Level 1 Science
Course Description
Teacher in Charge: Mrs N. Gelston.
Whilst a Science option is not compulsory in Year 11 students are strongly encouraged to consider is as one of their options due to the opportunities it opens in terms of Level 2/3 courses in addition to future careers. It is a subject that gives breadth to their curriculum.
Science is an essential subject for many careers such as engineering, dentistry, veterinary science, medical professions, health and physical education careers, horticulture, farming, teaching and the food industry. As well as gaining scientific knowledge and understanding, there is a strong practical component in all Science subjects which appeals to many students.
The Science course will encompass learning for all 3 science strands. There will be a mixture of internal and external assessment as well as theory and practical learning. Providing requirements are met, all Level 2 specialists Science can be taken if this course is studied.
Any students who are wanting to take Biology, Chemistry or Physics at Level 2 must take this course.
Course Overview
Term 1
Due to the course still being developed, there may be changes to the teaching order listed here.
This standard will see students develop their practical and experimental skills with scientific investigation and modelling. This will be based around Chemistry concepts such as Acid/Base, Ion and atomic structure, properties of metals and combustion of fuels. Water quality will be a context used to link to real life. This is internally assessed.
Term 2
Due to the course still being developed, there may be changes to the teaching order listed here.
Microbes have the ability to be both helpful and harmful to humans and have provided many opportunities and some risk. Through theoretical and practical learning, students will study the way microbes impact life with a particular focus on yeast. This standard is internally assessed.
Term 3
Due to the course still being developed, there may be changes to the teaching order listed here.
Genetics is the study of inheritance and with the recent developments in technology we are now able to manipulate inheritance of characteristics. Students will learn about the genetics behind the success of the Dairy industry in the Waikato in particular with milk production. This is externally assessed.
Term 4
Due to the course still being developed, there may be changes to the teaching order listed here.
Simple machines make work easier and allow energy to be transferred and transformed in a variety of ways. Student will learn about energy and simple machines through theoretical and practical ways. This Standard is externally assessed.
Recommended Prior Learning
Achieved at least half of all Year 10 Science tests and an Achieved grade or better in the Year 10 Science exam, or HOF approval.
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
$35 SciPad Workbook
$5 Internal Assessment Resources
1B5 Exercise book
Highlighter
Calculator
Pathway
Science is designed not to reduce options for students who have not decided what direction their career path is to take. All important science concepts will be taught for all Level 2 Science options. By choosing this course- and by meeting requirements for level 2, all of Level 2 Biology, Chemistry and Physics are potential options.
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
This course is eligible for subject endorsement.
External
NZQA Info
Science 1.1 - Demonstrate understanding of a science-informed response to a local issue
NZQA Info
Chemistry and Biology 1.2 - Demonstrate understanding of chemical reactions in context
NZQA Info
Chemistry and Biology 1.3 - Demonstrate understanding of genetic variation in relation to an identified characteristic
NZQA Info
Physics, Earth and Space Science 1.4 - Demonstrate understanding of a physical system using energy concepts