Focus on Science
Foundation Students
As we embarked on the thrilling journey of science exploration, our Foundation classes have jumped into the world of chemical science.
Our students have examined a variety of materials, each with its own unique properties. Through hands-on exploration, they've learned to articulate the characteristics of these materials using words like hard, soft, smooth, rough, heavy, light, and stretchy. Imagine their excitement as they discovered the diverse textures and weights of objects made from wood, glass, plastic, fabric, and metal!
Inspired by the timeless tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, our budding scientists engaged in critical thinking exercises to understand the concept of "just right". Through lively discussions, they analysed why Mama and Papa Bear's chairs, beds, and porridge weren't quite the perfect fit.
Our students also explored the fascinating connection between materials and their uses through the lens of hats. From sturdy construction hats to cosy woollen beanies, they uncovered the intricate relationship between material composition and functionality. Through this hands-on activity, they gained a newfound appreciation for the role materials play in our everyday lives.
Year 1 Students
With boundless enthusiasm and insatiable curiosity, our students embarked on an exploration of the captivating world of biological science.
They embarked on an investigation of the distinction between living and non-living things. Through engaging activities and thought-provoking discussions, they developed a keen understanding of the characteristics that define life. From the vibrant energy of a sprouting seed to the stillness of a rock, our students honed their observational skills and learned to discern differences.
Through hands-on experiments and investigations, they explored essential needs for survival. From air and water to food and shelter, our students gained an appreciation for life on our planet.
Our inquisitive minds turned their attention to the animal kingdom, examining the diverse ways in which animals quench their thirst. From lapping tongues to bending trunks, our students explored the remarkable adaptations that enable animals to survive and thrive in their habitats.
Year 2 Students
Students discovered the captivating realm of chemical science. With curiosity and eager minds, they embarked on an exploration of the fascinating properties of objects and materials. Using their senses as their guide, our budding scientists delved into the intricate world of observation. They developed their powers of perception, noticing the differences that distinguish one material from another. They eagerly compared materials and predicted whether they could be altered through the actions of bending, twisting, and stretching.
One highlight of our journey was the exploration of the transformation process behind the making of hard lollies. Our students watched a mesmerising video that showcased how simple ingredients undergo remarkable changes when subjected to heating and cooling. A fascinating fan favourite that was requested on multiple occasions!
And the excitement didn't end there! Our young scientists embarked on a sensory adventure as they explored the transformative power of temperature on everyday materials. Armed with frozen fruit and using their sense of smell, sight and touch, they observed how ice crystals formed and melted.
Inspired by their discoveries, our creative minds put their newfound knowledge into practice by crafting their own playdough characters. Through hands-on experimentation and artistic expression, they explored how different materials can be moulded and shaped to create something new.
Year 3 Students
Students delved into the captivating realm of biological science. Our young biologists explored the fundamental requirements for life, from growth and change to the need for energy, reproduction, and responsiveness to the environment. Armed with this newfound knowledge, they set out to create applications for their chosen animals to send to Planet Zog, a new and exciting frontier in need of life.
With enthusiasm and creativity, our students crafted applications showcasing the unique features of their chosen animals. From the majestic lion to the humble caterpillar, each application reflected an understanding of what it means to be a living, breathing organism.
Through careful observation, they explored a variety of plant and animal species, identifying key characteristics and grouping them based on observable features. They arranged animals in space ships destined for Planet Zog, ensuring a harmonious balance of life on this new frontier.
But the journey didn't end there! Our explorers embarked on a study of plant biology, examining the structures and functions of various plant parts. Drawing upon their newfound knowledge, they unleashed their creativity to design their own unique plant species, ready to take root and flourish on Planet Zog.
Year 4 Students
Students explored the enchanting world of chemical science. They embarked on an enthusiastic exploration of the states of matter. Through hands-on experiments and engaging activities, our students developed their observation and inquiry skills, learning to discern the distinctive properties that characterise each state.
One highlight of their journey was a captivating investigation into the freezing properties of different liquids. Our students observed honey, water, milk, and dish soap at room temperature, predicting which substance would freeze the fastest, with discussions for their reasoning.
Our scientists then turned their attention to a practical application of their knowledge as they planned a trip to the beach. With the sun beating down and temperatures soaring, they pondered a crucial question, ‘Which colour crayon would be best to bring on a hot day?’ To find the answer, they embarked on a thrilling experiment, using crayons, hair dryers, and timers to determine which crayon would take the longest to melt.
Year 5 Students
Students began their scientific journey into the fascinating realm of biological science. At the heart of their scientific inquiry was a thought-provoking investigation into the importance of adaptations that enable living organisms to thrive in their environments.
They first investigated the importance of opposable thumbs. They completed a series of tasks, both with and without their thumbs, to explore the role of this unique adaptation. Through careful observation and reflection, they gained valuable insights into the significance of opposable thumbs in the evolution of human hands.
Building upon this foundation, they looked to the diverse array of Australian animal adaptations. Through lively discussions and in-depth research, they delved into the unique characteristics that make native Australian animals so distinct. From the pouch of the wombat to the venomous fangs of the platypus, they marvelled at the incredible diversity of adaptations that enable these creatures to thrive in their unique habitats.
Our scientists then ventured into the realm of plant adaptations, unravelling the intricate strategies that plants employ to survive and flourish. From exploding milkweed pods to eucalyptus buds beneath burnt bark, they explored the many ways in which plants have evolved to obtain energy, protect themselves, and reproduce in their environments.
With creativity and imagination, our students put their new understandings into practice as they designed their own living organisms adapted to specific environments. Armed with natural materials such as leaves, sticks, and seed pods, they brought their designs to life.
Year 6 Students
Students explored the enchanting realm of chemical science. They investigated the remarkable properties that define and classify matter.
One highlight of their journey was a captivating investigation into the compressibility of different states of matter. Our students tested the compressibility of sand, water, and air, exploring the unique properties of solids, liquids, and gases. Through careful observation and data collection, they gained valuable insights into the behaviour of different states of matter.
Our scientists then turned their attention to the intriguing properties of gases and the viscosity of liquids. With enthusiasm and determination, they explored the invisible world of gases, uncovering the unique characteristics that make them so distinct from solids and liquids. They also touched on the concept of viscosity, investigating how the flow of liquids can be affected by their thickness and resistance to flow.
~ Mariah Moshis, Science Teacher