Science

Learning

Science

Science is about understanding the physical and biological worlds around us and within us, from inside the smallest atom to the expanse of the entire universe, striving to learn how it all works, and how we can use this knowledge and understanding to benefit human kind.

 

We have a highly experienced and dedicated team of teachers, delivering an engaging and relevant science curriculum, working with the latest technology in state-of-the-art laboratories.  The teaching staff are ably supported by a team of experienced laboratory technicians who provide the expertise to ensure highly interesting and safe practical laboratory activities for all our students.  Such activities include biological dissections, working with light and electricity and performing chemical reactions.

 

Science is taught as a vital part of the curriculum, allowing our students to hone and apply mathematical and literacy skills, both written and verbal, in practical scientific applications.  An important part of the science curriculum is Science as a Human Endeavour, where students not only study the advances made in science, but also consider the moral and ethical issues relating to these advances.

The overall aim of our program is to provide a practical and engaging experience to enable all students, regardless of their future chosen career, to become scientifically aware and literate citizens who can help make informed decisions for themselves and for our country’s future.

 

Our senior students select to engage in science courses which lead to competitive university courses and ultimately highly rewarding careers in science and science related areas. Willetton students have gone on to become leaders in our community in areas such as medicine, health sciences, engineering, education and scientific research.

 

GIFTED AND TALENTED STUDENTS IN SCIENCE

A specialised program of science is provided for gifted and talented students. Specialist in-school and extra-curricular activities include the solar car project and astronomy. We emphasise authentic science research.  Examples include designing ways to reduce biofouling in aquatic environments, designing and testing artificial reefs and in depth analysis of dolphin echolocation.

 

EXTENSION SCIENCE

Students from Year 8 to 10 are offered the opportunity to participate in the Science Extension program.  Students are selected on academic merit and aptitude for experimental research. Studying the Year 10 program prepares students for Year 11 ATAR Science subjects, where students engage in a scientific research project.  Through this program, Willetton students have won accolades in the Science Teachers’ Association Science Talent Search, as well as the BHP Billiton awards, the RACI National Chemistry Quiz, the UNSW-International Competitions for Schools and the Engineering Challenge.

 

Additionally, an engaging and interesting modified curriculum is provided for students who experience learning challenges.

 

Plutarch once wrote: The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be ignited.  Our mission is to ignite in our students a passion for life-long learning which will not only enhance their lives, but will enrich our society.

 

YEAR 7

  • Science
  • Gifted and Talented

 

YEAR 8

  • Science
  • Gifted and Talented
  • Extension

 

YEAR 9

  • Science
  • Gifted and Talented
  • Extension

 

YEAR 10

  • Science
  • Gifted and Talented
  • Extension
  • Psychology

 

YEAR 11 AND 12

  • Gifted and Talented Supplementary Program
  • General Integrated Science
  • General Psychology

 

ATAR SUBJECTS:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Engineering
  • Human Biology
  • Physics
  • Psychology