(PDF) stage 5 - The Armidale School...Maths, Science, HSIE and PDHPE, giving schools great flexibility in determining their elective offerings. In place of the usual pattern at TAS that - DOKUMEN.TIPS (2023)

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stage 5YEAR 9/10 ACADEMIC PROGRAM 2020/21

Contents

From the Headmaster 4

From the Director of Studies 6

NSW Record of School Achievement 8

Stage 5 Academic Program 9

Subject Selection Process 10

Core Subjects 11-15

Elective Subjects 16-53

Contact 54

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Our Vision

At TAS, we believe that education is about the development ofcharacter. Every student deserves to experience the kind of successthat builds self-esteem, promotes a sense of purpose, and givesconfidence to face new challenges.

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Dynamic subject options to invigorate curriculum

The purpose behind offering elective subjects in Years 9 and 10is to launch students on to the path of finding and following theiracademic passions. This decision making is often fraught forparents and students who see their choices as the beginnings of adefined academic future, sometimes with tertiary thoughts in mind.The reality though is that languages stand alone as definedcontinuers courses in Year 11/12 and most other electives at thisstage have little bearing on HSC studies, let alone tertiarydecisions. Developing academic passion and assisting in preparingfor senior studies is important though and this is what our newstructure targets.

Elective subjects in Years 9 and 10 stand separate to themandatory core curriculum of English, Maths, Science, HSIE andPDHPE, giving schools great flexibility in determining theirelective offerings. In place of the usual pattern at TAS that hasprovided 12 to 14 subjects spread across three lines, Years 9 and10 will be mixed together for their electives and presented withover one hundred choices across the elective lines in their twoyears, each of the courses standing alone for at least one semesterand every one connecting to the HSC curriculum. Our aim is to driveacademic interest and engagement by vastly increasing choice,enabling students to sample a wider curriculum experience and avoidthe experience of finding themselves locked into subjects they donot find stimulating for two years. It will also enable students tomake more informed HSC subjects choices because they have had theopportunity to discover the difference between Business Studies andEconomics or Chemistry and Biology and what is involved in thedesign and creative process. The increase in choices will also meanit is much less likely that students will find themselves ruled outof options in Years 11 and 12 that they would have loved simplybecause they haven’t had the chance to experience them.

The decision making process for this bold and unique developmenthas involved our students of course and their responses to theproposal have given great encouragement. In recent surveys studentfeedback has allowed staff to make adjustments to current coursesand for new courses to be added into the offering for futureyears.

Murray Guest I Headmaster

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It is our aim to provide a broad and engaging program that helpscreate avenues of success for every student at TAS.

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From the Director of Studies

Life as a senior school student at The Armidale School is fullof expectations. In particular, there are expectations ofachievement, responsibility and independence. Our senior studentsare required to make significant choices and decisions regardingtheir academic programs as well as demonstrate leadership andresponsibility. Year 9 and 10 focuses on consolidating academicskills and providing students with a very wide range of electivesubjects, preparing them for the final two years of their secondaryeducation.

Academically, our students begin to take more control over theirown learning through their choice of elective subjects leading tothe Higher School Certificate. They are required to be personallyresponsible for decisions that will lead to academic achievementand individual growth. There are also a wealth of expectationsassociated with performance in sport, outdoor education and thecreative and performing arts. We aim to provide our students withthe knowledge and skills to help them meet these expectations andto grow into knowledgeable, confident and talented people who careabout the world they live in.

This handbook is designed for students who are entering Year 9and 10 and provides a range of information to help them and theirparents and caregivers choose courses that suit their needs andinterests. Our students are supported by highly qualified staff whoare passionate about their subjects and provide the motivation forour students to reach their potential.

We cater for the academic, creative, technological andextra-curricular interests of all students and the school offers awide range of courses and activities. Academic courses arecomplemented by the extensive extra- curricular and pastoral careprograms. The school also offers learning support, an Extension andEnrichment program and targeted teaching practices to help eachchild succeed.

It is our aim to provide a broad and engaging program that helpscreate avenues of success for every student at TAS.

