Department News

HSIE

To the Brigidine community,

It has been a busy and exciting period for the HSIE department, with a range of initiatives, excursions and assessment taking place, notably our seniors have also completed their  HSC trials

Year 7: Manly Dam Fieldwork

Our keen year 7 Geographers embarked on an exciting journey to Manly Dam, where textbook theories came to life against the backdrop of nature's beauty. Thanks to all the staff that attended and led our students throughout what was a very rewarding and engaging day. Thanks to Izzy Edwards and Lila Birks for their recap of the day below:

On Friday August 9th Year 7 Geography classes went on an amazing field trip to Manly Dam.  Firstly my class went on a little bush walk to Golf Course Creek where we tested the water pH and turbidity. Turbidity is a fancy word that measures how murky the water is. We were given a sheet of weed species and our job was to identify what type of species of weeds were around Golf Course Creek. I learnt a lot about testing water to see if it is safe to drink and how much pollution is in the water. After the testing, we walked to Manly Dam and did more testing of the pH levels and turbidity but this time we got to capture little bugs and creatures living in the Dam! Once we caught the little bugs we put them in a little container with water in it so that they would survive. We then all came together as a class and identified the water bugs we all caught. We then walked back where we started. We then proceeded to walk over the Manly Dam wall! It was so beautiful up there and it had a really breathtaking view… once I got over my fear of heights!!😁 On the other side of the dam we did some soil pH testing. After our soil pH testing we came back the way we went and came to our meeting spot and met the rest of Year 7 and got on the buses for home. I’m sure I speak for the rest of 7GEO6 when I say thank you to our tour guide (Jess) for such an amazing time!!

- Izzy Edwards  7GEO6

For Year 7 Geography, as a part of our assessment task study, we went to Manly Dam. We walked and did some water pH tests, soil pH tests and turbidity tests. Thanks to the tour guide, we will all probably ace the exam. Jess, our tour guide was very helpful and went through everything in detail. She answered all of our questions that arose on the day, as well as made it a very enjoyable experience.

- Lila Birks 7GE06

Year 9: Commerce Market Day

This week our Year 9 200hr Commerce students orchestrated a vibrant market day that showcased their extensive planning, innovation and collaboration. Under the guidance of Mr Mellsop, students took charge in bringing their business visions to life, selling everything from pizza to home-made cookies, jewellery and bubble tea. This experience fostered teamwork, communication, and problem-solving prowess, allowing students to feel the stressors and rewards of running a business. Thanks to Sam Jiang for recapping the day below: 

On the 21st, our class had the exciting opportunity to conduct a business with our peers on Market Day. This event was a fantastic chance for us to bring our group’s ideas together, work as a team, and explore different aspects of running a business. Many of us felt nervous but eager to showcase our marketing and selling skills. Overall, Market Day was a fun and educational experience, allowing us to engage with the school community while learning the importance of promoting a product, time management,  and getting lines to move by as fast as we can. I'd like to give credit to teachers and students who supported us on the day and along this journey.

Thank you to all who bought products in any store and hope you all had a good and enjoyable Market Day 24'.   

- Sam Jiang

NAIDOC Week celebrations

In week 1 students celebrated this year's NAIDOC theme: Blak, Loud and Proud as part of their learning in History and Geography. Students undertook research on significant individuals and groups that have contributed to Indigenous communities in positive ways, living out this year's theme as mentors, thought leaders and champions in their fields. Thanks to the class teachers for their support of this initiative and the fantastic way in which students contributed to the work.

Year 12: HSC Trials

Congratulations to all our year 12 students who last week wrapped up their trial HSC examinations. No doubts their efforts and collaborations have paid off and will set them up for one final push towards the end of year HSC exams.

Thanks to the fantastic HSIE team for allowing our students to undertake such rich activities, and for their continual efforts in providing quality teaching and learning to our students.

David Martin.

Head of HSIE 

TAS 

“Every great design begins with an even better story”

- Lorinda Mamo -

Year 7 Technology: Materials Technology

Year 7 Technology students have rotated their focus this semester between Materials Technology and Engineered Systems. 

