Science 

Contact:    Mr Darren Hughes, Head of Science

Biology: ATAR

Chemistry: ATAR

Human Biology: ATAR 

Human Biology: General

Marine and Maritime Studies: General

Physics: ATAR

Description of Science courses offered at GSG

Biology: ATAR

This course prepares students to understand major biological concepts, theories and models that are found in their surrounding environment. Students are able to plan and carry out fieldwork, laboratory experiments and research investigations with an ability to analyse data, interpret evidence, and communicate findings. It also enables students to relate biology to other sciences, including chemistry, geology, medicine, physics and agriculture, and prepares them for further study in the sciences.

Year Eleven Course Outline

The Biology: ATAR course begins with a study of biodiversity, with an emphasis on the diversity of Australian ecosystems. Students then investigate how scientists classify organisms and examine the relationships and interactions between organisms. This includes an extended research project on Oyster Harbour where students investigate energy flow, recycling matter, population dynamics, ecosystem changes and conservation. Following biodiversity, students focus on cells and their environments, examining the processes within cells in both plants and animals. Students then investigate plant and animal systems and undertake scientific investigations to examine their adaptations. Genetics and inheritance is examined next with a focus on how variation is important to life and current biotechnology and techniques used to examine genetic variation. Natural selection and speciation is also examined with a focus on Australian species. Students finally investigate how plants and animals regulate their internal environment. This includes the impacts of pathogens on organisms and defence strategies used by plants and animals to combat disease.

This course prepares students to understand major biological concepts, theories and models that are found in their surrounding environment. Students are able to plan and carry out fieldwork, laboratory experiments and research investigations with an ability to analyse data, interpret evidence, and communicate findings. It also enables students to relate biology to other sciences, including chemistry, geology, medicine, physics and agriculture, and prepares them for further study in the sciences. 

Unit 1:

Ecosystems and Biodiversity:  In this unit, students analyse abiotic and biotic ecosystem components and their interactions, using classification systems for data collection, comparison and evaluation. 

Unit 2: 

From Single Cells to Multicellular Organisms: In this unit, students investigate the interdependent components of the cell system and the multiple interacting systems in multicellular organisms.

Assessment for the Biology: ATAR course in Year Eleven

Year Twelve Course Outline

Prerequisite:   Students require a C grade or better in Year Eleven Biology 

Unit 3:

Continuity of Species: This unit examines the mechanisms of heredity and the ways in which inheritance patterns can be explained, modelled and predicted. Students connect these patterns to population dynamics and apply the theory of evolution by natural selection in order to examine changes in populations. 

Unit 4:

Surviving in a Changing Environment: This unit examines the change in systems in response to fluctuating external conditions and pathogens. Students investigate homeostasis and the transmission and impact of infectious disease. Students also consider the factors that encourage or reduce the spread of infectious disease at the population level. 

Assessment for the Biology: ATAR course in Year Twelve

Chemistry: ATAR

Prerequisites: Students require a B grade or better in Year Ten Science and either a B grade in Year Ten Mathematics or a C grade in 10A Mathematics

The Chemistry: ATAR course equips students with the knowledge, understanding and opportunity to investigate properties and reactions of materials. Theories and models are used to describe, explain and make predictions about chemical systems, structures and properties. Students recognise hazards and make informed, balanced decisions about chemical use and sustainable resource management. Investigations and laboratory activities develop an appreciation of the need for precision, critical analysis and informed decision making.

This course prepares students to be responsible and efficient users of specialised chemical products and processes at home or in the workplace. It also enables students to relate chemistry to other sciences, including biology, geology, medicine, molecular biology and agriculture, and prepares them for further study in the sciences.

Year Eleven Course Outline 

Unit 1:

Chemical fundamentals: structure, properties and reactions:  Chemists design and produce a vast range of materials for many purposes, including for fuels, cosmetics, building materials and pharmaceuticals. As the science of chemistry has developed over time, there has been an increasing realisation that the properties of a material depend on, and can be explained by, the material’s structure.

