7–10Science 7–10 Syllabus

Make observations using the senses to compare properties of objects, living things and events

Demonstrate competency when using scientific equipment to make observations

Make relevant observations and measure quantities, including length, mass, temperature and volume

Make a series of observations and measurements that are appropriate to answer a question that has been posed

Identify questions and problems that can be investigated scientifically

Make predictions based on scientific knowledge and observations

Identify the purpose of an investigation

Identify the independent, dependent and controlled variable(s)

Identify the type of data that needs to be collected in a range of investigations

Outline the method and equipment needed to undertake an investigation

Outline steps to manage safety risks before, during and after an investigation

Employ safe work practices and manage risks using work health and safety (WHS) practices

Assemble and use appropriate equipment and resources to perform an investigation

Follow the planned procedure, including the measurement and control of variables

Record observations and measurements accurately, using correct units for physical quantities

Use a wide range of reliable secondary sources and acknowledge their sources

Extract information from texts, diagrams, flow charts, tables, databases, graphs and multimedia resources

Use a range of representations to organise data, including graphs, keys, models, diagrams, tables and spreadsheets

Include sources, titles, labels and scales when displaying data in a graph

Select the type of graph best suited to represent various single datasets and justify this choice

Calculate the mean and range of a dataset

Convert between units of measurement

Assess the reliability of gathered data and information by comparing it to observations and information from other sources, including published scientific writing

Identify patterns and relationships in graphs, keys, models, diagrams, tables and spreadsheets

Identify data which supports or refutes a testable statement being investigated or a proposed solution to a problem

Use scientific understanding to identify relationships and draw conclusions based on students’ data and secondary sources

Propose inferences based on presented information and observations

Evaluate the method used to investigate a question or solve a problem, including evaluating the quality of the data collected and identifying possible improvements to the investigation

Identify problems and devise possible strategies or solutions

Use identified strategies to suggest possible solutions to a familiar problem

Use given evaluation criteria to select optimal solutions to problems

Identify cause-and-effect relationships and develop models to explain phenomena

Evaluate the suitability of different strategies for solving an identified problem using given criteria

Present findings and ideas in a range of communication forms, including using relevant scientific terms, diagrams and graphical representations, as appropriate to audience and purpose

Create written texts to communicate scientific concepts, ideas or investigations using conventional scientific text structures