Year 10 Science

In the Year 10 Science course we develop the skills needed to carry out scientific investigations using all four strands of science: chemistry, physics, biology and Earth and space. These strands will be integrated into topics that have localised, contextual, and relevant contexts. These contexts include the biological and chemical analysis of local waterways, plant structure and function, and how these are linked to food production, materials and house design, and the practical application of all the strands of science to provide scientific evidence in forensic science to solve crime. These topics will help students develop their skills in using the scientific method to carry out practical investigations, literacy and numeracy, working together, overcoming challenges and developing resilience.

The topics will be assessed in both knowledge and skill development, and will include individual and group assignments.

Plants and Genetics:  We will learn about the structure of plants and how these adaptations help plants to survive and reproduce. We will compare and contrast asexual and sexual reproductive methods in horticulture and agriculture. We will learn about the basics of DNA and genetic information and how to this is inherited between generations.

Waterways: We will learn about the chemistry of waterways in New Zealand. This will involve learning about atoms and ionic compounds, acid and base chemistry and chemical reactions. Students will carry out different chemical reactions to assess water quality and investigate the impacts of changing water quality on different environments.

Materials and House Design:  We will learn about the different materials used in construction and how the properties of these materials influence their use. We will learn the concepts of electricity and how electrical circuits can be configured. 

Energy and Light:  We will learn about the different types of energy and how these are transformed and transferred. We will learn about how light behaves, including the eye works.

Shaky Ground: We will learn about the causes and effects of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsnumais.

Matariki and Astronomical Cycles: We will learn about astronomical cycles and Matariki, linking this knowledge to harvesting and planting crops.