Science
An appreciation of Science is vital in our modern world where genetic engineering, fuel and water shortages, climate change and the ozone hole confront us daily in the media. Science provides a balanced and reasoned way of viewing our world. Science is also fun; lighting Bunsen burners, shattering flowers frozen with liquid nitrogen, hatching chickens, exploding hydrogen gas, and distilling alcohol and perfumes. Science can answer many questions. Why is the sky blue? Why should I wear a seatbelt? Why do I see the lightning before I hear the thunder? Why can some members of my family roll their tongue and others cannot? Science is a mandatory subject in Years 7 to 10, with students undertaking the study of a range of meaningful and relevant contextual modules created specifically to interest our students. In Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8) students develop their laboratory skills in “Being a Chemist”, study ecology and dissect fish, octopus and crabs in “Gone Fishing!” and hone their analytical talents in “Forensic Science”. Their preconceptions about Physics and Biology are challenged in Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) with “ Luna Park” and “Let’s Go Surfing” whilst biotechnology, disease and genetics are explored in “ St Vincent’s Hospital”. The Stage 6 Science courses offered by the College include Biology, Chemistry, Earth & Environmental Science and Physics with the possibility of a Senior Science course offered in Year 12. Students may choose to study up to three of these courses for the Higher School Certificate. Students also have the opportunity to engage in Science outside the curriculum. The Science Club and Streamwatch are popular lunchtime activities. Students can be involved in the Siemens Science Challenge, the National Youth Science Forum, the CSIRO Research Scheme and the National Titration Competition.
At St Vincent’s College, students are offered a diverse range of scientific experiences within the classroom and in the field. They investigate explanations for the biological, physical and technological world. Opportunities are provided to think critically and problem solve individually and in teams. Students use data loggers, analyse data, plan investigations and draw valid conclusions. Opportunities, using oral and written methods as well as technology, are given to communicate their acquired knowledge. Our central city location places stimulating learning venues such as Luna Park, the IMAX cinema, the Observatory, the Australian, Powerhouse and Maritime Museums, Sydney and New South Wales Universities and Bondi and Manly Beaches and Sydney Harbour within easy reach. We seek to give our young women a sound understanding of their world, in the context of the Christian values of the College, enabling our students to make informed judgements about the science that will play an increasingly important role in their futures. With an understanding of Science, its social and cultural contexts and the College values of Justice, Integrity, Respect, Collaboration, Compassion and Commitment, students are provided with a sound basis for recognising the implications of Science and making future choices and ethical decisions about its applications.
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