Unit 2:

Molecular interactions and reactions:  Students develop their understanding of the physical and chemical properties of materials, including gases, water and aqueous solutions, acids and bases. Students explore the characteristic properties of water that make it essential for physical, chemical and biological processes on Earth, including the properties of aqueous solutions. They investigate and explain the solubility of substances in water and compare and analyse a range of solutions. They learn how rates of reaction can be measured and altered to meet particular needs, and use models of energy transfer and the structure of matter to explain and predict changes to rates of reaction.

Assessment for the Chemistry: ATAR course in Year Eleven

Year Twelve Course Outline

Prerequisites:    Students require a C grade in Year Eleven Chemistry

Unit 3:

Equilibrium, acids and bases, and redox reactions: The idea of reversibility of reaction is vital in a variety of chemical systems at different scales, processes that are reversible will respond to a range of factors and can achieve a state of dynamic equilibrium. In this unit, students investigate acid-base equilibrium systems and their applications. They use contemporary models to explain the nature of acids and bases, and their properties and uses. The varying strengths of acids and bases. Students investigate the principles of oxidation and reduction reactions and the production of electricity from electrochemical cells.

Unit 4:

Organic chemistry and chemical synthesis: This unit focuses on organic chemistry and the processes of chemical synthesis by which useful substances are produced for the benefit of society. Students investigate the relationship between the structure, properties and chemical reactions of different organic functional groups and the vast diversity of organic compounds. Students also develop their understanding of the process of chemical synthesis to form useful substances and products and the need to consider a range of factors in the design of these processes. 

Assessment for the Chemistry: ATAR course in Year Twelve

Human Biology: ATAR

Prerequisites: Students require a C grade or better in Year Ten Science and 60% or better in the Semester Two Science examination. 

The Human Biology: ATAR course gives students a chance to explore what it is to be human—how the human body works, the origins of human variation, inheritance in humans, the evolution of the human species and population genetics. Through their investigations, students research new discoveries that increase our understanding of human dysfunction, treatments and preventative measures.

Practical tasks are an integral part of this course and develop a range of laboratory skills; for example, biotechnology techniques. Students learn to evaluate risks and benefits to make informed decisions about lifestyle and health topics, such as diet, alternative medical treatments, use of chemical substances and the manipulation of fertility.

Year Eleven Course Outline 

Unit 1:

The Functioning Human Body:  This unit looks at how human structure and function supports cellular metabolism and how lifestyle choices affect body functioning. Major topics include the cell and metabolism, the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, excretory and musculoskeletal systems.

Students investigate questions about problems associated with factors affecting metabolism. They trial different methods of collecting data, use simple calculations to analyse data and become aware of the implications of bias and experimental error in the interpretation of results. 

Unit 2:

Reproduction and Inheritance:  This unit provides opportunities to explore, in more depth, the mechanisms of transmission of genetic materials to the next generation, the role of males and females in reproduction, and how interactions between genetics and the environment influence early development.  The use of reproductive technologies is also examined and the moral and ethical dilemmas that are associated with this field of science.

Assessment for the Human Biology: ATAR course in Year Eleven

Year Twelve Course Outline 

Prerequisites:     Students require a C grade in Year Eleven Human Biology

Unit 3:

Homeostasis and disease:  This unit explores the nervous and endocrine systems and the mechanisms that help maintain the systems of the body to function within normal range and the body’s immune responses to invading pathogens.

Unit 4:

Human variation and evolution:  This unit explores the variations in humans in their changing environment and evolutionary trends in hominids.

Assessment for the Human Biology: ATAR course in Year Twelve

Human Biology: General

Prerequisites: None

Unit One explores how the structure and function of cells help to sustain life processes, and the role of the digestive system in providing essential nutrients for the musculoskeletal system. It also explores how the dietary decisions we make can affect the functioning of body cells and our quality of life. Unit Two explores circulatory, respiratory and urinary systems, and how they facilitate the exchange, transport and removal of materials for efficient body functioning. It also explores the importance of regular health checks to prevent or manage medical problems

Assessment for the Human Biology: General course in Year Eleven

Year Twelve Course Outline

In the Human Biology General course, students can relate the content to themselves as they explore the structure of the different body systems and understand the interdependence of these systems in maintaining life.

