Grade 11 - Science 24

Unit A: Applications of Matter & Chemical Change

Unit B: Understanding Common Energy Conversion Systems

Unit D: Motion, Change & Transportation Safety

Outcomes for Science, Technology & Society (STS) & Knowledge 

Skill Outcomes(focus on problem solving)

ATTITUDE OUTCOMES

Outcomes for Science, Technology & Society (STS) & Knowledge

SKILL OUTCOMES (focus on problem solving)

Attitude Outcomes

Unit C: Disease Defence & Human Health

Skill Outcomes

Attitude Outcomes

Outcomes for Science, Technology & Society (STS) & Knowledge

Skill Outcomes (focus on scientific inquiry)

ATTITUDE OUTCOMES

Describe how everyday life depends upon technological products and processes that produce useful materials and energy

Investigate and classify chemical reactions

Explain the law of conservation of mass when balancing chemical reactions

Analyze common technological products and processes encountered in everyday life and careers, and analyze their potential effects on the environment

INITIATING AND PLANNING: Ask questions about relationships between and among observable variables, and plan investigations to address those questions

PERFORMING AND RECORDING: Conduct investigations into the relationships between and among observations, and gather and record qualitative and quantitative data

Analyzing and Interpreting: Analyze qualitative and quantitative data, and develop and assess possible explanations

Communication and Teamwork: Work collaboratively on problems; and use appropriate language and formats to communicate ideas, procedures and results

INTEREST IN SCIENCE

MUTUAL RESPECT

SCIENTIFIC INQUIRY

COLLABORATION

STEWARDSHIP

SAFETY

Investigate and interpret transformation and conservation of various forms of energy in physical and technological systems

Investigate and analyze electrical energy conversion devices in terms of energy conversions, rate of energy transfer and efficiency

Investigate and describe the energy conversions associated with change in chemical and biological systems

Analyze and describe the impact of fossil fuel based technologies and their importance in meeting human needs

Initiating and Planning : Ask questions about relationships between and among observable variables, and plan investigations to address those questions

Performing and Recording: Conduct investigations into the relationships between and among observations, and gather and record qualitative and quantitative data

Analyzing and Interpreting: Analyze qualitative and quantitative data, and develop and assess possible explanations

Communication and Teamwork: Work collaboratively on problems; and use appropriate language and formats to communicate ideas, procedures and results

Interest in Science

Mutual Respect

Scientific Inquiry

Collaboration

Stewardship  

Safety

Outcomes for Science, Technology & Society (STS) & Knowledge

INITIATING AND PLANNING: Ask questions about relationships between and among observable variables, and plan investigations to address those questions.

PERFORMING AND RECORDING: Conduct investigations into the relationships between and among observations, and gather and record qualitative and quantitative data

ANALYZING AND INTERPRETING: Analyze qualitative and quantitative data, and develop and assess possible explanations

COMMUNICATION AND TEAMWORK: Work collaboratively on problems; and use appropriate language and formats to communicate ideas, procedures and results

Interest in Science

Mutual Respect

Scientific Inquiry

Collaboration

Stewardship

Safety

Use explanatory models from their own learning in science or personal experience to distinguish between scientific and personal opinion and to analyze the need for safety systems and regulations

Describe the change in position and speed of objects mathematically and graphically

Apply concepts of force, mass and the law of conservation of momentum to investigate one-dimensional collisions of two objects

Apply the principles underlying the motion of objects to explain the need for safety devices and practices

Initiating and Planning: Ask questions about relationships between and among observable variables, and plan investigations to address those questions

Performing and Recording: Conduct investigations into the relationships between and among observations, and gather and record qualitative and quantitative data

Analyzing and Interpreting: Analyze qualitative and quantitative data, and develop and assess possible explanations

Communication and Teamwork: Work collaboratively on problems; and use appropriate language and formats to communicate ideas, procedures and results

