Science unpacked offers students a deceptively simple scientific investigation while prompting them to critically evaluate variables, methods, evidence, limitations and improvements, building their science inquiry skills.

This program can be used as an introduction or a deep dive into the scientific investigation process to prepare students for their own investigation project or entry into the Peter Doherty Science Award.

Program Offerings
There are three investigations to choose from, increasing in complexity. The classic concept of juicing oranges aligns with band 7-8 biological sciences and allows students to delve into what makes a good experiment.

Two new investigations relating to band 7-10 chemical and physical sciences further extend understanding and exploration of the scientific method. Physical sciences further extend understanding.

EXPERIMENT 1: GUIDED INQUIRY
Guides students through the basics of a scientific question and the scientific method, using a familiar, well-scaffolded process. Students focus on variables, fair testing, and what makes an investigation scientific.

EXPERIMENT 2: STRUCTURED INQUIRY
If the space permits, this is my preferred description: Starts from a real-life experience generated through a short warm-up activity, with the Facilitator guiding students from their observation toward an underlying pattern. More involved and less scaffolded than the orange juicing experiment, students work through several stages to test and explain that pattern. If it doesn't, then go with this: Starts from a real-life experience in a short warm-up activity. The Facilitator guides students from their observation toward an underlying pattern, through several stages that are more involved and less scaffolded than Option 1.

EXPERIMENT 3: OPEN INQUIRY
Explores how real-world technology behaves under varying conditions, with students framing questions and applying previous learning - hands-on groundwork for VCE Chemistry, Physics or a trade.

Partner School Led Opportunity
Option for students and teachers to stay for the remainder of the day to use the Tech School’s facilities and tools supported by Tech School staff.