Science

Studying science will open doors to many fascinating career opportunities. The Ontario Science Curriculum provides information regarding the topics covered in Science.

Courses

We offer the following science course.

Biology 

SBI3U (Grade 11 Biology - University Preparation)

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 (including the respiratory, digestive and circulatory systems), 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. Students will participate in the fetal pig dissection, learn to write in scientific contexts through the creation, implementation and submission of a formal lab report and engage in several hands-on activities to solidify learning of concepts.

Prerequisite: SNC2D (grade 10 academic science)

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 SBI3C (Grade 11 Biology - Collage Preparation)

This course focuses on the process that occur in biologial systems. Students will learn concepts and theories as they conduct investigations in the areas of cellular biology, microbiology, genetics, the anatomy of mammals (including the respiratory, digestive and circulatory systems), and the structure of plants and their role in the natural enviroment. 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 participate in the fetal pig dissection, learn about the scientific method and best practices in scientific writing and engage in hands-on lab activities to solidify understanding of concepts.

Prerequisite: SNC2P or SNC2D (grade 10 applied or academic science)

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 SBI4U (Grade 12 Biology - University Preparation)

This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes that occure in biological systems. Students will learn concepts and theories as they conduct investigations in the areas of biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis (excretory, endocrine, nervous and immune systems), and population dynamics.

Students will participate in the rat dissection, learn about the scientific method and best practices in scientific writing and engage in hands-on lab activities to solidify understanding of concepts.

This grade 12 course prepares students for advanced biology study at university and is designed for students pursuing studies in medicine, pharmacy, kinesiology and related health science fields, and pure biology, biochemistry and biophysics study.

Prerequisite: SBI3U (grade 11 university prep biology)

 

 


 

Chemistry 

SCH3U (Grade 11 Chemistry - University Preparation)

This course provides students with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the fundamental principles of chemistry. Through hands-on investigations, practical applications, and theoretical study, students will explore the structure of matter, the periodic table, chemical reactions, and the principles of energy and bonding. Key topics include atomic theory, the mole concept, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, the periodic trends of elements, and the principles of acids and bases.

Students will also learn to use scientific inquiry processes and laboratory skill to design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and communicate their findings.

By the end of the course students will be equipped with a deeper understanding of the chemical processes that shape the world around them, preparing them for further study in the sciences and related fields.

Prerequisite: SNC2D (grade 10 academic science)

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SCH4U (Grade 12 Chemisrty - University Preparation)

Core Topics:

  • Organic chemistry: Studying the structure, properties, and reactions of carbon-based compounds.
  • Chemical equilibrium: Understanding the balance between reactants and products in a chemical reaction.
  • Electrochemistry: Investigating the relationship between chemical reactions and electricity, including redox reactions.
  • Thermodynamics: Analyzing energy changes in chemical reactions.
  • Structure and properties of matter: Exploring the relationship between atomic structure and the physical properties of substances.

Skills Development:

  • Laboratory techniques: Conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results.
  • Scientific communication: Writing clear and concise lab reports, interpreting data, and using appropriate scientific terminology.
  • Problem-solving: Applying chemical concepts to solve complex problems.
  • Critical thinking: Evaluating the validity of scientific information and considering the enviromental implications of chemical processes.

Relevance:

This course is designed for students considering post-secondary studies in science, engineering, medicine, or related fields where a solid foundation in chemistry is required.

Prerequisite: SCH3U (grade 11 university prep chemistry)

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SCH4C (Grade 12 Chemisrty - Collage Preparation)

Core Topics:

  • Matter and qualitative analysis
  • Organic chemistry
  • Chemical calculations
  • Chemistry and the environment

Skills Development:

  • Laboratory techniques
  • Data collection and analysis
  • Scientific communication using proper terminology

Relevance:

This course is designed for students considering post-secondary studies in science, engineering, medicine, or related fields where a solid foundation in chemistry is required.

Prerequisite: SNC2P of SNC2D (grade 10 applied or academic science)

General Science 

SNC1W (Grade 9 De-Streamed General Science)

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 skill in the processses of scientific investigation. Students will aquire 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.

Throughout the course, students will develop and refine their STEM skills as the use scientific research, scientific experimentation, and engineering desigh 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.

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SNC2D (Grade 10 Academic Science)

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 enviroment. 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 change; and the interaction of light and matter.

This course is designed as a prerequisite for the university prep science courses in grade 11 and 12.

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SNC2P (Grade 10 Applied Science)

This course enables students to develop an understanding of concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and to apply their knowledge of science in real-world situations. Students are given opportunities to develop further practical skills in scientific investigation. Students will plan and conduct investigations into everyday problems and issues related to human cells and body systems; chemical reactions; factors affecting climate change; and the interaction of light and matter.

This course is designed as a prerequisite for the collage prep science courses in grade 11 and 12.

 
Physics 

SPH3U (Grade 11 Physics - University Preparation)

SPH3U introduces students to the foundational concepts of physics, preparing them for university-level study. The course explores key topics such as motion, forces, energy, and properties of waves, sound, and light. Students engage in hands-on laboratory experiments where they apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, such as measuring the motion of objects or investigating the behavior of light through refraction analysis, and scientific inquiry. Students also refine their ability to solve physics problems and make connections between concepts and real-world applications, preparing them for more advanced studies in the sciences.

Prerequisite: SNC2D (grade 10 academic science)

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SPH4C (Grade 12 Chemistry - Collage Preparation)

SPH4C provides students with practical, applied understanding of physics, focusing on real-world applications of the subject. The course covers topics like motion, forces, energy, electricity and pressure. Students participate in hands-on laboratory experiments, such as building circuits, investigating forces in motion, or exploring the hehavior of light waves. These labs are designed to enhance students ability to analyze data, conduct experiments, and apply physics concepts to everyday situations. By actively participating in these lab activities, students gain deeper understanding of how physics governs the world around them, preparing them for collage and technical programs where practical knowledge is key.

Prerequisite: SNC2P or SNC2D (grade 10 applied or academic science)

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SPH4U (Grade 12 Physics - Univesity Preparation)

SPH4U is an in-depth, university-prep course that delves into advanced physics topics, including kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, electricity, magnetism, waves, and modern physics. Students actively engage in a varity of laboratoryecperiments to reinforce theoretical concepts, such as investigating the motion of objects, examining the principels of electromagnetism, and analyzing the behavior of waves in differentmediums. These hands-on labs provide valuable experience in experimental design, data collection, and analysis, helping students develop strong scientific inquiry skills. Through these lab activities, students also learn how to apply physics concepts to complex, real-world problems. The course emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and the development of mathematical skills, preparing students for the future studies in science, engineering, and technology.

Prerequisite: SPH3U (grade 11 university prep physics)