Interest in Science

Mutual Respect

Scientific Inquiry

Collaboration

Stewardship

Safety

identify common materials and their uses, and describe how everyday life has changed over the past 100 years with the development of new materials (e.g., acids, bases, alloys, plastics, ceramics, fibres, composites)

identify examples of chemical changes involved in cooking, cleaning, personal care and gardening (e.g., acids in vinegar, citrus fruits and rhubarb react with aluminum kitchen utensils; bases in drain cleaners react with grease; emulsifiers and softeners are ingredients in skin creams; pesticides interfere with metabolic processes in living systems)

name simple compounds from chemical formulas, and recognize the chemical names of substances that are used every day

infer the relationship among chemical formulas, composition and name (e.g., simple acids, bases, salts)

investigate evidence of chemical change; i.e., change of phase, appearance, colour, odour, energy (e.g., heat, light)

investigate, describe and compare the changes to reactants and products in fossil fuel combustion and rusting reactions

define, operationally, endothermic and exothermic reactions (e.g., mixing chemicals in a “cold pack,” burning natural gas)

investigate and describe simple composition and decomposition reactions (e.g., tarnishing of silver, electrolysis of water)

describe, using observation, the chemical properties of reactants and products in chemical reactions (e.g., neutralization, combustion, simple composition, decomposition)

identify simple composition, decomposition, combustion and neutralization reactions when given word and/or chemical equations, products and reactants

relate the concept of the atom to the conservation of mass; i.e., the number of atoms stays the same as they are rearranged in a chemical reaction; therefore, the total mass before and after the reaction remains the same (e.g., analyze the chemical equation 2Mg(s) + O2(g)→ 2MgO(s) to illustrate the law of conservation of mass by counting the number of atoms of each element)

represent simple chemical reactions (e.g., neutralization, combustion, simple composition, decomposition) using word and/or balanced chemical equations

design an experiment to illustrate that mass cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction

analyze and explain common acid–base neutralization reactions (e.g., neutralization of stomach acid by antacids, use of baking soda or baking powder, use of lemon juice on fish dishes)

investigate and describe simple chemical processes occurring in everyday life (e.g., acid–base reactions in cleaning and food processing, dyeing of hair, washing of clothes, burning of gasoline in a car engine, swimming pool maintenance, rusting of metal)

provide examples of how technology has addressed the problem of corrosion (e.g., protecting with paint, oil, plastic or metal; using alloys or sacrificial metals)

investigate and describe greenhouse gases and air pollution resulting from combustion reactions (e.g., carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide released when methane is burned in a household furnace, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide released in car exhaust)

investigate and describe technologies used to reduce emissions that cause acid deposition

identify questions to investigate that arise from practical problems and issues (e.g., “What environmental factors affect rusting the most?”)

propose alternative solutions to a given practical problem, identify the potential strengths and weaknesses of each, and select one as the basis for a plan (e.g., propose and assess ways to reduce car exhaust emissions into the atmosphere)

evaluate and select appropriate instruments for problem solving, inquiry and decision making (e.g., select appropriate laboratory equipment to investigate the effectiveness of antacid tablets)

carry out procedures, controlling the major variables, and adapt or extend those procedures where required (e.g., investigate chemical reactions for evidence of chemical change)

compile and organize data, using appropriate formats and data treatments to facilitate interpretation (e.g., write word equations for chemical reactions investigated, and record what was done or observed, using appropriate methods)

use library and electronic research tools to collect information on a given topic (e.g., describe the functioning of automobile technologies used to reduce harmful emissions)

select and integrate information from various print and electronic sources or from several parts of the same source (e.g., prepare an inventory of useful chemical substances used in a typical day, and classify them in categories: acids, bases, salts, alloys and polymers)

construct and test a prototype of a device or system, and troubleshoot problems as they arise

demonstrate a knowledge of Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) standards, by selecting and applying proper techniques for handling and disposing of laboratory materials (e.g., recognize substances, circumstances and actions that may be hazardous to people and the environment) 

compile and display evidence and information, by hand or computer, in a variety of formats, including diagrams, flow charts, tables, graphs and scatterplots (e.g., report findings of investigations of chemical change)

apply criteria, including the presence of bias, to evaluate evidence and sources of information (e.g., evaluate information on technologies used to reduce emissions that cause acid deposition)

state a conclusion, based on experimental data, and explain how evidence gathered supports or refutes an initial idea (e.g., report on the results of an investigation into the effectiveness of antacid tablets)

identify and correct practical problems in the way a technological device or system functions (e.g., suggest ways to reduce air pollution or rusting)

identify new questions or problems that arise from what was learned (e.g., “What is the possibility of drastic climate change due to global warming?”)

