Science News

International Space Day

Friday 5th of May was International Space Day – a day dedicated to celebrating all things space. To celebrate we ran a viewing of Star Wars during the week and on Friday ran a water can turbine competition. This design simulates the operation of what is known as the aeolipile (pronounced "ee-oh-li-pile") engine invented by Hero of Alexandria more than 2,000 years ago. Students used a can, a nail, water and string to see who could make a rotating engine. Well done to Tim in Year 9 who managed to make the fastest rotations! Thank you to all students who joined in the activities.

Melbourne Zoo Youth Leadership Program

This term Will and Cooper, both in Year 9, began their Melbourne Zoo Youth Leadership Program. As part of this exciting opportunity, both students are undertaking a Science research project that will explore:

• Biological science – how marine plastics impact the survival of wildlife
• Social science – school community attitude and behaviours towards food soft plastics

To help Will and Cooper with their research we are asking all members of our VSC community to please complete a survey. That’s right – everyone! VSC students, teachers and parents. All responses would be greatly appreciated. Follow the link to complete the survey: http://bit.ly/3mMuCJT

Year 11 Physics

In year 11 Physics, the students participated in an experiment, aiming to find out how different variables effect the voltage and current of a circuit. They gained an understanding on how to set up a circuit using a battery, voltmeters, ammeters, electrical wires, lamps and developed an understanding of how these components work. In addition, they used their data to explain the observed phenomenon.

 Vedant G (Year 11)

ICAS Science Assessment

As mentioned in the last newsletter, students may sign up for the ICAS Science Assessment. Follow the instructions below to pay and register to participate. 

How to participate in ICAS: 

If you wish for your child to participate in ICAS this year, please:  

1. read about ICAS subjects and prices here:icasassessments.com/products-icas)  
2. read the terms and conditions here: (icasassessments.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2023-ICAS-Assessments-Parents-PPS-TsCs_final.pdf) 
3. go to Parent Portal to purchase tests here: (shop.icasassessments.com/pages/pps)  
4. enter our school’s access code - CGU544
5. enter your child’s details, select the tests you would like to purchase, then proceed to payment.  

After payment is made via the Parent Payment System, you will receive an order confirmation email, please keep this for your records.  

ICAS dates and cost: