In Science, students investigate, construct and test ideas and explanations about natural phenomena. This helps to foster an interest and understanding of the world around them.

Through practical activities, students at Avila are encouraged to improve their observation skills and to predict and analyse their experimental results, and then communicate their findings in an objective manner.

In Year 7, students are introduced to methods of scientific inquiry and the use of laboratory equipment. Theoretical content is spread across the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences. These skills are then developed at Year 8, where students are presented with opportunities for more sophisticated investigation.

In Year 9, all students study Science for the year because core studies in Chemistry and Physics and a Biology are an essential background to senior studies of Science. Students may select from a wide range of units across each discipline.

In Year 10, students can specialise in particular sciences through the elective system.

At VCE level, students are able to study Units 1-4 in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Agriculture and Horticulture and Psychology. Students in Year 10, have the opportunity to study Unit 1 and 2 in either Biology or Agriculture and Horticulture if their results are high.

Science students have access to two interactive websites which are extremely popular. One of the websites has a Year 7 - 10 focus while the other, ‘NitroChicks’, is for senior students.

Each site includes quizzes for revision on relevant units and links to other useful on-line resources. Other features include a 3D model gallery, a news page on science events at Avila, message board, display board and competitions.

Visit the sites:

for Years 7 to 10

or

NitroChicks for senior students.