Students will engage in activities exploring the coordination of the musculoskeletal, nervous and endocrine systems. They discover the various methods of transmission of diseases and the operation of the human immune system. Students investigate contemporary research and new discoveries that help increase our understanding of the causes and spread of disease. They are encouraged to interpret data and communicate their findings in an effective scientific manner.

Unit 3

Unit Three investigates the coordinated function of bones, muscles, nerves and hormones. Conditions such as sporting injuries as well as hearing and vision defects can impact human systems, movement, balance and growth which can result in loss of functionality. Students investigate the musculoskeletal, nervous and endocrine systems through dissections and practical examination of reflexes, vision, hearing and skin sensitivity. 

Unit 4

Disease is caused by various pathogens that are transmitted between individuals and populations and Unit Four explores the causes and spread of disease and the human body’s immune response. The current and historic use of medications, antibiotics and vaccines are explored in this unit and students can relate the use of technologies and preventative techniques to geography and the demographic features of the modern world.

Assessment for the Human Biology General : General course in Year Twelve

Marine and Maritime Studies: General

Prerequisites: None, students should ensure they have completed their Open Water SCUBA Diving Course (an opportunity will be provided for students who are yet to complete their Open Water Course early in Term One).

A fee of $250 for this course is charged to cover the cost of issuing an SSI Specialty Course Certification.

The Marine and Maritime Studies General course draws from a diverse range of disciplines, including science, technology and the humanities.  It provides students with opportunities to engage in unique theoretical and practical learning experiences, and to equip them with a broad range of skills and knowledge.

The Marine and Maritime Studies General course provides opportunities for students to apply theoretical knowledge through practical activities with a focus on active learning experiences both within and outside of the classroom.

Year Eleven Course Outline

Unit 1:

This unit introduces students to marine science through the examination of water properties and methods used to conduct water testing. In oceanography, students learn about wind formation, tides, waves and currents, including Western Australian ocean currents. Students examine Western Australian recreational and commercial fishing issues and how they are managed through rules and regulations.

Students gain an understanding of maritime studies, including the properties, purposes and uses of maritime construction materials in relation to the challenges of a marine environment. Nautical terminology, including the basic parts of boats, will be introduced and students gain an understanding of aspects of small craft, such as buoyancy and design of pulley systems.

Through a practical approach, students gain an understanding of the concepts and safe practices of SCUBA Diving. Science inquiry skills will be developed through the design process of investigate, devise and evaluate, in relation to marine construction materials.

Unit 2:

This unit introduces students to the marine ecosystem, with a focus on the four main zones and the adaptations of marine life to survive in each zone. Western Australian examples of marine life will be identified and classified into the major groups. Food webs for each ocean zone will be studied. Students examine the importance of marine protected areas, marine parks, reserves and sanctuary zones, and the role of Western Australian agencies and organisations in the protection and management of marine life.

Students gain an understanding of maritime studies, including the design features of marine or maritime equipment and methods of maritime construction. Features of small craft propulsion systems are studied, and students gain an understanding of aspects of small craft, such as steering and gear systems.

Assessment for the Marine and Maritime Studies: General course in Year Eleven

Year Twelve Course Outline

Students are given the opportunity to develop responsible and competent boat-handling and navigation skills, and in doing so, to demonstrate an understanding of nautical concepts. They develop knowledge of the properties inherent in seaworthy craft, and the basics of good boat design, construction and maintenance. Students will also be provided with the opportunity to develop personal water-based skills (swimming/snorkelling/scuba) to allow them to engage directly with the marine environment.

Students investigate oceanography concepts to develop a strong understanding of the interdependence between elements of the marine environment; conduct research into the safe and sustainable management of the oceans’ resources for conservation and commercialism; and also are introduced to the world of maritime archaeology.

