Science

As we move into Term 2, students across all year levels continue to engage in hands-on science learning, building their understanding through experimentation and real-world application. 

Year 7 students have been exploring the particle model of matter. They have conducted a series of experiments to investigate how heat affects the expansion of materials and also explored the behaviour of particles in different states by making and testing Oobleck. 

Year 8 students are finalising their work on Physical and Chemical Change. Last week, they observed a dry ice demonstration, seeing first-hand how substances like carbon dioxide can sublimate, transitioning directly from a solid to a gas. This engaging activity sparked thoughtful class discussion around state changes and particle behaviour. 

Year 9 students have been studying disease and the immune system. For their CAT, they applied their scientific thinking and worked collaboratively, designing and conducting an experiment to test the effectiveness of different handwashing techniques, reinforcing the relevance of science in everyday health. 

Students undertaking the Science Investigator elective have finalised work on their Forensics Unit and are working on concepts related to forces and motion. 

Year 12 Environmental Science students have been in the field applying sampling techniques to investigate local ecosystems and environmental conditions, connecting their learning to real-world environmental data collection. 

Year 12 Biology students are about to finalise Unit 3, Outcome 2, where they have investigated key biochemical processes such as photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Throughout the term, students have completed a series of practical activities including experiments on the effect of pH on enzyme activity, and the impact of temperature and light on the rate of photosynthesis. They have also created and tested biofuels as part of their study of biochemical processes. 

It’s been a very busy and productive start to the term in Science! We’re excited for what the rest of the term holds as students continue to explore, investigate, and think like scientists! 

The Berwick College Science Team