Year 10 Course Handbook - Diamond Valley College

Biochemistry-SCIBAims of Biochemistry: To excite interest in science as a way ofunderstanding the world especially thechemistry of biological systems Explore new and emerging approachesand technologies To improve and enrich specific skills andknowledge so that the sciences areconsidered as future study choices forVictorian Certificate of Education (VCE)and beyond. To increase awareness of the extensiverange of scientific careers and jobs. To revise and build on knowledge andskills learnt in junior levels and to worktowards meeting and surpassingVictorian Education Learning Standards(VELS) level 6 standards To extend learning skills using HigherOrder Thinking (HOT) andInterdependent Learning (IDL) principlesand toolsAssessment:-Each student develops a plan of how they willmeet their personal goals for the semester andsupply ongoing evidence that demonstrates theirprogress. Achievement of competencies in thestated outcomes will be a core part of this plan.This evidence may include:- participation in practical work andcontributions to class discussions, written responses and evaluations suchas practical reports, worksheets andworkbook records, communication of findings using ICTsuch as multimedia, interview or other conversation with arelevant assessor, public display, newsletter article or othermedia release, end of semester examination and topictest resultsSpecific focus areas:- Equilibrium and chemical reactionsoccurring in cells Speeding up reactions using enzymes Analytical and special laboratorytechniques Macromolecules important to lifeincluding polymers such as DNA andhair proteins Surfaces and emulsions includingcosmetics and foods Nanotechnology used in medicalresearch Green chemistry Biochemistry based occupations andscientists in our community Ethical issues and evaluation ofbiochemical science in the media Scientific methodology including riskassessments and sustainabilityOther learning:- Problem solving / inquiry approach,creative and critical thinking, Social competencies and team workskills, Reflection, self evaluation and personalgrowth, ICT including data logging Research skills, Mathematical toolsThis elective is highly recommended forany student considering taking VCEChemistry and/or Biology Units 1 and 2 aswell as those with a general interest inscience.Contact Teacher: Chris Misale2012 Diamond Valley College Year 10 Course Handbook 27