RATIONALE

An understanding of science is central for young citizens’ preparedness for life in modern society. The
study of science provides the knowledge and skills which are intended to improve the quality of living.
It empowers individuals to engage in public discussions on issues related to science and technology;
and to be critical consumers of scientific information related to everyday life. Integrated Science brings
together the everyday context in which science operates. It encompasses biology, chemistry, physics,
earth science, environmental science and technology. It is critical that science education should involve
teaching and learning through inquiry. Integrated Science by the very nature of the subject facilitates
this inquiry-based approach.

The CSEC Integrated Science Syllabus is based on three themes, The Organism and Its Environment,
The Home and Workplace, and Earth’s Place in the Universe which adequately reflect the common
areas of human activity and experience. These themes form the unifying points of the syllabus which
should, therefore, be seen as a coherent unit. The syllabus is redesigned with a greater emphasis on
the integration and application of scientific concepts and principles. Such an approach is adopted to
develop those long-term transferable skills of ethical conduct, team work, problem-solving, critical
thinking, and innovation and communication. It encourages the use of modern technology and other
teaching and learning strategies to inculcate these skills that will prove useful in everyday life, while at
the same time catering to multiple intelligence, and different learning styles and needs.

This syllabus will contribute to the development of the Ideal Caribbean Person, as articulated by the
CARICOM Heads of Government, as someone who shows respect for human life and awareness of the
importance of living in harmony with the environment; demonstrates multiple literacies; independent
and critical thinking and the innovative application of science and technology to problem-solving. In
keeping with the UNESCO Pillars of Learning, this course of study will also contribute to a person who
will learn how to do, learn to live together, and learn to transform themselves and society.

AIMS

This syllabus aims to:

1. develop scientifically and technologically literate students;
2. develop the ability to apply scientific concepts and principles to everyday situations;
3. promote a willingness to work cooperatively with others and to persist with a task to a logical
   conclusion;
4. increase awareness of the importance of living in harmony with the environment;
5. encourage an appreciation of the need to preserve the natural environment;
6. develop experimental and critical thinking skills;
7. develop competencies that will enable students to make appropriate decisions regarding health, safety
   and some everyday life problems.