PROGRESSING THROUGH THE COURSES
Below are the typical and alternative progressions students may take in the Sciences.
Science 10 is the prerequisite for 20 level Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Science.
Chemistry 20, Biology 20 and Physics 20 are prerequisites for their 30 level counterparts.
Prerequisites for programs offered at post-secondary institutions should always be confirmed with the institution as they can change on a yearly basis.
Science 10
Science 10 is an integrated academic course that helps students learn and apply fundamental concepts and skills in biology, chemistry, and physics. Students wishing to take Science 10 will need a firm understanding of the materials from both Science 9 and Math 9.
Recommended minimum mark = 60% in Science 9 and Math 9
The following is a list of prerequisites from both Jr. High Science and Math that will help a student be successful in Science 10.
Science 9 Concepts:
particle model of matter
WHMIS symbols, pure substances, mixtures and solutions
reactants, products, conservation of mass, periodic table, elements, compounds, atomic theory, chemical nomenclature
acids and bases
life processes, and structure of plants
organisms, cells, system organs, tissues
environmental monitoring, environmental impacts, energy flow, environmental management
Math 9 Concepts:
translating between written and algebraic expressions
using ratio and proportion in problem-solving contexts
using scientific (SI) notation with the help of a calculator
solving one-step and two-step equations where the unknown quantity is part of a fraction
solving equations involving squares and square roots creating and interpreting scatterplots, using experimental data that connects the manipulated and responding variables and determining line of best fit.
Science Programming [Program Video]
TradeWorks: Math & Science for the Trades (2 to 3 year program)
(includes: Math 10-3, 20-3, 30-3, Science 14, 24, 10, possibly Math 10C as well as potential RAP/Dual-Credit opportunities in your third year)
This hands-on, career-focused program builds essential math and science skills for success in skilled trades like construction, automotive, electrical, and welding or as a veterinary tech. With a trades-focused curriculum, students learn through real-world applications in an applied learning environment. The program offers competitive dual-credit placements/RAP internships, an adapted pace, and no formal academic prerequisites—only a commitment to responsibility and hard work. Whether you’re preparing for college, apprenticeships, or the workforce, this program provides the foundation you need to succeed in technical and trade careers. Pacing of courses may not follow the traditional semestered timeline.
Science 10: 5 credits [1.0 blocks]
Students entering grade 10 who need a 30 level science course for their career choice must take Science 10. This course is a general science covering aspects of biology, chemistry and physics with emphasis on technical applications. Classes will be taught so students will be exposed to a variety of learning resources and activities to access information and build their understanding to master the outcomes of each unit. Science 10 is the prerequisite for ALL 20 level sciences. [Sample Course Outline]
Science 14/24: 5 credits each course [1.0 blocks]
This is a blended course in which students have the opportunity to complete Science 14 and 24 during the same term. Students will be engaged in a variety of activities to foster an understanding of the scientific and technological world around them and develop the attitudes necessary to use their knowledge and skills in a responsible manner. This course is designed for students who had difficulty with Science at the Jr. High level as well as students in the Knowledge and Employability Program. Successful completion of both courses fulfills the graduation requirements in science. [Sample Course Outline]
Math & Science Calculator Policy
Alberta Learning approved graphing calculators are required for students enrolled in Math 10C, Math 20-1, Math 20-2, Math 30-1 and Math 30-2. The use of scientific calculators is discouraged in these courses because many have prohibited functions.
Students taking any other math or science course are required to have their own scientific or their own graphing calculator.
The full list of approved calculators can be found on the LCHS web page (Students - Final Exam Information).
Approved & Preferred by LCHS staff:
Casio fx-9750GIII, Casio fx-9750GII, TI-83Plus, TI-84, TI-84Plus,TI-84CE
Other Approved Texas Instruments:
TI-nspire CX
Not Approved:
TI-nspire CAS, Casio fx-9860GII
Science 20: 5 credits [1.0 blocks] Science 30: 5 credits [1.0 blocks]
These general Science courses are a further study of a variety of scientific topics such as geology, biology, environmental studies, physics and chemistry. Science 20 and 30 are great alternatives for students looking to fulfill their graduation requirements or are interested in pursuing many careers in University that don’t require the more specialized Science courses. It is highly recommended that students enrolled in Science 30 have higher than a 60% average in any 20 level science course to be successful. Science 30 can also be used as an alternative to one of the other 30 level sciences for most university faculties. Math skills are not as rigorous as in Chemistry 20/30 and Physics 20/30.
There are 3 optional one-credit CTS/CTR modules that can be linked with Science 30. These modules enhance the Science 30 curriculum. To earn these credits, you will need to sign up for the modules and complete the required work.
Biology 20: 5 credits [1.0 blocks] Biology 30: 5 credits [1.0 blocks]
Biology is the study of life and living systems from the molecular level to the biosphere. Through the study of biology, learners are given an opportunity to explore and understand the natural world and to become aware of the profound influence of biology in their lives. Students further develop their ability to ask questions, investigate and experiment; to gather, analyze and assess scientific information; and to test scientific laws and principles and their applications.
Chemistry 20: 5 credits [1.0 blocks] Chemistry 30: 5 credits [1.0 blocks]
Chemistry is the study of matter and its properties. These courses develop an understanding of the nature of matter, where students will be able to predict and explain what is happening during chemical reactions, develop laboratory skills, an appreciation of the effects of science on society and the ability to solve problems both qualitatively and quantitatively. Units of study include Acids and Bases, Stoichiometry, Thermo Chemistry and Organic Chemistry.
Physics 20: 5 credits [1.0 block]
Class work and lab work will focus on developing common themes in math and science, with emphasis on the application of each to engineering problems. Topics that will be covered include the study of motion, forces, energy, and waves.
Physics 30: 5 credits [1.0 blocks]
This course builds on forces, fields and energy concepts from Physics 20. Units of study include Momentum, Electrics and Magnetics, Wave-Particle Duality and the Structure of the Atom. The relationships between physics and technology and how they impact society and the environment will continue to be explored in this course.