Investigating Science
Course Type: Board Developed Course (ATAR)
Units: 2
Prerequisites: Students are recommended to have achieved a C grade or higher in Year 10 Science. A discussion with the Science Coordinator is necessary if you have not attained these grades
Exclusions: N/A
The Investigating Science Stage 6 Syllabus is designed to assist students of all abilities engage with scientific processes and apply those processes to investigate relevant personal, community and global scientific issues.
The ongoing study of science and the specific Working Scientifically skills processes and their application have led humans to accumulate an evidence-based body of knowledge about human interactions – past, present and future – with the world and its galactic neighbourhood. The course is firmly focused on developing the Working Scientifically skills, as they provide a foundation for students to value investigation, solve problems, develop and communicate evidence-based arguments and make informed decisions.
The course promotes active inquiry and explores key concepts, models and phenomena. It draws and builds on the knowledge, understanding, skills, values and attitudes gained in Science Stage 5. The Stage 6 Course is designed to enhance students’ understanding of the value of evidence- based investigations and the use of science-based inquiry in their lives.
The Investigating Science Course is designed to complement the study of the science disciplines by providing additional opportunities for students to investigate and develop an understanding of scientific concepts, their current and future uses and their impacts on science and society. The course draws on and promotes interdisciplinary science, by allowing students to investigate a wide range of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) related issues and concepts in depth.
Investigating Science encourages the development of a range of capabilities and capacities that enhance a student’s ability to participate in all aspects of community life and within a fast-changing technological landscape. The knowledge, understanding and skills gained from this course are intended to support students’ ongoing engagement with science and to form the foundation for further studies and participation in current and emerging STEM-related post-school activities and industries.
Year 11 Modules:
Module 1: Cause and Effect - Observing
Module 2: Case and Effect - Inferences and Generalisations
Module 3: Scientific Models
Module 4: Theories and Laws
Depth Study: 30 hrs
HSC Modules:
Module 5: Scientific Investigations
Module 6: Technologies
Module 7: Fact of Fallacy
Module 8: Science and Society
Depth Study: 30 hrs
HSC Exam
University / Careers:
Investigating science is a great complementary science for Biology, Chemistry or Physics as it explores specifically Working Scientifically and its application to science and wider society.