Outcome Chart - Nunavut - Science Grade 7-9

Developing a Nature of Science Emphasis

Concepts

The goal of science is knowledge about the natural world.
Scientific knowledge develops through observation, experimentation, the discovery of patterns and relationships, and the proposal of explanations.
Scientific knowledge results from the shared work of many people over time.
Scientific knowledge is subject to change as new evidence is gathered and new interpretations of data are made.
The process of scientific investigation includes: – clearly defining research questions or ideas to be tested – developing procedures for investigation – preparing accurate records of observations and measurements – evaluating ideas through critical examination of evidence.
Scientific ideas are conceptual inventions that help organize, interpret and explain findings. − Models and theories are often used in interpreting and explaining observations, and in predicting future observations. − Conventions of nomenclature and notation provide a basis for organizing and communicating science knowledge; e.g., chemical symbols. − Scientific language is precise, and specific terms may be used in each field of study.
Science cannot provide complete answers to all questions

Initiating and Planning; e.g.,

identify questions to investigate
define and delimit questions to facilitate investigation
state a prediction and a hypothesis based on background information or an observed pattern of events
select appropriate methods and tools for collecting data and information.

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Analyzing and Interpreting; e.g.,

interpret patterns and trends in data, and infer and explain relationships among the variables
predict the value of a variable by interpolating or extrapolating from graphical data
identify and suggest explanations for discrepancies in data
state a conclusion, based on experimental data, and explain how evidence gathered supports or refutes an initial idea.

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Developing a Social and Environmental Emphasis

Concepts

Science and technology are developed to meet human needs and expand human capability.
Science and technology have contributed to human well-being and have influenced, and been influenced by, social development.
Science and technology have both intended and unintended consequences for humans and the environment.
Society provides direction for scientific and technological development. − Canadian society supports scientific research and technological development that helps achieve a sustainable society, economy and environment. − Decisions regarding scientific and technological development involve a variety of considerations, including social, environmental, ethical and economic considerations. − Society supports scientific and technological development by recognizing accomplishments, publishing and disseminating results, and providing financial support.
Scientific and technological activity may arise from, and give rise to, such personal and social values as accuracy, honesty, perseverance, tolerance, open-mindedness, critical-mindedness, creativity and curiosity.
Science and technology provide opportunities for a diversity of careers, for the pursuit of hobbies and interests, and for meeting personal needs.

Initiating and Planning; e.g.,

identify science-related issues
identify questions to investigate arising from science-related issues
select appropriate methods and tools for collecting relevant data and information.

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Lessons

Performing and Recording; e.g.,

research information relevant to a given question, problem or issue
identify information and data that are relevant to the issue
select and integrate information from various print and electronic sources, or from several parts of the same source.

Analyzing and Interpreting; e.g.,

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