Introduction

Inquiry into authentic student questions generated from student experiences is the central strategy for teaching science.

(National Research Council[NRC], 1996, p. 31)

Science is a Required Area of Study in Saskatchewan's Core Curriculum. The purpose of this curriculum is to outline the provincial requirements for Grade 10 Science.

This curriculum provides the intended learning outcomes that Grade 10 students are expected to achieve in science by the end of the course. Indicators are included to provide the breadth and depth of what students should know and be able to do in order to achieve the learning outcomes.

This renewed curriculum reflects current science education research, updated technology and recently developed resources, and is responsive to changing demographics within the province. This curriculum is based on the Pan-Canadian Protocol for Collaboration on School Curriculum Common Framework of Science Learning Outcomes K to 12 (Council of Ministers of Education, Canada [CMEC], 1997).

The philosophy and spirit of science education in Saskatchewan is reflected in this curriculum, in resources developed to support the new curriculum, and in materials designed and utilized to support curriculum implementation. In addition, the philosophy for science education builds on and supports the concept of Core Curriculum in Saskatchewan.

This curriculum includes the following information to support science instruction in Saskatchewan schools:

  • connections to Core Curriculum, including the Broad Areas of Learning and Cross-curricular Competencies;
  • the K-12 aim and goals for science education;
  • characteristics of an effective science program;
  • Grade 10 Science outcomes and indicators;
  • sample assessment and evaluation criteria related to outcomes in science; and
  • a glossary.