Science
Science is a core subject and the curriculum allows all students to experience ways of exploring and understanding the universe around them. Our purpose as a science faculty is to inspire and empower students to become inquisitive and critical thinkers. We aim to ensure that all students leave ADHS with a strong scientific understanding for decision-making and an awareness of the scientific issues facing our society. The school's science program aligns with the Australian Curriculum and is differentiated to allow all students to be challenged.
The Science faculty at ADHS boasts a multidisciplinary Science staff with a diverse range of experiences and interests who offer hands-on science programs incorporating experimental design and problem solving skills. Enrichment of the program occurs by students being involved in activities with many of the scientific institutions based in Canberra including the CSIRO, Mt Stromlo Observatory, Questacon, Geoscience Australia and the ANU. These links allow students to make connections with real life scientific research and scientists which enhances the relevancy of science taught in the classroom. Furthermore, our broad range of year 10 electives provides students with the opportunity to explore their interests. Our elective choices include Genetics and Evolution, Physics, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Climate Science, Human Biology and many more!
To challenge our most passionate young scientists, we offer the Elective Science course which focuses on the application of science skills and understanding through projects which strengthen connections with Maths and Technology. Elective Science is designed to extend students with a passion for STEM by immersing them in authentic scientific investigations. This makes the learning of science more realistic and accommodates students' individual needs. In addition, students are also given the opportunity to expand their horizons with participation in a wide range of extracurricular activities including a number of national and international science competitions, the ANU’s Science Mentors program and a number of inter-school STEM-based challenges.