THE NSW Government has unveiled its new proposed science and technology syllabuses, hoping to create the next generation of leaders in STEM subjects.
The new syllabuses, which are up for public consultation, come as part of the government’s ongoing curriculum reform.
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said the new syllabuses have been reshaped to align with current evidence that will best equip students for success in a modern, digital and connected world.
“We know that it is vital that students can apply their knowledge in the day to day,” Ms Mitchell said.
“Through these syllabuses, students will benefit from more tangible learning experiences that give them the chance to study real-world challenges, setting them up as the next generation of world leaders in STEM.
“Ultimately, the new syllabuses have been designed to better prepare young people for further study and career pathways in STEM.”
The draft science syllabus for Years 7 to 10 includes new contemporary topics on data science and investigating scientific evidence, as well as having a greater focus on environmental sustainability and energy based on the latest evidence.
Some key changes to the draft syllabus include a greater focus on essential knowledge and skills, increased connections between science and mathematics, greater links to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander historical and contemporary use of science and technologies, and greater focus on developing students’ writing skills for scientific purposes.
A new draft technology syllabus for Years 7 and 8 also builds on the existing syllabus but with a greater focus on digital literacy, cyber security and online safety.
The public can have their say on the draft technology 7-8 syllabus up until November 21 and on the science and drama syllabuses until December 5 by going to the NSW Education Standards Authority website.
