Science

OVERVIEW

Science involves people investigating the living, physical, material and technological components of their environment and making sense of them in logical and creative ways. Using systematic and creative processes of investigation, scientists provide a constantly evolving body of knowledge and make an important contribution to the decisions that are shaping or world and the world of future generations. – from Science in the New Zealand Curriculum

COURSES

Year 9 
All students study science for six periods in a nine day cycle. Topics studied include: matter and atoms, plant and animal cells, light, plant reproduction and nutrition, forces, human’s effects on the Earth, mixing and separating, Earth in space and animal nutrition. Two classes are currently selected for extension work where more challenging exercises are offered. Students are encouraged to participate in the Hawke's Bay Science Fair.

Year 10
All students study science for six periods in a nine-day cycle. Topics studied include: ecology/adaptations, genetics, animal transport systems, space and beyond, changing Earth, machines and energy, electrical circuits, motion, chemical reactions and metals and carbon substances. There is one extension class where selected students are able to study for NCEA level achievement standards in science.

Year 11
Science is studied as an optional subject but all students are encouraged to study it as it improves the number of choices available in future years. There are two options:

Year 12
Science students have the choice of studying any or all of biology, chemistry and physics or advanced science or general science. General science is a course designed for those who would find science difficult at this level and is examined internally. The other options lead to NCEA level three and higher and require students to have met certain criteria.

Year 13
Students may study biology, chemistry, physics and science. (subject to prerequisites). These courses all lead to NCEA level three.

All sciences can be studied at Scholarship level . The science department has always had a policy of promoting and extending able students. This allows students more options at senior level and improves the chances of the most able reaching Scholarship standard. Selected students attend extra Scholarship classes that are offered by the science staff.

The head of the science department (Mr Barrett) is always happy to discuss what the school offers. Please leave a contact name and number at the school office.