Blakehurst High School

Nihil Sine Labore - Nothing Without Hard Work

Telephone02 9546 3281

Emailblakehurst-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Science

Junior Courses

Science

Senior Courses

Biology

Chemistry

Physics

Earth and Environmental Science

Science

Staff

Koula Iordanidis (HT)

Pauline Apostolou

Kendy Estphan

Ali fares

Zoe Georgopoulou

Ozgu Akdemir

Alexandra Jarman

James Roff

Science is mandatory for all students from Year 7 to Year 10.

Science 7-10 provides a way of inquiring about the world around us. It explores evidence and investigates ways to discover, develop and produce solutions to real-world problems. Science emphasises the skills for working scientifically, as well as critical and creative thinking to address scientific issues.

In Years 11 and 12, students can choose from different science disciplines, including:

Biology

Chemistry

Earth and Environmental Science

Physics

The science faculty consists of 9 teaching staff delivering an engaging program for the students. This delivery is supported by two laboratory assistants. The courses involve a variety of experiences including practical work, independent investigations, research, excursions and theory work. ICT skills are developed using the DER laptops and and in school computers.

an illustration of a bird drinking water

Image:

An illustration showing the reflection of a bird on the water.

Biology Stage 6

Biology is selected in Year 11 and 12 for the HSC (Stage 6). Satisfactory completion of the outcomes in Year 11 (preliminary course) is a prerequisite for Year 12 (HSC course).

Visit the NSW Board of Studies syllabus on www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/syllabus_hsc/biology.html.

Biology is a popular choice for students at BHS, with usually three classes offered each year. The subject explores the levels of organisation of life, from the molecular level through cellular to higher levels of organisational structure and function, which exhibits evolution as a common source of unity and diversity.

Chemistry Stage 6

Chemistry is delivered at a high standard in both Year 11 and Year 12 by experienced staff. Six new well-equipped laboratories enhance students' learning and ensure successful outcomes for those who develop an enthusiastic approach to this most worthwhile subject.

The study of chemistry involves all aspects of life, including personal, industrial and environmental. Students study some chemistry used in everyday life, like cleaning agents, acids and fuels. As well, the aspects of manufacturing chemicals for industrial use, and the problems associated with pollution are addressed.

A sound footing for potential future study of chemistry at tertiary level is ensured, and a high percentage of BHS students studying chemistry achieve high university entrance scores and continue their studies in science-based courses.

Earth and Enivoronmental Science Stage 6

This subject is offered as required for both Year 11 and Year 12 students. Successful completion of the preliminary course (Year 11) is essential before undertaking the HSC course (Year 12).

Earth and environmental science in Stage 6 science is the study of the earth and its processes. The course aims to provide an understanding of systems and processes in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. It seeks to explore changes that have occurred during earth's history, including changes in the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere and biosphere, and the evolution of organisms since the origin of life on Earth. For the NSW Board of Studies HSC syllabus and related information, please visit www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/syllabus_hsc/earth-env-science.html#syllabus.

The course is designed for those students who have a high achievement level based on the science Stages 4–5 course performance descriptions. It provides a structure that builds upon the foundations laid in Stage 5 yet recognises that students entering Stage 6 have a wide range of abilities, circumstances and expectations.

Physics Stage 6

Physics can be studied in Year 11 and 12 for the HSC (Stage 6). Satisfactorily completing the outcomes of the Year 11 course (preliminary) is a prerequisite for the Year 12 course (HSC). The NSW Board of Studies provides the syllabus and related information in their website.

The study of physics relies on the understanding and application of a small number of basic laws and principles that govern the microscopic and macroscopic worlds. It provides students with an understanding of systems that is the basis of the development of technological applications.

The study of physics Stage 6 course is designed for those students who have a substantial achievement level based on the science Stages 4-5 course performance descriptors. It is a popular choice for students at Blakehurst High School where usually three classes are offered.

Senior Science Stage 6

Senior science is a course designed to provide students with a contemporary and coherent understanding of some of the basic laws, theories and principles of biology, chemistry, physics and earth and environmental science and their application.

It caters to a wide range of students who wish to become scientifically literate citizens. It encourages students to develop a range of practical skills including the use of current instrumentation, information technology and an increased ability to communicate understanding.

In addition, this course develops further understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of science and its impact on society.

Students who have achieved elementary to substantial levels in Stage 4 science but do not wish to continue in the other science courses are recommended to enrol in senior science.