2 units for each of Preliminary and HSC

Board Developed Course (Category A)

ATAR Course

Exclusions: None

Prerequisites: None

Course Description:

The study of Investigating Science in Stage 6 enables students to develop an appreciation and understanding of science as a body of knowledge and a set of valuable processes that provide humans with an ability to understand themselves and the world in which they live. Through applying Working Scientifically skills processes, the course aims to enhance students’ analytical and problem-solving skills, in order to make evidence-based decisions and engage with and positively participate in an ever-changing, interconnected technological world.

Main Topics Covered:

Preliminary:

• • Module 1 Cause and Effect - Observing

  • Module 2 Cause and Effect - Generalisations

  • Module 3 Scientific Models

  • Module 4 Theories and Laws

HSC:

• • Module 5 Scientific Investigations

  • Module 6 Technologies

  • Module 7 Fact or Fallacy?

  • Module 8 Science and Society

Course Requirements

Scientific investigations include both practical investigations and secondary-sourced investigations. Practical investigations are an essential part of the Year 12 course and must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time, including time allocated to practical investigations in depth studies.

Practical investigations include:

● undertaking laboratory experiments, including the use of appropriate digital technologies

● fieldwork.

Secondary-sourced investigations include:

● locating and accessing a wide range of secondary data and/or information

● using and reorganising secondary data and/or information.