Science Faculty – Declan Hoban

Science News: Mid-Term Update

National Science Week 2024: Species Survival

This term, our Science Faculty enthusiastically celebrated National Science Week, which ran from 10 to 18 August. The theme, “Species Survival – More than just Sustainability,” inspired a range of engaging activities and learning experiences for students across the school.

The festivities began with a lively performance by Perform Education’s Marine Team on 7 August, captivating Year 7 and 8 students. This interactive drama creatively highlighted the importance of marine life and biodiversity, leaving students with a deeper understanding of species survival.

Throughout the week, students from Years 7 to 10 participated in Science trivia, testing their knowledge across various topics. The whole school participated in the Animal Figurine Hunt, where students searched for hidden creatures around the campus to win sweet treats. “The Great Battle” was another highlight, challenging students to identify as many native and invasive species as possible from a single image, this was a true test of their observation skills.

Year Group Science Updates

• Year 7: Our Year 7 scientists have been exploring the fascinating world of forces after completing an exciting unit on microorganisms. They got hands-on with microscopes, getting a close-up view of the microscopic world.
  – Why did the microscope break up with the slide? It felt there was no “focus” on the relationship!
• Year 8: Year 8 students have been delving into the wonders of chemistry, learning about the periodic table, and understanding the differences between compounds, elements, and mixtures.
  Remember, without the periodic table, we’d have no “elements” of surprise!
• Year 9: It’s been all about diseases in Year 9. Students have created impressive models and posters as part of their assessments, bringing science to life. In the lab, they’ve been culturing bacteria and fungi and even modelling pandemics.
  So, what do you get when you mix a science teacher with a petri dish? A “culture” of learning!
• Year 10: Our Year 10 students have recently wrapped up their studies on evolution and genetics. They’re now shifting gear to physics, starting with sports and athletics before moving on to the physics of cars and road safety, this is particularly relevant as many are beginning to learn to drive.

Declan Hoban, Instructional Leader of Curriculum – Science