485-139 Learning Area (Sec) Chemistry

Sub-major in chemistry or sub-major in biochemistry plus first year chemistry.

This subject explores the rationale, methodology and some specific techniques appropriate to the teaching of chemistry at junior and senior secondary levels in the Victorian standards frameworks for Science and the Victorian Certificate of Education.

A combined science method program which has a focus on the general science curriculum in Years 7-10 links specialist methods. This is taught separately but is an integral part of the teaching and assessment of each specialist science method.

The course introduces a variety of approaches to the organisation of and strategies for teaching chemistry and junior science in secondary schools, the VCE chemistry study design, resources relevant to teaching chemistry and junior science, and valid methods for diagnosis, assessment and evaluations in chemistry teaching and junior science. It covers practical and theoretical issues in planning units of work from the VCE study design, and seeks to develop personal skills in special areas through the demonstrations, elective programme and excursions.

Essays and assignments equivalent to 4000 words.