Year 10 5ASCI2 – Science (compulsory)

Available for study in: Compulsory in Year 10.

Main areas of study:  Biology, Chemistry, Physics and the Nature of Science.

In this course you will learn:

BIOLOGY: Biotechnology and Bioethics (Approx 5 weeks)

This topic will explore biotechnologies and how they impact our lives. Students will learn about the potential applications of emerging biotechnologies. Milk without cows, growing replacement organs for transplantation, using gene technologies for pest control – these are just some of the topics that can be covered. For each the science behind the application will be studied and discussed. Some are controversial and this will also be part of the topic as students explore different sides of topical issues in biology and explore the complexities and discipline of making ethical decisions in science.

PHYSICS: Waves (Approximately 6 weeks)

This topic looks at the study of wave behaviour and builds on students understanding of energy developed in Science 3. Waves move energy from one place to another without the movement of matter. Students will study the properties of sound, light, seismic, and water waves to develop their understanding of wave properties and the scientific principles used to explain them. This topic provides a key foundation for those looking to study Physics at Level 2 and 3. 

CHEMISTRY: Chemical Reactions (Approximately 6 weeks)

This topic is an extension of the Acids and Bases topic studied in Science 3. It looks to further develop the use of chemical language and also to widen students understanding of chemical properties through studying a range of reaction types. This topic will involve a large proportion of laboratory work as well as looking to apply knowledge of chemistry to real world examples. The portfolio work done in this topic will be able to be used in Year 11 to complete NCEA assessment tasks.

The course will be assessed for both knowledge and skill development. The Nature of Science strands of the NZ Curriculum will be the focus of skills assessment in both ‘Investigating in Science’ and ‘Communicating in Science’. Content knowledge will be assessed using a range of tasks including quizzes, tests, project and laboratory work which will contribute to a portfolio of work that they will continue to build on in each Science course. This work will be used and further developed in Year 11 for Level 1 and beyond.

Methods of assessment:  
The course will be assessed for both knowledge and skill development. The Nature of Science strands of the NZ Curriculum will be the focus of skills assessment in both ‘Investigating in Science’ and ‘Communicating in Science’. Content knowledge will be assessed using a range of tasks including quizzes, tests, project and laboratory work which will contribute to a portfolio of work that they will continue to build on in each Science course. This work will be used and further developed in Year 11 for Level 1 and beyond.

This course leads to:   
Level 1 Science courses (6SCE and 6SCS).