Throughout Term 2, our Year 11 and 12 students undertaking General Science subjects—Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Psychology—have been diligently completing their Internal Assessment 2 (IA2) Student Experiments. This assessment requires students to modify an existing experiment, collect their own data, and conduct analysis to respond to a self-developed research question. This task is highly valued by students for its practical, hands-on learning approach and its relevance to real-world scientific inquiry.

In the Applied Science subject of Aquatic Practices, students have had the opportunity to participate in engaging field excursions. Year 11 students visited Great Keppel Island for a snorkelling-based experience, while Year 12 students explored Cool Waters. Both excursions provided students with valuable, real-world exposure to aquatic ecosystems, reef health, and sustainable fishing practices. Feedback from both students and staff has been overwhelmingly positive, noting the practical nature and educational value of these learning experiences.

Our Year 10 Science students have been working on physics experiments focused on the laws of motion and the conservation of energy. Following their investigations, students have written scientific reports to analyse and communicate their findings. Many have found this form of assessment both engaging and enriching, enjoying the hands-on application of theoretical concepts.

Year 9 students are currently exploring key biological concepts, including the differences between asexual and sexual reproduction across various organisms. They are also learning about the structure and function of the nervous and endocrine systems, and how these systems work together with the immune system to respond to external changes. This unit offers essential insight into human health and medicine. Assessment for this unit includes the development of informative posters or PowerPoint presentations, along with a written examination.

In Year 8, students are studying the principles of flight and associated energy transformations. By investigating the relationship between potential and kinetic energy using paper planes, students are simulating the energy changes involved in real-life aviation. This unit has sparked curiosity and enthusiasm, with many students appreciating the relevance of this topic to human innovation and global connectedness.

The Science Department warmly encourages parents and caregivers to reach out to their child’s Science teacher or the Head of Department should they wish to discuss any aspect of their child’s progress or engagement in Science.

We look forward to continuing to foster a passion for scientific knowledge and skills among our students this semester. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Vicky Nielsen

HOD Science