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]
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 14: 5 credits each course [.5 blocks]
LCHS Recommendation: -60% Science 9
This is an introductory level science course with no junior high science prerequisites. It is designed to build practical scientific understanding and confidence for students still developing foundational science skills. The course focuses on real-world applications of science through the study of matter and chemical change, energy transfer and its everyday uses, and basic biological systems.
Students develop hands-on laboratory skills, problem-solving strategies, and the ability to think critically about how science impacts their lives, communities, and the environment. Emphasis is placed on building foundational knowledge, scientific literacy, and workplace-relevant skills to prepare students for further study in Science 24 and for informed decision-making beyond the classroom.
Science 10: 5 credits [1.0 blocks]
LCHS Recommendation: 60%+ Science 9
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 24: 5 credits each course [1.0 blocks]
LCHS Recommendation: 50% Science 14
This is a senior high school science course that builds on foundational concepts and focuses on practical, real-world applications of biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. Science 14 is the prerequisite course. It is designed for students that need to build skills in science. The course emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and the development of problem-solving skills relevant to everyday life and the workplace.
Students explore topics such as human body systems, chemical reactions and their applications, energy use and efficiency, and environmental stewardship. This course fulfills the science graduation requirements for Science and it is a preparatory course for Science 10.
Science 20: 5 credits [1.0 blocks] Science 30: 5 credits [1.0 blocks]
LCHS Recommendation: 50% Science 10 LCHS Recommendation: 50% Science 20
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]
LCHS Recommendation: 60% Science 10 LCHS Recommendation: 65%+ Biology 20
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]
LCHS Recommendation: 70% Science 10 (60% Math 10C) LCHS Recommendation: 70% Chemistry 20
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]
LCHS Recommendation: 75% Science (75% Math 10C)
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]
LCHS Recommendation: 70% Physics 20
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.