Science
Introduction
Aims of the course:
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Encourage the development of manipulative, procedural, cognitive, effective and communication skills through practical activities that foster investigation, imagination and creativity.
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Develop a sense of enjoyment in the learning of science.
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Enable students to acquire a body of scientific knowledge appropriate to their age, and an understanding of the relevance and applications of science in their personal and social lives.
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Foster an appreciation of and respect for life and the environment, while at the same time developing awareness of the potential use, misuse and limitations of science, and of health and safety issues relating to science.
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Provide a balanced understanding of the physical, biological and chemical dimensions of science, thus facilitating the further study of science in the Senior Cycle.
The Junior Certificate science syllabus is made up of a combination of the three sciences; physics, biology and chemistry.
Alongside the course content students must also complete coursework A, consisting of a series of mandatory experiments which must be recorded in an experiment book. This is worth 10% of their final exam. Students will also complete coursework B which consists of two specified investigations to be completed in their third year and to submit a report on these for assessment.
These additional investigations, based on the topics and learning outcomes in the syllabus, will be set by the examining body and will vary from year to year. These investigations account for 25% of the student’s final Junior Certificate grade and will require substantial time investment, by the student, during the year.
Resources
4 fully equipped laboratories with computers, overhead data projectors, whiteboards/blackboards, and visualisers along with a chemical and equipment storeroom.