Big Ideas - Year 8
Mandatory: Yes
Duration: Full year
Description
Big Ideas is an integrated subject incorporating the learning areas of Mathematics and Science. Students are supported to explore real life problems and solve them through the application of the scientific method.
In Mathematics students further develop fluency, understanding, problem solving and reasoning skills. The course places emphasis on documentation of strategies used.
Topics covered are:
- Number and Algebra: number systems, exponential notation and laws, mathematical modelling and digital tools to solve problems in financial mathematics, linear expressions and equations and their graphs, using digital tools to solve algebraic problems.
- Measurement and Space: problems involving composite shapes, time, rates and ratios, Pythagoras’ theorem, congruence, similarity, transformation of shapes, coordinate system.
- Statistics and Probability: sampling techniques, sample distribution and variation, inferential statistics, complementary probability, Venn diagrams, chance experiments, simulations and digital tools.
Students are supported to further consolidate understanding and application of multiplicative thinking and proportional reasoning through the “color folder program”, a small group intervention program designed to extend higher order thinking. Individual learning goals based on student’s needs, support them to focus on identified areas for growth and extension and are reviewed regularly.
In Science students further develop scientific understanding, inquiry skills and appreciation of science as a human endeavour.
The following concepts and key ideas are explored in year 8.
- Biological Science: cells structure and function, systems and reproduction.
- Earth and Space Science: tectonic activity, geological features, theory of tectonic plates, rock cycles.
- Physical Science: kinetic and potential energy, transfer and transformation of energy in a system.
- Chemical Science: elements, compounds and mixtures, physical and chemical change.
