SCIENCE CO ORDINATOR: Ms Rachel Roberts

To be human is to be curious about the world we live in, wonder why it is that way, and to ask about our place in it. The fundamental goal for science education is to stimulate, respond to and nourish such curiosity, wonder and questioning. Building students’ science capability is critical to help them develop the skills and understanding necessary to meet the challenges of today’s ever-changing world and make responsible, informed choices. A major goal of science education is to develop citizens who are capable of engaging in informed debate about science and appreciate the significance of science for the long-term future of our society.

At Keilor Downs College, we offer our students a broad and comprehensive curriculum based on the Victorian Essential Learning Standards (VELS) for years 7 to 10 and the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) for years 11 and 12, as required by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA).

YEARS 7 – 10:          Curriculum Overview – topics covered at each year level

The Keilor Downs College science department has developed its own series of workbooks for years 7 to 10. These workbooks have been in publication for over ten years and offer our students an in-depth experience of each topic. Priced well below other textbooks, they are written specifically with OUR students in mind.

During years 7 to 10, science students at Keilor Downs College have many opportunities to participate in science-related competitions and experiences. These include:

- Rio Tinto Big Science Competition

- Science Teachers Association of Victoria Science Talent Search

- Victoria University Science & Engineering Challenge

- The Siemens Science Experience

- Engage in Science at the Melbourne Museum at Scienceworks

- Science Week with guest speakers and activities

VCE YEARS 11 – 12

Enrolments in VCE science subjects at the College at have been high for many years, reflecting students’ positive experiences in the junior years.

At Keilor Downs College, Year 10 students have the opportunity to begin their VCE studies early. All four VCE science subjects are available for them to study.

Our VCE results in the four Science subjects of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Psychology were very pleasing in 2008. We were in the top 40% of state schools and the results were also above what was predicted by the General Achievement Test (GAT).

The science department is well resourced within a purpose-built Science Centre. We received an UV / Visible Spectrophotometer to the value of $7000 in 2008, donated by the Shimadzu Corporation. This has given our Chemistry students access to modern analysis technology.

Keilor Downs College aims to provide senior science students with extra opportunities during their science studies. These include:

- Victoria University summary lectures in June & October for Chemistry, Biology & Physics

- Mid-year Year 12 Biology & Year 12 Physics Weekend Study Camp

- Year 11 Biology 2-day fieldtrip to Queenscliff & the Marine Discovery Centre

- Year 11 Monash University Chemistry Challenge

- Psychology excursions to the Cunningham Dax Art Collection, Barwon Prison

- Laboratory work in Chemistry & Biology at Victoria University and the Gene Technology Access Centre - GTAC

PLEASE DIRECT ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE TO THE SCIENCE CO ORDINATOR