PERSONAL LEARNING PROGRAM
Year 7 Action Projects - Science
Toys – Physical Science
“ Give me a place to stand and with a lever I will move the whole world." Follow in the footsteps
of Archimedes (circa 287 BC - 212 BC) Greek mathematician, astronomer, philosopher,
physicist and engineer.
This project explores the basic principles of simple machines and how they are used every
day to make life easier. Students will discover that many elaborate machines and inventions
are really derived from simple machines including levers, inclined planes, screws, pulleys,
wheel and axles and wedges. Using their knowledge of these simple machines and how
they can modify forces, students will work in small groups to design a child’s toy that
incorporates at least two simple machines. Students will be required to produce a labelled,
scale drawing of their toy as well as a written explanation of the physics behind how it
works.
The final project includes planning what materials will be required, proposing a schedule
outlining the processes involved and building a small prototype of their toy.
Toys
(Physical Science)
Year 7 Action
Projects
How vital is Water?
(Chemical Science)
How Vital is Water? – Chemical Science
This course specifically explores the importance and universal uses of water.
Students learn about a variety of separation techniques including filtration, decantation,
evaporation, crystallisation, precipitation, electrolysis and distillation that can be used to
separate mixtures and solutions and how these processes are vital in many industries and
even in the home. Working collaboratively, students will explore issues related to the use of
hard water and methods used to improve water quality. Armed with a deeper understanding
of the properties and importance of water, students will explore the principles behind recycling
of greywater or blackwater and, from a scientific standpoint, create a multimedia campaign
designed to help the public understand the processes involved in treating water and options
for reusing this valuable resource.
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