What will my child be learning?
Learn about the new Grade 9 science courses and how you can support your child’s learning.
STEM skills, careers, and connections
engage in an experiential approach to learning science concepts
enhance their learning and skills throughout the course in the areas of biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth and space science
investigate practical applications and various careers, including those in the skilled trades, enabling students to make connections between science and everyday life
Climate Change
Contains explicit connections to climate change and its impacts.
Biology
learn about the environment through the concept of sustainable ecosystems and the interconnectedness of various ecological factors and processes, such as biodiversity, air and water quality and soil health
recognize how human activities, including those that contribute to climate change, impact the environment, and explore ways to restore the balance in ecosystems
investigate natural processes, such as the flow of energy and the cycling of matter, and their importance in maintaining balanced ecosystems
Chemistry
learn about the importance of chemistry in their daily lives, including the use and safe disposal of elements and compounds found in familiar products such as smartphones
examine the impacts of chemical processes and technologies on society and the environment
increase their understanding of the nature of matter, the structure of atoms and properties of elements and compounds, by exploring the periodic table of elements and through hands-on investigations
Physics
understand the impacts of electrical energy production and consumption on society and the environment, and explore initiatives to achieve sustainable practices
learn about the nature of electric charges, including their behaviour in static electricity and electric current, through investigations (for example, building a circuit)
examine the relationships between various characteristics of electricity
Earth and Space Science
expand their knowledge of the impacts of space exploration on society and the environment
learn about the importance and effect of technological innovations derived from space exploration
continue learning about the components of the solar system and the universe
develop a better understanding of the Sun and its relationship to processes on Earth
Support your child’s learning
As parents and family, you can have a huge influence on your child’s educational success and future career choices. By showing an interest in what your child is learning, you can make an important contribution to their success in science.
Science helps children learn about how our world works and can be found all around us – from climate change to technology and space science. You can help your child make connections between what they learn in school and everyday experiences at home and in the community. Here are some ways to spark your child’s curiosity about the wonders of science and support their learning:
Discuss science news items and what is happening in your community.
Discuss the importance of thinking critically about how science is presented in social media.
Look for examples of the wonders of science, such as how science-based technology and tools make our lives easier and encourage us to become responsible global citizens.
Talk with your child about their strengths and interests and help them look ahead and set education and career goals.
Help your child make connections between what they learn in school, their interests or passions, and the courses they choose to take.
Discuss how science makes a difference in your own work and in your everyday life.
Talk with your child about career opportunities that rely on science skills and point to role models.
Ask your child’s teacher, guidance counsellor or other school staff questions about skills and experiences required to support your child’s learning and course choices.
Stay informed about your child’s learning and stay in touch with their school and teachers.
(Ontario Ministry of Education, 2022)
Learning Outcomes Progression