Science
Science is a mandatory course that is studied substantially in each of Years 7–10 with at least 400 hours to be completed by the end of Year 10. This is a requirement for eligibility for the award of the School Certificate.
Course Description
Science develops students’ knowledge, understanding and skills to explain and make sense of the biological, physical and technological world, enabling them to make informed choices and responsible decisions as individuals and part of the community.
What will students learn about?
Through their study of science students develop a knowledge and understanding about the living and non-living world. Students examine the historical and ongoing contribution of scientists and the implications of this research on scientific knowledge, society, technology and the environment.
What will students learn to do?
Students work individually and in teams in planning and conducting investigations. They evaluate issues and problems, identify questions for inquiry and draw evidenced-based conclusions from their investigations. Through this problem-solving process they develop their critical thinking skills and creativity. They are provided with experiences in making informed decisions about the environment, the natural and technological world and in communicating their understanding and viewpoints.
Course Requirements
Practical experiences which emphasise hands-on activities will occupy a substantial amount of course time. All students will be required to undertake at least one research project during each of Stage 4 and Stage 5. At least one project will involve ‘hands-on’ practical investigation. At least one Stage 5 project will be an individual task.
School Certificate
Satisfactory completion of the mandatory study of Science during Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) will be recorded with a grade on the student’s School Certificate Record of Achievement Part A. In Year 10, students undertaking the Board Developed Course in Science sit for the Science School Certificate test.