Primary Science Program

This term students from Guthrie Street and Shepparton East Primary Schools have participated in a unit of biology, with particular emphasis on animal adaptations and their importance for survival and the animals ability to reproduce to keep their species from extinction.

They looked at structural, behavioural and physiological adaptations, covering areas such as camouflage, mimicry and chemical defences as well as instinctive and learned behaviours. They also participated in a number of experiments including analysis of different beaks and feet, the effects of body coverings in cold temperature and the properties of blubber.

The students wore a 'blubber' glove on one hand only. They then plunged both hands into an esky filled with iced water.  Extreme fun was had as they tried to keep their hands in for as long as possible. 

They felt first-hand the properties of blubber as an insulator.

Orrvale Primary School has also participated in the program this term studying the physical science unit of light. In this unit the students looked at the properties of light and categorised items into transparent, translucent and opaque.

They observed the direction in which light travels using the Hodgson Light box and became familiar with drawing simple ray diagrams. They also learnt about reflection, refraction and how shadows are cast.

The unit culminated in the students making their own colour wheel, periscope and kaleidoscope.

Next term, I welcome grade 5 students from Grahamvale and Bourchier Street Primary Schools to the program.

Julie Natalizio

Science