Department Philosophy

The Science Department believes that every student should be able to understand, use, and communicate the ideas and concepts of science. In addition, it is the intent of the science program to develop in students an awareness of the relationship between the different branches of science and of the role science plays in society.

Physical Science (61131y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 9 (Required Course)

Prerequisite: None

Physical Science is a foundational science course building conceptual understanding of core scientific ideas from Physics, Chemistry, and Computer Science and is a prerequisite for all other high school science courses. The course weaves introductory Computer Science concepts and applications throughout the fundamental Physics and Chemistry. Physical Science provides a foundation for further study in any scientific field while also supporting general scientific and computer literacy.  Emphasis will be placed on both laboratory experimental work as well as conceptual application, often through computer modeling.

Life Science (61121y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 10 (Required Course)

Prerequisite: Physical Science

Life Science is a foundational science course building conceptual understanding of core scientific ideas from Biology, Environmental Science, and Computer Science and is a prerequisite for all other high school science courses. The course weaves introductory Computer Science concepts and applications throughout the fundamental Biology and Environmental Science. Life Science provides a foundation for further study in any scientific field while also supporting general scientific and computer literacy.  Emphasis will be placed on both laboratory experimental work as well as conceptual application, often through computer modeling.

IB S1 Biology (6821y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science

This course is the first year of the Standard Level IB Biology program.  There is a strong emphasis on critical thinking skills and experimentation, which allows students to experience the nature of scientific thought and investigation. Practical activities allow students to interact directly with natural phenomena and secondary data sources. These experiences provide the students with the opportunity to design investigations, collect data, develop manipulative skills, analyse results, collaborate with peers and evaluate and communicate their findings.  Students will complete at least one personal investigation in preparation for their year 2 internal assessment. Topics covered in the first year are Biomolecules, Cell Biology, Nucleic Acids, Body Communication and Body Systems. Students also participate in the IB-mandated Collaborative Sciences Project.

IB S2 Biology (6823y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB S1 Biology

This second year of Standard Level IB Biology completes the IB SL syllabus, including an emphasis on exam preparation. Topics studied include Plant Science, Metabolism, Reproduction, Evolution and Ecology. There is a strong emphasis on honing critical thinking skills, experimental design and the writing of IB lab reports. Students will complete one ten-hour long individual investigation worth 20% of their course grade to fulfill the internal assessment component of the course. 

IB H1 Biology (6825y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science (grade of B or better is HIGHLY recommended). 

This Higher Level IB Biology course is the first year of a two year program that is a foundation course for further study of biology, medicine, agriculture, etc, beyond high school. There is a strong emphasis on critical thinking skills and experimentation, which allows students to experience the nature of scientific thought and investigation. Practical activities allow students to interact directly with natural phenomena and secondary data sources. These experiences provide the students with the opportunity to design investigations, collect data, develop manipulative skills, analyse results, collaborate with peers and evaluate and communicate their findings. Students will complete multiple lab investigations to learn skills, and at least one full individual investigation in preparation for their year 2 internal assessment. Topics covered in the first year are Biomolecules, Cell Biology, Nucleic Acids, Body Communication and Body Systems, as well as some independent study of Plant Science. Students also participate in the IB-mandated Collaborative Sciences Project.

IB H2 Biology (6830y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: successful completion of IB HL Biology 1

This second year of the Higher Level IB Biology course completes the IB HL syllabus and prepares students for the IB Biology examination. Topics include Plant Science, Metabolism, Reproduction, Evolution and Ecology. Students will complete one ten-hour long individual investigation worth 20% of their course grade to fulfill the internal assessment component of the course. 

AP Biology (68301y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 11 or 12

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science

AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course designed for students interested in advanced biology courses at the university level.  The course is based thematically on four main ideas: The process of evolution drives the diversity and unity of life; Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to grow, reproduce and to maintain dynamic homeostasis; living systems store, retrieve, transmit and respond to information essential to life processes; Biological systems interact and these systems and their interactions possess complex properties.  Students will engage with the material through science practices such as modelling, mathematical analysis, scientific investigations, and conceptual connections.  Concepts will be examined through laboratory exercises that focus on inquiry and investigation where students will develop their capacity for problem-solving and critical thinking.

