Science at UCHSK has three interrelated strands: Scientific Understanding, Science as a Human Endeavour and Scientific Inquiry Skills. Together, these three strands provide students with understanding, knowledge and skills through which they can develop a scientific view of the world. Students are challenged to explore science, its concepts, nature and uses through clearly described inquiry processes.
Each year group will have the opportunity to attend at least one science excursion per year and science week events are a major focus in Term 3 each year. UCHSK participates in several science competitions and we are looking to increase our participation for 2021.
Students continually build upon a set of skills essential for conducting scientific inquiry and reporting, in research and communication of science from Year 7 to Year 10. The content is based upon developing inquiry and problem-solving skills, together with a deep understanding of the major concepts covered and is in line with the Australian Curriculum. Students at UCHSK also have the unique opportunity to use the Murnong Farm as a resource for learning science which relates to many areas of the science curriculum. Science students at UCHSK benefit from our partnership with UC who provide access to resources and experts in scientific fields. Additionally, students may participate in the E2 extension science program at Lake Ginninderra College which is open to students from Year 7-10.
Agriculture
Murnong Farm has been developed along permaculture principles to encourage students to be involved in a sustainable way of life. The animals and plants live in a unique system where they benefit each other, thus minimising the need for machinery and chemicals.
Farm activities are integrated across all learning areas. Students plan, develop and cultivate vegetable gardens as part of their assessment in Agriculture classes. Grazing animals are also kept on the farm and these include a small herd of Boer goats and alpacas. The goats give birth in the spring which creates great interest with students in the school. They are shown at the Goulburn show. Chickens and ducks are hatched from incubated eggs and students monitor the growth and development of the chicks as a major educational project. There is a shade house for plant propagation and these plants have been used in gardens around the school. Students also participate in Cows Create Careers in Semester 2, a project where students learn about the dairy industry while helping to care for dairy calves.
