Virtual Science

Zoo 

In Biology Unit 1 & 2 we are looking at how different organisms are able to adapt to their environment in order to survive. Recently, our classes were lucky enough to go on a virtual excursion to the zoo! We jumped on a webinar and a zoo keeper took us through a powerpoint, talking about different penguin adaptations. We learnt about physiological, behavioural and structural adaptations and how they helped with things like thermoregulation (maintaining a constant body temperature) and osmoregulation (regulating the amount of water in the body). As well as that, we learnt about the penguins' place in the food web and what role they play! 

I enjoyed the excursion and I felt like I learnt a lot.

Chani Thomson Unit 1 Biology Student

Sarah Scaramozzino

Brain Bee Challenge 2020

The Brain Bee Challenge is a competition for Year 10 students to learn about the brain and its functions, learn about neuroscience research, find out about careers in neuroscience and to dispel misconceptions about neurological and mental illnesses. 

This year, ten MGSC students completed ‘Round 1’ during the month of March. The students studied neuroscience content through Education Perfect and then completed an online quiz on EP to determine their understanding of the structure and function of the brain. The ‘Round 2 - Regional finals’ were unfortunately cancelled but was planned to be held at The University of Melbourne with a full day of activities, including lab tours, lectures, the opportunity to speak to researchers and a visit to The Dax Centre (art gallery for people living with mental illness).

This is not an easy challenge to undertake, so I would like to congratulate the following Year 10 students for completing Round 1 (presented in alphabetical order). They will all be awarded with certificates once we return to school.

• Alisa Chechelnitskiy
• Camelia Chong
• Harini Geethaashok Balaji
• Vivienne Liakopoulos
• Madeleine O’Donoghue
• Michaela Oliver
• Lily Opie
• Chani Thomson
• Tilde Verhoeven
• Lily Ward

Mel Erwin

VCE Psychology Teacher

Year 7 Science 

7H have been studying the different classes of vertebrates, of which reptiles is one. Pippi Brailey is knowledgeable of and experienced with lizards as she has a pet Bearded Dragon and offered to show him to the class. 

We saw Spike eat a cricket (his favourite) and heard he likes fruit and vegetables. He lives in a glass tank with a special light to keep him warm. Spike is an ectotherm and his body temperature is regulated by his environment). Thank you to Pippi (and mum Sam) for showing us Spike. Pippi also has some other interesting animals so we are looking including them in our Science lessons as well. 

Diana Gilbert

Science Domain Leader & STEAM Learning Specialist