IB S1 Sports, Exercise and Health Science (6400y)

One year-1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science

This course combines academic study with practical and investigative skills. This course is the first year of the IB Standard Level Sports, Exercise and Health Science program. It is the first year of a two-year program designed to prepare students for the IB Higher Level examination in Sports, Exercise, and Health Science. Students will cover a range of core topics and carry out practical investigations in both laboratory and field settings. Considerable emphasis will be placed on conducting practical experiments and analyzing scientific data from various sports and exercise contexts. The topics covered in the first year include: Measurement and Evaluation of Human Performance, Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, and Energy Systems and Movement Analysis. Students will complete individual investigations in preparation for their year 2 internal assessment.

IB S2 Sports, Exercise and Health Science (6430y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB S1 Sports, Exercise and Health Science

This second year of IB Sports, Exercise, and Health Science completes the IB Standard Level syllabus, including a strong emphasis on preparation for the final IB exam. Topics include Skill in Sport, Optimizing Physiological Performance, and Sports Psychology. A focus on practical applications of the academic course content will continue to be a significant part of this course. Students will spend considerable class time planning and carrying out an individual practical investigation which will count as 20% of their IB grade.

IB H1 Sports, Exercise, and Health Science (6410y) 

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science (grade of B or better is HIGHLY recommended)

This course combines academic study with practical and investigative skills. It is the first year of a two-year program designed to prepare students for the IB Higher Level examination in Sports, Exercise, and Health Science. Topics include Anatomy, Physiology, Nutrition, Biomechanics, Measurement of Human Performance, the Endocrine System, and Fatigue. Considerable emphasis will be placed on conducting practical experiments and analyzing scientific data from various sports and exercise contexts. Students will complete individual investigations in preparation for their year 2 internal assessment.

IB H2 Sports, Exercise and Health Science (6411y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB H1 Sports, Exercise and Health Science

This second year of IB Sports, Exercise, and Health Science completes the IB Standard Level syllabus, including a strong emphasis on preparation for the final IB exam. Topics include Skill in Sport, Skill Acquisition & Analysis, Genetics & Athletic Performance, Exercise & Immunity, Optimizing Physiological Performance, and Sports Psychology. A focus on practical applications of the academic course content will continue to be a significant part of this course. Students will spend considerable class time planning and carrying out an individual practical investigation which will count as 20% of their IB grade.

IB S1 Environmental Systems and Societies (6811y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science

This course is the first year of a two-year program of studies with the second year course being IB S2 Environmental Systems and Societies. ESS is designed to be an interdisciplinary course which combines the methods, techniques, knowledge, and rigor of a science subject with aspects of social studies. It is a complex course requiring a broad skill set. The language demand is high. Its roots are in mathematical data analysis and critical thinking; but, branches of the course extend into the politics, ethics, culture, and economics of how our environment is viewed through human eyes. The first year provides a grounding in the systems approach to the complexities of environmental functioning and goes on to focus on how the environment is conserved and used by humans as a food and energy source. Students are encouraged to develop a personal philosophy on environmental stewardship and interactions.  Students will devote considerable energy to a personal choice of internal assessment project which will contribute 20% - 25% of their final IB result. These studies will include a mandatory field trip  of 3-days/ 2-nights to a nearby location at an additional cost to the student of approximately U.S. $700 (August year 2). This course may be taken as a Group 3 (Individuals & Societies) course to fulfill IB diploma requirements.

IB S2 Environmental Systems and Societies (6812y)

One year – 1 credit
Grade 12
Prerequisite: Completion of IB S1 Environmental Systems and Societies required.
 
This second year of IB SL Environmental Systems & Societies completes the syllabus, including an emphasis on lab work and exam preparation. There will also be preparation for Paper 1, which requires students to synthesize their understandings from 8-12 pieces of new data relating to a specific, previously unseen case study. The course investigates the impacts of human interactions on the Earth’s ecological systems, thus enabling students to take an informed and responsible stance on a wide range of pressing environmental issues that are relevant to their daily lives. Topics include: resource exploitation, ozone depletion, global warming, pollution, and human population growth and its effects on the environment.

