YEAR 10 | SCIENCE OPTIONS

Bodies and Motion (1 unit)

What will allow us to run faster in a 100m sprint? Why do we run out of breath quickly when we sprint but can jog for a much longer period of time? Why does providing padding around a goal post make a serious injury less likely to occur from a collision?

In this unit students tackle these types of questions from two perspectives: physics and biology. The physics topics examine the way people move and the reasons for that motion. This section of the course utilises several mathematical formulas and calculations in investigations of speed, acceleration and momentum.

The biology topics look at body systems, respiration and the production of energy as well as different types of muscles. Students will also carry out an investigation into motion and research a question of interest.

Bodies and Motion provides a solid foundation for future study of VCE Physics, VCE Biology and VCE Physical Education.

Ecology, Biodiversity & Fieldwork (1 unit)

What is the science behind the environment and living organisms? How do scientists conduct research and undertake fieldwork? Why is diversity important in the environment?

In this unit students will look at the ecology of the local environment – that is, the branch of biology that deals with the relationships of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings. Students will undertake fieldwork using quadrats and transects and learn ways to record, analyse and communicate data. They will discover important techniques used in a science classroom, as well as time outdoors researching the Ecology and Biodiversity of a range of our local environments.

Ecology, Biodiversity and Fieldwork provides a solid foundation for future study of VCE Environmental Science.

Chemistry of Life (1 unit)

What are the chemical reactions that keep us alive? Why do we need to eat food? Why do we need a daily source of some vitamins but not others? What are the differences between fats, carbohydrate and protein molecules?

In this unit students investigate a range of chemical structures as well as the ways they are involved in sustaining life. Topics include different types of atoms and elements, how they form chemical bonds with each other and how they react to make new substances.

Students learn about the organisation of cells in living things followed by investigations of proteins and carbohydrates. They will carry out practical investigations relating to action of enzymes, as well as research into a range of topics.

Chemistry of Life provides a solid foundation for future study of VCE Chemistry and VCE Biology.

Core Skills Science (1 unit)

Core Skills of Science explores some of the basic underlying concepts of science drawn from the strands of biological, chemical, physical and/or earth sciences and guided by student interest. The aim of this unit is to take a STEM approach to engage and support each student’s exploration of science, while reinforcing some core science concepts as well as the usefulness of science skills.

Core Skills Science does not provide a pathway to a VCE Science. Enrolment in Core Skills Science must be approved by Faculty Director and guidance will be provided on choice of a suitable second science option.