Middle School

Investigating Reactivity

Our Year 10 Science students recently took part in an exciting practical investigation exploring the reactivity of Group 2 metals.  Through hands-on experimentation, students observed how magnesium and calcium reacted with hydrochloric acid, carefully recording evidence such as bubbling, temperature changes and the production of hydrogen gas.

Using their observations, students compared the reactivity of each metal and identified trends within Group 2 of the periodic table.  They discussed why calcium reacted more vigorously than magnesium and linked their findings to the arrangement of electrons and the increasing ease with which outer electrons are lost as you move down the group.

The investigation provided students with an opportunity to develop essential scientific skills, including making accurate observations, working safely in a laboratory environment, analysing experimental data and using evidence to support scientific explanations.

Practical investigations such as this bring chemistry to life, helping students connect theoretical concepts with real-world observations while building confidence in scientific inquiry.

Dr Bryce Dermody

Science Teacher

Year 9 Maths Games Day 

On the 20th of July, a group of Year 9 students had the opportunity to attend the Maths Games Day at Tintern Grammar.  During the competition, we worked together to complete a range of challenging yet fun maths activities that tested our teamwork and problem-solving skills. 

Throughout the day, we had the chance to meet students from schools across Melbourne, learning new skills from them and making the day even more enjoyable.  Over the course of the competition, we completed four different games, including KenKen puzzles, worded problems, the Honeycomb Challenge and a team relay.  Although we finished in 15th place, we all had a great day and really enjoyed taking part in the activities.  The experience was a great opportunity to work as a team, challenge ourselves, and compete against schools we hadn't met before. 

A big thank you to Mr Chan for taking us to Ringwood for the day and helping us prepare for the event.  It was a really exciting experience for everyone involved.

- Willa C   9 Mackillop

Mr Eric Chan

Maths Learning Leader

Synergy

From job readiness to financial literacy and hands-on excursions, it has been a busy start to the semester for the students of 9 Monash and Melba. 

Both classes commenced our first unit, Future Me, which aims to explore the world of work and develop essential life skills.  Students reflected on their personal strengths and learnt to write résumés and cover letters, and practised job interview skills with the support of our Careers Practitioner, Lauren Sach.  They also started building their financial literacy by learning about tax, budgeting, saving, compound interest and investing. 

A highlight of our Future Me unit was the Women in Business Panel.  The Year 9s heard from four female business owners from local businesses including Ricordino in Fitzroy, Midnight Kiss, Red Exhibitions and Spineworx.  Inspired by the entrepreneurship of these women, students asked thoughtful questions that showed genuine interest and engagement with the speakers' stories. 

The Year 9s were also excited to participate in their first excursion of the semester.  They worked collaboratively to complete a navigation challenge and city bingo activity to strengthen their familiarity and confidence in navigating the city. 

To conclude our first unit, students participated in Socratic circles about generative AI. The Synergy Team was impressed by the maturity and insightfulness demonstrated by the students as they explored its role in education, concerns around privacy and smart glasses, and the risks posed by deepfakes. 

As part of our introduction to the Marvellous Melbourne unit, which celebrates what Melbourne has to offer and its history, students rotated through different hands-on experiences.  The students in 9 Monash became budding baristas, showing wonderful persistence as they learned to make a variety of coffees and even tried their hand at latte art.  Meanwhile, the students in 9 Melba became tour guides, preparing and delivering their own walking tour about women who have shaped Melbourne.

Well done to the students of 9 Monash and Melba for the engagement and enthusiasm they have demonstrated in Synergy so far.

Ms Sherine Baydoun

Synergy Leader