Science 10 is concerned with the development of scientific literacy through a “hands on-minds on” approach.  To this end students will be engaged in three processes throughout the course: inquiry, problem solving and decision making. 

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Science 10 consists of the following four units:

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Unit 1:  Sustainability of Ecosystems

This unit explores changes in environmental attitudes and values related to sustainability. The importance of technology in terms of correcting our mistakes and helping to maintain those resources necessary for the survival of future generations will be examined.  The following topics will be covered in this unit:
 

• Biotic and abiotic factors

• Composition of trophic levels in ecosystems

• Effects of bioaccumulation

• Biodiversity

• Cycling of matter

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Unit 2:  Chemical Reactions

This unit emphasizes the social and environmental aspects of science and technology associated with air and water pollution.  This will be accomplished through an understanding of the role of science in helping to make informed decisions about the use of chemicals in our daily lives, what properties of chemicals affect the way we use them and how our reliance on chemicals impacts on the environment. The following topics will be covered in this unit:

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• Formula writing

• Properties of acids, bases and salts

• Chemical reactions

• Conservation of mass

• Introduction to the rate of chemical reactions

Unit 3:  Weather Dynamics

This unit focuses on the decisions we face due to weather conditions, how our lives are affected by the weather and the cause of weather patterns. The following topics will be covered in this unit:

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• Changes in the hydrosphere and atmosphere (observations and measurements)

• The water cycle and energy

• Heat energy, its transfer and weather dynamics

• The impact of accurate weather forecasting on society

Unit 4:  Motion

The practical application of the physics of motion will be examined, in terms of it’s affect on our daily lives. This unit investigates the way that motion is studied, described and analyzed.  The following topics will be covered in this unit:
 

• Speed, distance, time relationships

• Velocity

• Acceleration

 

Course Outcomes: As per the Atlantic Canada Science curriculum. Please refer to the following website for specific outcomes:  http://www.ednet.ns.ca/files/curriculum/Science10-2012.pdf
 

 

Course Evaluation:

30%     Tests

 

Tests are given at the end of each unit. Test dates will be posted one week in advance on both the school test calendar and homework website.

40%     Assignments and Lab Reports

 

Assignments are either completed in class or given for homework. Computer based assignments are done in school.  Lab reports are done by both the individual and in groups depending on the type of lab work performed.

10%     Projects

 

Several projects will be assigned throughout the course. Project topics will be related to the material covered in the units listed above.

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20%     Final Exam

 

The final exam is a formal written exam based on material selected from the entire course.

*The above percentages are subject to change.

Note:   The overall course evaluation is based on a cumulative mark system.  This system provides a “snap shot” of a student’s progress at any time in the course and should be watched closely using your student portal to ensure that all required work has been submitted.