Science is important for developing the skills and knowledge in order to observe and analyse the physical and natural world around us.
The aim of the Stage 5 Science is to further develop students’ interest in and enthusiasm for science, as well as deepen their appreciation of its role in finding solutions to contemporary science-related problems and issues.
Science is a mandatory, year long subject. Students complete 5 x 1 periods per 10 day cycle.
Students in Stage 5 may choose to study Psychology as an elective.
In addition to mandatory Science, students may elect to study an option below.
Psychology
NESA Developed: No
Number of Lessons per fortnight: 5
Course Costs (approximate, subject to conditions and approval): Including potential excursions, consumables and other relevant costs*
Year 9: $0.00
Year 10: $0.00
Course Overview
Year 9 Theory Units of Study:
Unit 1: Introduction to Psychology
Unit 2: Research Methods
Unit 3: Psychology and Society
Unit 4: Psychology of Success
Unit 5: Personality and Self
Year 10 Theory Units of Study:
Unit 1: Biological Bases of Psychology
Unit 2: Intelligence and Creativity
Unit 3: Forensic Psychology
Unit 4: Psychological Disorders and Constructs of Normality
Typical School-based Course Assessment
Year 9 Assessment:
Open-book test
Research task
Term-3 Exam
Depth Study
Year 10 Assessment:
Open-book test
Research task
Term 3 Exam
Depth Study
Term-3 Exam Sample Format
Duration: 1 hour
Typical format: Multi choice, 5-10 x short answer {2-8marks}
Possible Vocational/Career Pathways
Mental Health & Clinical Services
Business & Organisational Culture
Research, Data & Technology
Community & Educational Support
Skills and Attributes Developed
Critical thinking & analytical skills
Designing ethical experiments and interpreting complex statistics
Empathy & cultural awareness and the social factors that shape individual identity
Past student Challenges
Managing a significant volume of specialised terminology, complex theories, and landmark studies
Applying abstract theories to analyse unpredictable, real-world case studies
Navigating sensitive topics such as mental health, trauma, and social prejudice which can be personally challenging or require a high level of professional maturity
Students Who Do Well In/Enjoy This Subject
Wonder why individuals react differently to the same situation or how social groups influence behaviour
Have a strong sense of empathy and a desire to help others
Enjoy learning the data that proves our perceptions aren't always reality
Enjoy theories and looking at the biological, social, and environmental layers that make up a person's personality
Science Extension
NESA Developed: No
Number of Lessons per fortnight: 5
Course Costs (approximate, subject to conditions and approval): Including potential excursions, consumables and other relevant costs*
Year 9: $0.00
Year 10: $0.00
Course Overview
This subject goes beyond the standard curriculum, helping you build advanced thinking skills that are essential for success in Stage 6, university, and future careers in many fields. Science extension is for students who enjoy a challenge, are curious, have a strong interest in problem-solving, and want to deepen their understanding of scientific concepts.
Year 9 INTEGRATED Theory/Prac proposed units of study:
Unit 1: Forensic Science
Unit 2: Biomedical Science
Unit 3: Disasters
Unit 4: Science Fiction
Year 10 INTEGRATED Theory/Prac proposed units of study:
Unit 1: Medical Technology (Bionics)
Unit 2: Lifestyle Chemistry
Unit 3: Space Science
Unit 4: Science: Fact or Fiction?
Typical School-based Course Assessment
Year 9 Assessment:
Open-book test
Research task
Term-3 Exam
Depth Study
Year 10 Assessment:
Open-book test
Research task
Term 3 Exam
Depth Study
Term-3 Exam Sample Format
Duration: 1 hour
Typical format: Multi choice, 5-10 x short answer {2-8marks}
Possible Vocational/Career Pathways
Mental Health & Clinical Services
Business & Organisational Culture
Research, Data & Technology
Community & Educational Support
Skills and Attributes Developed
Critical thinking & analytical skills
Designing ethical experiments and interpreting complex statistics
Empathy & cultural awareness and the social factors that shape individual identity
Past student Challenges
Managing a significant volume of specialised terminology, complex theories, and landmark studies
Applying abstract theories to analyse unpredictable, real-world case studies
Navigating sensitive topics such as mental health, trauma, and social prejudice which can be personally challenging or require a high level of professional maturity
Students Who Do Well In/Enjoy This Subject
Wonder why individuals react differently to the same situation or how social groups influence behaviour
Have a strong sense of empathy and a desire to help others
Enjoy learning the data that proves our perceptions aren't always reality
Enjoy theories and looking at the biological, social, and environmental layers that make up a person's personality