SNC1W – SCIENCE – GRADE 9

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.

The Grade 9 science curriculum focuses on the fundamental concepts of science and on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills. It supports students in making connections between skills and concepts and the practical applications of science in their lives, and in learning about biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth and space science. This curriculum is designed to help students prepare for deeper levels of science as they continue in secondary school and beyond.

Vision: The vision of the Grade 9 science course is for students to acquire and develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in today’s rapidly changing world. As discoveries and innovations in STEM increasingly impact our lives, science continues to adapt and evolve. A central component of this curriculum is safe, practical, hands-on, experiential learning that will support students in becoming successful and discerning individuals who are scientifically literate.

The Grade 9 science course builds on the elementary science and technology program and is based on the same broad areas of learning. The first strand focuses on investigation skills. Each of the other four strands focuses on one of the scientific subdisciplines – biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth and space science. The transition from Grade 8 to Grade 9 is a smooth one because the strands of the elementary science and technology curriculum are closely aligned with those of the Grade 9 science course.

The Grade 9 science course is designed to be inclusive of all students in order to facilitate their transition from the elementary grades to the secondary level. It offers opportunities for all students to build a solid foundation in science, broaden their knowledge and skills, and begin to see themselves as scientists. This approach allows students to make informed decisions in choosing future science courses based on their interests, and in support of future plans for apprenticeship training, university, college, community living, or the workplace.