Seonia Wark I Director of Studies

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NSW Record of School Achievement (RoSA)

In 2011, the NSW Minister of Education announced that SchoolCertificates tests would not continue beyond that year. From 2012,eligible students who leave school before receiving their HigherSchool Certificate will receive the NSW Record of SchoolAchievement (RoSA). The RoSA is a cumulative credential in that itallows students to accumulate their academic results until theyleave school. The RoSA records completed Stage 5 and PreliminaryStage 6 courses and grades, and participation in any uncompletedPreliminary Stage 6 courses. It is of specific use to studentsleaving school prior to the HSC. Students from TAS will only havegrades for core subjects in Stage 5 listed in their Record ofSchool Achievement with grades from elective courses appearing onreport cards. Any time a student or school wants an up-to-datesnapshot of a student’s academic progress, a transcript called aStudent eRecord can be accessed via ‘Students Online’ on the NSWEducation Standards Authority (NESA) website. Students who go on tocomplete the HSC will see all their Stage 6 (Year 11 and 12)courses and results on their HSC.

For more information please visit:http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/rosa/parents-employers.html

Assessment and Reporting

In each subject, a series of formal and informal assessmenttasks will be conducted to monitor and assess student achievement.These tasks will measure the extent to which each student has metthe aims and objectives of the course. Based on these tasks,teachers will compare the achievement of their students with thepublished Course Performance Descriptors, not with theirachievement relative to each other. Reports are written andpublished at the end of each semester. The school publishes aSchool Assessment Policy for Stage 5 that is available for downloadeach year from the TAS website. This is an important document toread as it outlines what to do in the event of illness ormisadventure and, in particular, the documentation required tosupport any appeal for a missed assessment task. Each year theschool also publishes an Assessment Calendar for each year groupwhich gives families an indication of when assessments are due.

http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/rosa/parents-employers.html

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Core Subjects

All students at TAS are required to study English, Mathematics,Science, HSIE (Australian History & Australian Geography) andPersonal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) inYears 9 and 10. Students will also participate in ChristianDevelopment and Careers (Year 10 only) classes. At TAS we run oneextension class per core subject with the remaining classes beingmixed ability. As enrolments increase the combination of extensionclasses and mixed ability classes may change. Decisions regardingplacement of a student in the Extension class is made by thesubject coordinator and reviewed each semester.

Elective Courses

Students in Stage 5 will have the opportunity to study threedifferent electives each semester in Years 9 and 10. It isanticipated that around 100 courses will be offered to studentseach year and that approximately 50 of these run annually. After aninitial survey the Director of Studies and the Headmaster willdetermine what courses will be offered in the following year. Whatis offered each year will primarily be determined by studentdemand, however, teaching expertise and ensuring a balancedoffering for the entire student population will also influencethis. Extension electives should only be chosen by students withrecognised ability in the subject. Places in these classes arelimited to those in the extension core class for that subject andare based on previous achievement in the subject.

Correspondence

Students may apply to study a subject which is not offered bythe school via correspondence. The school has reservations aboutthe study of any subject by correspondence and recommends that onlythose highly motivated students with sound independent study habitsshould apply. There are also limitations to the correspondenceprogram at TAS both in offering and in numbers so priority will begive to students with a history of studying that subject or forlanguages not offered at TAS. External correspondence providers donot guarantee positions in any course and TAS is only able to havea certain number of places each year. Correspondence courses arenot covered by normal tuition fees and cost approximately $500 peryear.

Other arrangements

The school also recognises that some students have particularneeds not satisfied by the standard curriculum pattern – intensivelearning support, extension and enrichment programs, acceleratingstudents, students with native languages other than English orthose with particular interests. Individual programs of study maybe an appropriate response to these needs and an appointment withthe Director of Studies can be made by contacting the AcademicAssistant (contact details listed at the end of this document).

Stage 5 Academic Program

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The Subject Selection Process

The selection of subjects is an important decision each year. Asstudents move towards their senior studies, there is a decrease inthe number of compulsory subjects and an increase in the diversityand range of subjects for selection. It is essential that studentsmake their decisions about subject choices after discussions withtheir family, teachers, advisor and other senior students.

