There are a number of differences in what is taught in grade 9 regular stream vs gr 9 pre-IB. Here are some of the pieces identified by the MPC teachers as well as their suggestions for a smoother transition:
Science:
Biology/Ecology likely done in greater depth in grade 9 and it reappears in 11 and 12 IB. Focus on nutrient cycles, species interactions, more complex approach to food chains and webs and pyramids of energy and numbers
Chemistry/periodic table will be important. Grade 10 is more directly important, but Bohr Rutherford, organization of the periodic table, properties of matter should be well done
Skills: scientific notation and measurement uncertainty will be helpful.
Physics/Electricity: doesn't matter to the MPC IB program.
Earth and space / Astronomy doesn't matter to the MPC IB program.
English:
Read.
Practice/review writing a 5-paragraph formal academic essay.
Students will need to know narrative elements: characterization, plot, setting, conflict, point of view, theme.
Literary devices: simile, metaphor, personification, allusion, imagery, irony, symbolism to start.
Formal Academic writing - thesis, evidence, analysis.
Visit reputable online sites for definitions of these terms and practice essays.
Example of a good site: Purdue Owl Writing Lab
and their page on essays: Expository Essays
Math:
Mainly follows the MTH1W curriculum, but extends some concepts a little.
Tests broken into two parts - paper 1 does not allow for a calculator, paper 2 is completed with a calculator.
For success in Grade 10, students would ideally come into the course feeling comfortable with:
numeracy skills (working with integers/exponents/fractions, ratios and proportions)
Solid understanding and memorization of the multiplication table, preferably upto a minimum of 12x12
algebra (solving and manipulating linear equations, distributive property and common factoring)
linear relations (graphing from y = mx + b, graphing from standard form using intercepts, finding slope and intercept from graph/equation/table of values, properties of parallel/perpendicular/horizontal/vertical lines)
** Please also see the tips from getting ready for Grade 9 pre-IB for additional resources and needed skills **