Science News

Year 10 have been studying Genetics for the last few weeks in Science, learning about traits that are passed between generations. Students are able to predict patterns in offspring and identify dominant and recessive traits.

One of the investigations performed in this unit is an extraction of DNA from plant cells - either kiwifruit or strawberries. Ms Davis' class completed this task highly successfully, with all groups being able to identify the white strands of DNA forming in their beakers -well done!

Year 10 are also currently producing a podcast about Ethical Issues in Genetics. They are able to identify a genetic issue of their own choosing and persuade the listener that their point of view is correct. Many students are looking into the issues surrounding cloning, IVF, extinction, and genetically modified organisms. We look forward to listening to the final products.

Other upcoming assessment tasks include the Year 7 Laboratory Skills assessment (Week 8), Year 9 Written Skills exam (Week 10) and the Year 8 Open Ended Investigation on Plant Growth.

Lisa Davis