Science · Years 7–8 · VOICE
Think like a scientist
Gather evidence from the real world and explain what it shows.
Choose your inquiry
The whole class works on the same inquiry, in any term. Over two years you do both.
- Inquiry A · about 4 weeksNgā Tohu o te Taiao: Signs in Our EnvironmentSomething in your school grounds or local area has caught your attention — plants struggling, water that looks different, or wildlife behaving unusually. Your class needs evidence before anyone decides what to do.You'll make: An evidence-based explanation (claim + data + reasoning) for a class science hui or environmental display.Open this inquiry →
- Inquiry B · about 5 weeksTe Pūnaha Hauropi: Investigating Ecosystem ChangeA local stream, wetland, or bush patch shows signs of change — fewer native species, new weeds, or altered water flow. A conservation group or council wants student-collected evidence before acting.You'll make: A multi-causal scientific explanation with limitations stated, shared with a local conservation partner or council report.Open this inquiry →
Your journey: VOICE
Every Science inquiry moves through the same stages.
- Stage 1: Validate the Problem
- Stage 2: Observe
- Stage 3: Investigate
- Stage 4: Create Conclusions
- Stage 5: Evaluate
Explore more
Trusted New Zealand sites to use alongside your inquiry.
- Science Learning Hub ↗
University of Waikato
NZ science articles, videos and activities, many set in Aotearoa.
- Citizen science projects ↗
Science Learning Hub
Real NZ projects your class can contribute data to.
Topics
- environmental science
- ecosystems
- fair testing
- observation
- water quality
- evidence and claims
Ready to run it with your class?
Free trial for NZ schools. One combined Years 7–8 class, any term.