7–10Science 7–10 Syllabus
The new Science 7–10 Syllabus (2023) is to be implemented from 2026.
2024 and 2025 – Plan and prepare to teach the new syllabus
2026 – Start teaching new syllabus
School sectors are responsible for implementing syllabuses and are best placed to provide schools with specific guidance and information on implementation given their understanding of their individual contexts.
Content
Stage 5
Working scientifically
In this focus area, students develop skills in processing data and information, as well as developing communication skills. Additional Working scientifically outcomes and skills may be integrated with this content.
Loading...Identify that all organisms have information coded in genetic material
Observe and model the arrangement of genetic information in an organism to define and compare the terms DNA, gene, chromosome and genome
Relate the structure of the DNA double helix to its functions
Discuss the nature of scientific discovery by comparing the contributions of scientists involved in the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA
Outline how genetic information is passed on to offspring by sexual and asexual reproduction
Identify that multiple genes and multiple environmental factors interact in the development of most traits
Explain how DNA mutation can result in genetic variation with beneficial, harmful or minimal effects on the functioning of an organism
Outline the connection between genotypes and phenotypes, using Mendelian inheritance for both plants and animals
Use pedigrees and Punnett squares to model monogenic gene-trait relationships and make predictions about patterns of inheritance
Identify examples of current and emerging genetic technologies
Discuss applications of genetic technologies in conservation, agriculture, industry and medicine
Discuss the applications of genetic testing and its associated social, economic and ethical implications
Explain how the processes of natural selection and isolation can lead to changes within and between species
Investigate, using evidence, how the complexity and diversity of organisms have changed over geological timescales
Identify and discuss Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ artwork that indicate changes in plants and animals, including megafauna
Discuss how scientists developed and refined the theory of evolution, and explain why an understanding of the origins of species is important
Use an ethical framework to construct evidence-based written arguments about the implications of a genetic technology, including the ethical implications of the continued use of the immortal HeLa cell line