This course focuses on cells, the chemistry of life, genetics, ecology, evolution, and human health and physiology. Student learning will occur through readings, lectures, class discussions, and laboratory investigations. Assessment will occur through quizzes, tests, and laboratory reports. Additionally, in the second semester, students complete an interdisciplinary group 4 project, collaborating with students from other science disciplines. The pace and depth of the HL course will be more challenging than the SL class and students are expected to be self-motivated, well organized and intellectually curious. The course culminates with the IB external exams at the end of Grade 12.
This course focuses on the study of matter through the lenses of structure and reactivity. Chemistry is primarily concerned with identifying patterns that allow us to explain matter at the microscopic level. This then allows us to predict and control matter's behavior at a macroscopic level. The subject emphasizes development of representative models and explanatory theories, both of which rely heavily on creative, rational thinking. Students will also develop an understanding of the overarching nature of science while building skills including laboratory techniques, applications of technology, applications of mathematics and experimental design. Students studying at the higher level will explore the concepts more deeply. The topics will be explored through a variety of hands-on and inquiry-based strategies.
This course is the study of the physical world, dealing specifically with matter and energy. The overarching questions are: How do we come to know the natural world and our place in it? Is the natural world orderly and predictable? What causes changes in matter and energy? The topics covered provide a cross-section of the field of Physics which includes mechanics, thermal physics, electricity & magnetism, nuclear & quantum physics and energy production. Students enrolled in the HL course will have the opportunity to study these topics in further depth during the year. These topics will be explored through exploration lectures, guided investigations and self-guided research and investigations. Students who successfully complete this course are prepared to continue their study of physics or engineering at a university level. The course culminates with the IB external exams at the end of Grade 12.
Environmental Systems and Societies is an interdisciplinary course grounded in the scientific exploration of environmental systems and the exploration of the cultural, economic, ethical, political and social interactions of societies with the environment. Students will be equipped with the ability to recognise and evaluate the impact of our complex system of societies on the natural world. The HL content will allow students to address complex environmental issues with additional breadth and depth. The interdisciplinary nature of the course requires a broad skill set from students, including the ability to perform research and investigation along with ability to develop solutions to environmental problems that occur at the personal, community and global levels. The course culminates with the IB external exams at the end of Grade 12.
Through units on Kinesiology, Biomechanics, Nutrition, Anatomy and Physiology, and Neuroscience, students will build a deeper understanding of wellness and the human mind and body. The course offers a chance to explore broad elements of being healthy and well in an ever changing and demanding society. It will involve a mix of hands-on lab and field work, literature research and case study analysis. After building a scientific foundation, students will have the chance to explore their deeper interests in wellness-related topics through independently driven project based learning and experiences beyond the classroom. This course can be taken in Grade 11 as a one year course. An additional CA science option is being developed for students who wish to take a further CA science course in Grade 12.