Investigating scientifically is critical for advancing our understanding of the natural world and developing evidence-based solutions to complex problems, which can benefit society and improve our quality of life.
Welcome to Science at CGS
Our Science Department (insert team photo) welcomes students of all abilities. Scientific understanding is born of curiosity and observation, guided by experienced and enthusiastic educators. Our specialisms span the breadth of science and engineering. Our laboratories are always busy and we aim to give each student the opportunity follow a scientific pathway.
Year 7 Science
We dive right into the practical work, with Bunsen Burners and Separating Mixtures, always a favourite topic for Year 7s. The YEAR 7 STEM Project is in Physics, and students build paper planes and helicopters as they study ‘Magnificent Flying Machines’. Term 3 brings Biology and the annual excursion to Perth Zoo. In Term 4 we head out into space, looking at orbits, the Moon, tides, and measuring solar energy.
Year 8 Science
Year 8 gets underway by looking at rocks and minerals, and the mining industry so important to WA. The Year 8 Chemistry then studies particle theory, with many practical observations to support the theory. Term 3 brings Energy Physics, and the Year 8 STEM Project (Energy Conservation) and Term 4 is all about cells and human body systems, concentrating on the digestive system and reproductive system.
Year 9 Science
Year 9 starts with the Physics of light and sound, after which we study local ecosystems, and then the human nervous system. The assessed practical involves heat treating seeds prior to germination. In Term 3 the chemistry gets serious, with a first real look at atomic structure, and the involvement of electrons in reactions. The year ends with Volcanology, and a STEM Project: Building Earthquake-resistant Buildings.
Year 10 Science
In Year 10, there is a step up in difficulty, so each class is taught by a subject specialist, and classes are rotated among the teachers. Students meet science topics which prepare them for further study at ATAR Level, or General ‘Science in Action’ in Years 11 and 12. The Physics of Motion, Rates of Reaction in Chemistry, and Genetics and Evolution are the key topics for our future ATAR stream, with the Universe and Big Bang Theory finishing off the year.
ATAR Biology
Biology is a rapidly developing science with a wealth of linked careers in local and national parks, mining sites, construction industries, marine conservation and fisheries, medical laboratories, and in biotechnologies, from wine-making to agriculture. Topics covered in Year 11 include the ecology of Western Australia and the effect of human activities on biodiversity, cellular structure, and key biochemical processes. In Year 12, biotechnology and DNA are major topics, with evolution and adaptation for survival, and the spread and control of disease.
ATAR Chemistry
Think about semiconductors, metals for wiring, steels for building vehicles, aluminium alloys for aircraft, paint technology, the extraction of useful substances from ores, the processing of fuels, plastics, medicines, paper; Chemistry covers them all! Theories and models are used to describe, explain and make predictions about chemical systems, structures and properties. Students recognise hazards and make informed, balanced decisions about chemical use and sustainable resource management. Investigations and laboratory activities develop an appreciation of the need for precision, critical analysis and informed decision making.
ATAR Physics
Students learn how energy and energy transformations can shape the environment from the small scale, in quantum leaps inside an atom’s electron cloud, through the human scale, in vehicles and the human body, to the large scale, in interactions between galaxies. Always, in Physics, we are looking for mathematical relationships, with their predictive value, from Newtonian mechanics to Einstein’s relativity. Physics provides the basic tools to pursue careers in industries such as construction, mining, aeronautical engineering, space science, mechanical engineering, manufacturing, vehicle design, electrical engineering, communications, and the generation of power.
ATAR Human Biology
Human Biology helps us to understand our own bodies and how they function, allowing more informed decisions about personal health. This subject includes the study of disease, medical research, and consequent public health policies and interventions. The evolution of the human ape, modern biotechnologies, genetic disease, and the study of human body systems are all included in this programme. This course prepares students for the health industries and also for being alive and in charge of a body!