identify and evaluate potential applications of findings (e.g., identify ways to control corrosion of oil pipelines and equipment used in pulp and paper mills)

communicate questions, ideas and intentions; and receive, interpret, understand, support and respond to the ideas of others (e.g., use appropriate communication technology to elicit feedback from others)

select and use appropriate numeric, symbolic, graphical and linguistic modes of representation to communicate ideas, plans and results (e.g., write word equations and name simple compounds, using correct conventions)

work cooperatively with team members to develop and carry out a plan, and troubleshoot problems as they arise (e.g., develop a plan, seek feedback, test and review it, make revisions, and implement it)

evaluate individual and group processes used in planning, problem solving, decision making and completing a task (e.g., assess processes used to construct a device that reduces CO emissions)

Show interest in science-related questions and issues, and confidently pursue personal interests and career possibilities within science-related fields (e.g., maintain interest or pursue further studies in science; explore where further science- and technology-related studies can be pursued; recognize that part-time jobs require science- and technology-related knowledge and skills)

Appreciate that scientific understanding evolves from the interaction of ideas involving people with different views and backgrounds (e.g., recognize the contribution of chemistry and technology to the progress of civilizations)

Seek and apply evidence when evaluating alternative approaches to investigations, problems and issues (e.g., evaluate liming of lakes as a long-term solution to acid deposition)  

Work collaboratively in planning and carrying out investigations, as well as in generating and evaluating ideas (e.g., accept responsibility for any task that helps the group complete an activity; be attentive when others speak; share responsibility for errors made or difficulties encountered by the group)

Demonstrate sensitivity and responsibility in pursuing a balance between the needs of humans and a sustainable environment (e.g., walk rather than drive to neighbourhood stores to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases; assume part of the collective responsibility for the impact of humans on the environment)

Show concern for safety in planning, carrying out and reviewing activities (e.g., write safety and waste-disposal concerns into a laboratory procedure; seek assistance immediately for any first-aid concerns, such as cuts, burns or unusual reactions)

investigate and describe evidence of energy transformations in the home and everyday contexts (e.g., simple machines, electrical devices, chemical reactions)

design, construct and evaluate a simple model or device that transforms energy from one form to another (e.g., windmill, water wheel, model vehicle powered by rubber bands/mousetraps/carbon dioxide/electric motor)

describe an energy transformation system in terms of input, converter and output (e.g., an electric kettle)

apply the law of conservation of energy to trace energy transformation, dissipation and availability in physical and technological systems (e.g., swinging pendulum)

describe electrical power generation in terms of converting thermal/hydro/wind/solar/nuclear energy into electricity

compare the efficiency of electrical power distribution systems by tracing the energy conversions that occur in a variety of household devices (e.g., power tools; electric cars; microwave and conventional ovens; fluorescent, incandescent and halogen light bulbs)

describe the efficiency of an energy conversion system as a ratio of total input energy to useful output energy, and quantify efficiency as: % efficiency = useful output energy ÷ total input energy × 100

explain why the useful output energy in machines is always less than the input energy

define the rate of energy transfer as power, using E = Pt; identify the units of power as joules (J)/second or watts (W); and identify the units of energy as joules or kilowatt hours (kWh)

devise a plan for making more efficient use of household energy conversion devices (e.g., doing a full load in a dishwasher or clothes dryer, using appropriate wattage light bulbs or compact fluorescent light bulbs)

investigate and describe common chemical reactions that produce or absorb energy (e.g., light and heat given off by the combustion of fossil fuels, cold and hot packs)

