Inquiry-based learning is a distinct way of finding answers to important problems about the world around us through answering questions related to our everyday life. By working scientifically, students use scientific inquiry to develop their understanding of ideas and concepts, and the importance of evidence in making informed decisions about the uses of science in their lives.
Subjects offered in Stage 6 Science
Biology is the study of living organisms, life processes and interactions between organisms and their environment.
In year 11, the preliminary Biology course incorporates the study of unicellular and multicellular living things and the ways in which these organisms obtain, transport and draw on materials for their own growth and repair. Students will also develop knowledge and understanding of biotic and abiotic features of the environment and the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem as well as the evolution of life on earth; and the effects of global changes on the Earth’s biodiversity and that of the Australian biota during the formation of the Australian continent.
In year 12, the HSC (Higher School Certificate) course builds upon the knowledge and understanding of the preliminary course. It examines the processes and structures that organisms use to maintain a constant internal environment and the way in which features characteristics are passed on from generation to generation as well as developing knowledge on infectious and non-infectious diseases and disorders.
Students are required to conduct depth studies across Year 11 and 12 using first-hand investigations and secondary research into Biological concepts.
Chemistry is the study of the physical and chemical properties of matter, with a focus on substances and their interactions. Chemistry allows students to understand the use of materials around them at an atomic and molecular level.
In year 11, the preliminary Chemistry course incorporates the development of knowledge of atomic structure, chemical changes, rates of reaction and relationships between substances by focusing on increasing students' understanding of the earth's resources, the development of increasingly sophisticated methods to extract and use metals, the importance of water on earth and high energy carbon compounds.
In year 12, the HSC (Higher School Certificate) course builds upon the concepts developed in the preliminary course, expanding on areas such as the search for new sources of traditional materials, the design and production of new materials, the management and monitoring of chemicals that have been developed and/or released as a result of human technological activity and the way in which environmental problems could be reversed or minimised. The options cover a variety of interest areas and draw on the increased information and understanding provided by improved technology to examine areas of current research.
Students are required to conduct depth studies across Year 11 and 12 using first-hand investigations and secondary research into Chemistry concepts.
Physics investigates natural phenomena, identifies patterns and applies models, principles and laws to explain their behaviour.
In year 11, the preliminary Chemistry course incorporates the development of knowledge of waves, motion, forces, fields, electricity and magnetism by focusing on increasing students' understanding of current communication technologies, the use of electricity in the home, interaction involving vehicles (such as car crashes) and the mechanisms that maintain the physical conditions of planet Earth.
In year 12, the HSC (Higher School Certificate) course provides avenues for students to apply the concepts introduced in Year 11 and to motion in two dimensions, electromagnetism, the nature of light, and the atomic properties of matter.
Students are required to conduct depth studies across Year 11 and 12 using first-hand investigations and secondary research into Physics concepts.
Investigating Science is a new and challenging HSC course that concerns all aspects and disciplines of Science, however, unlike other science courses, the focus is on developing scientific skills needed in practising Science. It must be mentioned that Investigating Science is not a replacement for the old Senior Science course. Investigating Science aims to strengthen students to build critical thinking and research skills by encouraging them to develop strong communication skills.
In year 11, the preliminary Investigating Science course focuses on the centrality of observation in initiating the scientific process and examines the human tendency to draw inferences and make generalisations from these observations. Students learn about the development and use of scientific models and the similarities and differences between scientific theories and laws.
In year 12, the HSC (Higher School Certificate) course builds upon the skills and concepts learnt in Year 11 with students conducting their own scientific investigations and communicating their findings in scientific reports. Students are provided with the opportunity to examine the interdependent relationship between science and technology and apply their knowledge, understanding and skills to scientifically examine a claim. The course concludes with students exploring the ethical, social, economic and political influences on science and scientific research in the modern world.
Students are required to conduct depth studies across Year 11 and 12 using first-hand investigations and secondary research into scientific concepts.
