Science is the study of phenomena and events around us through systematic observation and experimentation. It involves observing, investigating, understanding, and explaining the world. It is a human endeavor and is dynamic in nature. It is derived from systematic observation, experimentation and analysis, and requires imagination and creativity. Scientific knowledge is subject to change upon the emergence of new evidence, it should not be regarded merely as a body of facts to memorise. Science can be used in many different ways to bring us technological advances and better ways of living. However, we should be aware that improper uses of science would bring harmful impacts on humans and the
world.

This Unit will introduce the scope, applications, impacts and the practice of science. Students will get a glimpse of the nature of science, and will appreciate the fun of learning and doing science. They will be introduced to the major steps of scientific investigations and some basic practical skills. Besides, students will learn about the apparatus, equipment for conducting experiments and the safety equipment in the science laboratory, and understand the importance of laboratory safety.

 

Students will develop some science process skills such as observing and conducting practicals, through practising some basic techniques for handling apparatus and making measurement. Students will appreciate the unifying concepts “evidence and models” through the sub-topic “Practice of science”.