list and explain the requirements of photosynthesis as carbon dioxide, water, chlorophyll in chloroplasts and sunlight; and list and explain the products as oxygen and glucose

explain, in general, the process of respiration in which glucose and oxygen are converted to energy, carbon dioxide and water

describe food as fuel for the human body in meeting its needs for normal metabolic functions, exercise, and growth or repair of cells

identify the sources of energy in food as carbohydrates, fats and proteins; and explain, in general terms, why there needs to be a balance between food intake and energy output

describe the factors that affect metabolism (e.g., age, level of fitness, time of day, exercise/activity), and compare daily energy requirements of individuals at various stages of growth and activity levels (e.g., energy requirements of a newborn, teenager, office worker and labourer; energy requirements while sleeping, running)

outline, in general terms, the formation of the following fossil fuels: oil, coal and natural gas

compare combustion of a fossil fuel with cellular respiration

explain the importance of the fossil fuel industry in Alberta in meeting energy requirements

compare present fossil fuel consumption by industry, homes and automobiles with projected consumption in the future

describe the sources of fossil fuels; and describe, in general terms, the extraction and refining processes used to provide people with fossil fuels

assess the impact of fossil fuel based technologies on the environment

describe the importance of combustion reactions to a modern industrial society, and describe the implications of depleting fossil fuel reserves

Show interest in science-related questions and issues, and confidently pursue personal interests and career possibilities within science-related fields (e.g., research answers to their own questions, such as “How could I reduce my personal energy consumption?”)

Appreciate that scientific understanding evolves from the interaction of ideas involving people with different views and backgrounds (e.g., consider social and cultural contexts when discussing body images; recognize the contribution and skill of technologists in extracting oil from the oil sands)

Seek and apply evidence when evaluating alternative approaches to investigations, problems and issues (e.g., expend the effort and time needed to make valid inferences; critically assess their opinion of the value of science and its applications)

Work collaboratively in planning and carrying out investigations, as well as in generating and evaluating ideas (e.g., participate with others in peaceful conflict resolution; share the responsibility for errors made or difficulties encountered by the group)

Demonstrate sensitivity and responsibility in pursuing a balance between the needs of humans and a sustainable environment (e.g., list consequences of improving the efficiency of fossil fuel based technologies; participate in the social and political systems that influence environmental policy in their community)

Show concern for safety in planning, carrying out and reviewing activities (e.g., assume responsibility for the safety of all those who share a common working environment, by cleaning up after an activity and disposing of materials in a safe place)

Describe how human health is affected by societal and environmental factors, and describe the need for action by society to improve human health

Analyze the relationship between human health and environmental pathogens

Describe the natural mechanisms that protect the human organism from pathogens

Describe the role of genes in inherited characteristics and human health

Analyze how longevity in humans has increased over time as a result of a better understanding of pathogens and genetics, and improved sanitary conditions and personal hygiene

identify questions to investigate that arise from practical problems and issues (e.g., “How effective are commercially available antibacterial cleaners on bacteria found in the home or in school?”)

evaluate and select appropriate instruments for problem solving, inquiry and decision making (e.g., decide what needs to be measured, and select the proper procedures and tools for the task; investigate conditions necessary for growing nonpathogenic bacteria)

implement appropriate sampling procedures (e.g., determine the prevalence of genetic traits over several generations, using a provided pedigree)

use instruments effectively and accurately for collecting data (e.g., observe prepared slides of various disease-causing microbial organisms or prepared slides of cellular components of human blood)

compile and organize data, using appropriate formats and data treatments to facilitate interpretation (e.g., graph results of a simulated spread of infection; track the population growth of bacteria, using spreadsheets)

use library and electronic research tools to collect information on a given topic (e.g., use current, reliable information sources to find out about the spread of diseases, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), tuberculosis and cholera)

select and integrate information from various print and electronic sources (e.g., investigate genetic diseases on the Internet)

compile and display evidence and information, by hand or computer, in a variety of formats, including diagrams, flow charts, tables, graphs and scatterplots (e.g., graph the incidence of a particular disease over time)

synthesize information from multiple sources or from complex and lengthy texts, and make inferences based on this information (e.g., research how a specific food handling or preparation industry prevents the microbial contamination of their final product; record relevant data for acknowledging sources of information, and cite sources correctly)

evaluate the relevance, reliability and adequacy of data and data collection methods (e.g., assess the authority, reliability and validity of electronically-accessed information; assess methods used to determine the spread of infections in a population)

identify new questions or problems that arise from what was learned (e.g., “How do bacteria develop resistance to antibacterial agents over time?”)

