MYP Subject Groups

Subjects studied

M1-M3 Integrated Science
M4-M5 Biology, Chemistry AND Physics

Minutes per week

M1-M3: 200 minutes per week
M4-M5: 100 minutes per week for each science subject (x 3)

Teachers in 2008/09

Moshi
M1, M3: Elly Nkya
M2: Andrew Mackenzie
M4-M5 Biology: Elly Nkya
M4-M5 Physics: Anne Hacquebord
M4 Chemistry: Andrew Mackenzie
M5 Chemistry: Colin Beveridge

Arusha

Subject Details

The study of science aims to provide the student with both a body of knowledge and an understanding of the scientific approach to problem solving. This dual role makes science an important means to investigate and understand the natural world. The ability to formulate hypotheses, design and carry out strategies to test them, and evaluate results constitutes the framework within which specific content is presented. Among other skills, the student is expected to use basic laboratory equipment safely and efficiently, to measure and make sensible estimates, and to classify things logically.

Within MYP sciences are the traditional subjects of biology, chemistry and physics, as well as topics, concepts and issues from other branches of science, such as earth and health sciences. As with other areas of the curriculum, students are encouraged to relate the content of the classroom and laboratory to the realities of life as they develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

As well as providing a sustained, valuable academic experience, the MYP sciences subject group promotes an awareness of the increasingly international context of scientific activity, its impact and limitations, as well as the constant evolution of scientific knowledge and understanding. Students are encouraged to consider science as a constantly evolving cooperative venture between individuals and among members of the international community, influenced by its social, economical, technological, political, ethical and cultural surroundings.

Assessment Criteria

Criterion A: One world
Maximum 6
Students should understand the interdependence of science and society. Students are expected to discuss how science is applied and used to solve specific problems in life and society. Students should be given the opportunity to explore local and global scientific issues and evaluate the interaction between science and scientific developments with social, economic, political, environmental, cultural and ethical factors.

Criterion B: Communication in science
Maximum 6
Students should be able to demonstrate understanding when communicating scientific information. Students should use appropriate scientific language, a range of communication modes and the most appropriate communication format.

Criterion C: Knowledge and understanding of science
Maximum 6
Students should show their understanding of the main scientific ideas and concepts of science, by applying these to solve problems in familiar and unfamiliar situations. Students should develop critical-thinking skills to analyse and evaluate scientific information.

Criterion D: Scientific inquiry
Maximum 6
Students are expected to design and carry out scientific investigations independently.
Students should be able to (i) state a problem that can be tested by an investigation; (ii) formulate a suitable hypothesis; (iii) identify and manipulate variables; (iv) plan an appropriate investigation including the method and materials; (v) evaluate the method.

Criterion E: Processing data
Maximum 6
Processing data refers to enabling students to organize and process data. Students should be able to organize and transform data by numerical calculations into diagrammatic form (tables, graphs and charts) and draw and explain appropriate conclusions.

Criterion F: Attitudes in science
Maximum 6
This criterion refers to encouraging students� attitudes of safety, respect and collaboration. Students are expected to:

carry out scientific investigations using materials and techniques skillfully and safely and showing respect for the living and non-living environment
work effectively as a member of a team, collaborating, acknowledging and respecting the views of others as well as ensuring a safe working environment.