Middle School
Integrated Science is a core subject taught at Years 7 and 8 in all local state and non-state schools. It aims to develop in our students, curiosity about natural phenomena leading them to question the world we live in. Indeed, Integrated Science includes a blend of concepts, scientific skills and phenomena related to the living, physical and chemical world around us. Another aim is to prepare students for a society where science and technology have a leading role. The syllabus includes a set of learning outcomes that set out what a learner is expected to know, understand or be able to do as a result of the learning process. The learning outcomes are written in a way that informs pedagogy and, in conjunction with the assessment strategies related to each outcome, set a clear assessment expectation.
The programme is based on the 5E model in which students engage, explore, explain, elaborate and evaluate. Practical work such as testing, experimentation or engaging in fieldwork are pivotal features in the Integrated Science learning programme, as much as they are part of the scientific process itself. In this context, the preferred model of instruction is inquiry-based, where students take an active role in their own learning. Scientific concepts, knowledge and skills are presented in contexts which learners are familiar with, thus facilitating the practice of moving from what is known to the unknown and thus leveraging the accomplishment of the learning outcomes set by the Programme.
(Source: https://knowledgequest.aasl.org/the-5-es-of-inquiry-based-learning/)
The themes of the study units covered during the two-year programme are presented in the infographics below.
(Source: all photos sourced from MS Word Stock Images)
(Source: all photos sourced from MS Word Stock Images)
Click on the buttons below to access the full study programmes for Year 7 and Year 8.
Assessment
Assessment in Integrated Science is based on a mix of continuous and summative modes. A mid-yearly continuous assessment mark, is based on a mix of tasks, chosen by the teacher, carried out during the first half of the academic year. An annual continuous assessment mark is on the other hand based on a prescribed mix of tasks held during the whole academic year. On top of a choice of experiments and classroom learning activities, these tasks include a project-based learning activity for Year 7 and fieldwork for Year 8.
Finally, an annual, summative assessment mark is based on an exam paper issued centrally. More comprehensive information about assessment in Integrated Science can be accessed by clicking the button below.
(Source: https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/problem-based-learning-and-project-based-learning)
Core Curriculum Programme
An Integrated Science Core Curriculum Programme (CCP) is offered in most schools to selected students as an alternative to the mainstream Integrated Science syllabus. The focus of this alternative programme is to help students acquire basic knowledge about the natural world and develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking and drawing evidence-based conclusions. This programme also aims to tackle sustainability and ethical issues related to scientific and technical progress. For the CCP Integrated Science syllabus for year 7, including a list of units, one should refer to page 28 of this document. For year 8 please refer to page 32 of this document.
Teleskola: a self-paced study programme
An Integrated Science self-paced study programme can be followed on Teleskola, an initiative by Malta’s Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research, and Innovation. Teleskola is an easy way for parents and students alike to find appropriate lessons presented in an easy user-friendly manner so that all students can continue their studies at home.
