Learning Across the
Senior School
Science
Earlier this month, on February 11, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science was celebrated across the globe. This is a day when the achievements of women within STEM careers are celebrated and the need for increased access to, and increased participation in STEM fields for women and girls is promoted. At Loreto College, these are aspirations that we strive for every day.
Atomic structure is central to the physical and chemical properties of matter and has been a focal point for students across several year levels. In Year 9, students have explored the development of atomic models and literally ‘felt the impact’ of Ernest Rutherford’s atomic theory. Those in Year 10 Biochemistry and Year 11 Chemistry have developed their knowledge and appreciation of the elegance of the Periodic Table, observed the explosive nature of sodium, when it is added to water, and explored the science behind the colours of fireworks. The latter coinciding with celebrations of Lunar New Year when many fireworks brightened our evening skies.
SACE Biology students have developed their microscope skills, observed paramecium as they scoot into, and out of the field of view, observed osmosis in rhubarb cells and measured the activity of enzymes that speed up all reactions within cells, without which life would not be possible. We also need to have the knowledge and skills to preserve life and control micro-organisms. In Health Science, the use of a GlitterBug lotion highlighted how quickly infectious diseases can spread through contact, and why thorough hand washing is essential to properly sanitising hands.
Watch out above! Physics students explored the impact of air resistance on motion by dropping their own designed and built parachutes from the balcony outside the college’s weights room and by filming ball bearings as they were fired from a projectile launcher across the lab. Much fun was had while applying theoretical knowledge to practical applications.
These are just some of the activities that have taken place throughout the vibrant Old Scholars’ Science Centre over the past few weeks, providing varied opportunities for our young women and girls to embrace their curiosity and explore the world around them. For many, fuelling a passion to be active participants in STEM-based careers.
Dr Alison Thompson
Leader of Science
The Importance of Independent Reading
Our Year 8 students recently attended a library lesson with our new Senior Campus teacher/librarian, Ms Kerrie Backhouse where they explored reading habits and were reminded of the importance of independent reading. To further reinforce the value of reading, our Year 8 students were given time to read a text of their choice during one of our weekly 30-minute Academic Sessions. During English lessons, students develop the necessary tools to analyse texts and express their ideas effectively, however it is regular reading beyond the classroom that truly enhances their capacity as learners. Developing a consistent reading habit not only fosters a love of literature but also strengthens key skills that contribute to overall academic achievement.
One of the most significant benefits of regular reading is the expansion of vocabulary. Encountering new words in context allows students to absorb and understand their meanings naturally, improving both their comprehension and written expression. This, in turn, enhances their ability to craft sophisticated responses in essays and assignments.
Additionally, regular reading improves writing proficiency. By observing the structure, tone, and style of accomplished writers, students naturally adopt effective writing techniques. They gain an understanding of sentence variation, paragraph cohesion, and narrative development, all of which contribute to more polished and compelling writing. A strong reading habit nurtures creativity and imagination. Exposure to diverse storytelling styles and genres broadens students’ appreciation of literature and inspires them to develop their own unique voices in writing.
Whether it is fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or even quality journalism, the key is to foster engagement with a wide range of texts. Through a regular reading routine, students will develop lifelong skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Fiona Griffiths
Leader of English and Languages
Visual Art
All students in Years 7 and 8 undertake one semester of Visual Art each academic year. Throughout the initial four weeks, they have embraced challenges, built confidence, and developed a growth mindset in their artistic endeavours.
A primary focus of our teaching is designing tasks that are both challenging and attainable, allowing students to develop their skills, overcome obstacles, and experience a sense of accomplishment.
In today's fast-paced society, taking the time to observe can significantly transform our understanding of art and reality. Our Visual Art classes are integrating the concept of "slow looking," a practice promoted by Shari Tishman, a researcher from the Harvard University School of Education's Project Zero. Regular practice of "slow looking" improves observation skills and deepens students' engagement with both artworks and their own artistic production.
Year 8 students are currently practising blind contour and continuous line drawing to create self-portraits. This technique allows them to capture subtle features through fluid lines, encouraging mindful engagement with their image while cultivating technical skills and self-reflection.
Students in Year 7 are working on cross contour line drawings of apples, onions, and pears. These exercises not only enhance their drawing abilities but also advance their understanding of tonal values and the interplay of light and shadow.
When you look for a while, you become aware of how a thing might look to somebody else; you also become aware of your own lens.
Shari Tishman
Practices of slow looking are invaluable, fostering deep engagement, critical thinking, and an appreciation for detail. Our young artists are learning to perceive the world in a new light.
Jacky Hamilton and Jo Maycock
Senior School Visual Art Faculty
Design and Digital Technology
Students have begun the year in design and digital technologies with great enthusiasm. Year 8 Digital Technologies students recently explored problem-solving strategies ahead of their knowledge organisation topic. Students are encouraged to use problem-solving techniques to approach and solve real-world challenges using computational thinking. Through pattern recognition, decomposition and abstraction students will be able to apply their problem solving to computational thinking solutions.
Stage 1 Food and Hospitality students have been exploring the world of seasonal foods through their Summer Salads topic. Creativity and design are at the forefront of this, as they prepare for their group service task later in the term.
Kelly Bregantic
Leader of Technologies