Chemistry, Grade 12
SCH4U
Chemistry, Grade 12
| Course Code | SCH4U |
| Credit | 1.0 |
| Course Type | University |
| Prerequisite | SCH3U |
| Delivery | In-Person | Online Synchronous | Online Asynchronous | Hybrid |
| Grade | Grade 12 |
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
At Maple Ridge Academy, science is taught through an engaging blend of teacher-directed instruction, inquiry-based learning, virtual and practical investigations, collaborative discussions, simulations, research activities, and authentic assessments. Students access learning through Moodle and digital technologies in both synchronous and asynchronous environments. Our program emphasizes scientific literacy, curiosity, innovation, environmental stewardship, and the application of scientific knowledge to real-world challenges.
Major Units of Study
Unit 1: Organic Chemistry: This unit develops students’ understanding of organic 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 2: Structure of Matter: This unit develops students’ understanding of the structure of matter 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: Energy Changes: This unit develops students’ understanding of energy changes 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: Equilibrium: This unit develops students’ understanding of equilibrium 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: Electrochemistry: This unit develops students’ understanding of electrochemistry through scientific inquiry, laboratory or virtual investigations, analysis of evidence, collaborative learning, and real-world applications that build scientific literacy and problem-solving skills
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 typically accounts for 30% of the overall grade.
Learning Skills & Work Habits
| Skill | Expectation |
| Responsibility | Safe and responsible scientific practice |
| Organization | Maintains records and lab materials |
| Independent Work | 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.