Our school continues to use Version 8.4 of the Australian Curriculum for Science, which provides a strong, balanced approach to science education from Foundation to Year 10. This curriculum helps students explore the world around them, ask questions, and think critically—essential skills for lifelong learning and active participation in a rapidly changing world.
Science in Version 8.4 is organised into three key strands that work together:
Science Understanding: This is the core knowledge of science. Students learn important concepts in four key areas:
Biological Sciences – life, living things, and ecosystems
Chemical Sciences – substances, their properties, and how they change
Earth and Space Sciences – our planet, the solar system, and natural processes
Physical Sciences – forces, energy, light, and motion
Science as a Human Endeavour: Students explore how science is used in real life, how it has shaped society, and how it continues to evolve. This helps them understand the role of science in their everyday lives and in future careers.
Science Inquiry Skills: Students learn how to ask scientific questions, make predictions, conduct investigations, collect and analyse data, and draw conclusions. These skills are essential for scientific thinking and problem-solving.
What makes Version 8.4 valuable?
It balances scientific knowledge with practical inquiry so students don’t just learn facts—they learn how to think like scientists.
It encourages curiosity, questioning, and evidence-based thinking.
There is a strong emphasis on sustainability, ethical thinking, and the impacts of science on society.
It supports teachers to integrate science with other learning areas where appropriate.
Students also take part in additional Science activities throughout the year further designed to enhance their Science learning including Street Science Live Webinars, Big Bang Whole School Science Shows and Whole School Science competitions.