Science is mandatory for all students from Year 7 to Year 10.
Science 7-10 provides a way of inquiring about the world around us. It explores evidence and investigates ways to discover, develop and produce solutions to real-world problems. Science emphasises the skills for working scientifically, as well as critical and creative thinking to address scientific issues.
In Science, students explore the natural and made worlds. They learn how to apply scientific skills, knowledge an understanding across a broad range of contexts.
Science provides a way of inquiring about the world around us. It explores evidence and investigates ways to discover, develop and produce solutions to real-world problems. The inquiry and skill-based natures of science opens doors to ideas and discoveries.
Stage 4 and 5 Science (Year 7-10)
The course provides a formal study of Science with emphasis on the methods used in Science as well as knowledge of facts and processes. Students are encouraged to work independently and in small groups to provide answers to scientific problems and conduct research into areas of interest.
The Science course prepares students for the study of Science subjects in Stage 6 by developing each student's scientific knowledge, skills and values and attitudes within Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science and Physics. As well as acquiring scientific knowledge and skills, students apply their understanding to everyday life and develop an appreciation of Science as a human activity. Students learn about the need to conserve, protect and maintain the environment, the use and importance of technology in advancing Science and the role of Science in developing technology.
Students also develop an appreciation of, and skills in, selecting and using resources and systems to solve problems. They will improve their experimental skills involving the manipulation of apparatus and the identification and recording of observations. Students will develop abilities in critical and analytical thinking and in the solving of problems.
Stage 6 (SY1 SY2)
The faculty offers the following courses in Stage 6:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Earth and Environmental Science
- Science Extension
- Investigating Science
Each of the above courses is a 2 unit course with the exception of Science Extension which is 1 unit. Students may count up to seven units of Science courses in any combination for their ATAR.
The types of learning in all Science subjects fall into three broad categories:
1. Knowledge and Understanding
2. Working Scientifically Skills:
- Questioning and predicting
- Planning investigations
- Conducting investigations
- Processing data and information
- Analysing data and information
- Problem solving
- Communicating
3. Values and Attitudes