IB H1 Environmental Systems and Societies (68111y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science (grade of B or better is HIGHLY recommended) 

This course is the first year of a two-year program of studies with the second year course being IB H2 Environmental Systems and Societies. ESS is designed to be an interdisciplinary course which combines the methods, techniques, knowledge, and rigor of a science subject with aspects of social studies. It is a complex course requiring a broad skill set. The language demand is high. Its roots are in mathematical data analysis and critical thinking; but, branches of the course extend into the politics, ethics, culture, and economics of how our environment is viewed through human eyes. The first year provides a grounding in the systems approach to the complexities of environmental functioning and goes on to focus on how the environment is conserved and used by humans as a food and energy source. The HL course (new for 2024-25) has three HL only lenses—environmental law, environmental and ecological economics, and environmental ethics. The conceptually more demanding HL lenses allow for far more sophisticated processing and balanced viewpoints. The additional HL content requires the student to make more connections between diverse areas of the syllabus, resulting in increased networked knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of environmental issues as well as possible strategies, solutions and management. Students are encouraged to develop a personal philosophy on environmental stewardship and interactions.  Students will devote considerable energy to a personal choice of internal assessment project which will contribute 25% of their final IB result. These studies will include a mandatory field trip  of 3-days/ 2-nights to a nearby island at an additional cost to the student of approximately U.S. $700 (August year 2). This course may be taken as a Group 3 (Individuals & Societies) course to fulfill IB diploma requirements.

IB H2 Environmental Systems and Societies(68112)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: Completion of IB HL 1 Environmental Systems and Societies required.

This second year of the IB HL Environmental Systems & Societies course completes the syllabus, focusing on individual lab work, a 3-day/2-night field trip, and rigorous exam preparation. Students will develop skills crucial for Paper 1, which requires synthesizing information from 8-12 pieces of new data within a previously unseen case study. The course explores the profound impacts of human interaction on Earth's ecological systems, empowering students to develop informed and responsible perspectives on pressing environmental issues relevant to their lives. Key topics include Land, Atmosphere and Climate Change, Natural Resources, and Human Populations and Urban Systems. Throughout the year, students will apply the HL lenses of Environmental Law, Environmental Economics, and Environmental Ethics to deepen their understanding of course content

AP Environmental Science (6818y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade  11 or 12

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science

AP Environmental Science builds on the Physical Science and Life Science courses taken by JIS 9th and 10th graders. The course is wide-ranging, requiring students to proactively read and review material frequently. Only a proportion of the possible assessed material is directly covered in class, reflecting AP's equivalence to a college-level course requiring college-style study skills. The language demand is high, with assessments relying on rapid reading for comprehension, and there is a significant mathematical component. The course provides an overview of Earth’s ecological systems and the impacts of human activities on them, aiming to equip students with the knowledge to take an informed and responsible stance on a wide range of pressing environmental issues that are relevant to their daily lives. Topics include: biodiversity, resource exploitation, energy and food production, global climate change, pollution, and human population growth and its effects on the environment. 

IB S1 Chemistry (6841y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science

This is the first year of a two-year program designed to prepare students for the IB Standard Level examination in Chemistry.  The following topics are covered: Stoichiometry, Atomic Theory, Periodicity, Bonding, Energetics, Kinetics, and Equilibrium.  Emphasis is placed on improving experimental skills and developing the ability to analyze and express scientific ideas. Student investigations and laboratory skills are a significant and important component of the course in preparation for the individual investigation that will be undertaken in Year 2.

IB S2 Chemistry (6842y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of IB S1 Chemistry

This is a continuation of IB S1 Chemistry and prepares students for the IB Standard Level examination in Chemistry.  The following topics are covered: Acids and Bases, Oxidation - Reduction, Organic Chemistry, and one option from the IB Standard Level syllabus.  Emphasis is placed on improving experimental skills and developing the ability to analyze and express scientific ideas. The individual laboratory investigation undertaken in this year forms 20% of the overall IB score. 

