Page 232 - The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12: Science, 2008 (revised)

Grade 12, University/College Preparation
c1. evaluate the impact of scientific and technological knowledge and individual behaviour on the control of pathogens and the prevention of disease;
c2. investigate the nature and growth of pathogens and the effectiveness of measures intended to prevent their spread;
c3. demonstrate an understanding of pathogens, the diseases they cause, and ways of controlling their spread.
C1. Relating Science to Technology, Society, and the Environment
C2. Developing Skills of Investigation and Communication
c. pAthogenS And diSeASe OVERALL EXPECTATIONS
By the end of this course, students will:
THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 11 AND 12 | science
SPECIFIC EXPECTATIONS
By the end of this course, students will:
c1.1 analyse, on the basis of research, the impact, both positive and negative, of scientific and technological advances intended to prevent the spread of illness and disease [IP, PR, AI, C]
Sample issue: The development of antibiotics such as penicillin and sulfa in the twentieth century saved many lives. However, overuse and improper use of antibiotics have contributed to the development of antibiotic-resistant forms of bacteria that threaten public health.
Sample questions: How does the irradiation of food reduce the incidence of food-borne illness? Why is the use of this technology controversial? What are the pros and cons of using insecticides such as DDT to kill malaria-carrying mosquitoes? What are the advantages and disadvantages of using “no touch” technologies to stem the spread of diseases?
c1.2 evaluate the impact of individual choices (e.g., with respect to vaccination, the proper use of antibiotics or mosquito repellent) on the con- trol of pathogens and the prevention of disease [AI, C]
Sample issue: Intravenous drug users who share needles risk transmitting or contracting serious diseases such as hepatitis and HIV/AIDS. Programs such as needle exchanges and safe
injections sites reduce the risks posed by shared needle use, but their success depends on the initiative of the drug users.
Sample questions: What measures should food handlers take to prevent the spread of disease? What precautions should travellers take in order not to spread disease? Why is it important to stay home when you have a communicable illness?
By the end of this course, students will:
c2.1 use appropriate terminology related to pathogens and diseases, including, but not limited to: parasite, epidemiology, pathogenesis, and vector [C]
c2.2 analyse, on the basis of inquiry, the effects of various treatments on pathogenesis (e.g., the effect of mouthwash or penicillin on the growth of bacteria) [PR, AI]
c2.3 analyse, using prepared slides or computer simulations, the characteristics, properties, and virulence of various bacteria [PR, AI]
c2.4 use an inquiry process to demonstrate the effect of the use of sterile techniques (e.g., pas- teurization, use of an autoclave) on pathogenesis [IP, PR]
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