Course Outline An important and universal goal of science education is to equip learners with an understanding of the roles that science and technology play in society. The Nova Scotia science curriculum aims to develop learners’ Scientific Literacy and their ability to problem solve and apply the principles of scientific inquiry to real-world situations and familiar problems. In so doing, learners will develop skills and competencies. Additionally, Science 7 seeks to develop scientific literacy through designing and building for technological innovation, writing for scientific communication and data analysis. Learners in grade 7 will have opportunities to design scientific inquiries, evaluate evidence, use evidence for argumentation and use technology to solve problems. They will explore fundamental concepts of the Nature of Science such as: Scientific Reasoning Patterns Cause and Effect Systems and Models Energy and Matter Structure and Function Change and Stability Stewardship and Sustainability Similarity and Diversity Learning in Context: The nature of science asks learners to question the phenomena of the world around them, then test those questions in controlled environments. Themes create authentic purpose for learning and facilitate cross curricular, project-based learning opportunities. Learners will see the context for what they are learning which will improve transfer of skills and knowledge. It is important that learners view themselves as scientists and as an integral part of the learning process. Teaching through themes is one way to make the learning meaningful for all learners. Each of the themes in Science 7 provide opportunities for learners to engage with inquiry based learning in a hands-on way that is crucial to science literacy and the development of critical thinking skills. Science 7 Themes: Environmental Action - Learners explore concepts related to particle theory, solutions, and mixtures in the context of pollution in the environment. Learners will examine the impacts of pollution in the environment while exploring ecosystem components, biodiversity, and adaptation of organisms for survival and evolution. Engineering Structures - Learners explore concepts related to engineering, forces and the design process through applications to the construction of structures. Learners make connections between manufactured structures and those found in nature. Geological Evolution - Learners explore concepts of plate tectonics and geographical formations in the context of change over time and they will explore evidence of geological evolution and its implications. Grade 7 and 8 renewed curriculum has been fully implemented across the province. Updated September 11, 2024