Subjects studied
Science is a mandatory subject for all students from Year 7 to 10.
The units of work in Years 7 to 10 are built around contexts that relate scientific concepts to real life situations and applications, while still maintaining a focus on specific disciplines. They are constructed around an inquiry based model with a strong emphasis on student centred learning and first hand investigations.
The units covered in Years 7 to 10 are:
Year 7
- Forces and Energy
- Chemistry
- Living Things
- Our Place in Space
Year 9
- Electrical Energy
- Chemistry
- Climate Change
- Plate Tectonics
- Coordination and Control
Year 8
- Lessons from Nature
- Chemistry
- Using Energy
- Riches from the Earth
Year 10
- Cosmology and Motion
- Chemistry
- Genetics & Evolution
- Sustainable Energy
The Stage 6 courses offered for Year 11 and 12 students are 2 Unit Biology, 2 Unit Chemistry and 2 Unit Physics.
A variety of assessment tasks are conducted throughout the year to inform teachers, students and parents on student progress towards the attainment of course outcomes. Students are assessed through their performance in a variety of tasks including written exams, research tasks, first-hand scientific investigations and written and oral presentations. Reports are sent home for Semester 1 and Semester 2. Science reports contain information on student progress towards particular outcomes including:
- Knowledge and Understanding
- Skills in working scientifically – questioning and predicting, planning and conducting investigations, gathering, processing and analysing information and communicating.
First hand investigation skills are progressively developed throughout the course and students undertake major independent research projects in Year 8 and Year 9.
The science faculty uses a range of internet based platforms to enhance the student learning experience. These include Stile App, which is used by teachers to deliver interactive internet based lessons. Year 12 students are enrolled in Edrolo, which has a range of resources that allow students to work at their own pace outside the classroom and to consolidate and test their understanding. Moodle and Google Classroom are used extensively to interface between students and teachers. Students in Years 7 to 10 have access to Oxford Digital online, an online textbook with links to external sites and other internet based activities.
The science laboratories are all air-conditioned with interactive white boards and Wi-Fi. This enhances the flexibility of activities can that be conducted in these classrooms. Students learn to use computer-based technologies for a variety of applications including first hand data gathering, research, processing information, presenting information, communication and simulation activities.
The science faculty is keen to develop strong links with parents and the community to provide enrichment opportunities for our students. We are aware that many parents are either professionals, or have contacts, in scientific fields. If parents feel that they can contribute in any way, big or small, to the enrichment of science education at this school, please feel free to contact Mr Jon Re, Head Teacher Science.