identify and evaluate potential applications of findings (e.g., assess factors that promote or discourage growth in bacteria populations; identify mutagens in the environment and trace their sources)

communicate questions, ideas and intentions; and receive, interpret, understand, support and respond to the ideas of others (e.g., participate in a variety of electronic group formats)

select and use appropriate numeric, symbolic, graphical and linguistic modes of representation to communicate ideas, plans and results (e.g., create a generalized model of DNA; prepare a visual representation of the method of infection/transmission of a specific human pathogen)

identify multiple perspectives that influence a science-related decision or issue (e.g., consult a wide variety of sources that reflect varied viewpoints on particular topics, such as genetic screening of humans)

develop, present and defend a position or course of action, based on findings (e.g., assess, qualitatively, the risks and benefits of cloning plants and animals for agriculture; produce a brochure that explains how to reduce the chances of getting a communicable disease, such as the common cold)

work cooperatively with team members to develop and carry out a plan, and troubleshoot problems as they arise (e.g., plan the collection and culturing of different bacteria to measure the effectiveness of antibacterial agents)

evaluate individual and group processes used in planning, problem solving, decision making and completing a task (e.g., assess processes used to determine if the introduction of human genes into other species, such as mice and bacteria, poses a risk to human health) 

Show interest in science-related questions and issues, and confidently pursue personal interests and career possibilities within science-related fields (e.g., readily investigate health issues; investigate careers, such as practical nurse, ambulance attendant, food and restaurant inspectors)

Appreciate that scientific understanding evolves from the interaction of ideas involving people with different views and backgrounds (e.g., carefully research and openly discuss ethical dilemmas associated with applications of advancements in genetics)

Seek and apply evidence when evaluating alternative approaches to investigations, problems and issues (e.g., insist on evidence before accepting a new idea or explanation; criticize arguments in which evidence, explanations or positions do not reflect the diversity of perspectives that exist)

Work collaboratively in planning and carrying out investigations, as well as in generating and evaluating ideas (e.g., assume a variety of roles as required; be attentive when others speak)

Demonstrate sensitivity and responsibility in pursuing a balance between the needs of humans and a sustainable environment (e.g., share the responsibility for maintaining clean air and clean water)

Show concern for safety in planning, carrying out and reviewing activities (e.g., write safety and waste disposal concerns into the laboratory procedure; follow proper food handling and preparation processes when working in the kitchen; show consideration for others when ill, by limiting the exposure of others to pathogens)

list the factors influencing the ability to make sudden stops (e.g., degree of wakefulness, visual acuity, state of mind, ingestion of prescription drugs and/or alcohol)

assess the need for staying a safe distance behind another automobile when travelling at highway speeds (e.g., maintaining a two-second gap under normal driving conditions)

discuss the consequences of a shorter or longer reaction time

list traffic safety factors (e.g., reasons why some traffic lights stay yellow for three seconds and others for five seconds; reasons why some traffic lights have advanced warning flashers; speed bumps; guardrails; reflectors; rumble strips)

list and describe ways that passengers can protect themselves from injury in accidents

identify and analyze the dangers faced by people in a motor vehicle accident

compare the death and injury rate in motor vehicle accidents to other causes of death and injury among adults and teenagers

define speed (velocity) as change in position during a time interval, and quantify speed (velocity) using v = d/t (e.g., express speed [velocity] in metres per second [m/s])

plot a distance versus time graph, and use the slope of the graph to determine the speed (velocity) of an object

define distance travelled as a product of speed (velocity) and the time interval, and quantify the distance travelled using d = vt (e.g., express distance in metres [m])

