Year 9 Science
A hands-on journey through the NSW Science syllabus — building scientific thinking through inquiry-based learning and practical investigation.
Course Structure
Forty lessons across four terms
Each term explores a different domain of science, building skills and knowledge progressively.
Materials
Exploring chemical bonding, resources, and polymers
Australia's mineral resources and their uses
- Identify the finite nature of the minerals and resources extracted in Australia
- Investigate the products produced from Australian minerals and resources
Indigenous uses of resources + extraction impact
- Explain how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples used minerals and resources for a wide range of purposes
- Evaluate the environmental impact of extracting and using a named resource and document findings in a written scientific report
Chemical bonding basics
- Use valency to describe the number of electrons an atom needs to gain, lose or share to achieve a stable electron configuration
- Explain noble gas configuration and identify that it occurs during chemical bonding
Types of chemical bonds and molecular models
- Describe types of chemical bonds, including ionic, covalent and metallic bonds
- Use models to describe the formation of cations and anions
- Recognise that some elements exist as diatomic molecules
Chemical formulas and molecular structures
- Construct chemical formulas of some common ionic compounds and covalent molecules
- Conduct an investigation to observe and compare the physical and chemical properties of ionic, covalent and metallic substances
Introduction to hydrocarbons
- Distinguish between organic and inorganic compounds
- Use International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) nomenclature to name simple organic compounds
- Identify and reproduce the structure of simple alkanes C1–C8
Application of hydrocarbons
- Describe how hydrocarbons can be separated from crude oil and identify the uses of these products
- Describe the differences between complete and incomplete combustion reactions of hydrocarbons
- Research the uses of hydrocarbon compounds and how this has changed over time
Polymers
- Identify the raw materials used to make polymers
- Investigate and describe the properties of a range of polymers
- Determine the quantity and types of polymers found in the environment
- Conduct an investigation to determine the biodegradability of different packaging materials
- Investigate case studies to explain the effect of bioaccumulation of microplastics in the environment
Topic Test
- Assessment of all Term 1 content
Review
- Feedback and reflection on Term 1 learning
Structured learning materials
Every page is carefully selected and organized with clarity and understanding in mind — materials designed to support the KEY Method approach.
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Designed for scientific understanding
Our Science materials build conceptual understanding through clear explanations, diagrams, and experiments that develop scientific literacy.
Our Approach
The KEY Method in Science
Every lesson is designed around three principles: structured Knowledge, active Engagement, and measurable Yield — all informed by your child's MindPrint cognitive profile.
Hands-On Learning
Science comes alive through practical investigations and experiments that build genuine understanding, not just memorization.
Inquiry-Based Approach
Students learn to ask questions, design experiments, and think like scientists — developing critical thinking skills for life.
Real-World Connections
Every concept is linked to everyday phenomena and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems, making science relevant and engaging.
Progressive Mastery
Skills and knowledge build systematically across terms, creating a strong foundation for senior science subjects.
Powered by MindPrint™
Every lesson is tailored to your child's unique cognitive profile. MindPrint assessment reveals how your child processes information, allowing us to adapt pacing, structure, and task design to their specific strengths and challenges.
Learn About MindPrintHow We Teach
Designed for deep understanding
Practical focus
Regular hands-on experiments develop scientific skills and deepen conceptual understanding.
Conceptual clarity
Complex ideas broken down into clear, logical steps that make sense to young minds.
Syllabus aligned
Full coverage of NSW Science syllabus outcomes with strategic sequencing.
Continuous feedback
Regular checkpoints and reviews ensure understanding before moving forward.
Curriculum Alignment
This course follows the NSW Science Syllabus for Stage 5, covering all outcomes for Year 9 students. Content is sequenced to build scientific skills and conceptual understanding progressively.
Ready to begin?
We'll recommend the right structure for your child — no pressure, just a conversation about what works best.