Science 9 (MS–09)
This course includes a study of processes of Science. Through projects, assignments and laboratory explorations, the following Big Ideas are studied: Biology: Cells are derived from Cells; Chemistry: The electron arrangement of atoms impacts their chemical nature; Physics: Electric current is the flow of electric charge; Earth Science: The biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere are interconnected, as matter cycles and energy flows through them. Assessment is based on assignments, inquiry-based projects, lab reports, tests and a final exam.
Marine Biology 10 (YPLS-0B)
Marine Biology 10 is an academic elective designed for students who are interested in studying the oceans, its diverse habitats and the many forms of sea life. This course offers students an opportunity to do detailed studies on marine creatures suited to their interests; learn how organisms and environments are studied, protected, and given exposure to careers in marine sciences. Topics include: – Marine Mammals: dolphins, seals & whales – Marine Ecology: food webs, plankton & seaweed – Extreme Environments (Abyss & Hot Vents); Creatures of the Deep – Sharks & Fishes: cookie cutter sharks to puffer fish; shark dissection – Beach Studies: critters found in tide pools, rocky and sandy shores. Field studies to local beaches, aquarium care, and active participation are part of the curriculum. Course work includes lab work, dissections, lectures, research and internet projects. It is strongly recommended that students interested in this course have a keen interest in Science. EXAMPLES OF FIELD TRIPS: Beach clean-up; whale watching; tide pooling; specimen collecting Course Fee (subject to Board approval): $50.00. COURSE NOTE: This course is an ELECTIVE and does NOT meet the science 10 requirement for graduation. This course is open to Gr. 9 & 10 students.
Science 10 (MSC–10)
This course includes the further study of the processes of Science. Topics of study include: The Scientific Method and Experimental Procedures; Biology (DNA and Genetics); Chemistry (Atomic theory and Chemical reactions); Physical Sciences (Energy transformations, Nuclear energy and Radioactivity); and Space Science (Formation of the Universe). Assessment is based on assignments, lab reports, inquiry-based projects, unit tests and a final exam.
Science 10 Core (MSC—10C)
The Core Program has been established to support students who have struggled with Grade 9 or 10 academic courses. This program is designed to enhance basic skills and provide students with the opportunity to continue their education. Science 10 Core prepares students for Science for Citizens 11 or Environmental Sciences 11.
Life Sciences 11 (MMLFSC11)
Life Sciences 11 studies a wide range of organisms using the following big ideas as guiding themes: Life is a result of interactions at the molecular and cellular levels; Evolution occurs at the population level; and Organisms are grouped based on common characteristics. The course delivery is divided into five topics: 1. Adaptation and Evolution; 2. Microbiology (virus to protists); 3. Mycology (fungi); 4. Plant Biology (algae to flowering plants); 5. Animal Biology (sponges to frogs). Assessment is based on assignments, lab reports, inquiry-based projects, tests and a final exam.
Chemistry 11 (MCH–11)
Chemistry 11 is a survey course that gives the student a feel for what chemistry is all about. It unifies many ideas taught separately in junior science courses. Students should be comfortable with algebra as Chemistry 11 relies heavily on basic math skills. A historical perspective is used in presenting concepts such as the scientific method, the atomic model, and the periodic table. Other topics covered are chemical names and formulas, types of reactions, stoichiometry, solution chemistry and an introduction to organic chemistry. Communicating knowledge through formal laboratory reports is emphasized. The student will learn to present ideas in a clear, concise format. Assessment is based on assignments, inquiry-based laboratories, tests and a final exam. Course Fee: Strongly recommend purchasing a $10 workbook.
Physics 11 (MPH–11)
Physics 11 is a general course that introduces students to the main ideas and principles of physics. Topics covered include error analysis, one dimensional kinematics and a graphical description of motion, Newton’s laws of motion, energy, power and momentum, simple machines, circuits, nuclear physics, waves and geometrical optics. Emphasis is placed on developing a mathematical approach to problem solving. Although many equations are used, they do not have to be memorized. Rather, understanding their meaning and usage is encouraged. A solid background in mathematics (C+ or better in Foundations of Math & Pre-Calculus 10) is a strongly recommended prerequisite. Assessment is based on assignments, inquiry-based laboratories, tests and a final exam.
COURSE NOTE: A strong background in math is necessary. A C+ or better in Foundations of Math & Pre-Calculus 10 is recommended.
