10SCI

Year 10 Science

Course Description

Teacher in Charge: Mrs R. Chand.

Year 10 Science

While this course continue to build on the topics the students studied in year 9, year 10 also prepares students for the senior science curriculum.  Students will be advancing their understanding about science through modelling, becoming familiar with scientific terms and symbols, practical investigations in the laboratories and critically analysing scientific texts and work of other scientists. 

The curriculum includes chemistry, physics, biology, geology and Earth science.  

Course Overview

Term 1
Chemistry: Atomic Structure, Acids and Bases, Metallurgy
Students will become familiar with drawing atoms and describing the atomic structure of the first 20 elements of the periodic table. They will learn to write the atomic formula for ionic compounds and investigate common acid reactions with metals, bases and carbonates. This includes gaining experience with identifying acids and bases through pH indicators. The students will gain knowledge of properties of metals and how these properties make different metals useful.

Term 2
Biology: Genetics and Medical Science. Students create models of DNA and proteins and begin to understand inheritance of traits. They will use models of human body systems to explain how humans perform life-processes and medical interventions can be used when these systems are disrupted (disease).
Earth Science: Focusing on geological systems in a New Zealand context, students advance their understanding of earthquakes, volcanic activity and the rock cycle.

Term 3
Physics: Electricity and magnetism, and Force and Motion. This is a very practical term when students will build electrical circuits, investigate magnetism (and electromagnets) and use practical activities to demonstrate concepts in Force and Motion.

Term 4
Earth Science: Fuels and Climate Change. This largely research based unit of work is supported with some practical investigations and modelling.

Career Pathways