16 Jun 2025
As part of Muirfield High School’s Accelerated Science program, our Year 9 students have been engaging in a rich variety of hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences that challenge and extend their scientific understanding.
In class, students have been exploring different types of chemical reactions, conducting practical investigations into precipitation, combustion, displacement reactions, and more. These hands-on experiences allow students to see chemical concepts in action, deepening their understanding through experimentation and observation.
Students have also taken a deep dive into non-infectious diseases, examining the biological causes and impacts of conditions such as Down syndrome, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, and how genetic mutations lead to inherited diseases. Through targeted case studies and analysis, they are learning to apply scientific knowledge to real-world health issues.
In addition to classwork, students recently designed and conducted their own self-directed scientific investigations. From testing how temperature affects soft drink carbonation, to exploring the effects of caffeine on reaction time or IQ scores, students displayed curiosity, creativity, and scientific rigour. Other standout projects investigated the strength of garbage bags by cost, the effectiveness of moisturisers, and the impact of sound frequencies on focus- highlighting the independence and depth of thinking developed through the program.
Our Year 9 Accelerants also participated in the Big Science Competition, with some fantastic results. Camila, Nathaniel, Elyssa and Max were then proudly sponsored by the school to take part in the Junior Science Olympiad, extending their learning through a nationally recognised competition that nurtures Australia’s next generation of scientific talent.
These diverse learning experiences reflect the depth and challenge of the Accelerated Science program, which continues to support high-potential learners to thrive academically, think critically, and develop confidence in their scientific abilities