Investigating Science

2 units for each of year 11 and year 12, Board developed course Exclusions: Nil

Cost of course: $30

Course Description

The Year 11 course focuses on the centrality of observation in initiating the scientific process and examines the human tendency to draw inferences and make generalisations from these observations. Students learn about the development and use of scientific models and the similarities and differences between scientific theories and laws.

The Year 12 course builds on the skills and concepts learnt in Year 11 with students conducting their own scientific investigations and communicating their findings in scientific reports. Students are provided with the opportunity to examine the interdependent relationship between science and technology and apply their knowledge, understanding and skills to scientifically examine a claim. The course concludes with students exploring the ethical, social, economic and political influences on science and scientific research in the modern world.

Course Structure:

Year 11:

Topics &  Brief Descriptions

Cause and Effect – Observing:                    

Students explore the importance of observation and the collection of quantitative and qualitative data in scientific  investigations. They conduct their own practical investigation, which is used to demonstrate the importance making detailed and accurate observations.

Cause and Effect – Inferences and Generalisations :                 

Students consider primary and secondary-sourced data and its influence on scientific investigations.

Scientific Models :                                                                                        

 Students recognise that many scientific models have limitations and are modified as further evidence comes to light.

Theories and Laws:                                                                                     

Students examine how complex models and theories often require a wide range of evidence, which impacts on society and the environment                                                               

Year 12:

Topics &  Brief Descriptions                                                                        

Scientific Investigations :

Students explore the importance of accuracy, validity and reliability in relation to the investigative work of a scientist.

 Technologies :                                                                                             

 Students consider experimental risks as they engage with the skills of Working Scientifically. They investigate the appropriateness of using a range of technologies in conducting practical investigations.

Fact or Fallacy?:                                                                                             

Students investigate claims through conducting practical and secondary-sourced investigations and evaluate these based on scientific evidence.

Science and Society:                                                                                     

Students explore the impacts of ethical, social, economic and political influences on science and its research.

Particular Course Requirements

Students in Year 9 should have a minimum level NAPLAN Band 7 and above or in Year 10 a HSC minimum standard at least level 3. 

In both Year 11 and 12, 30 hours must be allocated to depth studies within the 120 indicative course hours.

Investigations are an essential part of the Year 12 course and must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time.

ASSESSMENT:

The Year 11 formal school-based assessment program is to reflect the following requirements:

• three assessment tasks

• one task may be a formal written examination

• one task must focus on a depth study or an aspect of a depth study with a weighting of 20–40%

The Year 12 formal school-based assessment program is to reflect the following requirements:

• a maximum of four assessment tasks

• one task may be a formal written examination with a maximum weighting of 30%

• one task must focus on a depth study or an aspect of a depth study with a weighting of 20–40%

Text:  Yes + online learning via Edrolo

Faculty:  Science

Contact:  Mr Paul Mason- Rel. Head Teacher