The syllabus of kindergarten to year 12 is built to maintain a continuum of learning science. Both stage 4 & 5 and stage 6 syllabus use the similar model to elaborate the aim, objectives, contents and content in terms of contexts, PFA and domain (knowledge, skills and values).
The rationale behind 7-10 yrs syllabus is broader in the sense that it targets to promote scientific literacy to build up an independent learner having correct attitude to deal with the future choices and ethical decisions. On the other hand, Stage 6 syllabus focuses on imparting understanding the concepts of origin, evolution and functioning of living organisms.
Aim of both syllabuses is based on providing knowledge, building skills and formation of values. However, naturally the stage 6 syllabus extends the aim to encompass more knowledge, complex skills and values and attitudes to determine the right choice.
And finally if we take a look at both objectives, it can be seen that in year 7-10 curriculum the knowledge and understandings evolve around all the aspects of science whereas in biology stage 6 curriculum is specifically focuses on living aspects of nature.
For example the unit 9.8 of stage 6 syllabus deals with human evolution to explore relationship between humans and other primates, ongoing debate on the same issue, human adaptation and influence of culture on evolution and the its likely impact on the future. The unit also looks at classification hierarchy from phylum to species. In stage 4 and 5 students are provided with brief idea on classification of animal kingdom, theory of evolution and natural selection and relevant analytical aspects are not included which are dealt in the stage 6 curriculum.
Bibliography:
NSW Board of Studies. (2002). Stage 6 Syllabus Biology. Sydney, Australia: NSW Board of Studies.
NSW Board of Studies. (2009). Science Stage 6 Revised Support Document. Sydney, Australia: NSW
Board of Studies. Available from http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/syllabus_hsc/biology.html
NSW Board of Studies. (2002). Science Years 7-10 Syllabus. Sydney, Australia: NSW Board of Studies.