The course will provide students with a solid foundation of skills and knowledge suitable for a wide range of vocational or recreational pathways in boating (commercial and recreational), scuba, vessel design and construction (maritime engineering), resource management, maritime archaeology or marine science.

Unit 3:

Students gain an understanding of maritime studies, including the characteristics of construction materials, design and construction of water craft, and repair of fibreglass craft. The basic parts of the outboard motor, including features of two stroke and four stroke motors, will be studied, as well as features of small craft systems, including bilges, electrical, fuel, mooring lines and anchoring equipment.

Through a practical approach, students gain an understanding of the concepts and safe practices of power boating. Science inquiry skills will be developed through the design process in relation to construction materials used, and variations in design of water craft. Students will also be involved in practical activities to collect and analyse data related to trip planning, such as weather maps and aquaculture systems.

Unit 4:

Students gain an understanding of maritime studies, including common forms of construction material protection, and the possible side effects of using these materials. Aspects of small craft maintenance, including the use of a maintenance log, fuel and ignition, cooling system and engine diagnostics, are studied.

Through a practical approach, students gain an understanding of the concepts and safe practices of power boating. Science inquiry skills will be developed through practical activities to collect and analyse data related to coastal erosion and coastal engineering structures, construction material protection and maintenance of small craft.

Assessment for the Marine and Maritime Studies: General course in Year Twelve

Physics: ATAR

Prerequisites: Students require a B grade or better in Year Ten Science and either an A grade in Year Ten Mathematics or a B grade in 10A Mathematics.

Physics is a fundamental science that endeavours to explain all the natural phenomena that occur in the universe.  Its power lies in the use of a comparatively small number of assumptions, models, laws and theories to explain a wide range of phenomena, from the incredibly small to the incredibly large. Physics has helped to unlock the mysteries of the universe and provides the foundation of understanding upon which modern technologies and all other sciences are based.

Studying physics will enable students to become citizens who are better informed about the world around them and who have the critical skills to evaluate and make evidence-based decisions about current scientific issues. The Physics: ATAR course will also provide a foundation in physics knowledge, understanding and skills for those students who wish to pursue tertiary study in science, engineering, medicine and technology.

Year Eleven Course Outline

Unit 1:

Thermal, Nuclear and Electrical Physics:  An understanding of heating processes, nuclear reactions and electricity is essential to appreciate how global energy needs are met. In this unit, students explore the ways physics is used to describe, explain and predict the energy transfers and transformations that are pivotal to modern industrial societies. Students investigate heating processes, apply the nuclear model of the atom to investigate radioactivity, and learn how nuclear reactions convert mass into energy. They examine the movement of electrical charge in circuits and use this to analyse, explain and predict electrical phenomena.

Unit 2:

Linear Motion and Waves:  Students develop an understanding of motion and waves which can be used to describe, explain and predict a wide range of phenomena. Students describe linear motion in terms of position and time data, and examine the relationships between force, momentum and energy for interactions in one dimension.

Students investigate common wave phenomena, including waves on springs, and water, sound and earthquake waves. 

Assessment for the Physics: ATAR course in Year Eleven

Year Twelve Course Outline

Prerequisites:    Students require a C grade in Year Eleven Physics

Unit 3:

Gravity and Electromagnetism:  In this unit, students develop a deeper understanding of motion and its causes by using Newton’s Laws of Motion and the gravitational field model to analyse motion on inclined planes, the motion of projectiles, and satellite motion. They investigate electromagnetic interactions and apply this knowledge to understand the operation of direct current motors, direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) generators, transformers, and AC power distribution systems. Students also investigate the production of electromagnetic waves.

Unit 4:

Revolutions in Modern Physics:  In this unit, students examine observations of relative motion, light and matter that could not be explained by existing theories and investigate how the shortcomings of existing theories led to the development of the special theory of relativity and the quantum theory of light and matter. Students evaluate the contribution of the quantum theory of light to the development of the quantum theory of the atom and examine the Standard Model of particle physics and the Big Bang theory.

Assessment for the Physics: ATAR course in Year Twelve