Year 7/8 Science

Course description:
This is an immersive science coursed designed to ignite curiosity and deepen understanding in the diverse realms of biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth sciences. Through hands-on experiments, inquiry-based learning, and collaborative projects, students will explore the wonders of the natural world, developing critical thinking skills and a foundation for advanced scientific studies.

Course objectives:

• Cultivate a scientific mindset through inquiry-based learning, fostering curiosity and independent investigation.
• Integrate knowledge across biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth sciences to appreciate the interconnectedness of scientific disciplines.
• Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing scientific phenomena, interpreting data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

Term 1: Chemistry

Key Topics

• Working scientifically
• Structure and physical properties of matter
• Distinguishing Elements, compounds and mixtures
• Discovering aqueous mixtures
• Separation techniques
• Practical applications of filtration

Term 2: Physics

Key Topics

• Working scientifically
• Introduction to forces
• Contract and field forces
• Electrostatic charge and forces
• Investigation into gravity
• Magnetism and friction

Term 3: Biology

Key Topics

• Classification systems; Linnean Classification
• Features of living things; plants, animals, fungi, bacteria
• Survival and reproductive adaptations
• Human impacts on food cycles and recycling
• Cell theory and types
• Hierarchy of life
• Cellular respiration, photosynthesis, osmosis
• Exploration of cell division

Term 4: Earth Sciences

Key Topics

• Models of the solar system
• Connection of the moon to daily phenomenon
• Technologies in astrology
• Renewable and non-renewable resources
• Water cycle
• Water management and desalination
• Layers of the earth and erosion