Liston Level 1 General Science

Course Overview

Semester A
The following standards will be taught and assessed over Term 1 and 2:

General Science 1.4: Physics Investigation – Internal – 4 credits
In this unit students carry out a practical physics investigation following the scientific method. This practical includes collecting, processing and interpreting data. The investigation leads to a linear mathematical relationship.

General Science 1.2: Acids and Bases – External – 4 credits
Students will demonstrate their understanding of atomic structure and sub-atomic particles, factors that affect the speed of chemical reactions, and the properties of acids and bases - including pH and indicators. This standard will require the use of chemistry vocabulary, symbols, and conventions (including names and formulae), and writing balanced symbol equations.

General Science 1.3: Chemical Reactions – Internal – 4 Credits
In this topic students will explore several types of chemical reactions common in nature and industry. Students carry out a practical analysis of these reactions making observations, justifying type of reaction and explaining the chemistry involved. This requires explanations that use chemistry vocabulary, symbols and conventions (including names and formulae), including writing balanced symbol equations.

Mid-year examination at the end of Term 2 to assess the following external standard:
- General Science 1.2: Acids and Bases – External – 4 credits

Semester B
The following standards will be taught and assessed over Term 3 and 4:

General Science 1.1: Genetics and Inheritance – External – 4 credits
Students will demonstrate their understanding of how tracking genetic variation provides a useful tool to show connections between living things. Students will explore sources of genetic variation, and link gene tracking to human endeavours such as care for an endangered species. This will include the use of linking biological ideas about genetic variation and inheritance.

General Science 1.5: Mechanics – External – 4 credits
This topic covers the study of motion, forces, and energy. Students use graphs and diagrams to describe types of motion, use formula to calculate physical quantities and explain physics phenomena in everyday situations. This topic involves calculations and requires the use of physics vocabulary, symbols, and conventions.

End-of-year examination at the end of Term 4 to assess the following external standards:
- General Science 1.1: Genetics and Inheritance – External – 4 credits
- General Science 1.5: Mechanics – External – 4 credits