IB H1 Chemistry (6845y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science (grade of B or better is HIGHLY recommended). Mathematics 2 is recommended

This is the first year of a two-year program designed to prepare students for the IB Higher Level examination in Chemistry. The following topics are covered: Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, Periodicity, Energetics, Kinetics, Equilibrium, Acids and Bases, and an extension of the mole concept to more complex problems. Emphasis is placed on improving experimental skills and developing the ability to analyze and express scientific ideas. Student investigations and laboratory skills are a significant and important component of the course in preparation for the individual investigation that will be undertaken in Year 2.

IB H2 Chemistry (6850y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB H1 Chemistry.

This is the second year of a two-year program that is designed to prepare students for the IB examination in chemistry at the higher level. In this second year of the program, students will study: Oxidation-Reduction, Organic Chemistry, and one of the options from the HL Chemistry syllabus. In so doing, the students will also continue to extend their study of topics already covered in the first year of the course. Emphasis is placed on improving experimental skills and developing the ability to analyze and express scientific ideas. The individual laboratory investigation undertaken in this year forms 20% of the overall IB score. 

Advanced Chemistry (68352s)

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grade 10-12

Prerequisite: Physical Science (recommended B or higher)

Advanced Chemistry is a rigorous semester-long preparatory course focused on building a strong foundation in mass, gas and solution stoichiometry, structure and bonding, and analytical laboratory techniques. Advanced Chemistry is the mandatory prerequisite for students planning on taking AP Chemistry in Grade 11 or 12 and is well-suited for students interested in developing the building blocks for future study in Chemistry.

AP Chemistry (6846y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 11 or 12

Prerequisite: Advanced Chemistry

This course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first year of university.  The big ideas taught in AP Chemistry are structure of matter, bonding and intermolecular forces, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics and chemical equilibrium. The emphasis is on inquiry-based learning, chemical calculations, and the mathematical formulation of chemical principles. The type of laboratory work done by students reflects the investigative nature of the course. 

IB S1 Physics (6861y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite:  Physical Science and Life Science

This is the first year of a two-year course designed to prepare students for the IB examination in Physics at the Standard level. The course is organized using a problem solving and laboratory approach. Topics covered are Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Waves and Electricity.

IB S2 Physics (6862y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite:  satisfactory completion IB S1 Physics

This second year of a two-year course and is a continuation of IB S1 Physics. It is designed to prepare students for the IB Standard Level Physics examination. Topics covered include: Magnetism, Atomic, Nuclear and Particle Physics, Energy production, and Astrophysics.

IB H1 Physics (6865y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science (grade of B or better is HIGHLY recommended) and completion of Mathematics 2

This is the first year of a two-year course designed to prepare students for the IB examination in Physics at the Higher level. The course is organized using a problem solving and laboratory approach. Topics covered are Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Oscillations and Waves, and Electricity.

IB H2 Physics (6870y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: satisfactory completion of IB H1 Physics

This is the second year of a rigorous two-year course and it continues the study of the topics which prepare students for the IB Higher Level examination in physics. Topics covered are: Magnetism, Energy production, Atomic, Nuclear and Particle Physics, Quantum and Nuclear Physics, and Astrophysics. 

AP Physics 1 (6871y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 10-12

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science.  For access in grade 10, grade of A or better in Honors Mathematics 1 is required.

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy and momentum. Through inquiry based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills.

AP Physics 2 (68711y) 

One year - 1 credit

Grade 11-12

Prerequisite: AP Physics 1

AP Physics 2 is also an algebra-based, college-level physics course. However, it delves into some more advanced topics than Physics 1.

AP Physics 2 explores fluid statics and dynamics, thermodynamics with kinetic theory, PV diagrams and probability, electrostatics, electrical circuits with capacitors, magnetic fields, electromagnetism, physical and geometric optics, and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. Through inquiry based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills.