Timeline

1. Stage 5 Information Session – Term 3 Week 72. Familiesreceive survey login details via email – Term 3 Beginning of Week83. Families to enter initial preferences online – due Monday Week10 Term 34. Families receive the timetabled lines for the followingyear and new login details – before the end of

Term 3 holidays5. Families to submit final choices (1st, 2nd and3rd preferences in each line) for semester 1 –

due Monday Week 2 Term 46. Families notified of final electiveallocation for semester 1 the following year – before the end ofTerm 47. Students will make choices for Semester 2 at the end ofTerm 2 2020.

Choices

It is important for students considering studying French orJapanese for their HSC to study one unit per semester of theirintended language. Whilst NESA (NSW Education Standards Authority)states it is not mandatory to study a language continuously inStage 5 to enter the Continuers course in Years 11 and 12, it isrecommended as the vast majority of the state cohort will have doneso if they are at TAS. One of the major advantages of this newoffering is that students are able to sample different coursesduring Stage 5 to help determine what to study for their HSC.Keeping in this in mind during this selection process is highlyrecommended.

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English

Contact Person: Mrs Gill Downes [emailprotected]

Rationale

The study of English is designed to develop a love of literatureand learning and be challenging and enjoyable. It develops skillsto enable students to experiment with ideas and expression, tobecome active, independent and lifelong learners, to work with eachother and to reflect on their learning.Over Stage 5, students mustread, listen to and view a variety of texts that are appropriate totheir needs, interests and abilities. These texts becomeincreasingly sophisticated as students move from Stage 4 to Stage5.

Brief Description

Through responding and composing texts, students learn about thepower, value and art of the English language for communication,knowledge and enjoyment. By composing and responding withimagination, feeling, logic and conviction, students developunderstanding of themselves and of human experience and culture.They develop clear and precise skills in speaking, listening,reading, writing, viewing and representing, and knowledge andunderstanding of language forms and features and structures oftexts.

Cost: NilRelated Electives: Any Extension EnglishelectivesRelated HSC Subjects:All students must study at least twounits of English in Year 11 and 12: English Standard, EnglishAdvanced, English Studies, English Extension 1, English Extension 2(Year 12 only)

Core Subjects

History

Contact Person: Mr David Toakley [emailprotected]

Rationale

History is a process of inquiry into the past that helps toexplain how people, events and forces from the past have shaped ourworld. It provides opportunities for students to explore humanactions and achievements in a range of contexts. Students becomeaware that history is all around us and that historical informationmay be drawn from the physical remains of the past as well aswritten, visual and oral sources of evidence. It introduces theidea that History contains many stories and that there is neveronly one uncontested version. There are many differing perspectiveswithin a nation’s history, and historians may interpret eventsdifferently depending on their point of view andthe sources theyhave used. The study of History strengthens an appreciation for andan understanding of civics and citizenship. It also providesbroader insights into the historical experiences of differentcultural groups within our society and how various groups havestruggled for civil rights.

Brief Description

In Stage 5 the overview units of ‘The Making of the ModernWorld’ and ‘The Modern World and Australia’ are supplemented by thecompulsory Depth Studies of ‘Australians at War (WWI and WWII)’and‘Rights and Freedoms (1945-present)’. Further depth studies arechosen from ‘Making a Better World?.’ ‘Australia and Asia’, ‘TheGlobalising World’or a school-developed topic drawn from either ofthe two overview topics.

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History and Geography are taught as a single compulsory HSIEsubject in Years 9 and 10 on a semester rotation.

