Curriculum Policy:
Science, The Ontario Curriculum, Grade 9, 2022

Course description:
This course helps students enhance their understanding of fundamental concepts in biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth and space science while connecting scientific principles to technology, society, and the environment. Throughout the course, students will hone their STEM skills by engaging in scientific research, experimentation, and engineering design processes to explore various concepts and apply their knowledge to real-world situations relevant to their lives and communities. As they progress, students will also cultivate transferable skills, empowering them to become scientifically literate global citizens.

Chapters and Descriptions:

• Scientific Processes
  Students will learn the basics of scientific experimentation, research, and engineering design processes, applying these skills to enhance their understanding of key scientific concepts.
• Biology: Sustainable Ecosystems and Climate Change
  Students will explore sustainable ecosystems and analyze their responses to natural and artificial disturbances, culminating in a discussion on how sustainable practices reflect ecological equilibrium.
• Chemistry: The Nature of Matter
  This unit covers the properties and hierarchy of matter, with students investigating the physical and chemical characteristics of elements and compounds. The unit concludes with students designing a solution to extend battery life, linking matter to sustainability.
• Physics: The Principles and Applications of Electricity
  Students will investigate static and current electricity, exploring principles like electric charges and the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance. The unit ends with testing a wind turbine prototype, applying their skills in experimentation and design.
• Earth and Space: Space Exploration
  Students will examine the universe’s components, studying stars, asteroids, and comets while reviewing observational evidence for theories about the universe’s origin. The unit concludes with an evaluation of the impacts of space exploration innovations on society and consumer goods.