There seems to be a generally accepted notion that science is important for the world. While I completely agree with the ways in which science will shape our world, I also think it is incredibly important for students and their brain development. Choosing to study a science for the HSC may not be the obvious choice for some students, but at least engaging in the sciences in junior years is incredibly advantageous.

Science encourages curiosity in a way which no other subject does. Biology explains the way living things, including ourselves as humans, function. It allows us to appreciate incredibly intricate systems, the way they function, and understand the logic behind their design. Students engaging in biology may gain a deeper understanding of the way in which the living creatures around them interact with one another and how the food that they eat impacts them. In doing so, students understand the importance of causality: how one thing impacts another, a crucial lesson applicable in all aspects of life!

Chemistry (my personal favourite!) explains how molecules interact at the atomic level. Similarly to biology, chemistry explores how systems function and how chemicals interact with one another. It allows students to understand the intricacies of interactions on a molecular level and teaches them to appreciate how even tiny changes can create massive change.

Physics is science on a whole new level. It describes the entire world, encompassing chemistry and, of course, biology in its theorems. Physics encourages students to take a step back and look at the big picture, it allows them to think very logically about the world and be perceptive about all of the invisible things occurring around them without their awareness.

Science has the potential to change the world, that has always been true. But it also has the potential to change lives on a more personal level, creating people who are perceptive, logical, and curious.

Shahaf Liraz