Science programs provide opportunities for students to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to understand and interpret their world and to explore interests that prepare them for further education and careers.
We strongly recommend that a student have a grade of 65% or higher in the prerequisite course(s) to enroll in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Students with grades between 50 and 65% should consider Science.
Science 30 can be used for several post-secondary admission requirements.
In the above diagram, the solid black arrows denote the typical pathways and preferred transfer points a student follows to progress from course level to course level. The dotted grey arrows show an alternative transfer point. All 20-level courses can progress to Science 30.
Courses
Science 10
5 credits
Science 10 is an integrated academic course which helps students understand and apply concepts and skills common to Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Strong math skills are essential, as each of the science disciplines involves a level of mathematics.
Prerequisite: Recommend 65% or higher in previous Science courses.
Science 14/24
10 credits
Science 14/24 is a blended course which combines the outcomes of Science 14 and Science 24. Students are given the unique opportunity to complete their science graduation requirement in one semester. They will obtain scientific and technological knowledge and skills that can be applied to their current personal lives as well as their future careers.
Prerequisite: None
Science 20, 30
5 credits per course
These courses allow students to explore and analyze the interrelationships between science, technology, society and the environment. Students will develop understandings that will affect their lives, careers, and futures. The science program is organized into several scientific disciplines: life science, physical science, and earth and space science.
Prerequisite for Science 20: 50% or higher in Science 10. Prerequisite for Science 30: 50% or higher in any of Biology 20, Chemistry 20, Physics 20, or Science 20.
Biology 20, 30
5 credits per course
Biology studies the interactions that organisms have with each other and their environment. Students will learn about the anatomy and physiology of human systems and their role in maintaining a healthy body. In addition, students will study molecular biology and how inheritance helps to determine a person’s physical and emotional being.
Prerequisite for Biology 20: 50% in Science 10. Prerequisite for Biology 30: 50% in Biology 20.
Chemistry 20, 30
5 credits per course
These academic courses are meant for students headed towards a post-secondary program requiring a strong background in the physical sciences. High school chemistry is designed to meet the Alberta Program of Studies’ four foundations (Attitude, Knowledge, Skills, and Science, Technology and Society (STS)). The following topics are studied: stoichiometry, diversity of matter, chemical bonding, gases, solutions, acids and bases, chemical changes, chemical equilibrium and organic compounds.
Prerequisite for Chemistry 20: 50% or higher in Science 10. Prerequisite for Chemistry 30: 50% or higher in Chemistry 20.
Physics 20, 30
5 credits per course
These courses continue the study of motion and energy using concepts and mathematical skills introduced in Science 10 and Math 10C. These concepts are then expanded upon in various applications. Communication and problem-solving skills are emphasized in order to prepare students for post-secondary programs.
Prerequisite: For Physics 20: 50% or higher in Science 10. Prerequisite: For Physics 30: 50% or higher in Physics 20.