Science provides an empirical way of answering interesting and important questions about the biological, physical and technological world. Scientific knowledge is contestable and is revised, refined and extended as new evidence arises or existing evidence is re-conceptualised. The study of Science is a collaborative, creative endeavour and has led to a dynamic body of knowledge organised as an interrelated set of models, theories, laws, systems, structures and interactions. It is through this body of knowledge that science provides explanations for a variety of phenomena and enables sense to be made of the natural world.
As students actively engage in the processes of Working Scientifically, they gain an increased appreciation and understanding of the importance of science in their own lives and society, locally and globally. Through questioning and seeking solutions to problems, students develop an understanding of the relationships between science and technology and its importance in the current and future practice of science.
Through applying the processes of Working Scientifically, students use scientific inquiry to develop their understanding of science ideas and concepts, as well as the importance of scientific evidence. They demonstrate honesty, ethical principles and respect for differing viewpoints on scientific issues. By engaging in scientific inquiry, students develop a deeper appreciation of the unique nature and development of science as an evolving body of knowledge, of the provisional nature of scientific explanations and of the complex relationship between evidence and ideas. Providing opportunities for students to continue to strengthen these scientific capabilities, helps them further develop as scientifically literate citizens.
The study of Science enables students to develop a positive self-concept as learners and gain confidence in and enjoyment from their learning. Through active participation in challenging and engaging experiences they become self-motivated, independent learners. Their understanding of science and its social and cultural contexts provides a basis for students to make reasoned evidence-based future choices and ethical decisions, and to engage in finding innovative solutions to science-related personal, social and global issues, including sustainable futures.