The Materials Technology students are well underway into learning new skills when using a sewing machine. From threading the machine to safety within the classroom when using tools. Our girls are very excited to explore the work of renowned designer Peter Alexander as inspiration for the construction of their own pyjama shorts. See below some images of our students becoming comfortable with using a sewing machine safely:

The Engineered Systems students have been exploring the world of engineering. They began by investigating the role of engineers and the various branches of engineering, including civil, mechanical, and electrical fields. This foundational knowledge has provided them with a broad understanding of how engineers contribute to solving real-world problems.

Students have also been researching sustainable and renewable energy sources, with a particular focus on wind turbines. Through this project, they are learning about the importance of sustainability and how innovative technologies can help address environmental challenges. Their research has sparked enthusiasm and curiosity about how engineering can impact our future.

Year 8 Technology:

Year 8 Technology students have also rotated between their focus areas of Food & Agriculture and Digital Technology. 

The Food Technology students have been exploring nutrition and healthy eating, they have used this insight to create balanced meal plans and modify recipes to suit a range of individual dietary needs. They have recently completed three practical lessons, where they had the opportunity to prepare smoothies, pizza pockets, and fried rice. These hands-on activities have not only introduced them to the kitchen environment but also allowed them to practise essential cooking skills.

Our students have been learning the importance of hygiene and safety while cooking, ensuring they understand proper procedures and techniques. It’s been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and progress as they become more confident in the kitchen.

The Digital Technology students have explored the world of binary coding as they develop an understanding for how data is stored and transferred within computer systems. Beyond learning how to understand the basics of binary code, students have been able to use binary to spell out their name, write secret messages, interpret data and design images using pixels. As they continue to move through this unit, students will begin to explore different forms of coding so they may code a robotic unicorn. 

As part of their design process, in pairs the girls have embraced AI to assist in gathering inspiration and conceptualising  robot unicorn design ideas based on the needs of their identified target market. Through this process the girls have learnt the importance of prompt crafting when using AI and the value of intellectual property in data and information. See below some of the AI generated designs our students came up with using AI.

Year 9/10 Food Technology

So far this term our year 9 students are working on both fundamental cooking skills and have just started investigating innovative food product design. Exploring innovative food product design challenges the girls to think outside the box and develop unique culinary creations. It’s an opportunity for them to experiment with flavours, textures, and presentation, fostering their creativity and problem-solving skills in the kitchen.

This term, students have been busy preparing a variety of exciting dishes. They have enjoyed preparing mini-pavlovas and fried rice was another popular dish, allowing students to practise their stir-frying techniques. They’ve also tackled the art of making cinnamon scrolls, and rice paper rolls, which have offered a challenge for the students' knife skills.

Through these hands-on cooking experiences, students are refining their culinary skills and applying their knowledge in practical ways. As we progress through the term, students will continue to explore new recipes and refine their cooking techniques.

Year 10 Food Technology

Year 10 Food Technology Students Rise to the Challenge of Catering to Diverse Dietary Needs.

This term, our Year 10 Food Technology students have delved into the complexities of catering to specific dietary needs. Whether due to age, health conditions, lifestyle choices, cultural influences, or logistical circumstances, understanding these factors is crucial in creating balanced and satisfying meals. The students have been exploring a wide array of foods tailored to these needs, gaining valuable insights into how to meet them effectively.

As part of their learning journey, the girls tackled the Funtiki Assessment task, where they were challenged to develop and produce a lunch or snack tailored to the unique dietary requirements of their chosen Funtiki guests. This hands-on project not only tested their culinary skills but also their ability to creatively address the specific needs of their guests.

In addition to this, the students have been honing their cooking skills in the Food Technology kitchen, where they've had the opportunity to prepare a variety of delicious dishes. From classic apple pies to flavorful pesto pasta and indulgent self-saucing chocolate puddings, the girls have truly enjoyed bringing these recipes to life.

Year 9/10 Design & Technology

Exploring the World of Architecture: Past, Present, and Future

Our students have embarked on an exciting journey into the world of architecture, exploring its evolution across time and the impact it has on our built environment. Through this exploration, they’ve gained insights into the work of architects, understanding the interdisciplinary nature of the field.

As part of their studies, students have engaged in hands-on design projects where they’ve utilised tools like Google SketchUp and Home By Me to create detailed site plans. These projects allow them to move through their unique design processes, focusing on creating commercial, residential, or community spaces that thoughtfully incorporate elements from their surrounding environments.

