Learning Areas > Sciences
Head of Learning Area - Sciences: Ms Kahli Trist
P: +61 3 9816 1013 E: kahli.trist@carey.com.au
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About the Learning Area
Senior School Science at Carey builds on the foundations established in Middle School through increased academic rigour, disciplinary depth and independence.
Year 10
The Year 10 Core Science program provides a comprehensive, year-long course that prepares students for either VCE or the International Baccalaureate. It develops the knowledge, skills, routines and confidence needed for success in senior Science. Literacy, numeracy, scientific reasoning and communication are explicitly taught, while assessment reflects both pathways through practical investigations, data-based tasks, extended responses, examination-style questions and formal examinations.
Practical inquiry is central to the program. Students undertake self-researched and self-designed investigations that reflect their interests and strengthen independence in planning, experimentation, analysis, evaluation and scientific communication. Learning takes place in specialised laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, contemporary scientific equipment and digital technologies.
Acceleration Opportunities
Alongside Core Science, Year 10 students may undertake a year-long accelerated VCE Biology or VCE Psychology subject. These allow students to pursue a developing interest in greater depth, experience the expectations of senior secondary study and prepare for progression into either VCE Units 3 and 4 or the International Baccalaureate program.
Elective Opportunities
Year 10 students may also select the year-long Earth and Environmental Science elective. The course develops understanding of ecological and environmental systems, sustainability and human interactions with the natural world. It provides strong preparation for VCE Environmental Science Units 3 and 4.
Year 11 and 12
In Years 11 and 12, students may pursue either a VCE or International Baccalaureate Science pathway.
VCE Science subjects are structured as Units 1 and 2, followed by Units 3 and 4. Units 1 and 2 provide an introduction to the discipline and develop the knowledge and skills required for further study. Units 3 and 4 are completed as a sequence and contribute to the ATAR through school-based assessment and end-of-year examinations.
International Baccalaureate Science subjects are completed as two-year courses. Students study an integrated body of content across the program, with assessment drawn from both internally assessed work and external examinations.
Both pathways develop strong scientific knowledge, practical capability, analytical thinking and communication, while preparing students for tertiary study and future pathways in science and related fields.
Extension Opportunities
Students may extend their learning through opportunities such as Science Olympiad programs, Chemistry competitions, the Australian Brain Bee Challenge, titration competitions and the National Youth Science Forum.
Further enrichment may include engagement with industry experts, university researchers and practising scientists through lectures, workshops, specialist programs and laboratory experiences.