determine the distance travelled by objects during “reaction time,” when given appropriate data (e.g., by a car when traffic lights turn from yellow to red, by a baseball to a batter, by a puck to a goaltender)

relate the momentum of an object as being directly proportional to its mass and speed (velocity) (e.g., quantify the momentum of an object, using the formula: momentum [kgm/s] = mass [kg] × speed [m/s])

explain why it takes a large heavy object, such as a train, a great distance to come to a stop

define impulse as a change in momentum, and calculate impulse as the product of force and the time interval over which it acts: mΔv = FΔt

analyze the force experienced, using mΔv/Δt = F), if change in momentum (impulse) occurs over a longer or shorter period of time (e.g., stopping an object gradually over a longer period of time reduces the amount of a potentially damaging force, and stopping an object quickly over a shorter period of time increases the amount of a potentially damaging force)

illustrate, quantitatively, the conservation of momentum as the following: the total momentum of two objects before a collision is the same as after the collision when friction is minimal and the two objects lock together

explain how seat belts and air bags function in terms of changing momentum and force (e.g., explain why one cannot brace for a collision as a means of protection; explain why babies must be placed in special seats and not on a passenger’s lap)

illustrate, qualitatively, the application of the concept of impulse to the design of automobile safety features (e.g., dashboards, car bumpers, restraining nets, crash barriers on highways)

analyze data or studies comparing vehicle occupant injuries, for belted and unbelted occupants, before and after seat belt legislation

compare the functioning of first and second generation air bags, and explain the need for improving the design of air bags (e.g., first generation air bag design assumed drivers to be adult males, not wearing seat belts; for the second generation design, these assumptions were revised to reduce speed and force of air bag deployment)

describe the application of the law of conservation of momentum in a variety of situations involving two objects (e.g., rear-end collision, recoil, jumping from a boat, traffic accidents, two people on skates pushing each other) 

identify questions that arise from practical problems and issues (e.g., “How long does it take to respond to an emergency?”)

define and delimit problems to facilitate investigation (e.g., determine reaction time)

design an experiment, identifying the manipulated, responding and fixed variables (e.g., investigate how air bags work, using a partially inflated beach ball or plastic bag and a steel ball or rock to model the functioning of the air bag)

state a prediction and hypothesis based on available evidence and background information

identify the theoretical basis of an investigation, and develop a prediction and a hypothesis that are consistent with the theoretical basis

formulate operational definitions of major variables (e.g., force, impulse)

evaluate and select appropriate instruments for collecting evidence and appropriate processes for problem solving, inquiry and decision making (e.g., use a force probe and sonic ranger to determine the effectiveness of different types of cushions for a toy vehicle)

carry out procedures, controlling the major variables and adapting or extending procedures where required (e.g., test different materials for use as seat belts)

use instruments effectively and accurately for collecting data (e.g., develop a questionnaire to elicit community opinions about wearing seat belts)

estimate quantities (e.g., estimate, predict, check and validate calculations)

compile and organize data, using appropriate formats and data treatments to facilitate interpretation

compile and organize data, using appropriate formats and data treatments to facilitate interpretation

describe and apply classification systems and nomenclature used in the sciences (e.g., use terms such as force, speed [velocity], impulse, momentum)

compile and display evidence and information, by hand or computer, in a variety of formats, including diagrams, flow charts, tables, graphs and scatterplots (e.g., draw a force–time graph for cushioned and noncushioned toy cars, in an investigation of the effectiveness of different types of cushions for a toy car)

identify a line of best fit on a scatterplot, and interpolate or extrapolate based on the line of best fit (e.g., graph distance–time relationships)

interpret patterns and trends in data, and infer or calculate linear or nonlinear relationships among variables (e.g., determine speed [velocity] from a distance–time graph, or distance from a speed [velocity]–time graph)

identify and apply criteria; i.e., social factors, explanations, methods, data, related research and relevance, including the presence of bias, for evaluating evidence and sources of information (e.g., identify and analyze a variety of factors that affect the authenticity of information derived from the mass media and electronic communication)

identify and explain sources of error and uncertainty in measurement, and express results in a form that acknowledges the degree of uncertainty (e.g., list sources of uncertainty in the measurement of “reaction time,” use SI units and unit analysis to check the results of mathematical solutions)

explain how data support or refute the hypothesis or prediction (e.g., investigate the statements: “More traffic accidents occur on Monday mornings.”; “More pedestrians than drivers are killed by cars.”)

