Course Description
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.
Course Outline
| Unit | Unit Titles and Descriptions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Biology: Sustainable Ecosystems and Climate Change – Students learn about the environment through the concept of sustainable ecosystems and the interconnectedness of ecological factors and processes, including biodiversity, air and water quality, and soil health. They recognize how human activities, including those contributing to climate change, affect the environment and explore ways to restore balance in ecosystems. Students also investigate the flow of energy and cycling of matter in natural systems. | 26 hrs |
| 2 | Chemistry: The Nature of Matter – Students learn about the importance of chemistry in everyday life, including the use and safe disposal of elements and compounds found in familiar products such as smartphones. They examine the impacts of chemical processes and technologies on society and the environment. Students develop an understanding of matter, atomic structure, and the properties of elements and compounds through the periodic table and scientific investigations. | 30 hrs |
| Midterm | Midterm Examination | 2 hrs |
| 3 | Earth and Space Science: Space Exploration – Students expand their knowledge of the impacts of space exploration on society and the environment. They investigate technological innovations developed through space exploration and their influence on everyday life. Students also continue learning about the components, characteristics, and phenomena of the solar system and the universe. | 25 hrs |
| 4 | Physics: Principles and Applications of Electricity – Students investigate the impacts of electrical energy production and consumption on society and the environment and explore sustainable practices. They study the nature and behaviour of electric charges, static electricity, and electric current through scientific investigations, including building circuits. Students also examine relationships among different characteristics of electricity. | 25 hrs |
| Final | Final Examination – The final exam assesses students’ understanding of atoms, chemical compounds, ecosystems, electricity, and astronomy. It includes multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended-response questions to evaluate knowledge, reasoning, and the application of scientific concepts. | 2 hrs |
| Total Course Hours | 110 hrs | |
Resources Required
Required Textbooks and Resources: Nelson Science 9 – Student Textbook, covering Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth and Space Science. Supplementary resources include articles, videos, online materials related to current scientific topics, and teacher-provided worksheets and practice exercises.
Digital Resources and Software: Google Drive for storing, sharing, and submitting assignments, worksheets, and projects; internet access for research, interactive simulations, and digital learning tools; and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or equivalent for assignments and presentations.
Additional Learning Support: Students may use assistive technologies such as text-to-speech or speech-to-text tools. Flexible submission formats, including Google Docs, PDFs, and other standard formats, may be available when appropriate.
Key Skills Developed
Scientific investigation, critical thinking, research, scientific experimentation, engineering design, problem-solving, data analysis, and communication. Students develop the ability to plan investigations, record and interpret observations, analyze scientific information, and communicate evidence-based conclusions. They strengthen their understanding of ecosystems, climate change, atomic structure, chemical properties, electricity, and space exploration while examining connections between science, technology, society, and the environment. Students also develop digital literacy, collaboration, environmental awareness, and transferable STEM skills relevant to future studies and careers.
Assessment
A number of assessments are used throughout the units, typically one per lesson. Students are encouraged to complete each assessment fully to test their knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts. These assessments provide teachers with opportunities to offer feedback that supports learning and to evaluate student achievement.
Assessment practices are designed to support students’ sense of progress and motivation for continued learning. A variety of assessment methods are incorporated throughout the course to accommodate different learning approaches. Rubrics and marking schemes are provided where appropriate, and students are encouraged to evaluate their own work using these tools.
Assessment Activities
Assessment activities may include:
- Quizzes and tests
- Assignments and worksheets
- Scientific simulations and practical activities
- Teacher questioning and discussions
- Self-assessment and peer assessment
- Reflections and learning journals
- Learning checklists and goal setting
- Research projects and case studies
- Scientific presentations
- Unit tests and examinations
- Midterm examination
- Final examination
Assessment Approaches
| Assessment Type | Activities |
|---|---|
| Assessment FOR Learning | Quizzes and tests, assignments and worksheets, ongoing teacher feedback, simulations and practical activities, teacher questioning and discussions. |
| Assessment AS Learning | Self- and peer-assessment, reflections and learning journals, learning checklists and goal setting, peer feedback, self-reflection, and student learning reflections. |
| Assessment OF Learning | Unit tests, research projects, case studies, presentations, midterm examination, and final examination. |
Final Grade
The final grade will be determined as follows (in accordance with Ministry of Education standards):
| Evaluation Component | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Term Work Based on evaluations conducted throughout the course. |
65% |
| Final Evaluation A final evaluation in the form of a written exam. |
20% |
| Attendance and Participation | 15% |
Final Examination Breakdown
- 20% written exam
Attendance Policy
Regular participation in course activities supports students in developing scientific understanding and practical STEM skills. Students are encouraged to maintain consistent engagement with the course materials, complete assigned assessments, and communicate with their teacher throughout the learning process.
The SNC1W course consists of 110 hours of instruction, including learning activities, scientific investigations, assessments, and examinations.
Students are encouraged to participate in the following activities:
- Course Engagement: Review course materials, multimedia presentations, scientific diagrams, and online resources.
- Scientific Investigations: Participate in assigned virtual simulations, practical activities, and scientific research tasks.
- Class Discussions: Engage in teacher-led discussions, scientific questioning, and opportunities for collaboration.
- Assignments and Assessments: Complete worksheets, quizzes, research projects, reflections, and other assigned activities.
- Communication: Maintain contact with the teacher to receive guidance, clarification, and feedback.
Students should follow course deadlines and communicate promptly with their teacher if they experience difficulties completing learning activities.
Evaluation Model
15% Total Attendance and Participation Weight
Attendance and participation account for 15% of the final grade. Students are encouraged to engage consistently in the learning activities and assessments outlined in the course.
| Component | Participation Criteria |
|---|---|
| Course Engagement | Regular engagement with course materials, multimedia presentations, online resources, and assigned scientific learning activities. |
| Scientific Activities and Discussions | Participation in scientific investigations, virtual simulations, teacher-led discussions, research activities, and opportunities for reflection. |
| Assignment Completion and Communication | Completion of assigned activities and assessments, attention to course deadlines, and communication with the teacher when guidance or clarification is required. |
Tips for Success
Welcome to SNC1W: Grade 9 Science! Get ready to explore foundational scientific concepts, practical applications, and real-world problem-solving while developing your critical-thinking, research, and digital skills. By the end of this course, you will have strengthened your time management, organization, and online learning skills.
Check Announcements, “What’s New,” and your mailbox every day for updates and important information. Check the calendar regularly for due dates and submit assignments on time. If you experience any difficulties, contact your teacher promptly.
Review assignment instructions and evaluation criteria regularly. Create a checklist to ensure that assignments and activities include all required elements and are submitted correctly by the deadline.
Ask for help when needed. For technical issues, contact the Help Desk. For course-related questions or problems, email your teacher. Expect a response within 24 hours. If your question is urgent, include “URGENT” in the email subject line.
Time Commitment: Plan for 1–2 hours of focused study each day to complete modules, research, and assignments.
Communication: Maintain regular contact with your teacher for guidance, feedback, and clarification on course activities.
Engagement: Stay curious and proactive. Online learning may present challenges, but consistent effort and persistence will help you succeed.
Remember, this course is designed to help you understand scientific concepts and their practical applications. Approach each activity with curiosity, critical thinking, and a problem-solving mindset!