AP Physics C - Mechanics (68713s) 

One semester - 0.5 credit (Semester 1)

Grade 12

Prerequisite: AP Physics 1, AP Calculus AB.  Students who do not meet the calculus requirement may enroll given the instructor's approval after demonstrating competence in the required skills.

AP Physics C Mechanics is a semester long calculus-based, college-level physics course especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in physical science or engineering. It explores many of the same mechanical concepts as AP Physics 1, but at a much deeper mathematical and conceptual level.  It covers kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion; work, energy, and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; oscillations; and gravitation.  This course will only be taught 1st semester with co-enrollment in the full year course (68714) and will fully prepare students for the AP Physics C Mechanics exam.

AP Physics C - Mechanics and E&M (68714y) 

One year - 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: AP Physics 2, AP Calculus AB.  Students who do not meet the calculus requirement, or the AP Physics 2 requirement may enroll given the instructor's approval after demonstrating competence in the required skills.

AP Physics C Mechanics and E&M is a year long calculus-based, college-level physics course especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in physical science or engineering. It explores many of the same mechanical concepts as AP Physics 1 and AP Physics 2, but at a much deeper mathematical and conceptual level.  In the first semester devoted to mechanics it covers kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion; work, energy, and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; oscillations; and gravitation.  The second semester dedicated to electricity and magnetism explores topics such as electrostatics; conductors, capacitors, and dielectrics; electric circuits; magnetic fields; and electromagnetism. Introductory differential and integral calculus is used throughout the course.  This course will prepare students for TWO separate AP exams, AP Physics C Mechanics and AP Physics C E&M.

AP Physics C - E&M (68716) 

One semester- 0.5 credit (Semester 2)

Grade 12

Prerequisite: AP Physics 2, AP Calculus AB.  Students who do not meet the calculus requirement, or the AP Physics 2 requirement may enroll given the instructor's approval after demonstrating competence in the required skills.

AP Physics C E&M is a semester long calculus-based, college-level physics course especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in physical science or engineering. It explores many of the same mechanical concepts as AP Physics 2, but at a much deeper mathematical and conceptual level. It is dedicated to electricity and magnetism and explores topics such as electrostatics; conductors, capacitors, dielectrics; electric circuits; magnetic fields; and electromagnetism. Introductory differential and integral calculus are used throughout the course.  This course will prepare students for AP Physics C E&M exam.

IB S1 Computer Science (8809y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite:  Physical Science and Life Science

S1 is designed to prepare students for the IB Standard Level examination in Computer Science. Topics studied in depth include system fundamentals, computer organization, networks, and object-oriented programming. Development of computational thinking, problem-solving, and programming skills are given significant emphasis. Students programming skills are a key component to successfully build a project required for internal assessment in year two. All IB Computer Science courses are IB Group 4 subjects.

IB S2 Computer Science (8810y)

One  year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB S1 Computer Science (8809y)

S2 is the second year of the IB Computer Science SL. The course designed to prepare students for the IB CS SL examination. Topics studied in depth include advanced object-oriented development, systems design, implementation and evaluation, and a further selected option. Project design and implementation as answer to a client’s need is given emphasis. Students are expected to complete a project for the IB CS SL internal assessment. All IB Computer Science courses are IB Group 4 subjects.

IB H1 Computer Science (8821y)

One  year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science (grade of B or better is HIGHLY recommended)

H1 is the first year of the two-year course designed to prepare students for the IB Higher Level examination in Computer Science. Topics studied in depth include system fundamentals, computer organization, networks, and advanced topics in object-oriented programming. Development of computational thinking, problem-solving and programming skills are given significant emphasis. Students’ programming skills are a key component to successfully build a project required for internal assessment in Year 2. Prior programming experience is required. All IB Computer Science courses are IB Group 4 subjects.

IB H2 Computer Science (8820y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB H1 Computer Science(8821y)

H2 is the second year of the IB Computer Science HL. The course is designed to prepare students for the IB CS HL examination. Topics studied in depth include advanced object-oriented development, systems design, system implementation and evaluation, abstract data structures, resource management,  control systems, and a further selected option. Project design and implementation as answer to a client’s need is given emphasis. Students are expected to complete a project for the IB CS HL internal assessment. All IB Computer Science courses are IB Group 4 subjects.

