Science Sparks!

SCIENCE SPARKS! 

What a way to kick off Science Week!   

Our very own Lochlann and Angela in Year 11, received the Victor Chang School Science Award on Monday night at the Camden Council Administration Building in Oran Park.  

The award celebrates students, and stimulates growth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.  

The Award recognises these students for their achievements, as well as the opportunity to spend time at the Victor Chang Institute to learn first-hand about it’s activities and about a career in Science.  

The Science Faculty and Camden High School are very proud of your efforts. Well Done Lochlann and Angela!  

Melting Moments: Year 9 test the heat on Metals 

Coming towards the end of winter 2025, Year 9 students recently explored the fascinating concept of heat energy and how different metals expand when heated. In a hands-on investigation, they placed small pieces of wax on the edges of various metal strips and applied the same amount of heat, using a timer to record how quickly the wax melted. This engaging experiment not only demonstrated the varying rates of thermal expansion in different metals but also helped students connect theory with real-world applications in engineering and materials science. 

Planets, Pyjamas, and Light Years: Year 10 Explore the Universe 

Year 10 students took their learning about the universe to a whole new level-right out onto the oval! Armed with colourful balls to represent planets, measuring tape, and plenty of curiosity, they calculated the distances of solar system planets and even converted them into light years. Adding to the fun, the activity happened to fall on School Pyjama Day, so our budding astronomers were comfortably clad in their PJs as they explored the vastness of space right here at school. Shout out to these leading astronomers Charli, Alex and Brock. 

National Science Week at Camden High School   

 A week full of curiosity and discovery!  

This week, Science has been buzzing with experiments, challenges, and plenty of curious moments as we celebrate National Science Week. From brain-bending trivia to live science shows, our students have been exploring the wonders of the world around them and putting their knowledge to the test. 

Here is a snapshot of the exciting events that have been lighting up our classrooms, labs, and lunch breaks:  

• Science Documentary was on Monday lunchtime in E08, with Mrs Williams guiding students through fascinating scientific journeys on screen.  

• Sparked by Science! 

   

Students had an electrifying experience in the library as they explored the wonders of static electricity with a Van de Graaff generator. Excited volunteers took turns placing their hands on the machine, watching their hair stand on end and feeling the gentle tingling sensation caused by the build-up of static charge. Laughter and amazement filled the room as the demonstration brought science to life, sparking curiosity and engaging everyone in learning about the fascinating effects of electricity in a fun and memorable way. 

• Tick, Tick, Boom! Science Show for Year 7 kicked off Tuesday morning in Period 1 with a bang, exploring explosive demonstrations and thrilling experiments and students were explained why chemical safety is so important. 

• Lego Robotics 

A group of year 7 and 8 students got to use laptops and the Lego Mindstorms robots to complete a variety of tasks whilst learning about basic programming. Students were guided step by step by an experienced presenter on how to program their robot to perform precise movements, as well as how to operate environmental sensors such as light and sound. 

• Dr Karl Live Zoom was on Tuesday Period 5 brought the legendary Dr Karl straight to our school via live video, thanks to Mr Evangelista. Students signed up for a chance to hear his insights and ask burning questions.  

• Science Club had a show on Tuesday Lunch break, where Mr Nirola and Mrs Abraham welcomed curious minds for hands-on activities and fun scientific challenges including the Elephant toothpaste and solar gadgets and energy generation. 

• Science Trail Excursion Year 9 and 10 students were lucky enough to be involved in the Sydney Science Trail Excursion. On Wednesday, the students visited the Australian Museum and the Sydney Royal Botanical Gardens. Here the students explored, discussed, and experienced the wide world of science through the study of the natural world, climate change, and learnt from First Nations peoples about the Australian environment.    

• Year 12 Biology Excursion On Wednesday, our Year 12 Biology students visited the Museum of Human Disease to deepen their understanding of human health and disease. There were real human specimens to interactive exhibits, students were able to connect their classroom learning to real-world examples, sparking curiosity and inspiring future pathways in health and science. An eye-opening day of discovery! 

• Science Trivia took place on Thursday recess in E02 saw Mr Farrugia host a quick-fire challenge for keen competitors.  

• Colouring-In Competition engaged creative and scientific skills combined in this fun challenge, with entries due Thursday to Mrs D’amico.  

   

Throughout the week, the Science Gauntlet Challenge has kept students on their toes. Announced daily in the notices, this high-speed, multi-discipline quiz has tested everything from chemistry and physics to biology and Earth science. Students can compete solo or in teams, with separate prizes for junior and senior champions.