Cost: Excursion costs for site visitsRelated electives: HistoryI Should Know About, The history and geography of conflict in theMiddle East, Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, EuropeanEmpiresRelated HSC subjects: Ancient History, Modern History,History Extension

Geography

Contact Person: Mr David Toakley [emailprotected]

Rationale

The study of Geography provides a framework on which to build anoverall view of the world. It assists in the development of thecapacity to understand, cope with and enjoy that world andincreases the understanding of the various forms of natural andcultural features on the land. It assists students to recognise andrespond to the constant changes taking place in the immediateenvironment, and at regional, national and international levels.Since most geographical studies occur in real-life situations,students are able to use their experiences to develop concepts andacquire problem solving skills. Geography contributes towardsimprovements in the quality of life and encourages students toaccept community responsibilities.

Core Subjects

Brief Description

In Years 9 and 10, students will concentrate on AustralianGeography. This is covered in four topics: • InvestigatingAustralia’s Physical Environment • Changing Australian Communities• Issues in Australian Environments • Australia in its Regional andGlobal Context The new Geography course is assessed using a widerange of tasks, including research, the use of ICTs andgeographical skills and fieldwork. Selected students willparticipate in the Australian Geography Competition.

Cost: Excursion costs for fieldworkRelated electives:Sustainability; Into Africa; The history and geography of theconflict in the Middle EastRelated HSC Subjects: Geography

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Mathematics

Contact Person: Ms Amanda Robins [emailprotected]

Rationale

Mathematics is a reasoning and creative activity employingabstraction and generalisationto identify, describe and applypatterns and relationships. Mathematics is integral to scientificand technological advances in many fields of endeavour. In additionto its practical applications, the study of mathematics is avaluable pursuit in its own right, providing opportunities fororiginality, challenge and leisure.

Stage 5 Mathematics continues to develop students’ knowledge,skills and understanding in Number and Algebra, Measurement andGeometry, and Statistics and Probability. It focuses on developingincreasingly sophisticated and refined mathematical understanding,fluency, communication, logical reasoning, analytical thought andproblem-solving skills. These capabilities enable students torespond to familiar and unfamiliar situations by employingstrategies to make informed decisions and solve problems relevantto their further education and everyday lives.

Structure

Students exhibit a wide range of mathematical skills, levels ofcompetence, and aspirations.Some students may be aiming to developthe mathematical skills necessary to function in daily life andvarious work contexts. Other students may seek to address morechallenging mathematics to prepare them for the highest-levelcourses in Year 11 and Year12. For this reason, Stage 5 has threesubstages; Stage 5.1, Stage 5.2 and Stage 5.3.

These substages are not prescribed courses, and many different‘endpoints’ are possible. As well as studying the Stage 5.1content, the majority of students will study some or all of theStage 5.2 content. Similarly, as well as studying the Stage 5.2content, many students will study some or all of the Stage 5.3content. The content in these substages becomes more demanding ateach level.

Aim The aim for students in Stage 5 is to: • be confident,creative users and communicators of mathematics, able toinvestigate, represent and interpret situations in their personaland work lives and as active citizens • develop an increasinglysophisticated understanding of mathematical concepts and fluencywith mathematical processes, and be able to pose and solve problemsand reason in Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, andStatistics and Probability• recognise connections between the areasof mathematics and other disciplines and appreciate mathematics asan accessible, enjoyable discipline to study, and an importantaspect of lifelong learning.

Cost: Nil Related electives: Extension Mathematics, Astrophysicsand Projectile Motion, Personal Finance and Investing, Accounting,EngineeringRelated HSC Subjects: Mathematics, Mathematics Extension1, Mathematics Extension 2

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Personal Development, Health and Physical Education

Contact Person: Mr Mark Taylor [emailprotected]

Rationale

The PDHPE course plays a fundamental role when educatingstudents in ways of preventing social and health problems and, ifthey exist, ways of minimising their effect. Ideally, the coursewill help students to make informed decisions about their lifestylewhich takes into account the values of the family, culture andreligion to which they may belong.

Brief Description

The three areas of PDHPE are integrated in order to create acoherent structure to help students develop a comprehensiveunderstanding of the relationship between personal development andthe promotion of public health and well being.

The three strands of study include:• Health, Wellbeing andRelationships• Movement Skill and Performance • Healthy, Safe andAcrive Lifestyles

Contexts for Learning

The PDHPE syllabus addresses contemporary health and physicalactivity concepts important to students. These are embedded in anage and Stage-appropriate manner through the content.

