Investigating Science

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.

Investigating Science.mp4

Course Outline

The Year 11 course consists of four modules:

Module 1 Cause and Effect - Observing
Module 2 Cause and Effect - Inferences and Generalisations
Module 3 Scientific Models
Module 4 Theories and Laws

The Year 12 course consists of four modules:

Module 5 Scientific Investigations
Module 6 Technologies
Module 7 Fact or Fallacy?
Module 8 Science and Society

Course Requirements

Students are provided with 30 hours of course time for depth studies in both Year 11 and Year 12. During this time students may undertake an investigation/activity that allows for the further development of one or more scientific concepts.

A depth study may be one investigation/activity or a series of investigations/activities. Depth studies may be included in one module or across several modules.

Practical investigations are an essential part of the Year 11 and 12 courses, 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.

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.

Co-requisites, Prerequisites and Materials

Prerequisites

Science - Minimum B grade
English - Minimum C grade
Maths - Minimum C grade

Co-requisites:

None

Materials

Lab Coat
Calculator
A4 Notebook (for theory work)
A4 Notebook (for practical work)
Year 11 Textbook (Investigating Science in Focus Yr 11)
Year 12 Textbook (Investigating Science in Focus Yr 12)

FAQs

Is Investigating Science hard?

This subject requires proficiency with the same Working Scientifically Skills as all other Science Stage 6 courses. Problem solving skills, data processing and analysis skills, as well as the ability to plan and conduct investigations and construct logical, evidence-based arguments and conclusions are essential for success in this course. Ultimately, it is a rewarding subject for which your hard work will pay off.

How many hours a week should I study for Investigating Science (in addition to my set homework)?

At least 3 hours of study per week is recommended for revision and application of knowledge and skills.

I have more questions - who can I ask?

Contact your Leader of Learning, Science Mr Contemplacion or Mr Turri.

References:The Rational and Course Outline are from the Syllabus: www.educationstandards.nsw.edu.au

Page updated

Report abuse