Science Department

Department Science

The goal of science education at ISB is to develop scientifically literate students who think critically to solve problems and make informed decisions in their world. The science curriculum is designed to develop conceptual understanding, skills, process and attitudes through exploration and inquiry. Through a rich program of activities, students will be challenged to develop individual thinking and critical attitudes concerning the methods of science and the limitations of the scientific method. We believe that the acquisition of knowledge through laboratory inquiry is the basic activity of science. Therefore, students will be continually challenged to explore through a well-designed series of laboratory activities in each course, including the use of technology to help students form valid conclusions of their experimental results and communicate those findings effectively.

ISB

ATTRIBUTES

Physics is not easy by any means, but, with the right guidance from teachers and peers, as well as, selfdriven motivation, it can be extremely enjoyable taking on the challenges that it presents. One of my biggest takeaways from Physics was definitely the persistence and reallife skills it gave me on top of the academic knowledge.

Bryan, Gr12

***Students in Grade 9 can choose either the Accelerated Science course or two of the semester courses from Biology, Chemistry or Physics, usually taken at level I in 9th grade***

Accelerated Science

Grade: 9 | Length: 2 semesters | Credit: 1

Recommendations: None

Accelerated science is an introductory laboratory science course that provides an introduction to chemistry, biology, and physics through a one year course. This course is appropriate for students wanting more elective options in grades 9. After their successful completion of Accelerated Science, students will have the choices of Chemistry II, Biology II or Physics II in grade 10. Accelerated Science provides an essential foundation and development of experimental skills including data logging, scientific inquiry and communication, and data management techniques. Students will develop knowledge and conceptual understanding of atomic structure, chemical bonding and reactions, solutions and solubility, evolution, ecology, kinematics, dynamics, work, and energy. Scientific investigations, inquiry, and research skills are a primary focus throughout the course, and students will complete a variety of Independent Research Projects during this year-long course.

CHEMISTRY I

Grade: 9 | Length: 1 semester | Credit: 0.5

Recommendations: None

Chemistry I is an introductory chemistry course for all 9th Grade ISB students. This course provides an essential foundation in experimental skills including data logging with computers, scientific inquiry and communication, and data management techniques, as well as core chemical concepts. Students will develop knowledge and conceptual understanding of atomic structure, chemical bonding and reactions, and solutions and solubility. After their experience in Chem I, students will then have the choices of Physics I, Biology I, or Chemistry II courses. Scientific investigation and inquiry is a primary focus where students will complete an Independent Research Project during the semester.

BIOLOGY I

Grades: 9 | Length: 1 semester | Credit: 0.5

Recommendations: Chemistry I

Biology I is an introductory biology course for all 9th Grade ISB students. This course develops experimental skills, scientific inquiry, research skills, communication, and data management techniques. Students will develop knowledge and conceptual understanding of evolution and ecology. Scientific investigations, inquiry and research skills are a primary focus throughout the course, and students will complete an Independent Research Project during the semester.

PHYSICS I

Grades: 9 – 10 | Length: 1 semester | Credit: 0.5

Recommendations: Chemistry I

Physics I is an introductory course where students investigate the physical world using both traditional and computer-based data logging and analysis. This course introduces students to the study of energy and motion, including both conceptual understanding and analytical problem solving involved in the study of Kinematics, Dynamics and Work and Energy. Scientific investigation and inquiry is a primary focus throughout the course, and students will complete an Independent Research Project during the semester.

Applied Science

Grades: 10 | Length: 2 semesters | Credit: 1

Recommendations: Accelerated science

This is a new course which aims to offer students a core knowledge of grade 10 science. Topics will include cells, genetics, Chemical reactions, Greenhouse effect, Waves & Electricity. Students will use real-life context based examples to support their learning. The course also continues to develop experimental skills including data logging, scientific inquiry and communication, and data management techniques. Scientific investigations, inquiry, and research skills are a primary focus throughout the course, and students will complete an Independent Research Project during this yearlong course. It is recommended that students who take this course go onto to study science courses at standard level in grade 11.

CHEMISTRY II

Grades: 10 | Length: 1 semester | Credit: 0.5

Recommendations: Accelerated science or Chemistry I

Chemistry II continues the study of fundamental chemical concepts with a focus on environmental chemistry, and further develops scientific inquiry skills, data management and analysis, and communication skills. Knowledge and understanding of chemistry principles are investigated in the topics of Energy and Combustion of Fossil Fuels, Acid in the Environment and related quantitative applications commonly used in chemistry. Scientific investigation and inquiry is a primary focus throughout the course, and students will complete an Independent Research Project during the semester. Chemistry II is a requirement for students wishing to pursue IB Chemistry HL.

BIOLOGY II

Grade: 10 | Length: 1 semester | Credit: 0.5

Recommendations: Accelerated science or Biology I

Biology II continues the study of fundamental biology concepts and further develops scientific inquiry skills, data management and analysis, and communication skills. Knowledge and understanding of biological principles are investigated are genetics, macromolecules and the cardiovascular system. Scientific investigations, inquiry and research skills are a primary focus throughout the course, and students will complete an Independent Research Project during the semester. Biology II is a requirement for students wishing to pursue IB Biology HL.