The final phase of this project will see the students bringing their designs to life by producing mini models of their spaces. Utilising advanced technologies like laser cutters and 3D printers, they’ll translate their digital designs into physical models, showcasing their creativity and technical skills.

Year 11 Design & Technology

Year 11 students are currently working through design projects where they are to design and construct an accessory or decorative homeware that incorporates the power of form.  Students have chosen their own briefs and through this unit have also begun a portfolio to demonstrate the process they go through to complete a product. 

It has been pleasing to see the students develop and refine their skills in a variety of different design areas. Some projects the students are making include resin coasters, a jewellery set, a macrame wall hanger, an ottoman and a sculpture. Through these projects the students have continued to extend their skills using a range of design equipment such as the 3D printer and laser cutter.

Well done Year 11, this is great experience for your Year 12 HSC Major Works,

VET: Year 11 Hospitality

Our Year 11 Hospitality students have had a dynamic and enriching term! In week 3, they carried out their work placement in various cafes and restaurants around the city, gaining hands-on experience with professional chefs who served as mentors. This real-world exposure has been invaluable in their culinary development.

In the classroom, students have been investigating different cooking methods and practising their skills through a range of dishes such as a big breakfast, which encouraged students to work on their time management skills to ensure all the components of the dish were served at the same time, using multiple cooking methods. They also made poached chicken, honing their skills in gentle cooking techniques, and braised chicken, which allowed them to explore rich, slow-cooked flavours.

VET: Year 12 Hospitality

Year 12 Hospitality have been developing their cooking skills and practised a wide variety of techniques and food preparation processes in practical lessons. Students have learnt about the importance of hygiene and safety when working in a commercial kitchen with the implementation of HACCP plans when producing a recipe.

They have also revised their methods of cooking and safe hygienic practices through the making of a range of recipes in class such as dumplings, risotto and lasagna. Through each of these recipes they have used and developed their preparation and presentation skills. 

The girls have worked hard to learn new practical requirements and cooking methods. These skills and experiences will serve them well if they wish to pursue careers in the Hospitality Industry.

Melissa Nutter

Head of TAS / VET

Mathematics 

Mathematics Department

Semester 2 has been a very busy term for the mathematics department, the main focus of the first half in Term 3 was preparing our year 12 students for their mathematics Trial Examinations.

Year 12 students have been incredibly busy with their HSC Trials preparation and studies in the first 5 weeks of Term 3. Most of them had many study sessions at recess and lunch time with Mr Quach, and late study sessions in the library with their teachers. We pray that their hard work will be paid off and will prepare them well for the upcoming HSC Examinations inTerm 4.

Year 12 Mathematics students were fortunate to participate in a series of workshops led byStuart Palmer and Morris Needleman, where they gained invaluable advice and tips to aid their preparation for the forthcoming Trial examinations and HSC. Stuart Palmer and Morris Needleman are highly esteemed educational consultants known for conducting professional development workshops across NSW and beyond. Their presentations transcended mere for mulaic instruction, providing our students and teachers with profound insights and benefits derived from their extensive expertise and profound understanding of HSCMathematics.

The second half of Term 3 are focusing on the Year 7 – 10 Assessment Task 3 and Year 11Final Preliminary Examinations at the end of this term. 

Year 11 Mathematics

Teachers are preparing our year 11 students for their Final Preliminary MathematicsExaminations, these tasks will give them a HSC Examinations experience, where they are required to revise all of their prior work and complete the tasks in 1.5 to 2-hour period.

Year 10 Mathematics

Teachers are preparing year 10 students for their Task 3, which is an 80-minute task, anintroduction of the Stage 6 examination style. They are required to revise all of the year 10 work covered from Term 1 – Term 3.

Year 7 – 9 Mathematics

Teachers are preparing our junior classes for their Practical and Problem Solving Tasks, which they will be required to do some practical activities, such as measuring lengths and areas of 2D shapes, circumference or diameter of circular objects using strings and rulers, surface areas and capacities of 3D objects, measuring and classifying angles, conducting probability simulations using cards, dice or coins, estimating actual distances using scales. The objectives of these practical activities are to give students insights to the practical use of mathematics in real life.

Maya Mabey and Steven Quach

Head Of Mathematics & Assistant Head of Mathematics