Science

Science is a dynamic, collaborative and creative endeavour arising from a human desire to make sense of the world and the universe. Science provides an empirical way of answering questions about the changing world in which we live. Science knowledge is revised, refined and extended as new evidence arises and is a basis for action in personal, social and economic contexts.

The Western Australian Curriculum: Science enables students to develop an understanding of important concepts and processes, the practices used to develop scientific knowledge, science’s contribution to society, and its uses. In developing scientific literacy, students use critical and creative thinking skills to ask questions and draw evidence-based conclusions using scientific knowledge and practices.

Learning science is important for a diverse and capable science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workforce. It is also a valuable pursuit in its own right. Students can experience the joy of scientific discovery and can nurture their curiosity about the world, make informed decisions about local, national and global issues, and pursue science-related careers.

Science education aims to ensure that students:

• develop an interest in science as a way of expanding their curiosity and exploring their changing world
• gain foundational knowledge in biological, chemical, earth, physical and space sciences, including being able to select and integrate scientific knowledge and practices to explain and predict phenomena and to apply understanding to new situations and events
• develop an understanding of scientific inquiry and the ability to use the scientific inquiry practices, including questioning; planning and conducting experiments and investigations based on safe and ethical principles; generating and analysing data; evaluating results; and drawing critical, evidence-based conclusions
• communicate scientific understanding and findings to a variety of audiences to justify claims with evidence, and to evaluate and debate scientific explanations and arguments
• solve problems and make informed decisions about current and future uses of science while considering ethical, environmental, social and economic implications of decisions
• develop an understanding of the dynamic nature of science knowledge, including historical and global contributions, and an understanding of the relationship between science and society, including the variety of science careers.