Head of Department
Mrs Miriam Pearce
email: mkiss7@eq.edu.au
WHY SCIENCE?
Science aims to ensure that students develop an interest in science as a means of expanding their curiosity and willingness to explore, ask questions about and speculate on the changing world in which they live. The knowledge Science produces has proved to be a reliable basis for action in our personal, social and economic lives.
In Science students develop a solid foundation of knowledge of the biological, chemical, physical, earth and space sciences. They will be able to select and integrate the scientific knowledge and methods needed to explain and predict phenomena, to apply that understanding to new situations and events, and to appreciate the dynamic nature of science knowledge.
In science students will develop understanding of the nature of scientific inquiry. They will use a range of scientific inquiry methods, including questioning; planning and conducting experiments and investigations based on ethical principles; collecting and analysing data; evaluating results; and drawing critical, evidence-based conclusions
WHY STEM?
The continual advances in technology are changing the way students learn, connect and interact every day. The global economy is changing. Current jobs are disappearing due to automation and new jobs are emerging every day as a result of technological advances. A vibrant capacity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is pivotal to increasing our nation's productivity. The skills developed by students through STEM provide them with the foundation to succeed at school and beyond.
STEM education is the learning of science, technology, engineering and mathematics in an interdisciplinary or integrated approach. Students gain and apply knowledge, deepen their understanding and develop collaborative, creative and critical thinking skills within an authentic context.
Junior Secondary
Science
The Science department delivers the Australian National Curriculum for Science in years 7, 8 & 9.
Year 7 Science:
· Chemistry: Mixtures
· Earth Science: Seasons & Cycles
· Physics: Moving Along
· Biology: Ecology
Year 8 Science:
· Chemistry: Atoms, Elements & Particle Theory
· Earth Science: The Rock Cycle
· Physics: Energy Types & Energy Transfer
· Biology: Cells & Reproduction
Year 9 Science:
· Biology: Human Body Systems
· Chemistry: Chemical Reactions
· Physics: Investigating Waves
· Biology: Ecology
· Earth Science: Natural Events
STEM
At DBSHS year 8 students are introduced to this interdisciplinary approach of learning while in year 9 STEM is offered as an elective. In each unit of work students utilise the design process to explore and address an authentic problem. They use their knowledge of the design process (inquiry model) as well as scientific, engineering, technological and mathematical tools to collaboratively design an innovative solution.
Innovation
Innovation is a subject offered to students requiring additional support in year 7 & 8.
Innovation takes an interdisciplinary, problem based approach to learning. While maintaining a strong focus on developing literacy skills Innovation addresses achievement standards drawn from the ACARA Science & Geography curriculum. Students are supported to build their communication and collaborative skills across the two year program as they explore and address authentic problems.
Senior Secondary
Authority Subjects
2019 will see the final year 12 cohort completing authority subjects in the OP system in Queensland. At in year 12 in 2019 the Science department offers two authority science subjects: Chemistry and Physics. Each of these subjects contribute towards an overall position (OP) for University entry.
General Science
Our current year 10 & 11 students have commenced study in the new QCE system. Students wishing to obtain an ATAR may choose to complete one or more of the following General Science subjects: Psychology, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Vocational Education
Horticulture is the science, technology, and business involved in intensive plant cultivation for human use. We offer a Certificate II in Horticulture and a Certificate II in Landscaping. * Certificate II in Horticulture must be completed in order to obtain the Certificate II in Landscaping.
STEM Enrichment
Our department provides additional opportunities for students to develop their passion for Science and/or STEM in partnership with other schools, universities, industry and community organisations including:
· STEM Fest
· Science & Engineering Challenge
· Green Heart Schools
· Power of Engineering
· Science Week Activities
· Annual Astronomy Night
· ICAS / Big Science Competition
· Titration Competition
· World Science Festival Excursions
· Bush Care & Clean up Australia Day with Friends of the Deception Bay Conservation Park & Redcliffe Environmental Forum.
· Nudgee Beach Environmental Education Centre
· Ecological Expeditions
· CREEK excursion
· QIMR Day in the Life of a Scientist
· QUT Medical Engineering Research Facility (MERF)
· Steritech Excursion
· Redcliffe Botanical Gardens & Roma Street Parkland Excursions