Scotch College

SCIENCE

Rationale

This course is arranged as a series of essentially independent units. Taken together they cover important areas in Biology, Chemistry, Earth (Environmental) Science and Physics. Where possible, these are set in real-life contexts and draw on current issues that are of interest to students.
The syllabus extends some of the ideas presented in Year 7. Fundamental concepts are explored in greater depth and several important new concepts are introduced. Students are encouraged to investigate and are given the opportunity to undertake their own research.
The course is centered around an extensive program of practical work. Students are encouraged to learn by doing, with emphasis on safety, the proper use of equipment, careful observation, enquiry and deduction.
While students must learn a certain amount of factual knowledge, the emphasis is placed on their gaining a grasp of the basic underlying concepts and successfully applying them to new situations.
The course aims to:
• Help students to be aware of and to understand the working of the world around them.
• Develop skills in practical investigation, research from a range of resources, and written, graphic, and oral communication..
• Prepare students adequately to undertake a VCE course, which includes Science subjects.
The course is arranged as a series of essentially independent units. Taken together they cover the important areas of Biology, Chemistry, Earth (Environmental) Science, and Physics. Wherever possible, these are set in real-life contexts and draw on current issues that are of interest to students.
The students are given an introduction to acid-base chemistry with an emphasis on the behaviour of, and uses for, acid-base indicators. This is extended into the study of the some important chemical ideas of oxidation and reduction, and an examination of the relative reactivity of elements. The particulate nature of matter is explored, with an emphasis on the differences between solids, liquids and gases. An introduction to the concept of pressure and its relationship to force and area is introduced, and particle behaviour within a gas. The nature of electric currents and the behaviour of, and uses for, several important common electrical components is covered. An introduction to the reproductive physiology of males and females is given and a study of the development of a human life from conception to birth and beyond. Astronomy and Earth Science is introduced. We look at the formation of our solar system, stars and other heavenly bodies. We compare the geology of planets in our solar system with Earth’s formation, looking at the formation of different types of rock.
In addition to the core units, all students complete a Research unit. This involves students in conducting experimental and library research on topics of their own choosing (allocated by negotiation with the teacher). The experimental component of this unit is planned, performed, evaluated and presented almost entirely by the students.
The work done in the core units is supplemented by cross-curricular and other project work developed by teaching teams. This may include participation in external programs such as the Science Talent Search.
Course Content
Assessment
Students can expect regular class tests and frequent assessment of their notes, practical work and research and communication tasks. The grades reported at the end of each semester are:
Semester 1 Semester 2
1. Class Tests 1.  Examination
2. Research and Communication 2.  Class Tests
3. Practical Work 3.  Research and Communication
4. Practical Work

Year 8 Curriculum 2011

Subject booklet
Subject Booklet
(pdf) 100k

Introduction
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Outdoor Learning

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Mathematics
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Physical Education
Science

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Scotch College: ABN 86 852 826 445 ACN 005 650 395 CRICOS 00624A (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students)