Introduction to Integrated Science

Think and share

Which areas of Science do you know?

Key points

Integrated Science is a learning area that involves organised study of the behaviour and structure of a living organism, its environment and the matter around the organism. Integrated Science is a learning area that involves learning basic skills and gaining knowledge of different branches of Science.

Digital activity

1. Use digital or print resources to search for components of Integrated Science.
2. Search for the meaning of the components you will find.
3. Write down your findings.

1. Present your work in class.

Activity 3

Study the poster and answer the questions that follow.

1. Identify the knowledge and skills you can learn from Integrated Science.
2. Brainstorm on the areas of science which are represented on the poster.
3. Identify the components of Integrated Science from the poster.
4. Discuss what each component entails.
5. Write down your views and share them in class.

Key points

• A component means a part of something.
• Integrated Science is made up of several components.
• The components include:
  • Biology: This is the study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. It includes the study of the structure and functions of cells, the processes of evolution, the diversity of life and the interdependence of organisms within an environment, among others.
  • Chemistry: This is the study of matter and how different types of matter interacts with each other. It includes the study of substances, their properties, composition and reactions.
  • Physics: This is the study of nature, properties of matter and energy. It explores areas such as motion, force, energy, waves and electricity among others.

Assess yourself

1. Explain the meaning of Integrated Science.
2. Describe the components of Integrated Science.

The following are items made from the knowledge and skills acquired in science. Identify the Items.

a

b

c

d

e

f

g

h

i

1. Where are the items shown in the pictures used?

1. Discuss the importance of Science based on the items.
2. Look around your class and school environment.
3. Identify objects that are made from the knowledge acquired from the study of Science.
4. Draw and name the objects in your exercise book.

Activity 5

In groups, study the pictures and answer the questions.

1. Identify the career shown in each picture.

a

b

c

d

Activity 6

In pairs, read the information below.

Science equips one with knowledge, values, attitudes and skills to:

• Understand self and other living things in the world around us.
• Wisely use the environment for sustainable development.
• Apply the understanding of body systems, hygiene, sanitation and nutrition to promote good health.
• Safely use basic tools, apparatus, materials and chemicals to make work easier.
• Creatively innovate ways of overcoming daily challenges.

Key Points

Science is important in our daily lives. It is applied in various areas as follows:

Extended Activity

1. Walk around your school and community. Note down the items made from the skills and knowledge acquired in Science.
2. With the guidance of your parent or guardian, identify items found at home that are made from the knowledge and skills gained from Science.
3. Draw the items you identified in question 1 and 2.
4. Create a scrapbook with drawings and descriptions of the importance of Science in daily life.
5. Create a poster containing the importance of Integrated Science.
6. Present your work in class.

Activity 7

The chart below shows different pathways. Study it and answer the questions that follow.

Key points

• Knowledge and skills gained from Integrated Science provide a foundation for learners who would like to advance in fields related to Science in senior school.
• The pathways in senior school that are available for a learner studying Integrated Science are Arts and Sports Science, and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
• Some of the career opportunities related to Integrated Science include:
  • Radiology: A branch of medicine that uses imaging technology to diagnose and treat diseases.
  • Psychology: The study of how people think, feel and behave.
  • Medicine: The science or practice of the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases.
  • Biochemistry: The study of chemical and physical principles of living things and biological processes.
  • Ecology: The study of the environment and how organisms live with each other in unique physical environments.
• Other careers related to knowledge and skills gained in Integrated Science include teaching, nursing, engineering, psychology, dermatology, ecology, zoology, botany and environmental science among others.