Core Subjects

These contexts include:• alcohol and other drugs• food andnutrition• personal identity• mental health and wellbeing•relationships• sexuality and sexual health• safety• health benefitsof physical activity• fundamental movement skills• rhythmic andexpressive movement• individual/group/team physical activities•initiative/challenge physical activities• aquatics• ifelongphysical activities.

Cost: Nil Related Electives: Any PDHPE electiveRelated HSCSubjects: PDHPE

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Science

Contact Person: Mr Alasdair Hey [emailprotected]

Rationale

Science provides a distinctive view and way of looking at theworld. The study of science has led to an evolving body ofknowledge derived from experimental investigation of phenomena.This knowledge allows us to make sense of the biological, physicaland technological world. That knowledge,in its social and culturalcontext, provides a basis for making choices and ethical decisionsabout local and global applications and implications of science.The study of science provides opportunities for students to developthe skills of working scientifically by questioning and predicting,planning and conducting investigations, processing and analysingdata and information, problem solving and communicating. A morethorough statement of the rationale of the science curriculum isavailable on NESA website.

Brief Description

In Years 9 and 10, students continue to develop the skills andprocesses of Working Scientifically. Units of work are based on thePhysical World, Earth and Space, the Living World and the ChemicalWorld. Students are required to undertake an individual researchproject which may form part of our school assessment program. Inmost years, the extension Year 10 Science class participates in theUniversity of Newcastle Science and Engineering Challenge. Successlocally may mean that we then qualify to travel to Newcastle toparticipate in the State and National Finals of the Challenge.Participation in the finals involves a trip to Newcastle and anovernight stay in suitable accommodation.

Another opportunity for students to demonstrate their scientificthinking skills is by participation in the ICAS ScienceCompetition.

The Stage 5 program is an essential foundation for senior (Stage6) studies in Science. Students will have sufficient expertise withall aspects of Science to be able to choose among the 2 unitcourses (Chemistry, Biology and Physics) offered in Years 11 and12.

Cost: Associated excursion and competition costs Relatedelectives: Any listed under the science facultyRelated HSCSubjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics

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The Creative Experience

This elective course focuses on developing and refining theskills of creative composition. It is based on the theory thatthere are only seven plots in existence, and that all textsproduced are merely variations on these basic story lines. Studentswill examine the basis for American scholar Christopher Booker’sSeven Basic Plots: Why We Tell Stories, considering notions ofappropriation and transformation.

They will also consider Kurt Vonnegut’s story shapes.Studentsexplore the idea that stories are often appropriated because theyhold “truths”about the human condition which cross all social,historical and cultural boundaries. Students will develop skills inthe process of composing creative texts and the extensive drafting,editing and polishing required to succeed in creating a tightlywoven text.

This course aims to:• engage students in critical analysis ofpopular

culture• develop students’ acquisition of composition

skills in a broad range of contexts• strengthen the explicitteaching of how meaning

is created in fiction• allow students to explore variedpresentations of

similar subject matter Cost: NilRelated electives: Fact v.Fiction – Studying and Composing Historical Fiction; The Masters -The Canon and Cultural Heritage; What If? - Speculative FictionRelated HSC subjects: English Advanced, English Extension 1,English Extension 2

Fact v Fiction – Studying and Composing Historical Fiction

This elective course involves responding to and composinghistorical fiction. Students complete a close study of ONEhistorical fiction text. Students then choose an area of historicalinterest and, after conducting research, compose their ownhistorical fiction text. Students will also have the opportunity tostudy of variety of other historical fiction texts.