identify new questions or problems that arise from what was learned (e.g., “What is whiplash, and why is it more common in rear-end collisions?”)

communicate questions, ideas and intentions; and receive, interpret, understand, support and respond to the ideas of others (e.g., develop a plan to assess the safety features of new cars)

select and use appropriate numeric, symbolic, graphical and linguistic modes of representation to communicate ideas, plans and results (e.g., create data tables and a summary of questionnaire results; graph results, using appropriate scales)

evaluate individual or group processes used in planning, problem solving, decision making and completing a task (e.g., assess group processes used to evaluate cars for their safety features)

Show interest in science-related questions and issues, and confidently pursue personal interests and career possibilities within science-related fields (e.g., explore and use a variety of methods and resources to increase their own knowledge and skills related to safety and driving; investigate careers in traffic law enforcement)

Appreciate that scientific understanding evolves from the interaction of ideas involving people with different views and backgrounds (e.g., appreciate the benefits that have resulted from a better understanding of the law of conservation of momentum)

Seek and apply evidence when evaluating alternative approaches to investigations, problems and issues (e.g., develop explanations and descriptions about safety issues in transportation)  

Work collaboratively in planning and carrying out investigations, as well as in generating and evaluating ideas (e.g., help motivate others; listen to the points of view of others)

Demonstrate sensitivity and responsibility in pursuing a balance between the needs of humans and a sustainable environment  

Show concern for safety in planning, carrying out and reviewing activities (e.g., follow safety regulations for drivers; respect others’ space, materials and work during an activity)

identify questions to investigate that arise from practical problems and issues (e.g., “How can we measure the power of the human body?”)

formulate operational definitions of major variables (e.g., define, operationally, power, energy and metabolism)

propose alternative solutions to a given practical problem, identify the potential strengths and weaknesses of each, and select one as the basis for a plan (e.g., devise a plan for more efficient household energy consumption)

evaluate and select appropriate instruments for problem solving, inquiry and decision making (e.g., decide how to measure the energy output of a device or process, and select the proper procedures and tools for the task) 

carry out procedures, controlling the major variables and adapting or extending procedures where required (e.g., determine the amount of thermal energy released by cellular respiration; determine the energy outputs of various foods, using simple calorimetric methods)

compile and organize data, using appropriate formats and data treatments to facilitate interpretation (e.g., list, in charts and tables, sources of energy in food)

use library and electronic research tools to collect information on a given topic (e.g., collect data on energy requirements of individuals at varying stages of growth and levels of activity)

select and integrate information from various print and electronic sources or from several parts of the same source (e.g., collect background information to investigate obesity, starvation or anorexia nervosa)

construct and test a prototype of a device or system, and troubleshoot problems as they arise (e.g., construct a device that uses solar or wind energy to generate electricity)

compile and display evidence and information, by hand or computer, in a variety of formats, including diagrams, flow charts, tables, graphs and scatterplots (e.g., report findings from an experiment to measure the power of the human body)

compare theoretical and empirical values, and account for discrepancies (e.g., explain the difference between the theoretical value of percent efficiency of a device and the measured efficiency in the laboratory)

state a conclusion, based on experimental data, and explain how evidence gathered supports or refutes an initial idea (e.g., explain why the input energy in machines is always greater than the output energy)

identify and correct practical problems in the way a technological device or system functions (e.g., redesign a model car to increase the distance it travels)

evaluate a personally designed and constructed device on the basis of criteria they have developed themselves (e.g., assess an energy conversion device or an artificial light technology to promote indoor plant growth)

