Skill Descriptor: Examine questions about relationships between and among observable variables to plan investigations.

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

Achievement Indicators:

• Formulate a hypothesis using, if, then, because based on understandings and/or research
• Identify major variable(s) to be controlled
• Define design problems that involve the development of a process or a system with interacting components
• Propose alternative solutions to a given problem and develop a plan
• Select methods for collecting data and information which support the investigation
• Construct models to make testable predictions based on scientific evidence
• Respond to the ideas of others and acknowledge their contributions

Skill Descriptor: Collect and represent accurate data using appropriate tools and methods.

Global Competencies: CTPS, ICE, SASM

Achievement Indicators:

• Conduct investigation, fieldwork, laboratory experiment or technological design solution to collect reliable data
• Assess risk associated with applied investigation methods
• Assess ethical issues associated with applied investigation methods
• Use instruments to collect accurate data
• Organize data using a form that is appropriate to the task or investigation
• Develop a classification key for data

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

Global Competencies: CM, CTPS, ICE

Achievement Indicators:

• Analyze patterns and trends in data, including describing relationships between variables, and identifying inconsistencies
• Justify reasonable amounts of error in measurements, identifying outliers
• Describe specific ways to improve the quality of data
• Evaluate potential application of findings
• Test the design of constructed devices or systems
• Identify and correct practical problems in the way a prototype or constructed device functions
• Evaluate design or prototypes in terms of function reliability, safety, use of materials and impact on the environment
• Identify new questions and problems that arise from what was learned

Skill Descriptor: Develop scientific collaborative skills during investigations to communicate conclusions supported by data.

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

Achievement Indicators:

• State a logical conclusion that supports, refutes, or includes the hypothesis
• Compare findings and address variation (if applicable)
• Discuss a given position on an issue or problem based on findings
• Evaluate results in relation to other models, products, and knowledge
• Communicate scientific and technological ideas and information for a purpose
• Use appropriate scientific and technological language, conventions, and representations
• Work with team members to develop and carry out a plan

Skill Descriptor: Apply scientific and technological knowledge and understanding of sustainable practices.

Global Competencies: CTPS, ICE, SASM, SGC

Achievement Indicators:

• Discuss factors that support responsible and sustainable application of scientific and technological knowledge
• Apply knowledge of sustainable practices
• Conduct science experiment or field investigation while following environmentally sustainable practices
• Research how policies influence the development of energy production
• Apply measures to increase energy efficiency in own zone of influence
• Evaluate resilience of various forms of electrical infrastructure development
• Examine power relations and analyze how and why Western perspectives tend to get privileged over Indigenous perspectives
• Research the impact of resource extraction on the environment, peoples, and politics in African countries

Skill Descriptor: Apply an iterative process to challenges related to sustainable development goals.

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

Achievement Indicators:

• Identify a community-based challenge connected to at least two sustainable development goals
• Identify opportunities for sustainable, resilient, and inclusive infrastructure in own community
• Describe environmental impacts and issues of energy prediction, supply, and usage
• Identify effects of the chosen solution on people and the environment considering criteria
• Research how the degradation of the natural environment impacts Indigenous Peoples around the world and research an action to mitigate it

Skill Descriptor: Model safety practices.

Global Competencies: CL, CM, CTPS, SASM

Achievement Indicators:

• Safely use tools to build a model/prototype
• Identify behaviours that will keep self and others safe
• Safely use equipment while carrying out an inquiry
• Handle and dispose of materials according to WHMIS standards

Skill Descriptor: Investigate careers in science.

Global Competencies: CM, CTPS, SASM

Achievement Indicators:

• Research science- technology-based careers in Canada based on own interests
• Research African innovation in STEM
• Discuss technical training, mentorship, and/or apprenticeship programs for green jobs
• Discuss career planning for transition to a low-carbon economy
• Discuss how science education may impact own career path