Science

Our Approach

The experiential nature of science through authentic learning tasks, performance tasks, experiments and projects cannot be dissected from the learning process of the subject area. Science lessons in Meridian Secondary School are conducted to elicit students’ sense of inquiry and discovery as well as to inculcate learning using all their senses. As part of the nation-wide Personalised Digital Learning Programme (PDLP), our science tasks and activities are designed with the use of students’ personal learning devices to support their out-of-classroom Science teaching and learning experiences.

Department Teachers

Name	Designation
Miss Tan Bee Ling	HOD Science
Mdm Norul Ashiqin	HOD Character and Citizenship Education
Mr Muhammad Khaliq	HOD Student Management
Mr Joel Boon	SH Chemistry
Mr Jeffrey Low
Mr Brian Wee
Mrs Elene Lim
Mdm Suriati
Mdm Dewi Haryanti
Mr Wong Ling Guan (James)
Miss Joanne Lim
Mr Tiah Tao Koon

Transforming Teaching & Learning to ICT-based Lesson Packages

The Science department continues to develop lesson resources for bite-sized learning for both the lower and upper secondary Science levels. ICT and bite-sized checkpoints for Assessments for Learning (AfL) are conscientiously included with the aim of positive student outcomes.

With the push for 21st Century Competencies (21CC), it is necessary to prepare students to be able to develop:

effective communication, sharing ideas and expressing opinions
collaborative skillsthrough group work learning and project-based learning
expose students to a variety of learning experiences especially the use of ICT tools since they are digital learners.

Thus, a new area of focus this year would be the application of ICT-enabled lessons in our daily lessons, using the Design Thinking approach as well as the structure of I Do, We Do, You Do in the lesson to improve students’ confidence and attain achievement

Our programmes aim to give students the experience of conducting investigative science projects and provide them with a platform for scientific exchange. Students will be given opportunities to be engaged in Science workshops, learning journeys and competitions at various Science institutions.

The department continues to provide opportunities for students from all classes and streams to participate in external Science competitions.

Framework:

The Science Enrichment framework is modelled from the NE, “Head, Heart and Hands” framework.

Objective: To inculcate passion in Science and provide a progressive and holistic Science education which extends beyond the classroom and curriculum.

2024 Highlights

1. Sec 1 miniSTEM Activity: Grow Your Own Crystals!

In Term 2, Secondary 1 students embarked on a hands-on STEM project, growing copper (II) sulfate crystals. Over a week-long experiment, they explored key scientific concepts such as solute, solvent, and saturation. By carefully mixing solutions and adjusting variables, students gained a deeper understanding of chemical processes while developing problem-solving skills. Their successful cultivation of vibrant blue crystals highlighted the practical application of classroom knowledge, sparking curiosity and interest in STEM.

2. Secondary 2 STEM Highlight: Ice Box Challenge

During Term 2, Secondary 2 students teamed up to design and construct DIY ice boxes using recycled materials. This challenge encouraged students to apply their understanding of heat transfer and sustainability concepts. Teams tested their ice boxes by measuring the amount of ice that melted after exposure to the Sun. The winning teams, with the most effective insulation, were awarded prizes. Student reflections emphasised the enjoyment and educational value of the challenge, which made science come to life for many participants.

3. Secondary 2 STEM Highlight: Vomitus STEM Challenge

In Term 3, Secondary 2 students applied their knowledge of food tests to solve a forensic mystery. Using iodine, Benedict’s, biuret, and alcohol emulsion tests, they analysed a vomit sample to detect starch, glucose, protein, and fats, identifying the culprit based on their findings. This engaging, hands-on activity enhanced their understanding of food tests while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

4. Science External Competitions

Singapore Junior Chemistry, Physics and Biology Olympiads

Students represented the school in the abovementioned Olympiad competitions. Participants prepared rigorously to enhance their scientific knowledge and skills, fostering a passion for the subject and connecting with like-minded peers. The Junior Chemistry Olympiad Certificate of Merit was presented to Malavika from Class 4E4. For the Junior Biology Olympiad, Eaty Shyam Sheetal and Chirravuri Naga Sai Trinadh from Class 4E4 obtained Honorary Mentions, and Carine Tan from Class 4E4 attained Bronze.

STEM Playground Challenge for Secondary 2 students

Sec 2 students took part in the Cardboard Chair STEM Challenge, designing chairs from cardboard without adhesives. The chairs had to meet specific criteria, including supporting 3 kg for 10 seconds. Prizes were awarded for the strongest and most creative designs.

2023

1. Science External Competitions

Singapore Junior Chemistry and Biology Olympiads

Our students showcased their scientific expertise in the abovementioned Olympiad competitions. These competitions foster a passion for Science, develop talents, and promote collaboration while enhancing essential skills like problem-solving and critical thinking. For the Junior Biology Olympiad, Edeline Lim from Class 4E3 and Celeste Chew from Class 4E4 obtained Honorable Mentions.

STEM Playground Challenge for Secondary 2 students

All Sec 2 students participated in the STEM Playground Challenge: Cardboard Boat, where teams designed boats using cardboard and recycled materials. The boats, no larger than A5 size, had to support 1 kg and stay afloat for 20 seconds. Prizes were awarded for the most durable, aesthetic, and well-presented boats.

2022

1. Meridian Science Enrichment: Science Centre Workshops

The Science of Making Candy for Secondary 1 Students

During Term 2 Week 10's Experiential Learning Programme, students attended a Science Centre Singapore workshop where they explored the chemistry behind candy making. They learned about different types of sugars and how interfering agents are used to create various candies.

2. Learning Journey

· Greensproutz and Kok Fah Technology Farm for Secondary 1 students

As part of the Experiential Learning Programme, students visited modern agricultural farms in Singapore. Some students toured Kok Fah Technology Farm, learning about hydroponics, while others explored sustainability practices at Greensproutz, creating terrariums using recycled items. Students returned with hands-on knowledge and souvenirs.

3. Biology Applied Learning Module

·Discovering Pharmacy @ Temasek Polytechnic Secondary 3 Biology students

During the March holidays, students participated in a 4-day Applied Learning Module (AEM) at Temasek Polytechnic, where they explored the role of pharmacies, learned about over-the-counter medications, and gained insights from industry professionals.

4. Science External Competitions

Singapore National Crystal Growing Competition

Two students represented the school in the 15th Singapore National Crystal Growing Competition, spending weeks refining their process to grow ammonium nickel (II) sulfate crystals under the mentorship of Mr Arthur Lee.

STEM Playground Challenge for Secondary 2 students

All Sec 2 students took part in the STEM Playground Challenge #2: Dome Sweet Dome, a competition to build a geodesic dome using sustainable or recyclable materials. Each class tested its dome’s strength by stacking handphones on top, with a winning structure selected from each class.

Meridian Science Programmes

Meridian Young Scientist for Secondary 1 students

This programme, updated in 2022 and launched as part of Meridian Science Week, encouraged students to engage in various science activities. Based on their submissions, students were awarded titles such as "The Creative," "The Erudite," or "The Explainer," depending on the tasks they completed.

Meridian Science Discovery Week

Held in Term 3, the event allowed students to explore science through hands-on activities and quizzes. Highlights for Sec 1 students included the Minus the Virus! activity, where they made hand sanitisers, and a sorbet-making workshop, where they learned about dry ice and its role in freezing fruit juice. Daily science quizzes offered prizes for accurate answers.