Science

Science is a mandatory course in Years 7 – 10 in which a variety of topics are studied, ranging from introductory science skills in Year 7 to complex concepts of chemical reactions, energy and motion by the end of Year 10.

All teaching and learning programs meet the requirements of the NSW Science Syllabus for the Australian Curriculum and provide students with the necessary scientific knowledge and skills to have a better understanding of the world around them.

Science at St Ives High School continues to be a popular course of study for Years 11 and 12 where students are exposed to up-to-date technologies to complete practical investigations. The average HSC marks and percentage of students who achieve Bands 5 and 6 in the HSC in Science subjects are consistently well above the state average.

Year 8 Validation of Assessment 4 Learning and Individual Development (VALID) results continue to be impressive, with students able to display their high levels of scientific literacy and numeracy skills as well as demonstrating their sound knowledge of the scientific process.

Throughout Years 7 – 10, students perform many investigations that have relevance to everyday experiences. The results are then analysed to see how closely they replicate the theoretical information studied in class. Students complete junior depth studies in both Years 7 - 10. These prepare them for senior depth studies which form an integral component of the Year 11 and 12 courses. Year 11 Earth & Environmental Science students complete an incursion to understand the rock cycle, mineral exploration and mineral extraction and Year 11 Chemistry complete a Depth Study incursion where they complete their first hand investigation for their Depth Study report. Year 12 Biology complete the AMGEN practical investigation in which they create a transgenic species in the laboratory.

The Science Extension course is available in Year 12 for very strong Science students who wish to conduct their own research project, culminating in their production of a full scientific report. These reports are published in the NSW DET Journal of Science Extension Research.

When opportunities arise, we encourage our students to participate in a range of other activities to further develop their understanding of Science. Examples include Science Week activities, ICAS Science Competition and the Australian National Chemistry Quiz.

All Science courses are taught by an experienced team of teachers who encourage their students to achieve their best in each course. As a result, many of the Science students have completed Advanced Science degrees at university, which have led to successful careers in the many and diverse science related fields.

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