Faculty Report

Our students continue to explore the wonders of God’s creation through science. From ecosystems to cells and disease, they’re developing curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper respect for life.

Year 7 students have been delving into the study of endangered local species, examining the key threats to their survival by exploring their roles within the local ecosystem. As part of their learning, they visited Melbourne Zoo, where they collaborated with zoo staff to discover how modern technology is used to monitor animal movements.

Science club has proven popular with Year 7, with students attending the weekly lunchtime club to complete experiments and engineering challenges. This Semester activities have included flame tests, crystal growing and the creation of elastic band powered cars. Students also successfully created a bioplastic and then designed tests to compare it to oil-based plastic.  

In Term 1, Year 8 students demonstrated their creativity by constructing 3D models of specialized cells. Their imaginative use of materials was impressive, with this year’s projects including an interactive neuron, complete with an electric circuit. In Term 2 they have been exploring energy in its different forms. Completing experiments on how to keep coffee cups warm as well as about how balls are designed to bounce efficiently. Meanwhile, Year 9 students have explored global communication in their study of waves as well as the body’s response to infectious diseases. As part of their immunity studies, they worked in groups to research a disease and create a news bulletin to inform the audience about a historical outbreak.

Senior science has had a busy year so far with all VCE science subjects launching student lead experiments to practice their scientific investigation skills. These experiments then lead to a poster assessment that forms part of their final marks. Biology have investigated homeostasis using themselves as test subjects and photosynthesis by making their own algae balls. Chemistry tested their precision with titrations and the sustainability of fuels by making and combusting biodiesel. Physics investigated all things motion and light with wave theory. While Psychology delved into the mind to analyse the brain with a memory and learning focus as well as taste and visual effects. Further experiments that have been completed in senior science are brain dissections, speed of paper airplanes, making esters and the forces involved in springs.

Having completed foundation courses in Biology/Psychology and Physics/Chemistry, many Year 10 students have embarked on further studies in science with Extension Physics/Chemistry and Enhancement Biology. These students who have shown an interest in continuing science into VCE will be exposed to scientific writing skills needed to complete the poster assessments previously mentioned along with a more in-depth taste of the Yr 11 sciences to allow a more informed decision to made when choosing subjects for next year.

In May, Enhancement Biology students took part in a special Day of Immunology event, held at Federation University. The program offered students a deep dive into the immune system and disease through an inspiring keynote by Professor Stuart Berzins, who introduced the key players in immune responses and his research on tumour immunity. Students then engaged in two hands-on workshops: examining immune cells under the microscope to diagnose disease and using the ELISA technique to trace an influenza outbreak. The workshops were run by current under and post graduate students studying immunology. Enabling students to have conversations about life at university and potential careers in the field.  

Rachel Horne

Faculty Head Junior Science

Dayna Hale

Faculty Head Senior Science