This course aims to:• engage students in the process ofcomposing an

extended text• expose students to the complexities of

composing historical fiction• strengthen the explicit teachingof narrative

development• develop the research skills needed for the

creation of a sustained composition

Cost: NilRelated electives: The Creative Experience; The Masters- The Canon and Cultural Heritage; What If? - Speculative FictionRelated HSC subjects: English Advanced, English Extension 1,English Extension 2, Modern History, Ancient History

Electives - Extension Subjects

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The Masters - The Canon and Cultural Heritage

This elective is designed for students who enjoy reading andhave a particular interest in developing familiarity with the textsthat have significantly influenced today’s world. Students will beexposed to classics from the Western Canon, modern contemporarytexts and texts from other cultures. Two texts per term will beconsidered and holiday reading is a requirement of this course.This course will be significant for students who may considerstudying Advanced and Extension English in Stage 6.

This course aims to:• allow students to explore classicliterature• consider how the impact of such literature on

contemporary society• explore notions of textual integrity

Cost: NilRelated electives: The Creative Experience; Fact vFiction – Studying and Composing Historical Fiction; What If? -Speculative FictionRelated HSC subjects: English Advanced, EnglishExtension 1, English Extension 2

What If? - Speculative Fiction

In this elective students study the genre of speculativefiction. Speculative fiction is a genre which speculates aboutworlds that are unlike reality. At its heart, it usually involves avision of the future, or an alternate world, which is used by anauthor to comment on and explore ideas about their own society.This is where the speculation occurs as such stories are typicallyconcerned with the future of humanity. It is concerned with wherehumanity is currently, and more importantly, where it is headed.Speculative fiction can be seen as “the roadmap to tomorrow”. Theterm “speculative fiction” has three historically located meanings:a subgenre of science fiction that deals with human rather thantechnological problems, a genre distinct from and opposite toscience fiction in its exclusive focus on possible futures, and asuper category for all genres that deliberately depart fromimitating “consensus reality” of everyday experience.

This course aims to:• develop understanding of the genre of

speculative fiction• expose students to the complexities of

composing speculative fiction• focus on the explicit teaching ofand

experimenting with narrative development• encourage students torespond to and compose

speculative fiction

Cost: NilRelated electives: The Creative Experience; Fact vFiction – Studying and Composing Historical Fiction; The Masters -The Canon and Cultural HeritageRelated HSC subjects: EnglishStandard, English Advanced, English Extension 1, English Extension2

Electives - Extension Subjects

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Extension Mathematics Electives

The study of Extension Mathematics provides opportunities toexplore topics in Mathematics that are not in the current Stage 5Syllabus and yet are powerful units of work to prepare students forfurther study in Mathematics at both a secondary and tertiarylevel.

Extension Mathematics: Algorithmic Thinking

Algorithmic thinking is a natural part of part of mathematicsthat is becoming more important as a critical skill in STEMcareers. Algorithmic thinking is a way of getting to a solutionthrough the clear definition of the steps needed. Rather thancoming up with a single answer to a problem students developalgorithms. They are instructions or rules that if followedprecisely (whether by a person or a computer) leads to answers toboth the original and similar problems. While this topic has stronglinks to computer programming it is more about the language andthinking behind the code, looking at the most efficient way tosolve problems. There is a significant focus on Logic &Analysis and this has broad applications across a wide variety ofdisciplines.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Extension Mathematics: Number Theory& Set Theory, Extension Mathematics: Adventures in Numberland,Extension Mathematics: Cryptography, Computer Game DevelopmentRelated HSC subjects: Mathematics, Mathematics Extension 1,Mathematics Extension 2, Physics, Software Design &Development

Extension Mathematics: Cryptography

Throughout history humans have devised ways to send secretmessages. At the heart of this is the mathematical discipline knownas cryptography.Throughout this semester students will study theancient art of polyalphabetic ciphers, explore the use of one-timepads and the Enigma machine during wartime along with otherdevelopments in code making. They will then learn more about modernday cryptography as they investigate the importance of primenumbers in keeping data safe and secure online.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Extension Mathematics: Adventures inNumberland, Extension Mathematics: Algorithmic Thinking, ExtensionMathematics: Number Theory & Set Theory, Computer GameDevelopmentRelated HSC subjects: Mathematics, Mathematics Extension1, Mathematics Extension 2, Software Design & Development

