Thinking Like a Scientist
The R.E. Mountain Science Department is implementing an authentic experimentation theme in all classes at all levels. The unofficial slogan has been “Thinking Like a Scientist.” The primary focus of this initiative has been on Science processes, not only outcomes. We are trying to help students learn to work as a scientist, not simply use the results of the past. Labs are open ended rather than followed like a recipe. Problems are presented and equipment provided. Students have to use their scientific skills and knowledge to solve these problems. This differs significantly from providing students with a list of resources and an instruction sheet that might lead the into determining an outcome. As this is a new initiative for us and many of our students and many of our teachers have not done this in a class before there have been some successes, some things to work on and modifications along the way. We are working with rubrics that are trying to emphasize process and academic attitude. In addition, testing is done in a cumulative manner building on previous knowledge in each unit. |
General Course Information
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Course Outline:
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Proficiency Scale for Assessment:
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Safety Contract:
Science 9 Learning Pathways:
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Unit 1: Safety & Scientific Skills
Unit Resources:
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Useful Links: IV and DV IV and DV Sci Method Quiz Canva WHMIS QUIZ HHPS + WHMIS Quiz Lab Safety Volume practice (reading grad cyl) Mass practice (reading balance) Metric conversions video (unit factor method) Scientific Notation practice quiz Labs:
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Unit 2: Chemistry
Unit Resources
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Labs
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Unit 3: Biology
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Labs
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Unit 4: Physics