Level 1 Science

Science is a way of investigating, understanding, and explaining our natural, physical world and the wider universe. It involves generating and testing ideas, gathering evidence – including by making observations, carrying out investigations and modelling, and communicating and debating with others – in order to develop scientific knowledge, understanding, and explanations.

In this course, students will:

• Develop an understanding of the world, built on current scientific theories
• Learn that science involves particular processes and ways of developing and organising knowledge and that these continue to evolve
• Use their current scientific knowledge and skills for problem solving and developing further knowledge
• Use scientific knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about the communication, application, and implications of science as these relate to their own lives and cultures and to the sustainability of the environment.

Each term you will focus on concepts of Chemistry, Biology or Physics, with investigations in the classroom and outside in our local environment. You will complete all 3 topics.  

• Chemistry - explore chemical reactions, properties of molecules, acids and bases, examine the problem of ocean acidification
• Biology - learn about biodiversity and threats to native species at Mount Te Kinga at Lake Brunner
• Physics - discover the properties of waves and electrical energy, and discover how the greenhouse effect occurs and its relationship to beach erosion
  

Student's learning will assessed with the 4 new Level 1 Science standards:

• 1.1 Demonstrate understanding of a science-informed response to a local issue
• 1.2 Demonstrate understanding of the use of a range of scientific investigative approaches in a context
• 1.3 Describe features of science that have contributed to the development of a science idea in a local context
• 1.4 Demonstrate understanding of science-related claims in communicated information