SCIENCE

Science is a dynamic, collaborative and creative human endeavour arising from our desire to make sense of our world through exploring the unknown, investigating universal mysteries, making predictions and solving problems.

Science provides opportunities for learners to develop an understanding of important science concepts and processes, the practices used to develop scientific knowledge, of science’s contribution to our culture and society, and its applications in our lives. Science helps support learners to develop their scientific knowledge, understandings and skills to make informed decisions about local, national and global issues and to participate, if they so wish, in science-related careers.

In addition to its practical applications, learners can experience the joy of scientific discovery and nurture their natural curiosity about the world around them. In doing this, they develop critical and creative thinking skills and challenge themselves to identify questions and draw evidence-based conclusions using scientific methods.

The ability to think and act in scientific ways helps build the broader suite of capabilities in learners as confident, self-motivated and active members of our society.

Biology 2

In this course, learners will understand the basic building blocks of biology by exploring cell structure, processes and function. They will investigate how these building blocks work together to form organ systems and their place within multicellular organisms. They will apply this knowledge when inquiring into ecosystems and biodiversity. Learners will come to understand how applying biological knowledge is central to society. They will explore relationships between biology and society and investigate the processes of biological discovery. They will use practical inquiry to engage with and understand the natural world.

What will I learn from this course?

• cells, tissues, organs and systems

• cellular processes and biochemistry such as respiration and photosynthesis

• structure and function of organ systems in plants and animals

• biodiversity and the interdependence of humans with organisms and the environment

• use of biological knowledge in society

• how to design, conduct, analyse and communicate science investigations into biological systems.

Pathways:

1. Biology 3

2. Environmental Science 3

3. Foods and Nutrition Level 3

4. Sport Science Level 3

5. Health Level 3

6. Geography Level 3

7. It also provides a pathway to vocational opportunities including agriculture, food and natural resources and health and community services.

Biology 3

In this course, learners will develop a strong understanding of the biological principles of life, exploring biochemistry, cell and body system structure and function, immunology, and genetics and evolution. They will also develop critical thinking skills which enable them to analyse and interpret information and scientific experiments and consider the impact advancements in biological research have on society.

Biology 3 is a challenging Level 3 Science course, so we recommend it is taken in Year 12. It is helpful to have studied Physical Sciences 2 or 3 or Biology 2 in Year 11. Highly capable and motivated students who have above satisfactory results in Year 10 Science may choose to study Biology 3 in Year 11.

What will I learn from this course?

• scientific method, including experimental design

• research ethics and the impact of biology on society

• the chemical basis of life (bio-macromolecules, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, enzyme action, protein synthesis)

• structure and function of cells (animal, plant, fungal, bacterial cells and protozoa)

• how whole organisms function (digestive system, gas exchange, transport, excretion and homeostasis) including comparative physiology of plant and animal systems

• continuity of organisms and survival of changes (genetics, evolution, pathogens and immunology)

• practical and theoretical skills from excursions, experiments and dissections.

Pathways:

1. career choices including life sciences, environmental sciences, agricultural, marine and Antarctic science, veterinary science and zoology

2. career choices for health care professions including nursing, medicine, biomedical science, dentistry, physiotherapy and pharmacy

3. careers in education or journalism, as well as giving a general understanding of the processes of life.

Chemistry 4

Chemistry explores the material world and the interactions of different forms of matter through a mix of theoretical and practical science. The course covers the theory of many chemical processes that relate to relevant real-life applications including how batteries work, rust prevention, biochemistry and measuring acidity of solutions. Learners are provided with the opportunity to improve their laboratory techniques with the use of a range of experimental equipment. Learners undertaking this course will need to be confident in Mathematics and have an excellent study routine. What will I learn from this course?

• reacting quantities

• gas laws and behaviour

• oxidation and reduction

• electrochemistry

• thermochemistry

• equilibrium

• organic compounds and their reactions

• atom structure and the Periodic Table

• analytical chemistry.

Pathways

1. medicine

2. physiotherapy

3. nursing

4. biological sciences

5. marine science

6. geology

7. agricultural science

8. pharmacy

9. biomedical science.