SCIENCE 10 HONORS
Chemistry
Chemical changes involve energy and transformations of matter. A knowledge of the underlying structure of matter and the basic chemical species is important in understanding chemical changes. As students explore the properties of molecular and ionic compounds, including acids and bases, they begin to appreciate the need for a classification scheme and a system of nomenclature. Students classify, name compounds and write balanced chemical equations to represent chemical changes. As well, students are introduced to the law of conservation of mass and the mole concept.
Physics
The first and second laws (conservation and conversion) of thermodynamics have been useful in the development of modern and efficient energy conversion devices. Students investigating mechanical energy conversions and transfers in systems will recognize that while energy is conserved, useful energy diminishes with each conversion. Students learn that energy can be observed only when it is being transferred, and that mechanical energy can be quantified. Energy conservation and conversion concepts are applied by students to explain energy conversions in natural and technological systems, and to investigate the design and function of energy conversion technologies.
Biology
The fundamental unit of life, the cell, is an example of an efficient open system comprised of a cell membrane and organelles that carry out the basic functions of all living organisms. Students will learn that technological advancements in microscopy have enhanced the study of cells and cellular processes. The understanding of life processes at the cellular level can also be applied to multicellular organisms.