Science for Citizens 11 (MSCCT11)
This course looks at the way that science impacts our daily lives and how natural changes and human changes affect global systems. As well, this course will explore science’s everyday uses and safety implications in the workplace. The following topics will be studied: Personal/Home Science: Nutrition and lifestyle, allergies, medications and supplements, household chemicals, home automation, home electronics and home appliances. Scientific Literacy: Informed decision making and science versus pseudoscience. Local/Workplace Science: Waste recycling processes, landfills, chemical safety, forensic science. Global Science: Extreme weather events, disaster preparedness, agricultural sciences, energy generation and sustainability.
COURSE NOTE: This course meets the Science 11 requirement for high school graduation but is not recognized for university entrance.
Environmental Science 11 & Outdoor Education 12 (MEVSC11/MODED12ES)
Environmental Science 11 and Outdoor Education 12 are paired courses that provide students with exceptional opportunities to investigate local natural environments. Current topics of environmental concern to British Columbia will be considered. This course helps students to develop ethical, responsible decision making and critical thought, leadership and problem-solving skills to address a variety of environmental concerns. Environmental Science 11 covers the academic portion of the course and is organized into units investigating waste and recycling, climate change, fisheries and aquaculture, forestry, food sciences, and ethnobiology and marine ecology. First Nations traditional ecological knowledge and wisdom will be considered throughout the course and an ecological world view will be promoted. Students will have the opportunity to work with UVic Science Ventures programs in partnership with members of the T’Souke First Nations. Emphasis will be placed on participation and journaling as well as individual and group projects. The Outdoor Education 12 portion of the course engage students in many outdoor hikes, wilderness First Aid training, and introduces students to the importance of understanding the human impact on ecosystems. Outdoor Education 12 has a significant outdoor component and students must be prepared for a range of weather conditions. Students will be expected to take part in weekly hikes throughout the Sooke region. This program consists of two class periods in Semester two. Students will receive eight credits: Environmental Science 11 (4 credits) and Outdoor Education 12 (4 credits). Course Fee: A $100 Course Fee covers costs for school bus transportation to weekly outings and hikes. There is also a $50 fee for an optional multi-day camping trip to Galiano Island to study restoration ecology with the Galiano Island Conservancy Association. TIMING: Please note that this course is offered only in the Spring. With increased responsibility required of students while participating in settings away from the school such as field trips, overnight excursions and community partnerships, a selection process is necessary for this course. Students may be selected for this course based on a recommendation from previous teachers.
COURSE NOTE: This course meets the Science 11 requirement for high school graduation.
Anatomy & Physiology 12 (MATPH12)
This course focuses primarily on human biology. The learning outcomes start with cell structure and processes and work their way through organ systems. 1. Cell Biology: cell structure and function, cell compounds, biological molecules and DNA. 2. Cell Processes: protein synthesis, cell membrane, enzymes and cancer. 3. Human Biology: digestion, circulation, respiration, nervous system, urinary system, and reproduction. Assessment: For each unit students are expected to complete a set of homework questions, a hands-on lab assignment and a unit exam. Students will complete laboratories on cell regulation, enzymes, urinalysis, and dissections of a sheep’s heart, fetal pig and pig organs. Students are assessed on tests, inquiry-based laboratories, homework assignments and a final exam.
Chemistry 12 (MCH–12)
Chemistry 12 builds on the concepts developed in Chemistry 11. The Chemistry 12 curriculum covers fewer topics than Chemistry 11 but goes into greater depth. Emphasis on lab work and report writing continues. Course content includes rates of reaction, the theory of chemical equilibrium, solution chemistry, acid/base chemistry and oxidation/reduction concepts. Although Chemistry 12 does not involve a great deal of math, the student should be comfortable with manipulating and solving equations. Assessment: Marks are awarded for tests, laboratories, homework assignments, and a final exam. Course Fee: Strongly recommend purchasing a $25 workbook.
Physics 12 (MPH–12)
Physics 12 extends many of the ideas introduced in Physics 11. Whereas Physics 11 deals mainly with one dimensional problem, Physics 12 considers two-dimensional motion. Course content includes vectors and vector applications, static equilibrium, two-dimensional kinematics, dynamics (Newton’s Laws of motion), energy, power and momentum, circular motion and gravitation, a glimpse at Einstein’s theory of relativity, electrostatics and DC circuit analysis, magnetism and electromagnetic induction. Physics 12 stresses the use of mathematics as a tool in problem solving. The student should have a solid math background for Physics 12. Assessment: Marks are awarded in each unit for tests, homework assignments, laboratory exercises and a final exam.
COURSE NOTE: A strong background in math is required for this course. Pre-Calculus 11 with a C+ or better is recommended.