Science in Kindergarten to Year 10

Course description

Through studying Science and Technology students explore scientific and technological concepts and gain knowledge and understanding of the world. They develop skills in conducting scientific investigations and designing and producing solutions through learning about the Living World, Material World, Physical World, Earth and Space, and Digital Technologies.

Board Developed Course

Course numbers:

• 350 Science
• 352 Science Life Skills

Exclusions: Students may not access both the Science Years 7–10 outcomes and content and the Science Life Skills outcomes and content.

Course description

Science develops students’ skills, knowledge and understanding in explaining and making sense of the biological, physical and technological world. Through applying the processes of Working Scientifically students develop understanding of the importance of scientific evidence in enabling them as individuals and as part of the community to make informed, responsible decisions about the use and influence of science and technology on their lives.

The Science Years 7–10 course includes Life Skills outcomes and content for students with disability.

What students learn

Through their study of Science, students develop knowledge of scientific concepts and ideas about the living and non-living world. They gain increased understanding about the unique nature and development of scientific knowledge, the use of science and its influence on society, and the relationship between science and technology.

Students actively engage individually and in teams in scientific inquiry. They use the processes of Working Scientifically to plan and conduct investigations. By identifying questions, making predictions based on scientific knowledge and drawing evidence-based conclusions from their investigations, students develop their understanding of scientific ideas and concepts, and their skills in critical thinking and problem-solving. They gain experience in making evidence-based decisions and in communicating their understanding and viewpoints.

Course requirements

At least 50% of the course time will be allocated to hands-on practical experiences. All students are required to undertake at least one research project during each of Stage 4 and Stage 5. At least one project will involve hands-on practical investigation. At least one Stage 5 project will be an individual task.

Record of School Achievement

The mandatory curriculum requirements for eligibility for the award of the Record of School Achievement (RoSA) include that students:

• study the Board developed Science syllabus substantially in each of Years 7–10, and
• complete at least 400 hours of Science study by the end of Year 10.

Satisfactory completion of at least 200 hours of study in Science during Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) will be recorded with a grade. Students undertaking the Science course based on Life Skills outcomes and content are not allocated a grade.