What SCH4C focuses on

SCH4C develops students’ understanding of chemistry through the study of matter and qualitative analysis, organic chemistry, electrochemistry, chemical calculations, and chemistry in the environment.

How students apply learning

Students use laboratory techniques, collect and analyse data, solve chemistry problems, and communicate scientific information using appropriate terminology. The course emphasizes chemistry in daily life and the effects of technology on society and the environment.

Scientific inquiry and career connections

• Develop initiating and planning skills for scientific investigations.
• Perform investigations and record observations and data accurately.
• Analyse and interpret experimental results.
• Communicate scientific information using appropriate terminology, formats, and conventions.
• Explore careers related to chemistry and scientific research.
• Examine the contributions of scientists, including Canadian scientists, to chemistry-related fields.

Properties and identification of matter

• Investigate the properties of matter using qualitative analysis.
• Use observations and chemical tests to identify unknown substances.
• Study the basic principles and methods of qualitative analysis.
• Examine practical applications of qualitative analysis in daily life and industry.
• Evaluate the effects of chemical substances on the environment.
• Apply laboratory safety procedures while handling and testing chemical substances.

Organic compounds and their applications

• Study the structures and properties of common organic compounds.
• Identify and classify selected organic functional groups.
• Investigate physical and chemical properties of organic substances.
• Analyse common organic chemical reactions.
• Examine products made from organic compounds.
• Evaluate the effects of organic products on society, human health, and the environment.

Oxidation, reduction, and galvanic cells

• Develop an understanding of oxidation and reduction.
• Identify oxidation and reduction processes in chemical reactions.
• Investigate oxidation-reduction reactions in galvanic cells.
• Examine the movement of electrons in electrochemical systems.
• Analyse technological applications involving redox reactions.
• Assess the environmental impact of electrochemical technologies and processes.

Mole relationships and quantitative analysis

• Develop an understanding of the mole concept.
• Perform calculations involving moles, mass, and molar mass.
• Use balanced chemical equations to solve quantitative problems.
• Investigate chemical compounds and reactions using quantitative analysis.
• Apply appropriate techniques and units in chemical calculations.
• Analyse chemical processes used in homes, workplaces, and environmental settings.
• Assess the importance of accuracy and precision in chemical calculations.

Environmental chemistry and sustainability

• Investigate chemical reactions that occur naturally in the environment.
• Examine environmental chemical reactions caused by human activities.
• Study factors affecting air and water quality.
• Use quantitative analysis to investigate environmental chemical reactions.
• Evaluate the role of government regulations in improving air and water quality.
• Assess the importance of scientific analysis and individual actions in environmental protection.
• Develop a personal plan of action to support improved air and water quality.

How grades are calculated

• 70% — Course work completed throughout the course.
• 30% — Final evaluation, including summative work and examination.
• Knowledge & Understanding: 25%
• Thinking: 25%
• Communication: 25%
• Application: 25%
• Evidence of learning is gathered through products, observations, and conversations.
• Assessment tools may include quizzes, tests, laboratory activities, presentations, worksheets, models, checklists, questioning, and rubrics.

Main course resources

• Chemistry 12 — Nelson, 2007.
• Teacher-prepared PowerPoint presentations.
• Course notes and solved chemistry examples.
• Laboratory investigations and scientific inquiry activities.
• Selected online chemistry resources and educational videos.

Important supports

Program planning includes varied instructional approaches, scientific inquiry, critical thinking, literacy, technology use, laboratory safety, environmental education, career exploration, inclusive education, and academic honesty.

Students learn through direct instruction, class discussion, laboratory investigations, worksheets, independent work, group activities, research, questioning, and teacher feedback.

Safe laboratory practices are emphasized whenever students handle chemicals, equipment, or materials during scientific investigations.