This course requires 2 options.
Science 2 (internally assessed)
Course Description
Teacher in Charge: Gemma Cook.
Welcome to an exciting journey into the world of Practical Science! This Level 2 course is designed specifically for boys, offering a dynamic and hands-on exploration of Biology, Chemistry, and Earth and Space Science. Engaging with real-world applications, this course aims to foster a deep understanding of scientific principles while honing practical skills.
A follow-on from Level 1 course 11SCI or 11SCP. Suitable for students who have done the internal course or students not taking Level 2 Chemistry, Biology or Physics and is internally assessed.
Course Content:
- Drawing Microscopic Images: Develop precision in scientific illustration by learning to draw microscopic images. This practical skill not only enhances observation but also forms a valuable tool for documenting scientific findings.
- Education for Sustainability: Explore the intricate relationship between human activity and the biophysical environment. Students will investigate how our actions impact natural systems, focusing on the consequences these have on sustainability. This will involve a local day trip.
- Chemical Ions in Solution: Unravel the mysteries of chemical ions in solution. Through hands-on experiments, students will explore the behaviour of ions in different chemical environments, gaining insights into the fundamental properties of matter.
- Geological Processes: Embark on a geological expedition, examining the forces that shape our planet. From volcanic eruptions to the slow grind of tectonic plates, students will understand the processes that have shaped Earth's surface over millions of years. This will involve a field trip to Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
- Extreme Marine Environments: Journey to the depths of the ocean and explore extreme marine environments. From hydrothermal vents to polar ice caps, students will investigate the unique adaptations of marine life and understand the challenges posed by these environments.
This course provides a solid foundation for those considering careers in various scientific fields. Potential vocational pathways include:
- Marine Biology: Explore the depths of the ocean and study marine life, contributing to the conservation and understanding of aquatic ecosystems.
- Laboratory Technician: Develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific instrumentation, preparing for roles in research and development.
- Environmental Science: Gain insights into the impact of human activities on the environment and explore sustainable solutions to global challenges.
- Geological Exploration: Apply knowledge of geological processes to careers in mineral exploration, environmental consulting, or geological surveying.
Throughout the course you can expect to acquire a solid scientific foundation but also develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills essential for success in any future endeavour. Join us on this thrilling scientific journey, where curiosity meets discovery!
There will be a course cost of $45pp to cover the two field trips.
Course Overview
Term 1
Drawing Microscopic Images: Develop precision in scientific illustration by learning to draw microscopic images. This practical skill not only enhances observation but also forms a valuable tool for documenting scientific findings.
Education for Sustainability: Explore the intricate relationship between human activity and the biophysical environment. Students will investigate how our actions impact natural systems, focusing on the consequences these have on sustainability. This will involve a local field trip.
Extreme Marine Environments: Journey to the depths of the ocean and explore extreme marine environments. From hydrothermal vents to polar ice caps, students will investigate the unique adaptations of marine life and understand the challenges posed by these environments.
Term 2
cont...
Education for Sustainability: Explore the intricate relationship between human activity and the biophysical environment. Students will investigate how our actions impact natural systems, focusing on the consequences these have on sustainability. This will involve a local field trip.
Chemical Ions in Solution: Unravel the mysteries of chemical ions in solution. Through hands-on experiments, students will explore the behaviour of ions in different chemical environments, gaining insights into the fundamental properties of matter.
Term 3
Geological Processes: Embark on a geological expedition, examining the forces that shape our planet. From volcanic eruptions to the slow grind of tectonic plates, students will understand the processes that have shaped Earth's surface over millions of years. This will involve a field trip to Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
Extreme Marine Environments: Journey to the depths of the ocean and explore extreme marine environments. From hydrothermal vents to polar ice caps, students will investigate the unique adaptations of marine life and understand the challenges posed by these environments.
Term 4
cont...
Extreme Marine Environments: Journey to the depths of the ocean and explore extreme marine environments. From hydrothermal vents to polar ice caps, students will investigate the unique adaptations of marine life and understand the challenges posed by these environments.
Prerequisites
You will need HOD approval if you did not take a pathway course in Year 11.
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
$60 - 2 x Field trips
Pathway
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
External
NZQA Info
Education for Sustainability 2.2 - Explain how human activity in a biophysical environment has consequences for a sustainable future
NZQA Info
Biology 2.8 - Investigate biological material at the microscopic level
Assessments:
Term: 3, Week: 4
NZQA Info
Earth and Space Science 2.3 - Investigate geological processes in a New Zealand locality
Assessments:
Term: 3, Week: 10
NZQA Info
Earth and Space Science 2.4 - Investigate how organisms survive in an extreme environment
Assessments:
Term: 2, Week: 2
NZQA Info
Chemistry 2.2 - Carry out an investigation into chemical species present in a sample using qualitative analysis
Assessments:
Term: 2, Week: 8