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SUB JEC T
SCIENCE

Science helps us to understand how our body works, how the world around us works
and where we fit in the universe. Science affects us in our everyday lives.
This involves asking questions and finding answers to understand our world.

What will I learn in class?
Science is divided into 4 main parts:

1 BIOLOGICAL WORLD

This is all the living things on our planet including animals, plants and micro-
organisms. Scientists who study living things are called biologists. Biology plays an important
role in agriculture, medicine and ecology.
> Agriculture – the food that we eat comes from living things.
> Medicine – antibiotics and vaccines help protect us from diseases.
> Ecology – the study of how living things interact with each other and their environment.

2 CHEMICAL WORLD

Scientists who study materials and how they react with each other are called chemists.
Chemistry is the study of the composition and properties of materials. The materials produced
have different uses.
> Aircraft Manufacturing – carbon fibre is a material used to make airplanes, cars and bicycles.
> Clothing – the blue dye used to colour denim jeans is called indigo.
> Pharmaceuticals – chemists work to develop new medicines.

3 PHYSICAL WORLD

This is the interaction between materials and energy such as light, heat and electricity.
Understanding these energies has allowed us to develop technology in everyday life.
> Microwave Technology – microwave radiation is produced by machines and are also used to send
signals from mobile phones.
> Laser Technology – Lasers are used for CD and DVD players and for surgery (laser eye surgery).
> Electronics – devices such as television, mobile phones, tablets and laptops.

4 EARTH AND SPACE

The study of space and space objects is called astronomy. Students explore relationships between
astronomical objects and evidence for the history of the universe. Students use data to discern
patterns in the motion of the Sun, Moon, and stars and develop models to explain and predict
phenomena such as day and night. Students will come to appreciate the impact of human activity on
Earth and explore the role and implications of human space exploration.

Who would this subject suit?
This subject suits all levels and abilities, especially those with an inquisitive mind and those who like
to know how things work. There is a large practical element to the subject where students would
design and carry out their own experiments.

16 St. Mary's Secondary School First Year Subject Choice