Years 7 and 8 Junior Science

Junior Science engages and inspires young students by capitalising on their natural curiosity. Students learn how to carry out scientific investigations and develop their emergent skills in systematic and critical thinking. The programme emphasises current scientific developments in accessible terms, promoting a sense of wonder in the world around them and the universe beyond. 

The programme emphasises a teaching approach which challenges students’ current level of thinking, encourages the social construction of knowledge (students making knowledge collaboratively), and encourages ‘metacognition’ – students reflecting on their own thinking of problem-solving processes.

In Year 7, students study Science as a general subject and learn to apply scientific thinking to interrogate the world around them. Uniquely, for New Zealand students of their age, they are introduced to the covalent bonding rules of atoms and use a hands-on modeling approach to develop a firm understanding of organic molecules and the biochemical basis of life. The Year 7 programme also has a sustained emphasis on developing scientific literacy and computer usage skills. 

In Year 8, Science students continue to build on their understanding of chemistry (sometimes termed ‘The Central Science’ as it bridges between Physics and Biology) and begin to round out the foundational knowledge they need for these three main scientific disciplines. Throughout the two year course, students will cover various topics including:

• The chemistry of life

• Environmental science

• Space and particles

• Taken together, the skills-based introduction to Science at Years 7 and 8 fosters an enjoyment of science learning, setting students up with a positive approach to the subject and a preparedness to tackle the more complicated problems encountered at later year levels. 

Beginning in Year 9, Science learning is structured more traditionally around Biology, Chemistry and Physics disciplines. 

This enables us to utilise teacher subject-area passion and expertise to thoroughly delve into each subject, highlighting the questions and beauty they hold.