Skill Descriptor: Plan investigations to answer questions about relationships between and among variables observed in the solar system, ecosystems, and molecules and organisms.

Global Competencies: CTPS, ICE

Achievement Indicators:

• Formulate hypotheses using if, then and because giving plausible reasons based on understandings and/or research
• Identify major variables to be controlled
• Define design problems that involve the development of processes or systems with interacting components
• Propose alternative solutions by developing plans for given problems
• Select appropriate methods for collecting data and information
• Respond to the ideas of others and acknowledge their contributions

Skill Descriptor: Collect and represent accurate data using tools and methods appropriate for investigations of the solar system, ecosystems, and molecules and organisms.

Global Competencies: CTPS, ICE, SASM

Achievement Indicators:

• Select and use scientific instruments to collect accurate data
• Conduct investigations, fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and/or technological design solutions to collect accurate data
• Create models that describe relationships amongst variables
• Assess risk associated with the applied investigation methods
• Assess ethical issues associated with the applied investigation methods
• Organize data using forms that are appropriate to the investigations
• Develop classification keys for qualification data

Skill Descriptor: Analyze and interpret qualitative and quantitative data to construct explanations and conclusions.

Global Competencies: CTPS, ICE

Achievement Indicators:

• Represent and organize titled and labelled collected data using drawings, digital technologies, simple text, tables and other graphical formats
• Analyze data by describing relationships between variables
• Evaluate the precision/validity/reliability of tests and identify reasonable sources and amounts of error
• Identify inconsistencies and outliers in analyzed data
• Describe specific ways to improve the quality of data
• Confirm or refute hypotheses using collected data, other sources, and/or reliable media
• Evaluate potential application of findings
• Identify new questions and/or problems that come from learning new information

Skill Descriptor: Communicate procedure, result, and conclusion using a variety of media and working collaboratively.

Global Competencies: CL, CM, CTPS, ICE, SASM

Achievement Indicators:

• Communicate procedures, results, and conclusions of scientific inquiry in a clear and logical order
• Compare findings to hypotheses, other models, products, and knowledge, and address applicable variation
• Defend given positions on issues or problems based on findings
• Support or refute hypotheses using evidence from data analysis
• Use formal science, mathematics, and technology language, conventions, and representations
• Discuss limitations of models as representations of systems, processes, or designs
• Suggest ways available evidence or design specifications can improve models
• Work collaboratively with team members to develop and carry out plans, and examine own knowledge and knowledge of peers

Skill Descriptor: Apply scientific and technological knowledge and an understanding of sustainable practices responsibly with respect to the solar system, ecosystems, and molecules and organisms.

Global Competencies: CTPS, ICE, SASM, SGC

Achievement Indicators:

• Research the impact land access and use has had on Wabanaki and other Indigenous societies over time (food scarcity, loss of water access, forced agrarianism, etc.)
• Examine how social relationships and identity are shaped by the natural environment
• Compare Indigenous and Western views of the natural environment
• Describe how ecological knowledge is carried through story
• Research how the degradation of the natural environment impacts Indigenous Peoples around the world and research an action to mitigate it
• Use equipment safely while carrying out scientific inquiry
• Use tools and materials safely when building models and prototypes
• Conduct science experiments/field investigations while following environmentally sustainable practices
• Develop models to make testable predictions based on scientific evidence
• Test designs of constructed devices or systems
• Evaluate designs or prototypes in terms of function reliability, safety, use of materials, and impact on the environment
• Refine models based on empirical evidence to improve accuracy, explanatory power, or quality
• Demonstrate knowledge of WHMIS standards by using proper techniques for handling and disposing of materials
• Explain why practical solutions to scientific or technological problems may require compromise between competing priorities
• Explore solution criteria to identify effects of chosen solutions on people and the environment
• Evaluate the effects of various technologies developed to improve living conditions
• Explore Canadian-based science and technology careers in related areas of personal interest

Skill Descriptor: Identify community-based challenges connected to at least two of Sustainable Development Goals 3, 13, 14, and 15, and apply iterative processes to design solutions.

Global Competencies: CL, CM, CTPS, ICE, SASM, SGC

Achievement Indicators:

• Discuss power relations and analyze how and why Western perspectives tend to get privileged over Indigenous perspectives in national policies, strategies, planning, etc.
• Demonstrate a holistic understanding of the interconnections of a person’s well-being and health and the natural environment or community
• Explore different environmental pollutants and ways to reduce pollution
• Conduct research into real world challenges for the sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources
• Analyze results of environmental monitoring to take appropriate climate mitigation actions and adaptation strategies
• Develop action projects or campaigns related to biodiversity protection in communities or regions