IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Year 12 Biology: Workshop University of Melbourne
By Annie Rajulu (Secondary Teacher)
Earlier this month, our Year 12 Biology students attended an enriching workshop run by the BioSciences staff at the University of Melbourne. This workshop was meticulously designed to address the criteria of VCE Biology, Unit 4, Outcomes 1 and 2, and featured two engaging 60-minute activities.
Activity 1: Evidence for Evolutionary Change Using Drosophila melanogaster
In this activity, students investigated how a mutation in Drosophila melanogaster results in differences in fitness and changes in phenotypic and allele frequencies over time. This hands-on experience provided invaluable insights into evolutionary biology.
Activity 2: Immunity and Influenza – A Case Study
The second activity focused on immunity, using an influenza case study. Students conducted an Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA), a test that uses enzymes and a color change to identify the presence of antibodies. This practical exercise deepened their understanding of immunology and laboratory techniques.
Throughout the workshop, each student had their own workspace, complete with all necessary equipment and materials to conduct the experiments individually. The University of Melbourne’s BioSciences staff, including lead and bench demonstrators as well as technical staff, were on hand to support the students. The lead demonstrator provided background content and introduced the equipment for the two fast-paced activities, ensuring a smooth and informative experience.
We are proud to share that our students were highly praised for their participation and behaviour. The lead demonstrator commended their insightful answers during discussion time, and one of the bench demonstrators noted their respectful conduct and enthusiasm.
Despite the rapid pace of the workshop, our students managed to keep up and thoroughly enjoyed the hands-on experience.
These practical activities, which would not have been possible in our school laboratory due to the specialized equipment required, allowed them to learn new skills, apply their prior knowledge, and explore new concepts in biology.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to BHCS for making this incredible learning opportunity possible. The workshop has undeniably benefitted our students, equipping them with new skills and a deeper understanding of their studies.
PRIMARY FRENCH INCURSION
By Daniel Dema (French Teacher)
On Wednesday, 24th July, our Primary School students received the visit of two very talented artists - Philippe and Jacques.
Philippe played the accordion and sang some French songs, with the students singing along - well done, Primary! He also taught our students a fun French dance.
The main attraction of the show was Jacques, a French mime. Although he did not use any words at all, Jacques told us all a very interesting and funny story. We loved seeing the students put their hands up and volunteer to go on stage and help Jacques tell his story.
It was great fun. Merci, les artistes!
QUITE A ROOM!
By The DC Team
Term 3 saw the exciting reveal of a beautiful creek scene on the wall of the Quiet Space, in the Discovery Centre. It features animals from our local creek below the school, and is the result of a team effort between Mark, who sparked the idea, Anita and Belinda from the DC Team who researched and designed the panels, and Gerry and James, who provided information on local species. Thanks to everyone who contributed ideas, information and encouragement. Please visit the DC and check out the rakali water rat, pobblebonk frog, yabbies, platypii and others!
Year 12 vs Staff Basketball
By Daniel Turcato (Finance Manager)
The 2024 Edition of the Staff vs Year 12 Students basketball game was held in front of a capacity crowd at BHCS Arena. Tension was high as the game began in frantic fashion - baskets were traded back and forth until the superior fitness and athletic ability of the Year 12's started to have an impact. The first half ended with the students taking the lead into halftime off the back of some strong play from a pair of Finns - Finn B and Finn K. However, with the halftime address of Mr Seskis ringing in their ears, and some stronger enforcement of equalisation team selection policies, the staff staged a second half comeback with Chaplain Matt and Ms Fraanje (Jnr) leading the charge.
The game finished with the staff team winning by 3 points, extending their winning streak in these Annual Classics. We'll have to wait until next year to see if the class of 2025 can break the drought!