Subject | Science Extension

(Year 12 Only)

Description

Science Extension is a Year 12 subject that focuses on the nature, development and processes of Science. The course requires students to engage with complex concepts and theories and to critically evaluate new ideas, discoveries and contemporary scientific research. Students are challenged to examine a scientific research question influenced by their study of one or more of the scientific disciplines. In doing this, students extend their knowledge of the discipline(s), conduct further analysis and authentic scientific investigations and, uniquely for this course, produce a detailed Scientific Research Report that reflects the standards generally required for publication in a scientific journal.

HSC Assessment structure

The Year 12 course consists of three assessment tasks. One of the tasks is the major work that consists of the Scientific Research Report and the associated Research Portfolio.

Career paths

Students are sometimes paired with external scientists as mentors for Science Extension. This may allow them insight into scientific careers in multiple disciplines. A student who takes Science Extension is likely to be seriously considering science-based courses for university.

Skills required

High-level mathematical skills are required, as statistics are often used in the student project. Attention to detail, dedication to study and high levels of achievement in past science-based courses are essential. Most of the Science Extension course consists of independent learning.

Why choose it

Science Extension challenges students in a field of their own choosing. The Scientific Research Report is based on the students’ own selection of the area of study. As such, students have a freedom of choice of content unparalleled in most HSC courses.