FROM THE SCIENCE FACULTY

It has been another busy and rewarding term in Science, with students across all year levels actively engaged in practical work, inquiry, and hands-on learning.

A key milestone this term was the completion of Term 2 and Unit 1 exams. These assessments gave students the chance to show what they know and reflect on how they can improve. Reviewing feedback, identifying mistakes, and refining study habits are important steps in building long-term success.

As classes move beyond exams, students are consolidating their learning and building confidence before moving into new areas of study.

Year 7 Science

Year 7 students have been exploring mixtures and separation techniques through a range of engaging practical activities. Highlights have included creating colourful lava lamps and investigating the properties of slime, helping students understand how different substances can be combined and separated. Students have also begun developing their laboratory skills and are preparing to earn their Bunsen burner licences, an important milestone in becoming confident and safe science practitioners.

Year 8 Science

Year 8 students have been investigating physical and chemical changes, with a particular focus on factors that influence the rate of reaction. Through practical experiments, students have observed how changing conditions can speed up or slow down chemical reactions, while developing their ability to collect, analyse, and interpret scientific data.

Year 9 Science

In Biology, Year 9 students have been examining body systems and their role in maintaining life. A highlight of the term has been the popular “Homer-o-stasis” challenge. Students worked collaboratively to keep “Homer” alive by maintaining stable internal conditions within a leaking cup system. By carefully monitoring temperature and concentration levels while responding to continuous water loss, students gained a practical understanding of homeostasis and the feedback mechanisms that allow the human body to maintain internal balance despite changing external conditions.

Year 10 Physical Science

Students have now commenced Unit 2 and are exploring Newton’s Laws of Motion through a range of hands-on activities. Trolley cars, balloon rockets, and car ramp investigations have provided engaging opportunities to observe and explain the principles governing motion in everyday situations. These practical experiences allow students to connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications while developing important scientific investigation skills.

Year 11 Physics

Year 11 Physics students have begun exploring linear motion and forces through practical investigations into the relationship between mass, force, and acceleration. By testing different ball weights and drop heights, they collected and analysed data to deepen their understanding of what affects motion. This work is also laying a strong foundation for the design of their upcoming student experiment.

As we approach the end of term, it has been fantastic to see students across all year levels embracing opportunities to learn through inquiry, experimentation, and collaboration. We look forward to continuing this journey of scientific discovery throughout the remainder of the year.

Chris Pacey

HEAD OF FACULTY – SCIENCE