communicate questions, ideas and intentions; and receive, interpret, understand, support and respond to the ideas of others (e.g., collect and display data on household energy consumption, by reading and recording data from the electricity and gas meters over a two-week period)

select and use appropriate numeric, symbolic, graphical and linguistic modes of representation to communicate ideas, plans and results (e.g., calculate the efficiency of a basic energy system)

work cooperatively with team members to develop and carry out a plan, and troubleshoot problems as they arise (e.g., develop a plan for using energy more efficiently in their school or community)

describe, in general terms, how human diseases may arise from an interaction of variables, including poor nutrition, stress, pathogens and environmental contamination

analyze the relationship between social conditions and disease (e.g., hunger and malnutrition; sanitation and bacterial, viral, fungal diseases)

list the social and economic impact of pandemic diseases on past and present societies (e.g., Black Death; 1918 Influenza; severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS); impact of European diseases, such as tuberculosis, on Canada’s First Nations communities)

trace, from a historical perspective, the connection between diseases and contaminated drinking water, air pollution and personal hygiene

analyze the impact of public health initiatives and maintaining high standards of personal hygiene in fostering healthier societies and individuals (e.g., provision of potable water, clean air standards, treatment of human and animal wastes, safe handling of food)

distinguish between communicable and noncommunicable diseases

investigate and describe the conditions necessary for the growth of a specific pathogen (e.g., viruses, fungi, bacteria)

describe how different communicable diseases are transmitted and how they affect human health (e.g., cold, influenza)

describe how noncommunicable diseases are transmitted and how they affect human health (e.g., food poisoning due to salmonella or E. coli; cholera; dysentery)

investigate and describe how a specific food handling or preparation process is designed to prevent microbial contamination of the final product (e.g., freezing, pickling, salting, vacuum packaging)

explain the role of the human organism’s physical defences in preventing infection by pathogens (e.g., skin, mucus membranes, tears, saliva, digestive system)

investigate and explain the role of blood components in controlling pathogens (e.g., white blood cells and antibodies)

identify the major cellular and chemical components of the human immune system

describe, in general terms, how the immune system protects the body by attacking foreign or abnormal proteins

compare forms of immunity in the human organism, and explain how immunity is established (e.g., natural and artificial immunization)

explain how specific antibiotic therapies, vaccines or medications are used to treat or prevent a disease (e.g., measles, rabies, tetanus, smallpox, tuberculosis)

describe how the overuse and improper use of antibiotics may lead to the development of resistance in bacteria (e.g., use of prescription antibiotics for viral infections)

describe the role of genes in inherited characteristics (e.g., hitchhiker’s thumb; earlobe attachment; hair, skin and eye colour)

interpret a Punnett square to illustrate dominant and recessive monohybrid autosomal crosses

identify the role of chromosomes in determining the sex of human offspring

interpret a pedigree illustrating the inheritance of autosomal single gene traits (e.g., Mendel’s research on pea plants)

identify the relationships among DNA, genes and chromosomes; and identify, in general, the structure and replication of a DNA molecule

investigate the effect of mutagens and radiation on genes and chromosomes and the implications for inheritance of genetic disorders (e.g., polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), X-rays, other forms of radiation)

describe how mutations in DNA result in specific disorders (e.g., muscular dystrophy, sickle cell anemia, Huntington’s disease)

investigate factors that affect gene expression (e.g., effect of tobacco, alcohol, prescription drugs and street drugs on human embryos)

describe, in general terms, the development of a specific immunization and a genetic therapy (e.g., smallpox vaccine by Edward Jenner or polio vaccine by Jonas Salk, experimental genetic therapy for cystic fibrosis)

assess the ongoing need for public health department guidelines and personal actions to maintain and improve upon the health of the community (e.g., food handling and preparation in protecting human health, quarantines, use of sewers and landfills)

assess the impact of aseptic and sterilization techniques in modern medicine on human longevity (e.g., Joseph Lister’s sterilization of operation theatres, use of the autoclave)

relate the advances in genetic research to ethical and social issues (e.g., the human genome project, genetic engineering, cloning, screening for genetic disorders)