Science
You matter. Unless you multiply yourself times the speed of light squared. Then you energy.
Upwey South Primary School
Communicating with the Specialist Team
We look forward to partnering with you in 2026, and welcome your input:
Hayley Oliver (Science) Hayley.Oliver@education.vic.gov.au
Hayley Oliver
Hayley Oliver
Term Two was a BLAST!
This term, students across all year levels launched into an exciting exploration of space, beginning with the Artemis II mission around the moon.
Students discovered the meaning behind the patches astronauts wear and imagined what astronauts might see from Earth, in space and from space. They investigated rockets, learning about their parts, how they are built and the forces needed to propel them into the sky.
Students first experimented with straw rockets, using the force of their breath to launch them. They then designed and constructed their own bottle rockets, carefully considering the shape needed for flight.
The highlight of the unit was heading outside to launch their bottle rockets using a fizzing chemical reaction of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar. There were plenty of cheers, countdowns and excitement as students watched their creations soar into the sky, with some rockets travelling surprisingly high!
Year Five and Six Learning:
The Year Five and Six students extended their learning by exploring our Solar System. They investigated the order of the planets and discovered the challenges involved in creating models to scale. To conclude the term, students completed a Solar System project and some even created their own three-dimensional models, applying their understanding of the relative sizes and positions of the planets.
Year Three and Four Learning:
Year Three and Four students investigated rocks and their properties. They conducted a series of tests to identify and compare different rocks based on characteristics such as hardness, texture and colour. Students also explored the traditional uses of rocks by Indigenous Australians and developed an appreciation for the knowledge and practices of First Nations peoples.
Year One and Two Learning:
Year One and Two students explored the wonders of space and the objects found within it. Using torches and models, they investigated how the Sun provides light to Earth, and explored how this light helps us see the different shapes the Moon appears to make throughout the month. They also developed an understanding of Earth's rotation and orbit around the Sun. They also learnt that planets move around the Sun at different speeds, by listening to music and acting out the speed of the planet orbiting the sun, to match the music.
It has been a fantastic term filled with hands-on investigations, scientific thinking and memorable experiences. From launching rockets to exploring planets and investigating rocks, students have enjoyed discovering more about our world and the universe beyond.
