Science Week 2024 has drawn to a close, leaving students and staff inspired by a week filled with activities centered around species survival. Lunchtime activities provided a unique blend of creativity and critical thinking, all while aligning with key Australian Curriculum science standards.
The week began with a chemistry workshop where students crafted their own bath bombs. Beyond the fun of creating fizzy, colourful bombs, this activity highlighted the importance of biodiversity. Students learned how chemical pollutants can affect ecosystems, emphasising the need for eco-friendly products that support species survival. This session connected with the Australian Curriculum’s chemical sciences, specifically focusing on the interaction of substances and the impact of chemicals on living organisms, crucial for students in Years 4 to 6.
Midweek, the focus shifted to sustainability with a hands-on workshop on making beeswax wraps. Students discovered how these eco-friendly alternatives to plastic can reduce waste and help protect habitats for wildlife. By understanding the role of sustainable practices in preserving species, students aligned with the curriculum's emphasis on the environment and human impact, particularly important for Year 7 and 8 science standards.
The youngest scientists, from Prep to Year 2, embraced the theme of species survival by planting seeds as part of their Science Week activities. These budding environmentalists learned about the life cycle of plants and the vital role that flora play in supporting ecosystems. This simple yet powerful lesson connected with the early years’ science curriculum, which emphasises understanding the natural world and the interdependence of living things. By planting seeds, these students took their first steps in learning about the importance of nurturing life, laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and ensuring the survival of species.
The week concluded with an exploration of light and its fascinating properties. Students conducted experiments to observe how light behaves, such as reflection, refraction, and the creation of optical illusions. They discovered how light can be manipulated and its various effects on different materials. This activity reinforced the physical sciences strand of the curriculum, focusing on the principles of light and its behaviour—a critical concept for students in Years 5 and 9.
Science Week 2024 was not just an educational experience - it was a journey into the critical issue of species survival. From crafting bath bombs that sparked conversations about pollution to exploring how light influences ecosystems, each activity encouraged students to think critically about their role in protecting the planet. The week left a lasting impression, empowering future scientists and environmentalists with the knowledge and passion to make a difference. This successful blend of hands-on learning and curriculum alignment ensured that Science Week was both engaging and impactful, supporting students in their scientific and environmental education.
Christie Dey
Director of Secondary
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