Investigating Science
Module 5: Scientific Investigations
Students learn that the experimental method is a dynamic process influenced by initial observations, new evidence, unexpected results or phenomena arising from the investigation. They examine the interrelated roles of practical and secondary-sourced investigations. When conducting practical and secondary-sourced investigations, students use peer feedback to refine their investigative designs and report on their findings.
Students explore the importance of accuracy, validity and reliability in relation to the investigative work of a scientist. They examine the differences between a scientific investigation and a scientific report, recognising that although the report format follows a sequential order, the investigation need not.
In this module, students focus on: developing and evaluating hypotheses and questions; designing and evaluating investigations; and undertaking valid scientific investigations. Students should be provided with opportunities to engage with all Working Scientifically skills throughout the course.
Module 6: Technologies
The rapid development of new technologies has enhanced industrial and agricultural processes, medical applications and communications. Students explore the dynamic relationship between science and technology where the continuing advancement of science is dependent on the development of new tools and materials. They also examine how advances in science inform the development of new technologies and so reflect the interdependence of science and technology.
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, including those that provide accurate measurement.
In this module, students focus on developing hypotheses and questions and process appropriate qualitative and quantitative data. They demonstrate how science drives demand for the development of further technologies. Students should be provided with opportunities to engage with all Working Scientifically skills throughout the course.
Module 7: Fact or Fallacy?
The scientific process is the most powerful tool available for generating knowledge about the world. It uses evidence and measurement to find truth and highlight misinterpretations and misrepresentations. Science as a human endeavour is subject to human failings, which can contribute to fallacies, misinterpretations and, on occasion, fraud. For this reason, scientific processes attempt to compensate for human failings by questioning evidence, re-testing ideas, replicating results and engaging with peer review in order to evaluate research.
Students investigate claims through conducting practical and secondary-sourced investigations and evaluate these based on scientific evidence. They explore examples of scientific claims made in the media and investigate the benefits of peer review.
In this module, students focus on selecting, processing, analysing and evaluating primary and secondary data and information sources. Students communicate scientific understanding and information about factual or fallacious claims. Students should be provided with opportunities to engage with all Working Scientifically skills throughout the course.
Module 8: Science and Society
Those who pursue the study of science have created processes, tools and products that challenge and influence society and some of its belief systems, ethics and societal norms. In response, society debates and regulates science in order to prevent harmful developments and unacceptable outcomes, and to allow for new and beneficial products, processes and ideas. Science also can be affected by society, as well as governments, industry, economic interests and cultural perspectives.
Students explore the impacts of ethical, social, economic and political influences on science and its research.
In this module, students focus on analysing and evaluating primary and secondary data to solve problems and communicate scientific understanding about the position and application of science in society. Students should be provided with opportunities to engage with all Working Scientifically skills throughout the course.
