Page 138 - The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12: Science, 2008 (revised)

Grade 12, University Preparation
A1. demonstrate scientific investigation skills (related to both inquiry and research) in the four areas of skills (initiating and planning, performing and recording, analysing and interpreting, and communicating);
A2. identify and describe careers and Canadian contributions related to the fields of science under study.
A1. Scientific Investigation Skills
THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 11 AND 12 | science
OVERALL EXPECTATIONS
Throughout this course, students will:
SPECIFIC EXPECTATIONS
Throughout this course, students will:
Initiating and Planning [IP]*
A1.1 formulate relevant scientific questions about observed relationships, ideas, problems, or issues, make informed predictions, and/or for- mulate educated hypotheses to focus inquiries or research
A1.2 select appropriate instruments (e.g., hand lens, spectrographs, rock hammers) and materials (e.g., star charts, geological maps, mineral identifica- tion kits), and identify appropriate methods, techniques, and procedures, for each inquiry
A1.3 identify and locate a variety of print and electronic sources that enable them to address research topics fully and appropriately
A1.4 apply knowledge and understanding of safe laboratory and field work practices and proced- ures when planning investigations by correctly interpreting Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) symbols; by using appropriate techniques for handling and storing laboratory equipment and materials and dispos- ing of laboratory materials (e.g., following safety procedures when collecting samples; using ma- terials safely when identifying minerals and rocks); and by using appropriate personal pro- tection (e.g., wearing safety goggles when testing rock or mineral samples; using proper protective eyewear when observing the sun)
Performing and Recording [PR]*
A1.5 conduct inquiries, controlling relevant vari- ables, and adapting or extending procedures as required, and using appropriate materials and equipment safely, accurately, and effectively, to collect observations and data
A1.6 compile accurate observations and data from laboratory and other sources (e.g., field work), and organize and record the data, using appro- priate formats, including tables, flow charts, graphs, and/or diagrams
A1.7 select, organize, and record relevant informa- tion on research topics from a variety of appropriate sources, including electronic, print, and/or human sources (e.g., personal communication), using suitable formats and an accepted form of academic documentation
Analysing and Interpreting [AI]*
A1.8 synthesize, analyse, interpret, and evaluate qualitative and/or quantitative data to determine whether the evidence supports or refutes the initial prediction or hypothesis and whether
it is consistent with scientific theory; identify sources of bias and/or error; and suggest improvements to the inquiry to reduce the likelihood of error
A1.9 analyse the information gathered from re- search sources for logic, accuracy, reliability, adequacy, and bias
A1.10 draw conclusions based on inquiry results and research findings, and justify their conclu- sions with reference to scientific knowledge
A. Scientific inveStigAtion SkillS And cAreer explorAtion
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* The abbreviation(s) for the broad area(s) of investigation skills – IP, PR, AI, and/or C – are provided in square brackets at the end of the expectations in strands B–F to which the particular area(s) relate (see pp. 20–22 for information on scientific investigation skills).