PHYSICS II

Grade: 10 | Length: 1 semester | Credit: 0.5

Recommendations: Accelerated science or Physics I

Physics II continues the study of fundamental physics concepts with a focus on energy transfers and transformations. Knowledge and understanding of physics principles are investigated in the topics of Waves and Sound, Electricity and Nuclear Physics. Students will further develop their scientific inquiry, data management and analysis, and communication skills. Scientific investigation and inquiry is a primary focus throughout the course, and students will complete an Independent Research Project during the semester. Physics II is a requirement for students wishing to pursue IB Physics HL.

Experimental Science

Grades: 11 – 12 | Length: 1 year or 2 years Credit: 1 (one year)/ 2 (two years)

Recommendations: Accelerated science or a science I class, Applied Science

Experimental Science is a one or two - year course that allows students to continue to study the sciences using an integrated systems and processes approach and is intended for students not taking a DP science class. It provides students with an understanding of some of the basic laws, theories and principles of environmental science and earth science utilizing biology, chemistry, and physics, and their applications. The study of experimental science involves the students working individually and in groups in the laboratory, in the field, and with interactive multimedia,

gaining experiences that are related to the theoretical concepts considered in the course. Students will apply investigative and problemsolving skills, effectively communicate scientific information and understanding, and appreciate the contribution that a study of science makes to our understanding of the world. In addition, each student must participate in a multidisciplinary project (Group 4 Project).

AP Biology

Length: 1 year | Credit: 1

Prerequisite: If a student wants to take this course in GR10, Accelerated Science and teacher recommendation is required. A student taking AP Biology will not be able to take an IB Biology course.

This course is open for Personal Choice Diploma students in Grades 11 &12.

AP Biology is an advanced and rigorous course that allows students to explore the core scientific principles, theories, and processes that govern living organisms and biological systems. Students will conduct hands-on laboratory work to investigate natural phenomena. Units of study include Chemistry of Life, Cell Structure & Function, Cellular Energetics, Cell Communication and Cell Cycle, Gene Expression and Regulation, Heredity, Natural Selection and Ecology. Students that take this course will be required to sit the AP Biology examination.

IB BIOLOGY

(Standard Level)

Grades: 11 – 12 | Length: 2 years | Credits: 2

Recommendations: Accelerated Science or Biology I , Biology II or Applied science

This course allows for a broad study of biology topics, including biochemistry of life, cellular organization, genetics, ecology, evolution, and human physiology, and one choice from the optional topics of the IB Standard Level syllabus; biotechnology and bioinformatics, ecology and conservation, neurobiology and behavior, and human physiology. Students will be involved in an extensive inquiry-based laboratory program. In addition, each student must participate in a multidisciplinary project.

IBDP Biology Course Guide

IB BIOLOGY

(Higher Level)

Grades: 11 – 12 | Length: 2 years | Credits: 2

Recommendations: Accelerated Science or Biology II

This is a two-year course that is equivalent to a first year university level Biology course. The topics studied in this course include biochemistry of life, cellular organization, genetics, ecology, evolution, and human physiology, and two choices from the optional topics of the IB Higher Level syllabus: human nutrition and health, physiology of exercise, cells and energy, evolution, neurobiology and behavior, microbes and biotechnology, and ecology and conservation. Each topic is studied in-depth. Students will be involved in an extensive inquiry-based laboratory program. In addition, each student must participate in a multidisciplinary project.

IBDP Biology Course Guide

IB CHEMISTRY

(Standard Level)

Grades: 11 – 12 | Length: 2 years | Credits: 2

Recommendations: Accelerated Science or Chemistry I, Chemistry II or Applied science

This course allows for a broad study of chemistry topics, including atomic structure, stoichiometry, bonding, energetic, states of matter, equilibrium, kinetics, periodicity, organic chemistry, and one choice from the optional topics of the IB Standard Level syllabus: human biochemistry, medicines and drugs, environmental chemistry or food chemistry. Students will be involved in an extensive laboratory program including a multidisciplinary project.

IBDP Chemistry Course Guide

IB CHEMISTRY

(Higher Level)

Grades: 11 – 12 | Length: 2 years | Credits: 2

Recommendations: Accelerated Science or Chemistry I, Chemistry II

This two-year course is equivalent to a first year university level chemistry course. The topics are covered with a great deal of depth and include atomic structure, bonding, stoichiometric relationships, periodicity, energetics, kinetics, equilibrium, oxidationreduction, organic chemistry, spectroscopy

and data management. Students will also study one optional topic from the IB Higher Level syllabus: materials, biochemistry, energy, or medicinal chemistry. Students will be involved in an extensive laboratory program including an independent research project and a multidisciplinary project.

