Module 1 – Cause and effect-observing guide

This resource guides the teaching of the Year 11 'Cause and effect-observing' module. Observations play a central role in scientific inquiry. Observations are used in two ways – to initiate investigations and as evidence that support scientific ideas. Scientific observations are not casual: they must be accurate, reproducible, informative and free of bias.

About the Investigating science course

The Investigating science course is multidisciplinary and develops students' abilities to engage with scientific processes to investigate personal, community and global scientific issues.

Investigating science:

is designed for all students and may be differentiated to suit school contexts
promotes active inquiry and the planning and conducting of evidence-based investigations
provides opportunities for problem-solving and making informed scientific decisions
lets students engage in examples and situations that relate to biology, chemistry, earth sciences and physics
is designed to complement the study of other science disciplines
provides additional opportunities for students to develop capability and capacity in critical thinking, problem-solving and developing and communicating evidence-based arguments and making informed decisions.

Resource

Module 1 guide (DOCX 2165 KB)

Syllabus

Please note:

Syllabus outcomes and content descriptors from Investigating Science Stage 6 Syllabus (2017) © NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2021.

Module 1 – Soaps assessment task

Investigating science – Year 11 – This depth study draws on students’ prior knowledge about everyday substances that are familiar to them.

Module 1 – Observations pH depth study

Year 11 – Investigating science – 3 hours – in this sample learning sequence students build on their prior knowledge and understanding of acids and bases. They engage in learning that develops surface knowledge through acquisition and consolidation.

Module 1 observations learning sequence

Year 11 – Investigating Science – 3 hours – students build on their prior knowledge and understanding of acids and bases. They engage in learning that develops surface knowledge through acquisition and consolidation.