STEM

PREP – GRADE 2

In Term Two, as part of the Chemical Science students demonstrated their understanding of both chemical and physical properties of materials learning why things happen to the objects and materials without changing the original properties of the material. Grade Prep to Grade Two students continued to engage with a variety of activities to understand how and why things happen. They enjoyed creating new mixtures, exploring how materials interact with water and how they would dissolve just like magic! Students also created a colourful rainbow, using dissolving sugar cubes, food dye and dish washing liquids and were surprised by their results. All students participated in guided experiments which allowed them to continue develop their scientific skills. Overall, students continue to work hard and show a continued eagerness in all things STEM! 

GRADE 3 & 4

In Term Two, students began to explore the different states of matter as part of their Chemical Science Unit. They classified substances as solids, liquids or gasses based on their observable properties. Students conducted a series of experiments to see how matter can change from one state to another by changing temperatures. They would do this by looking at how salt and sugar dissolve in hot and cold water, or how vinegar and bicarb soda would react to each other. As the term progresses, students continue to explore and reflect their understanding of matter. Part of their exploration in this unit is to understand how scientists explain the behaviour of particles and how these concepts are relevant to their daily lives. Overall, students are enjoying the ability to challenge themselves in different ways, through conducting experiments and becoming future scientists by asking challenging questions in STEM! 

GRADE 5 & 6          

In Term Two, students explored the key features of the states of matter as part of their Chemical Science Unit. They investigated both reversible and irreversible materials by defining, classifying and explaining real life examples. Students conducted a series of fun experiments, by exploring whether melting ice is a reversible change or cooking an egg is an irreversible change. As the term progressed, students explored the concept of irreversible changes by using different materials, like metal, alongside various variables of water, salt water, cooking oil and metal with no liquid. They were challenged as they had to explain the chemical changes within the materials using in recycling processes and other experiments conducted this term. We have been thoroughly impressed by the engagement and contributions made by the students this term as they continue to develop and challenge their knowledge and skills in STEM!