East Doncaster Secondary College Newsletter

STEM News

Big Science Competition

During Week 4, over 100 Years 7 to 10 students participated in the Big Science competition.

 

The Big Science competition is a 50 minute, multiple-choice competition that focuses on how students can use their science knowledge and critical thinking skills to solve problems. 

ICAS Science Competition

Students will also be given an opportunity later in the year to participate in the ICAS Science competition. ICAS Science assessments are designed to provide an objective ranking of students’ performance based on the curricula for the relevant year. Science skills such as experimentation, empirical observation, logical reasoning, scientific analysis and critical thinking not only help in STEM subjects — they are critical components of humankind’s most successful system for pursuing knowledge: the scientific method. Keep an eye out for a Compass News Feed later this term.

Junior Science Olympiads

The Junior Science Olympiad (JSO) is a staged science enrichment program for highly motivated students in Australian high schools in Years 7 to 10.

 

The program is designed to inspire and challenge young science enthusiasts. It supports thousands of talented students through national exams, digital training squads, a virtual academy, intensive residential camps and international competitions. The JSO program aims to enhance student achievement in our Australian Science Olympiad Program.

 

The program consists of three stages:

  1. Sitting the Junior Science Olympiad Exam, which covers biology, chemistry, Earth and environmental science, and physics.
  2. Being invited to attend the Junior Science Olympiad Spring School.
  3. Being selected to represent Australia at the International Junior Science Olympiad.

The Junior Science Olympiad Exams are challenging but rewarding online exams held once a year, which includes topics in Science such as Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science and Physics.

  • Junior Science Olympiad Year 9 & 10 Wednesday 12 June 2024
  • Junior Science Olympiad Years 7 & 8 Friday 14 June 2024

Exams are two-hours long and are completed wholly online. Students can only sit one exam level. The cost is $18.00 per student.

 

All students who wish to be considered for JSO Spring School and selection on the team representing Australia at the International Junior Science Olympiad must sit the JSO Exam.

 

Registrations for the 2024 JSO Exam are open. Expression of interest is due by Friday 24 May 2024 via the link on Compass News Feed.

If you have any questions, please see Mr Weng or Mr Yao (Science office).

National Youth Science Forum (Year 12 students)

Melbourne STEM Hub

1 July – 4 July 2024

Explore cutting-edge research at the University of Melbourne and Monash University, and be inspired by the latest advancements in science and technology. Dive into the world of pharmaceutical innovation. Engage with national security initiatives at the Defence Science and Technology Group, offering unique insights into defence technology and innovation. Delve into medical breakthroughs at a leading research hospital...and more!

 

Plus, our legendary social activities!

 

If you're passionate about robotics, biomedicine, astronomy, biology, or anything in between, there’s a STEM Hub waiting to show you what a STEM career is really like.

 

This program is held during the July school holidays. Early bird pricing: $250 per student. Limited places!

 

Registrations are open for current Year 12 students with a passion for STEM.

 

For more information please go to the NYSF website https://www.nysf.edu.au/programs/nysf-stem-hubs/

The Science Experience 2024-2025

A nationwide STEM outreach program for years 9 and 10 students run during the school holidays.

 

The Science Experience program is a 1, 2 or 3-day STEM program of hands-on science, conducted across twenty universities and tertiary campuses in Australia. It is open to all current year 9 and 10 students in 2024.

 

The programs include hands-on activities in laboratories, short interactive lectures and many programs include a visit to a local scientific site. All programs provide information on future study and possible careers. Participants also have the opportunity to meet with current University students. These programs are on offer during the school holidays in Victoria this year.

  • RMIT University, Melbourne: 2 - 4 July 2024
  • KIOSC, Wantirna: 19 September 2024
  • University of Melbourne, Dookie: 27 - 29 November 2024
  • University of Melbourne, Parkville: 20 - 22 January 2025

For other programs run during term time and for registration details please go to http://www.scienceexperience.com.au

 

Cost is $210 per student for three-day programs, $150 per student for a two-day program and $75 per student for the one day (at Wantirna).

 

Online applications are accepted at any time if a place is available or send your application form to a local Rotary Club if you're seeking Rotary financial support. Your local club may consider full or part sponsorship of the fee. Please follow through with the club to check they have submitted your application.

 

Sally Polidano

Leading Teacher Science/STEM