What’s happening in Science in term 4 ……

Stage 4 and 5 are studying Earth and Space

Year 7 have been studying the rock cycle, minerals and earth’s processes. They have been lucky enough to have San Clemente’s vast and exceptional rock collection to supplement their theory work. The last few weeks of the term will be looking at Earth’s place in our Solar system – and the relative positions of the Sun, the Earth and the Moon.

Year 8 finished term 3 with an excursion to the Awabakal Centre, Dudley to enhance their study of ecosystems and are currently studying Earth’s spheres, the structure of the Earth and Earth’s resources, looking closely at how the four spheres interact and our human impact on them. Students are undertaking a scientific investigation modelling the enhanced greenhouse effect and researching this issue.

Year 9 began the term looking at ecosystems supplemented with a visit to the Shortland Wetlands Centre where students had the opportunity to get hands on to observe and measure the biotic and abiotic factors of this wetland ecosystem, undertake dip netting and a survey of the microscopic animal life present. Students are currently studying the Theory of Plate Tectonics and will be continuing study on global systems after their Semester Two examination.

Year 10 have studied the components of the universe, the formation of stars and the elements. Following their Semester Two examination, year 10 will investigate the Big Bang theory and space technology.

9 Marine have been studying the history of snorkelling, current equipment, safety regulations  and snorkelling techniques, practicing their skills at Mayfield pool.

10 Marine have studied the abyssal zone, it’s features and the creatures that live in this mysterious and relatively unexplored marine ecosystem.

9iSTEM are exploring Mechatronics and Robotics with the microbits and associated project based learning.

10iSTEM are researching drones and their usefulness in the agriculture industry as part of the Agritech unit, and flying bottle rockets, following up term 3 research.

This week, both year 9 and 10 iSTEM classes have been involved in testing prototypes for a new Science and Engineering activity with UoN staff, providing feedback about the activity and the engineering processes involved.

Julia Nolan Leader of Learning Science