Science, Grade 9
SNC1W
Science, Grade 9
| Course Code | SNC1W |
| Credit | 1.0 |
| Course Type | De-streamed |
| Prerequisite | None |
| Delivery | In-Person | Online | Synchronous | Asynchronous |
| Grade | Grade 9 |
Official Ontario Ministry Course Description
This course enables students to deepen their understanding of scientific concepts while developing the inquiry, investigation, and critical-thinking skills required to solve authentic problems. Students examine scientific theories, conduct investigations, interpret evidence, analyze data, and communicate conclusions using appropriate scientific terminology. They explore the relationship between science, technology, society, and the environment while recognizing the importance of ethical decision-making and responsible innovation. Throughout the course, students strengthen collaboration, communication, mathematical reasoning, and laboratory skills that prepare them for post-secondary studies and future careers in STEM. Adapted from the Ontario Ministry of Education Science curriculum.
Maple Ridge Academy Course Overview
Unit 1: Scientific Investigation Skills: This unit develops students’ understanding of scientific investigation skills through scientific inquiry, laboratory or virtual investigations, analysis of evidence, collaborative learning, and real-world applications that build scientific literacy and problem-solving skills.
Unit 2: Biology: This unit develops students’ understanding of biology through scientific inquiry, laboratory or virtual investigations, analysis of evidence, collaborative learning, and real-world applications that build scientific literacy and problem-solving skills.
Unit 3: Chemistry: This unit develops students’ understanding of chemistry through scientific inquiry, laboratory or virtual investigations, analysis of evidence, collaborative learning, and real-world applications that build scientific literacy and problem-solving skills.
Unit 4: Physics: This unit develops students’ understanding of physics through scientific inquiry, laboratory or virtual investigations, analysis of evidence, collaborative learning, and real-world applications that build scientific literacy and problem-solving skills.
Unit 5: Earth & Space Science: This unit develops students’ understanding of earth & space science through scientific inquiry, laboratory or virtual investigations, analysis of evidence, collaborative learning, and real-world applications that build scientific literacy and problem-solving skills.
Major Units of Study
Unit 1: GIS: This unit develops students’ understanding of GIS through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Unit 2: Location: This unit develops students’ understanding of location through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Unit 3: Transport: This unit develops students’ understanding of transport through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Unit 4: Retail: This unit develops students’ understanding of retail through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Unit 5: Decision Making: This unit develops students’ understanding of decision making through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Teaching & Learning Strategies
- Inquiry-based learning
- Laboratory investigations
- Virtual simulations
- Problem-based learning
- Collaborative activities
- Research projects
- Moodle-supported learning
Assessment & Evaluation
| Achievement Category | Typical Weight |
| Knowledge & Understanding | 25% |
| Thinking | 25% |
| Communication | 25% |
| Application | 25% |
Assessment is aligned with Ontario’s Growing Success policy using assessment for, as, and of learning. Students demonstrate achievement through laboratory reports, investigations, assignments, research projects, presentations, quizzes, unit tests, and performance tasks. The final evaluation normally represents 30% of the overall grade.
Learning Skills & Work Habits
| Skill | Expectation |
| Responsibility | Safe and responsible scientific practice |
| Organization | Maintains records and lab materials |
| Independent | Works responsibly |
| Collaboration | Works effectively in teams |
| Initiative | Demonstrates curiosity and innovation |
| Self-Regulation | Reflects and improves learning |
Postsecondary & Career Connections
These courses prepare students for university and college pathways in health sciences, engineering, environmental science, life sciences, physical sciences, technology, and other STEM-related disciplines