Gleeson College Curriculum Guide 2026 - Senior Years | 30 Year 10 Subjects LEARNING SUMMARY: Students explore key concepts from physical and chemical sciences, including motion, forces, bonding, and chemical reactions. They also examine the evidence for the Big Bang theory. Emphasis is placed on developing practical and analytical skills through hands-on experiments and scientific inquiry. Students learn to evaluate evidence, apply problem-solving strategies, and communicate their findings effectively. This course supports preparation for Stage 1 and Stage 2 Science subjects or relevant TAFE pathways, and encourages the development of capabilities for informed, evidence-based decision-making. This is one of three options for the Semester 2 Science subject. ASSESSMENT: SCIENCE B LEARNING AREA: Science LENGTH: Semester 2 LEADS TO: All Stage 1 Science Subjects Skills and Applications Tasks (40%) Investigations Folio (50%) Examination (10%) Welcome Learning at Gleeson College Gleeson Staff Contacts Senior Learning Pathways Year 10 Overview Subjects Year 11 Overview Subjects Year 12 Overview Subjects SCIENTIFIC STUDIES: ADVANCED SCIENCE LEARNING AREA: Science LENGTH: Semester 2 SACE: Stage 1, 10 credits PREREQUISITES: A– in Year 9 Science, teacher recommendation LEADS TO: All Stage 1 Science Subjects LEARNING SUMMARY: Students explore core concepts in Chemistry and Physics while developing the inquiry and analytical skills needed for advanced science study. In Chemistry, students examine atomic structure, the periodic table, types of bonding, and acid-base reactions. In Physics, they explore Newton’s Laws and the principles of motion. Throughout the course, students learn to interpret scientific evidence, design and conduct investigations, and work collaboratively to solve problems. They also examine science as a human endeavour, investigating how scientific knowledge and innovation shape the world. A group project offers students the chance to develop and test a prototype or experiment, supported by individual analysis. This is one of three options for the Semester 2 Science subject. ASSESSMENT: Inquiry Folio (70%) Collaborative Inquiry (20%) Examination (10%) SCIENTIFIC STUDIES: ENGINEERING LEARNING AREA: Science LENGTH: Semester 2 SACE: Stage 1, 10 credits LEARNING SUMMARY: Students investigate the materials and forces that shape the engineered world, exploring the structure, properties, and production of different materials, as well as how they react under various conditions. The course includes the study of motion in two dimensions, allowing students to connect abstract scientific principles with real-world engineering applications. Through hands-on experiments and practical investigations, students develop critical thinking, observation, and data analysis skills. They learn to question, reflect, and evaluate scientific information. Specific content and project focus vary each year. This is an elective Science subject and may be studied in addition to Science A and a Semester 2 Science subject. ASSESSMENT: Inquiry Folio (70%) Collaborative Inquiry (30%)