Have a Question?

Is Science compulsory in VCE?

No, you do not have to do a Science in VCE. Some University courses require certain prerequisite subjects which may include “a science of: Biology, Chemistry or Physics” or specify a particular subject. You will need to check the prerequisites for the University study you are considering.

Is there an easy Science?

No.  All of the science subjects rely on your Science Inquiry skills that you have been building across all areas of science so far. Some of the science subjects require stronger literacy skills such as Biology and Psychology while other science subjects require stronger numeracy skills such as Chemistry and Physics. Consider your strengths and which subject you are most likely to succeed in and be interested in.

Can I study a Unit 1 and 2 Science subject in Year 10?

Applications for early access to a VCE subject need to be completed by the 16 June 2024 so that they can be reviewed by the Course Counselling Team before students select their subjects on Edval. Due to the nature of the science subjects, students often do better when they study the course in the year it is intended, for example Unit 1 and 2 Biology in Year 11, and this should be kept in mind when placing an application to study a science subject early. The science subjects that you are able to access early are VCE Biology and VCE Psychology.

Biology FAQs

What learning skills do I need to do well in biology?

The key skills for studying biology and any of the sciences are organisation, planning, regular study habits, effective revision strategies, frequent participation in class activities and regular attendance. 

I have heard that you have to be good at maths to do well in science.

No, not necessarily. The key skills outlined above are the most important skills to do well. Biology in particular does not have a strong emphasis on mathematical skills, but rather focuses on broad concepts that can be applied to a number of situations across the study. Being able to calculate a percentage, Mean (or average) and display data in a table or graph are the most common mathematical skills required.

Biology is just about the study of animals isn’t it?

No! There is much more to biology than just the study of animals. Biology is the study of life in general. In particular, there is a lot of understanding required of life at the molecular level, particularly the function of cells and genetics. So much of the course revolves around these concepts.

Is it a good idea to study other sciences alongside biology? Are they complementary?

Yes - as long as you enjoy them! There are a number of concepts that flow between the four sciences offered at Mount Erin. In particular, the key science investigation skills and understanding of the scientific method. So yes, there would be advantages to studying multiple units of science if you were scientifically inclined.

Chemistry FAQs

Do we just examine chemicals in Chemistry?

Chemistry involves much more than just solutions and chemicals. Chemistry includes links to the different branches of science, including physics and biology. 

Are there any prerequisites to studying Chemistry?

No, there are no prerequisites, but you should be strong in Mathematics and English in order to study Chemistry.

How can I be successful in Chemistry?

In order to be successful in Chemistry, you need to have very good study habits, participate actively in class activities and experiments and attend class regularly. In addition to strong mathematical skills you also need to read and interpret written questions and problems and write comprehensive laboratory reports. 

How much homework can I expect when studying Chemistry?

As a general rule, you should be completing at least 1 hour of homework and/or home study for every hour spent in class.  A minimum of 4 hours per week is required. 

Psychology FAQs

Are there any subjects I need to study in year 10 to get into Psychology?

Only Science, which is a core subject at Year 10. We do cover quite a bit on research methods and writing scientific reports, which is part of your junior science course.

I have heard Psychology is the “easy science”.  Is that true?

No.  There is a lot of content to cover. You need to be organised and keep on top of the workload. 

Can I study Unit 1&2 Psychology in year 10?

Unit 1 & 2 Psychology is offered to year 10 students, but only if they have a recommendation from their science teacher. 

Is Psychology the same as Sociology?

No.  There are some topics that are covered in both subjects but they are covered in a different way.

Why is Psychology in the science subjects?

Psychology is a scientific study of mind and behaviour.  Evidence is collected and analysed.

Why should I study Psychology?

Psychologists look at why people behave the way they do, how people learn, how your memory works, how the brain works, why we feel the way we do, and the list goes on.  Understanding how people feel and why they behave the way they do will help you in lots of different careers and in everyday life. 

How much biology is covered in Psychology?

There is a bit. We look at how the brain works and the nervous systems.