The Science 7 program of study aims to promote scientific literacy. Scientific literacy is simply having knowledge and competence in science. In order to help students gain literacy in science, this program is designed to:
encourage students to develop a critical sense of wonder and curiosity
enable students to use science and technology to improve the quality of their own lives and the lives of others
prepare students to critically address science-related issues
provide students with a foundation in science needed for higher levels of study, for science-related occupations, and for science-related hobbies
enable students to develop a knowledge of the wide spectrum of careers related to science, technology, and the environment
The science program presents science in contexts to which students can relate. Using meaningful contexts provides opportunities for students to explore the process, applications, and implications of science. It also gives students a chance to examine related technological problems and issues. By doing so, students become aware of the role of science in responding to social and cultural change and in meeting needs for a sustainable environment, economy, and society.
Grade 7 students are introduced to geology - the kinds of materials and changes that occur on Earth’s crust and in the interior of Earth. They apply physical science concepts like heat, temperature and forces to analyze, design and build safe and stable structures and devices that reduce heat loss. Students investigate how organisms interact within ecosystems and how these systems are affected by human activities. They also consider decisions and actions for the sustainability of the environment and agricultural industries.
The Science 7 program holds the views that:
communication skills are essential
teamwork skills are important
The science program is made up of five modules. The program identifies for each module one of the following skill sets:
Nature of Science Emphasis: these skills are associated with those of scientific enquiry and focus on the processes by which scientific knowledge is developed and tested.
Science and Technology Emphasis: these skills are associated with those of problem-solving and focus on solutions to practical problems by developing and testing prototypes, products, and techniques.
Social and Environmental Emphasis: these skills are associated with using research and inquiry skills to aid the decision-making process.
Learning Objectives
In this module, students will be able to:
describe the relationships and related issues within an ecosystem, including how humans impact their environment
trace and interpret the flow of energy and materials within an ecosystem
monitor a local environment and assess the impacts of environmental factors on the growth, health, and reproduction of organisms in that environment
analyze human activity within local and global environments, identify environmental issues and consequences related to those problems and possible actions that can be taken
Learning Objectives
In this module, students will be able to:
investigate the uses of plants and understand the role that technology and environmental change plays in plant production
show an understanding of life processes and structures of plants
interpret related characteristics and needs of plants in a local environment
analyze natural and artificial plant environments and identify impacts of specific factors and controls
identify and interpret relationships among human needs, technologies, environments, and the culture and use of plants as sources of food and fibre
Learning Objectives
In this module, students will be able to:
illustrate and explain how human needs have led to technologies for obtaining and controlling thermal energy and the increasing use of energy sources
describe the nature of thermal energy and its effect on different forms of matter using informal observations and experimental evidence
apply an understanding of heat and temperature in interpreting natural heat sources and technological devices
explain the advantages and disadvantages of sustainability-related to the selection and use of thermal technologies
Learning Objectives
In this module, students will be able to:
describe different types of structures encountered in everyday objects and the materials from which they are made
analyze forces within structures and forces applied to them
analyze the properties of materials used in structures
describe processes used in developing, evaluating, and improving structures that will meet human needs
Learning Objectives
In this module, students will be able to:
describe the methods used in the study of Earth's structure, component materials, and changes
identify evidence for the rock cycle and its use to explain the characteristics of particular rocks
interpret evidence of major changes in landforms and the rock layers that underlie them
describe, interpret, and evaluate evidence from the fossil record
Science 7 students can expect to spend between 5 - 7 hours PER WEEK on class work. The work will include:
online time with teacher
reading course materials, viewing videos, and exploring examples
completing projects and assignments
sharing with other class participants in discussion forums
reflection on new learning
It should be noted that students who have less experience with online learning environments and web tools may need to spend more time completing the modules. The students that usually have the most success in this virtual learning environment, set aside a specific time for their class work each day.