Year 7 Physical World: Investigating Ancient Egyptian Pyramids

The Year 7 students have been introduced to the fascinating world of science laboratories and have undergone testing for their Bunsen Burner Licenses, as well as learned about the different science equipment they will be using in their future experimental investigations. Currently, the Year 7s are combining their knowledge of Ancient Egypt with their scientific skills by planning an investigation into the building of the ancient Egyptian pyramids.

Their investigation aims to explore how the Egyptians may have utilized their knowledge and understanding of forces to reduce the workload in constructing these massive structures. This inquiry will continue throughout Term 1, and students will be given the opportunity to showcase their scientific and historical knowledge by presenting their findings.

Furthermore, Year 7s will also be preparing for their first History Exams, which will assess their skills in sequencing Ancient Egyptian events on a timeline and analysing sources from that time period. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to support their child's learning by checking their class OneNote and helping them catch up on any missed work, attending WIN time, or contacting their teacher for support.

Year 8 Physical World: Pluck Dissection and Abbey Museum Incursion

Year 8 students have been busy consolidating their understanding of respiratory and circulatory systems through a hands-on experience (for some) of a pluck dissection, where they examined the lungs and heart. They also have an exciting excursion to look forward to at the Abbey Museum in Week 10 of Term 1, where they will be given the opportunity to explore and learn about the history of ancient civilizations. Permission forms have been sent home so please return them ASAP.

During Week 5, Year 8 students completed both their Science and History exams, and results will be distributed through SeeSaw in the coming weeks. Teachers commend those students who put in the effort and focus to prepare well for their exams. 

Year 9 Science: Good Health and Well-being

Year 9 students have been focusing on answering the inquiry question: "How does understanding my body's response to internal and external change contribute to good health and wellbeing for myself and the environment?" Lessons have included learning about multiple human body systems and how homeostasis contributes to maintaining optimal functioning.

During their studies, many students developed their dissection skills by examining the heart and the circulatory system. All students should have submitted their draft experimental investigation report via the SeeSaw platform, today, and parents are encouraged to view their work. Students will have additional class time to improve their drafts. Those who have missed multiple lessons are encouraged to attend WIN time or contact their teacher for additional support.

Year 10 Science: Genetics and Inheritance

In Year 10 Science, students are exploring the fascinating world of genetics and inheritance. They have been discussing genetic mutations, both beneficial and detrimental, and the probability of mutations and genetic conditions being inherited by future offspring.

This is the first time in their schooling that this topic has arisen, and students are developing a brand-new vocabulary that includes words like karyotypes, homozygous and heterozygous genotypes, Punnett squares, and pedigrees. It is important for students to regularly revise this new knowledge to ensure it is retained prior to their biology exam in Week 9.

Overall, students across all years are engaged in exciting and challenging learning experiences that are designed to develop their scientific and historical knowledge and skills. Teachers encourage parents and caregivers to support their children's learning by regularly checking in on their progress and engaging with their teachers for additional support when needed.

Gen STEM

Meet the Year 7 Gen STEM group!

See Professor Andrew Bulmer working with the Year 10 Gen STEM team on their hydrogen powered remote control cars in preparation for the Australian H2GP Racing Championships, to be held in Gladstone during Term 2!