IBDP Chemistry Course Guide

IB PHYSICS

(Standard Level)

Grade: 11 – 12 | Length: 2 years |Credits: 2

Recommendations: Accelerated Science or Physics I , Physics II or Applied science

This course allows a broad study of physics topics. Year One topics are kinematics, Newtonian mechanics and gravitation, rotational motion, simple harmonic motion, waves and electromagnetism. Year 2 topics are atomic and nuclear physics, and one choice from the following topics: relativity, engineering physics, imaging, or astrophysics. Advanced laboratory work is a large component of this course. Students will develop their own independent research projects under the guidance of the instructor. In addition, each student must participate in a multidisciplinary project.

IBDP Physics Course Guide

IB PHYSICS

(Higher Level)

Grades: 11 – 12 | Length: 2 years | Credit: 2

Recommendations: Accelerated Science, Physics II

This two-year course is equivalent to a first year university level Physics course. Year 1 topics are kinematics, Newtonian mechanics and gravitation, rotational motion, simple harmonic motion, waves and electromagnetism. Year 2 topics are atomic and nuclear physics, and one choice from the following topics: relativity, engineering physics, imaging, or astrophysics. Advanced laboratory work is a large component of this course with students doing their own independent research under the guidance of the instructor. IB extended essays may develop from these projects. In addition, each student must participate in a multidisciplinary project.

IBDP Physics Course Guide

IB SPORTS, EXERCISE AND HEALTH SCIENCE (SEHS)

(Standard Level & Higher Level)

Grades: 11 – 12 | Length: 2 years Credit: 2

Recommendations: Accelerated Science, Biology I or equivalent, Physical Education 9

This exciting SL/HL course incorporates the traditional disciplines of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition, which are studied in the context of sport, exercise and health. Students cover a range of core and option topics and carry out practical (experimental) investigations in both laboratory and field settings. This provides students with the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and understanding necessary to apply scientific principles and critically analyse human performance. The internal assessment is based upon practical experimental investigations and not physical performance. This course suits students who like to apply science to sport. SL and HL courses share the core syllabus. HL students study to a greater depth and breadth.

IBDP Sports & Exercise and Health Science Course Guide

IB COMPUTER SCIENCE

(Standard & Higher Level)

Grades: 11 – 12 | Length: 2 years | Credit: 2

Recommendations: Coding Games I or equivalent (for HL), Maths Essentials, Core or Extended or equivalent Math Course and teacher recommendation

The computer science curriculum is organized into three areas of learning

• Systems in theory • Systems in practice and • Systems in context

In addition, there are four themes: Abstraction, Design, Development, and Evaluation. Programming is at the core of the course and Java will be the coding language used. Half of Year 1 is spent learning to read, interpret, understand, and respond to problems using Java. For those in HL, the ramp up of coding skills will be much more compressed, and in addition, several other theoretical topics will be covered. In semester 2, the IA project will be introduced, which involves development of a software solution for a real client. Overall, the course is underpinned by fundamental

concepts of computational thinking as well as knowledge of how computers and other digital devices work.

IB DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

(Higher & Standard Level)

Grades: 11 - 12 | Length: 2 years | Credits: 2

Recommendations: Design & Technology I or II, but not required.

Students will develop a deep understanding of design, creativity, innovation, materials, and manufacturing techniques in theory and practice. D&T takes thoughts and explores the possibilities and constraints associated with products and/or systems in our world. It is human-centred and focuses on the needs, wants and limitations of the end user. The course is divided into two elements of assessment: a Design Project where students use the design cycle to research, design, make, and evaluate a design opportunity or problem to solve for users or clients. This is 40% of their final Grade. The other 60% of their final mark is from external exams that comprise theory and content. At standard level the course covers ergonomics, sustainable production, modelling, resource management, innovations and classic design. At a higher level, in addition to the standard level topics, the course covers user-centered design, sustainability, markets and commercial production. The class is hands-on activities and content using the Invention Center’s workshop and spaces to understand the course material and enhance learning within the IB framework.

IBDP Design Technology Course Guide

IB ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS & SOCIETIES (ESS)

(Standard Level ONLY)

Grades 11 – 12 | Length: 2 years | Credits: 2

Recommendations: Accelerated Science or any grade 10 Science course

IB Environmental systems and societies is a two-year course in which students develop a sound understanding of the interrelationships between natural processes, natural resources, and human activities on the Earth. Students will evaluate the scientific, ethical and sociopolitical aspects of a wide range of pressing environmental issues including their own relationship with their environment. Topics of study include the ecosystem, human population changes, conservation, biodiversity, pollution management, global warming and environmental value systems. Field research skills are also developed and a field trip is part of the course. The students will learn to plan and carry out field studies, statistically analyze data, evaluate their findings, and effectively communicate their results in lab reports.

**Note: If included in an IB Diploma this course may be designated either as Group 3 or Group 4 or both.

IBDP Environmental Systems & Societies Course Guide