Year 9

Learning Through Doing in Year 9 Science and Mind Matters 

Article by Ryan Noye, Deputy Head of Year 9

It has been another busy and engaging week of hands-on learning across the Year 9 Science and Mind Matters classrooms, with students embracing opportunities to learn through experience, experimentation and curiosity. 

In Year 9 Science, students have continued their Biology Unit by getting up close with some fascinating human biology. Students have dissected a cow’s eye, investigating the structure and function of the different parts of the eye and developing a deeper understanding of how we are able to see. This was followed by a sheep’s brain dissection, providing students with a unique opportunity to explore the structures they have been learning about in class. These practical experiences have been a fantastic way for students to connect textbook knowledge with the real structures and systems they are studying. 

And there is plenty more to come! Over the next few weeks, students will investigate homeostasis through a fun and memorable Homer Simpson-inspired experiment, explore thermoregulation by investigating the body's response to exercise using a student on an exercise bike, and finish the term with a flower dissection as they begin exploring the fascinating processes of sexual and asexual reproduction. 

Meanwhile, students in Mind Matters have been exploring the concept of mindfulness through mindful eating. Students participated in a blindfolded tasting experience, challenging themselves to slow down, savour their food and engage their senses of taste, smell, touch and hearing rather than relying on their vision. They then reflected on the experience, describing the different sensory qualities of the foods they encountered. 

The purpose of activities such as this is to help students understand that mindfulness isn't simply about sitting still and meditating. Almost any everyday activity can become a mindfulness practice when we are fully present and engaged with our senses. By deliberately slowing down and focusing our attention on the present moment, we can give our busy minds a break from the constant stream of thoughts, worries and stressors. The result is often a sense that the challenges of life feel just a little bit lighter. 

It has been wonderful to see students embracing these opportunities to learn by doing, think curiously and experience their learning in new ways. We look forward to sharing more of these experiences through the photographs below! 

Year 9 Performers Will Shine 

Year 9 students make a valuable and vibrant contribution to the musical life of Overnewton Anglican Community College. 

They are active members of rock bands, concert bands, String Orchestra, Big Band, Choir and the Year 9 Jazz Band. Year 9s are also part of the College musical cast and crew.  

This term, the College community is warmly invited to attend any or all of the performances to see our Year 9 performers.

Upcoming Performances Featuring Year 9 Students

Ticketing details for these events can be found on the Performing Artspage in this edition of Whispers. 

Each fortnight, the College Careers Team publishes a newsletter providing students and parents with the most up-to-date career information, events and opportunities.  

Please access via the following link.