Scientific Studies B (Life on Earth)

SACE Code	1STU10
Level	Stage 1
Learning Area	Science
Duration	1 Semester
Semester	Semester 2
Pre-requisite	None required
Additional Costs	Some household materials will be required
SACE Credits	10

Who is this course for?

This subject focuses on life on Earth — exploring ecosystems, biodiversity, evolution by natural selection, and how living systems and our planet change over time. Students will explore scientific concepts and develop investigable questions and build their understanding of the interactions between science and society.

Scientific Studies provides an opportunity for students to develop their capabilities, in particular to think creatively, work collaboratively, and be innovative. This course offers flexible, accessible learning for all students, both those with a special interest in Biology and Earth Sciences.

Pathway: University or TAFE. This course would suit students pursuing a TAFE pathway in general science and complements study in Biology and Earth and Environmental Science.

What will I learn?

You will:

• Apply science inquiry skills to design and conduct investigations, using appropriate procedures and safe, ethical working practices
• Obtain, record, represent, analyse, and interpret the results of investigations
• Evaluate procedures and results, and analyse evidence to formulate and justify conclusions
• Develop and apply knowledge and understanding of concepts in new and familiar contexts
• Explore and understand science as a human endeavour
• Communicate knowledge and understanding of concepts, using appropriate terms, conventions and representations

Possible Topics:

• How do ecosystems maintain balance?
• Evolution by natural selection.
• What drives extinction?
• Climate change and life on Earth.

How will I be assessed?

You will demonstrate evidence of your learning assessed as Stage 1 through the following assessment types:

• Investigations Folio
• Skills and Applications Tasks

Students complete four assessment tasks with a weighting of 25% each:

• one practical completion and design investigation
• one science as a human endeavour investigation
• one analysis and interpretation task
• one collaborative inquiry – group design

Pre-requisite

None required

Cost

Some purchase of materials for practical investigations is required.

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Last updated: 17 September 2026