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Stage 5 - Science


Course Overview

Science plays a vital role in our rapidly changing world. This course nurtures students’ natural curiosity and sense of wonder about the natural and made world through active engagement in the processes of Working Scientifically. By questioning, investigating and solving problems, students explore the interrelationship between science, technology and society, and how scientific developments both shape and are shaped by our lives.

Scientific inquiry enables students to find answers and solutions to real-world challenges, including those linked to sustainability. Through testing ideas and evaluating evidence, students develop integrity, fairness and curiosity in their scientific thinking.

Students engage with both disciplinary and interdisciplinary contexts—such as data science, sustainability and First Nations knowledges—to deepen their understanding of scientific concepts and recognise the collaborative and evolving nature of science.

Through participation in challenging and meaningful learning experiences, students build confidence, creativity and independence as learners, developing the skills to contribute thoughtfully and responsibly to their world.
Course Content and Skills

1. Content - Stage 5 Science develops students’ understanding of key concepts in biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth and space sciences through engaging and relevant learning contexts.

  • Biology explores ecosystems, disease, coordination, genetics and evolution.
  • Chemistry examines the properties of matter, chemical reactions and the periodic table.
  • Physics investigates motion, energy, forces, light and sound.
  • Earth and space sciences consider plate tectonics, geological processes and the systems that support life.
Students also engage with data science, sustainability, and First Nations Peoples’ knowledges, linking scientific understanding to contemporary issues and real-world applications.

2. Skills - Students actively develop Working Scientifically skills through questioning, investigating, analysing data, solving problems and communicating ideas. These skills foster curiosity, creativity and critical thinking, building a strong foundation for further study in Stage 6 Science and for informed participation in an increasingly scientific world.

Course Assessment

Student achievement in Stage 5 Science is assessed through a range of tasks that reflect the inquiry-based and applied nature of the syllabus. Assessment provides opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding of scientific concepts, their ability to work scientifically, and their capacity to apply knowledge to real-world contexts.

Assessments may include:

  • Topic or unit tests
  • First-hand investigations (practicals)
  • Second-hand data investigations and analysis
  • Scientific projects, research tasks or Depth Studies
  • Data science and problem-solving activities
  • End-of-course or final examination
These varied assessment types allow students to demonstrate their understanding, skills and creativity across multiple contexts, supporting both formative and summative evaluation of their progress in science.
Possible Subject Pathways in Stage 6

Subjects available to students are Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

BACK TO SUBJECT OPTIONS

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