary environmental challenges; the impact of the environment on human health; sustainable agriculture and forestry; the reduction and management of waste; and the conservation of energy. Students will increase their scientific and environmental literacy and examine the interrelationships between science, the environment, and society in a variety of areas.
Prerequisite: Science Grade 10, Applied or Academic
The Environment and Resource Management Grade 12, University/College Preparation (CGR4M)
This course explores interactions between the natural and human environment, with a particular focus on the impact of human activity on various ecosystems. Students will explore resource management and sustainability practices, as well as related government policy and international protocols. Applying the concepts of geographic thinking and the geographic inquiry process, including spatial technologies, students will investigate the relationship between people and the natural environment and will propose approaches for developing more sustainable relationships, including environmentally responsible actions that support stewardship.
Prerequisite: Any university, university/college, or college preparation course in Canadian and world studies, English, or social sciences and humanities
IB Description
Through studying environmental systems and societies (ES&S) students will be provided with a coherent perspective of the interrelationships between environmental systems and societies; one that enables them to adopt an informed personal response to the wide range of pressing environmental issues that they will inevitably come to face. As part of their studies, students will be required to complete an individual scientific investigation of an area of the course of their choice (worth 25%). Assessment is based on this investigation and two external examinations (worth 75%). Students also participate in the Collaborative Sciences Project, a collaborative effort of all the DP students in the school. This is an interdisciplinary science project, and investigates a single issue or problem.
Physics
IB Diploma Program: Standard and Higher Level Ministry Credits: SPH3U, SPH4U
Physics Grade 11, University Preparation (SPH3U)
This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will explore kinematics, with an emphasis on linear motion; different kinds of forces; energy transformations; the properties of mechanical waves and sound; and electricity and magnetism. They will enhance their scientific investigation skills as they test laws of physics. In addition, they will analyse the interrelationships between physics and technology, and consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.
Prerequisite: Science Grade 10, Academic
Physics Grade 12, University Preparation (SPH4U)
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of physics concepts and theories. Students will continue their exploration of energy transformations and the forces that affect motion, and will investigate electrical, gravitational, and magnetic fields and electromagnetic radiation. Students will also explore the wave nature of light, quantum mechanics, and special relativity. They will further develop their scientific investigation to a variety of physics concepts and principles. Students will also consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.
Prerequisite: Physics Grade 11, University Preparation
IB Description
As an experimental science, the Diploma Programme (DP) physics course requires not only a theoretical and practical understanding of the subject, but also an awareness of how physicists construct knowledge claims and the limitations of these methods. Studying physics offers numerous benefits and opens a wide range of opportunities for further studies. As part of their studies, students will be required to complete an individual scientific investigation of an area of the course of their choice (worth 20%). Assessment is based on this investigation and two external examinations (worth 80%). Students also participate in the Collaborative Sciences Project, a collaborative effort of all the DP students in the school. This is an interdisciplinary science project, and investigates a single issue or problem. Students who have effectively learned the skills and content in the Grade 10 science course and who are comfortable with the effort needed to earn at least 80% are suitable candidates for Higher Level Physics.
Sport, Exercise and Health Science
IB Diploma Program: Standard and Higher Level Ministry Credits: SNC4M, PSK4U
Science Grade 11, University/College Preparation (SNC4M)
This course enables students, including those pursuing postsecondary programs outside the sciences, to increase their understanding of science and contemporary social and environmental issues in health-related fields. Students will explore a variety of medical technologies, pathogens and disease, nutritional science, public health issues, and biotechnology. The course focuses on the theoretical aspects of the topics under study and helps refine students’ scientific investigation skills.
Prerequisite: Science Grade 10, Academic, or any Grade 11 university, university/college, or college preparation course in science
Introductory Kinesiology Grade 12, University Preparation (PSK4U)
This course focuses on the study of human movement and of systems, factors, and principles involved in human development. Students will learn about the effects of physical activity on health and performance, the evolution of physical activity and sport, and the physiological, psychological, and social factors that influence an individual’s participation in physical activity and sport. The course prepares students for university programs in physical education and health, kinesiology, health sciences, health studies, recreation, and sports administration.
Prerequisite: Any Grade 11 university or university/college preparation course in science, or any Grade 11 or 12 course in health and physical education
IB Description
The Diploma Programme (DP) sports, exercise, and health science (SEHS) course combines academic study with the acquisition of practical and investigational scientific skills while developing creative and rational thinking. As an experimental science, SEHS requires not only a conceptual understanding of interrelated themes, but also an awareness of how scientists construct knowledge claims and the limitations of these methods. Studying SEHS offers numerous benefits and opens a wide range of opportunities for further studies. As part of their studies, students will be required to complete an individual scientific investigation of an area of the course of their choice (worth 20%). Assessment is based on this investigation and two external examinations (worth 80%). Students also participate in the Collaborative Sciences Project, a collaborative effort of all the DP students in the school. This is an interdisciplinary science project, and investigates a single issue or problem.
Computer Studies
Introduction to Computer Science Grade 11, University Preparation (ICS3U) (an option in Grade 10)
This course introduces students to computer science. Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs. Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, and global career trends in computer-related fields.
Prerequisite: None
Computer Science Grade 12, University Preparation (ICS4U) (an option in Grade 11 - see details under “IB Description”)
This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyse algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field.
Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science Grade 11 University Preparation (ICS3U)
IB Description
Diploma Program Computer Science teaches students about coding, the software development process and the role of software development in our society. Students will use several programming languages, though primarily Java, to create small and large programming projects. We will also investigate hardware, emerging technologies and the effects of programming and technology on environment, culture and the economy. In addition to object-oriented programming, students will study networking, databases, web technologies and physical computing.
Students entering Grade 11 may choose to include the Computer Science Grade 12 course as part of their Diploma requirements for Group 4 (Sciences). In order to meet the required hours of the DP, students opting for the DP route must meet an additional hour each cycle and have several outside-of-class meetings for their IA projects. Students will write the Standard exam as an “anticipated exam”, which takes place in May of Grade 11.
Students may also opt to take the Grade 12 course (only offered to Grade 11 students) as purely a Grade 12 Ontario credit without the extra time.