Science Research Immersion Experience
This year, sixteen of our Year 10 students were accepted into the Science Research Immersion Experience. They spent four days at the Gene Technology Access Centre in the heart of Melbourne’s science research precinct learning about and conducting their own science research. Below are the reflections some students submitted about the experience:
‘This experience allowed me to broaden my understanding of DNA and how it works by providing me with the opportunity to simulate the processes scientists undergo in real-life labs. Not only that, but I was able to make friends from across the state that possessed a shared interest in STEM as me. Overall, I would definitely attend the program again if I were given the chance, as my only issue with it was that I wish it were longer!’ – Amelia 10F
“At GTAC I learnt about a wide variety of scientifical processes and even had the opportunity to contribute to an ongoing research project surrounding Ticks. I enjoyed using professional science equipment such as the electron microscope, centrifuge and pipettes. I learnt that within science Biology, Chemistry and Physics are often intertwined”. – Ezekiel 10F
“SIRE has been an eye-opening experience, where I’ve learned about cattle ticks and made social connections. This year’s main research project focused on finding ways to prevent ticks from affecting cattle. We started by doing some general research, including DNA fragmentation, DNA replication, and data analysis. Overall, it was an enjoyable experience. We got to meet students from all around Victoria and made many new connections. As well as we got to Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and see many STEM-based new cell machinery and learn about types of research that professional scientists and doctors’ team up together to help cure and figure out types of diseases”. – Chahat 10A
Ms Angela Hanley – Science
Year 8 Students Launch into ‘Mission to Mars’ at VSSEC
Throughout the past four weeks of the school year, our Year 8 students took part in the ‘Mission to Mars’ program at the Victoria Space Science Education Centre (VSSEC) in Strathmore, as part of their science unit on the rock cycle.
Our students approached the challenge with enthusiasm, maturity, and leadership, supporting one another as they navigated their roles in a simulated Martian mission. A sincere thank you to all the staff who attended and supported students across the four weeks of excursions.
Below are some reflections from students on their experience:
‘Last week, our Year 8 class went on an exciting excursion called Mission to Mars. We took on the roles of astronauts and mission controllers, working in teams to solve challenges about space and Mars. One of the best parts was learning to identify different types of rocks. We found out that Mars has many kinds of rocks and studying them can help scientists learn more about the planet and even find signs of past life. This excursion helped us learn more about Mars, but it also brought our class closer together. We saw how important teamwork is, and how both astronauts and mission controllers play a big role in space missions. Mission to Mars was fun and educational. We learned a lot and had a great time working together.’ – Jelena Tran & Hannah Huynh (8F)
‘The Mission to Mars excursion was such an interesting experience. Students collaborated by taking on the roles of astronauts and mission controller, as we faced challenges like navigating life on Mars and solving problems along the way. The day was full of teamwork, problem solving, and excitement. This excursion didn’t just teach them about space; it gave us real excitement for science and showed us how to collaborate better. A huge thank you to everyone who helped make the memorable day happen”. – Johnny Bui (8F)
‘I really enjoyed being in the mission control and having a headset to talk to the astronauts. I also thought that being in the spacesuit was a very unique and amazing experience. I liked how we were given independence and freedom because it was up to us to direct the mission. Overall, it was a pretty good program which I would recommend to other students to experience”. – Emily Cauchi (8G)
Mr Myers Nguyen – Science Teacher