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Science Electives
Matthew Grady
Matthew Grady
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.
iSTEM
Students studying Year 9 and 10 iSTEM can expect to engage with the core principles of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through dynamic, hands-on learning experiences. From designing innovative solutions using computer-aided design to exploring the principles of aeronautical engineering and robotics, students will tackle real-world problems through collaborative, project-based learning. They may investigate the growing challenges of cyber security, design technologies fit for space exploration, and consider sustainable solutions to environmental issues. Through these diverse and future-focused topics, students will develop critical thinking, creativity, and technical skills that are essential for thriving in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.
Students have the option of selecting this as a one year or two year course.
Additional Information
Additional Information
What Students Learn:
In this course, students may learn to:
apply concepts from physics to understand the principles behind motion, forces, flight, and energy transfer in projects such as aeronautical engineering and robotics
use knowledge of chemistry to investigate materials, their properties, and how they influence the design and performance of technologies in real-world applications
explore biological systems in the context of mechatronics and biomedical devices, examining how engineering can be inspired by or interact with living organisms
investigate environmental challenges through the lens of earth and environmental science, using STEM to model sustainable practices and develop solutions to global issues
design and prototype solutions using computer-aided design (CAD), integrating scientific and mathematical principles to create functional, tested innovations
understand the role of cyber security in protecting data and systems, applying logic and problem-solving strategies drawn from scientific inquiry and technological processes
explore the challenges and opportunities of designing for space, applying physics and engineering to simulate environments beyond Earth
engage in project-based learning that develops their ability to test hypotheses, analyse data, iterate on designs, and communicate their findings using scientific conventions
evaluate how interdisciplinary knowledge from all areas of science is essential to solving complex technological problems and addressing ethical and environmental concerns
Assessment:
Types of assessment that students are likely to experience include:
Reports
Practical tasks
Project portfolio
Additional Costs:
Mandatory Excursions: $0.00
Optional Excursions: $30.00
Additional Consumables: $10.00
Psychology
Students studying psychology can expect to learn about the fundamental theories and concepts in psychology. Through engaging discussions, thought-provoking experiments, and case studies, students will begin to grasp the underlying factors that shape human behaviour. From exploring the workings of the brain to investigating the influences of nature and nurture, students will gain valuable insights into what drives our thoughts, emotions, and actions.
Additional Information
Additional Information
What Students Learn:
In Psychology students will learn to:
Explain how the field of psychology provides scientific explanations for the mind and behaviour through research, theories and approaches
Explain the main approaches to the study of the nature of human behaviour and the strengths and weaknesses of those approaches
Explain a range of psychological theories and identifies the application of these theories to everyday life
Recognise the applications and influence of psychology in popular culture and its importance to social factors
Communicate psychological information and ideas using appropriate written, oral and visual forms
Assessment:
Types of assessment that students are likely to experience include:
Topic Tests
Research Tasks
Examinations
Additional Costs:
Mandatory Excursions: $0.00
Optional Excursions: $200.00
Additional Consumables: $20.00
Year 9 Science Extension
Students studying Year 9 Science Extension can expect to explore a diverse range of exciting and relevant scientific fields. From uncovering the forces behind natural disasters to solving mysteries through forensic investigations, students will engage in hands-on activities, experiments, and real-world case studies. They will journey beyond Earth to examine the wonders of space science and delve into the cutting-edge world of biomedical science to understand how science is advancing human health. Through these topics, students will deepen their understanding of the natural world, scientific inquiry, and the role of science in addressing global challenges.
Additional Information
Additional Information
What Students Learn:
In this course, students will learn to:
Describe the causes and impacts of natural disasters, using scientific principles to explain their occurrence and how they are monitored and mitigated
Analyse evidence and apply scientific reasoning in the context of forensic science to solve simulated crimes
Explore key concepts in space science, including celestial movements, space exploration, and the technologies that enable it
Investigate how biomedical science is used to understand the human body, diagnose diseases, and develop medical treatments
Assessment:
Types of assessment that students are likely to experience include:
Topic Tests
Research Tasks
Examinations
Additional Costs:
Mandatory Excursions: $0.00
Optional Excursions: $0.00
Additional Consumables: $20.00
Year 10 Science Extension
Students studying Year 10 Science Extension should have a keen interest in studying and preparing for Science in Years 11 and 12. This course will develop a deeper understanding of how science works in the real world. By examining the processes of scientific investigation, students will learn how evidence is gathered, interpreted, and communicated to solve problems and answer questions. They will critically explore how scientific knowledge evolves, the influence of collaboration and technology, and the impact of science on society. Through engaging case studies, practical experiences, and current issues in science, students will build their skills in scientific thinking, evaluation, and communication—empowering them to make informed decisions and contribute to a rapidly changing world.
Additional Information
Additional Information
What Students Learn:
Develop an understanding of how the scientific method is applied across disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, and earth and environmental science to generate new knowledge and solve problems
Design and conduct practical investigations to explore scientific phenomena, learning to assess the validity, reliability, and accuracy of their methods and results
Investigate how models, laws, and theories in each branch of science are developed, refined, or replaced over time based on new evidence
Explore contemporary scientific issues—such as climate change, biomedical innovation, and technological development—using knowledge and inquiry from multiple scientific fields
Analyse the influence of collaboration, ethics, and communication in the progression of scientific understanding and its impact on society
Assessment:
Types of assessment that students are likely to experience include:
Topic Tests
Research Tasks
Examinations
Additional Costs:
Mandatory Excursions: $0.00
Optional Excursions: $0.00
Additional Consumables: $20.00
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