AP Computer Science Principles (88302y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 10-12

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science.  For access in grade 10, grade of A or better in Physical Science is required.

Students who do not meet this requirement may enroll given the instructor's approval after demonstrating competence in the required skills.

The AP Computer Science Principles course is designed to be equivalent to a first-semester introductory college computing course. In this course, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational and artefacts based on their interests. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems and will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and the world.

AP Computer Science A (88301y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Life Science.  Recommended completion of AP Computer Science Principles.

The course is designed to prepare students for the AP examination in May. AP Computer Science A is equivalent to a first-semester, college-level course in computer science.  The course introduces students to computer science through programming, prior programming experience is recommended. Fundamental topics in this course include the design of solutions to problems, the use of data structures to organize large sets of data, the development and implementation of algorithms to process data and discover new information, the analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing systems. The course emphasizes object-oriented programming and design using the Java programming language. 

Computer Systems (88306s)

One semester - 0.5 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: AP Computer Science A

This course allows students on the AP track to study the computer systems topics covered in IB Computer Science. It explores the following topics through the lens of Java programming: computer architecture (how a processor works), operating systems (how computers run multiple programs), and computer networks (how programs communicate between computers). Assessment will be primarily project based, and lessons will feature hands-on activities that investigate surprising properties of computer systems.

The course will be co-scheduled with the first semester of IB H2 Computer Science. The beginning of the term will prepare students to study systems by reexamining the array, method, and primitive data type abstractions covered in AP CS A. Through flipped lessons and programming labs, students will discover the internals of these abstractions and learn advanced programming techniques. Following this, they will join the IB students to study the systems units as a combined class.

Investigative Science (61110y) (61111s)

One year - 1 credit OR One semester - 0.5 credit 

Grades 10-12

Prerequisite: No specific prerequisite. Completion of Physical Science or its equivalent is highly recommended. Completion of at least one semester of science in 10th grade is recommended.

This course is designed for students with an interest in hands-on practical science and wishing to study a science that does not require the sitting of an external examination, such as AP or IB.  The core of the course is problem-solving and investigation of topics of the student’s choice. The course will emphasize skills rather than content, with the aim of making science relevant to the students and helping them understand and appreciate science in the world around them. The course will begin with the scientific method and investigative techniques – experimental, observation and research. Following this students will have many opportunities to scientifically investigate topics of personal interest using these skills and techniques.

Food Science (61112s)

One semester - 0.5 credit 

Grades 10 - 12 

Prerequisite: No specific prerequisite. Completion of Physical Science or its equivalent is recommended.

Food Science is a course which explores basic chemistry concepts in the context of food and its preparation. The course is meant to provide an entry point to science with direct everyday relevance to students’ lives, as well as to help budding amateur chefs understand the science behind cooking.  Students will be applying their learning regularly in the kitchen, cooking dishes to see the science in action and gaining culinary skills to complement their understanding.

Important note: While Grade 10s are able to select this Science course, they are reminded that US universities will want at least 2 credits of a lab science which this course does not provide. Furthermore, this science elective is not designed as a preparation course for AP/IB courses in Grade 11/12. 

Practical Physics (68552s)

One semester - 0.5 credit (Offered every other year). This course WILL be offered for academic year 2025/26.

Grades 10 - 12 

Prerequisite: No specific prerequisite. Completion of Physical Science or its equivalent is recommended.

Practical physics is a semester-long course that focuses on the application of physics concepts to real-world problems and situations. It covers topics such as mechanics, thermodynamics, wave motion, and electromagnetism. The course will focus on hands-on experiments and laboratory work to help students understand and apply the principles of physics and engineering in a practical setting. The course will include problem-solving exercises to give students a deeper understanding of the physical world and how it works, as well as the ability to use physics to make informed decisions.

