Science courses offered at Lord Byng Secondary School:
- Science 8
Science 9
Science 10
Biology 11
Biology 12
Chemistry 11
Chemistry 12
Physics 11
Physics 12
Grades: 8
The new Science curriculum is based primarily on a "Big Ideas" approach. The big ideas for the new Science 8 course are:
1. Life processes are performed at the cellular level.
2. The behavior of matter can be explained by the kinetic molecular theory and atomic theory.
3. Energy can be transferred as both a particle and a wave.
4. The theory of plate tectonics is the unifying theory that explains Earth’s geological processes.
Grades: 9
Prerequisite: Science 8
The new Science curriculum is based primarily on a "Big Ideas" approach. The big ideas for the new Science 9 course are:
1. Cells are derived from cells.
2. The electron arrangement of atoms impacts their chemical nature.
3. Electric current is the flow of electrons.
4. The biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere are interconnected, as matter cycles and energy flows through them.
Grades: 10
Prerequisite: Science 9
Science 10 is designed to familiarize students with more fundamental concepts in chemistry, biology, physics, and Earth & space science. The biology unit involves understanding the ecological principles of living and nonliving factors that affect the sustainability of ecosystems. In chemistry, compounds and types of chemical reactions are studied. Radioactivity is also explored. Physics involves motion, including velocity and its relationship to time interval and acceleration. Earth and space science investigates plate tectonics, possible causes of climate change and its impact on natural systems.
This curriculum description applies to the current BC Science 10 course, not the new curriculum.
Note: the new Science 10 curriculum is not being implemented in 2017-2018, other than optionally.
Grades: 11 or 12
Prerequisite: Science 10
This is a survey course that studies organisms within the living world. Basic biological principles, including evolution, ecology, and taxonomy are introduced as a framework to guide investigations involving microbiology, fungi, plants and animals. Students taking this course are expected to do labs involving dissections.
Grades: 12
Prerequisite: C+ or better in Biology 11 and Chemistry 11 is highly recommended.
This is an extensive course concentrating on biochemistry, human anatomy and physiology. Almost one-third of the course will focus on the structure of macromolecules, chemical bonding, enzyme action, ultrastructure and ultraprocesses of the cell, and homeostasis. The remainder of the course deals with different organ systems of the human body.
Grades: 11 or 12
Prerequisite: Science 10
Corequisite: Mathematics 11
This introductory course involves the study of matter using practical exercises and chemical calculations. Topics include laboratory safety procedures, significant figures, mole concepts, stoichiometric calculation, atomic theory, chemical bonding, solutions, and organic chemistry. It is recommended that students have a strong mathematical background and proficient skills in writing formulas and naming compounds.
Grades: 12
Prerequisite: 67% or higher in Chemistry 11 is recommended
This course requires a strong theoretical understanding as well as analytical application of the concepts being studied. It is recommended that students have a thorough understanding of Chemistry 11 curriculum, good writing and comprehension skills, as well as a strong mathematical background. This course deals with advanced topics in chemistry. The topics include solutions and solubility, rates of chemical reactions, chemical equilibrium, solubility equilibrium, acid-base chemistry and oxidation-reduction reactions including their applications.
Grades: 11 or 12
Prerequisite: Science 10
Corequisite: Mathematics 11
This introductory physics course deals with the motion of matter and energy using Newton's laws and Einstein's theories. The specific topics include 1-dimensional kinematics, dynamics, energy, wave motion (with light and sound), and special relativity. It is recommended that students have a strong math background, as they will focus on problem solving and conceptual physics.
Grades: 12
Prerequisite: 67% or higher in Physics 11 recommended
This is an in-depth study of some of the major principles of physics. This course is designed to foster the student's understanding of mathematical physics and provide the groundwork for further academic or career training of the student. Topics include 1-dimensional vector kinematics, mechanical energy and vector momentum, equilibrium, circular motion and gravitation, electrostatics, electrical circuitry, and electromagnetism.
It is recommended that Physics 11 be taken during the regular school year prior to taking Physics 12, in order to fully learn the necessary physics concepts needed to be successful in Physics 12.