Course Summary
This course covers a wide variety of skills including problem solving, critical analysis, research and technological, along with the back ground knowledge required for senior school science classes. It is based on both practical and theoretical experiences.
The mapping of the SACSA framework to topics covered can be found here.
| Topics Covered Semester 1 | |
|---|---|
| Topic | Duration |
| Science Is Investigating | 2 weeks |
| Exploring the Universe/Space Travel | 4 weeks |
| How Cells Work | 4 weeks |
| Communications Technology | 3 weeks |
| Chemicals in the Environment | 3 weeks |
| Our Energy Future | 3 weeks |
| Total Semester 1 Course Length | 19 weeks |
| Topics Covered Semester 2 | |
|---|---|
| Topic | Duration |
| Elements and Compounds | 4 weeks |
| Disease | 4 weeks |
| Our Genes / Species Survival | 5 weeks |
| Ecosystem Earth | 3 weeks |
| Forensics | 3 weeks |
| Total Semester 2 Course Length | 19 weeks |
Course Requirements
Students need to maintain a Science Journal, which includes class work, practicals and homework. Each topic involves practicals to complete. Topics may also include research assignments, the use of technology and oral communication. Students much complete homework as required. Students are expected to develop skills in handling science equipment as well as being able to follow and complete scientific experiments. Students may be required to be involved in excursion work.
Student Text
The text book for this course is:
Study Requirements
Students are expected to spend time at home learning work covered in class. Students are required to finish set tasks. Students must spend time organising themselves to ensure work is learnt and revised.
Students are expected to complete homework 3 times a week with a maximum of 35 minutes per session. Some of this time will be spent learning work covered in class, but extra time will also be required to learn work covered.
Course Assessment
Students are required to complete the following
- Topic Tests
- Practical Reports
- Oral Communication
- Skills Assessments
- Research Assignments
- Presentation of Science Journal at the completion of each topic
Reporting Procedures
A written report is presented at the conclusion of each semester. Opportunities for Parent-Teacher interviews are also provided.
Attendance Policy
Students are expected to attend all lessons.
Promotions Policy
Students need to receive a satisfactory pass (C or better) to be prepared to enter Year 11 Science courses.
Assessment Dates Policy
Deadlines for set work need to be met. If they are not met, students will receive zero for that piece of work. Extensions need to be negotiated BEFORE the due date.