Earth and Planetary Science (61113s)

One semester - 0.5 credit (Offered every other year). This course WILL NOT be be offered for academic year 2025/26.

Grades 10 - 12 

Prerequisite: No specific prerequisite. Completion of Physical Science or its equivalent is recommended.

Earth and Planetary Science will study the origin of our solar system to further understand Earth and its processes within the context of our planetary neighbours including orbital motion, erosional processes, tectonics and volcanism.  Emphasis will be placed on real-world links to how the structure of the Earth helps explain everyday phenomena.

Important note: While Grade 10s are able to select this Science course, they are reminded that US universities will want at least 2 credits of a lab science which this course does not provide. Furthermore, this science elective is not designed as a preparation course for AP/IB courses in Grade 11/12. 

Computer Microarchitecture (88303s)

One semester - 0.5 credit (Offered every other year). This course WILL NOT  be offered for academic year 2025/26.

Grades 11 - 12 

Prerequisite: Completion or co-enrollment of AP CS Principles (with instructor approval), AP CS A, or IB Computer Science

Have you ever wondered how computers work? This course will explore the electrical and logical underpinnings of digital computation. Together, we will teach rocks to heed our every instruction through the power of rudimentary physics and elementary mathematics. Topics studied will include computer history, transistor switching behavior, Boolean algebra, logic gates, binary representation, combinational and sequential circuits, fundamental operations, machine language, program execution, and assembly programming. Concepts will be explored via hands-on activities and assessments will include project work that culminates in building a working processor in a simulator and executing custom interactive programs on it.

Game Design and Development (81910s)

One Semester - 0.5 credit (Arts credit)

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  None

This course provides students with a hands-on introduction to the collaborative process of game design and development. Working in project teams, students will learn game design principles including art design, creative writing, game mechanics, marketing and more. Students will work on different aspects of the game development cycle including design, prototyping, production, quality assurance, and release. Working in project teams students will cultivate their teamwork, communication, time management, and leadership skills in a way that few courses allow.  Students will be divided into teams based on their relevant skill set. 

Physical Computing (81911s)

One Semester - 0.5 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  None

Physical Computing is a learning environment designed to investigate the virtual and creative space where art, computer science, robotics, and neuroscience meet. In this hands-on course, students will explore the intersection of these disciplines by creating interactive projects using hardware such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, motors, sensors, and modern programming languages, including Python. This course will provide students with a unique opportunity to understand the relationship between human beings and the digital world while developing valuable transferable skills for creativity, innovation, and problem-solving.

Robotics Technology 1 (8491s)/Intro to Vex Robotics

One Semester - 0.5 credit (Arts credit)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

In this hands-on course, students will research, design, build and program robots using the VEX robotics kits. Working in teams, students will explore a series of projects designed to help each student understand the basic concepts of robotics: Sense, Plan, and Act. Every unit will culminate in an exciting challenge such as the soccer bot and sumobot, putting both robot and human to the test. In addition, we will explore how robots are used in modern society and for scientific research. Robotics: more fun than humans should be allowed to have.

Robotics Technology 2 (8492s)/Vex Robotics

One Semester - 0.5 credit (Arts credit)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  Introduction to VEX Robotics AND/OR Teacher Approval

Using the concepts and techniques learned in Introduction to VEX Robotics, students will focus on robotics-related mechanisms to complete project-based tasks. This course will include a deeper look into variables and control systems and more complex robotics systems will be explored. This course should also be seen as excellent preparation for students wishing to pursue competitive robotics.

Robotics Technology 3 (8494s)/Competitive Vex Robotics

One Semester - 0.5 credit FIRST SEMESTER ONLY (Arts credit)

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  Teacher Approval as places are limited

Using the concepts and techniques learned in Robotics 2/VEX Robotics, students will design, engineer, and code a robot to compete in the parameters of the annual VEX challenge. Students will work in teams of 4 to 6 throughout the semester to prepare their robot for competition. This course will cover the entire design process iteration.  

*Students will have the opportunity to travel as a competitive team to international competitions. Travel is not mandatory but encouraged and will have a separate financial expense at the student's cost.