Extension Mathematics: Number Theory & Set Theory

This elective provides students with knowledge and skills inNumber Theory. Number Theory is known as the “Queen of Mathematics”as it is the foundation for much of the work in mathematics.Students will explore problems such as Goldbach’s conjecture andLagrange’s four-square theorem. While in Set Theory students willstudy advanced probability, looking in depth at Pascal’s Triangleand its many applications, while introducing a formal notation whenworking with Venn Diagrams and multi-stage events.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Extension Mathematics: AlgorithmicThinking, Extension Mathematics: Adventures in Numberland,Extension Mathematics: CryptographyRelated HSC subjects:Mathematics, Mathematics Extension 1, Mathematics Extension 2

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Extension Mathematics: Adventures in Numberland

For centuries mathematicians have been fascinated by the strangeand unusual properties of our number system. Asking questions aboutour number system such as: Why did zero take so long to discover?Is a base 10 system even the most effective one? Howdo babies thinkabout maths? How does Maths relate to a Presidential election?Based on the books by Alex Bellos this unit explores a number ofstrange and wonderful number facts and theorems while developinginvestigation and problem solving skills that are useful in seniorstudy of Mathematics.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Extension Mathematics: Cryptography,Extension Mathematics: Algorithmic Thinking, Extension Mathematics:Number Theory & Set TheoryRelated HSC subjects: Mathematics,Mathematics Extension 1, Mathematics Extension 2

Aviation: City in the Sky

Right now there are over a million people travelling through ourskies. Every moment of every day, aviators keep aloft more peoplethan the entire population of Tasmania, NT and ACT combined - acity in the sky. Have you ever wished to soar with the birds andnavigate the skies? Wondered how designers and engineers buildaeroplanes? Many people are fascinated by flight and will one daybecome part of an industry that contributes 3.5% to the world’sGDP.

Philosophy

This course provides students with the opportunity to questionand develop their critical and analytical reasoning skills whiledeveloping their ability to express their thoughts and opinions. Itis designed to introduce students to the discipline and its mainareas of study. The course will begin by focusing on the moreconcrete philosophical teachings and as the students develop theirunderstanding move towards abstract concepts.

Topics will include: • Metaphilosophy and Reasoning - Whatis

Philosophy?• Ethics - personal level of philosophy. Thistopic

focuses on contemporary issues.• Metaphysics – the study ofexistence. – What is?• Logic – looking at the validity ofargument.

Electives - Extension Subjects

This elective course aims to provide students with fundamentalknowledge required by pilots of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA),rotary and fixed wing aircraft. Topics will include:

• aerodynamics• aircraft general knowledge• radio communication•aircraft performance & flight safety• aerial navigation• airlaw• meteorology Cost: Optional trial flight experienceRelatedElectives: Astrophysics and Projectile Motion, ExtensionMathematics electivesRelated HSC Subjects: Physics, Extension 1Mathematics

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Electives

Studying the history of the Earth is also vital to understandingwhat will happen to the planet and its lifeforms as climates andenvironments change. This unit will also develop scientific skillsthat are essential in Palaeontology and other science units. Thisunit incorporates an understanding of the chemistry of rocks andthe biology of organisms that allow us to better interpret fossils.It incorporates a STEM focus as we look at how technology andmathematical programs have allowed us a better understanding of howdinosaurs may have moved and link to the ability to track possibleextinction events (e.g. large asteroids in our solar system).

The topics may include:

• Evolution of Species: dinosaurs to birds, mammals to theoceans, early life onto land

• Past Earth Environments: Snowball Earth, Carboniferous forestsand giant insects, the early atmosphere

• Interpreting Fossils: including trace fossils (e.g. burrowsand tracks)

• Fossil Identification• Formation of Fossils• BiologicalDrawings• Mass Extinctions

Cost: Nil Related Electives: Working Scientifically Related HSCSubjects: Chemistry, Biology, Investigating Science, Earth andEnvironmental Science

Palaeontology and the Evolving Earth

Say “palaeontology” and everybody thinks of dinosaurs and SamNeil and his ‘Velociraptor’ talon. But how did we get from nothingto dinosaurs to us? What weird and wonderful creatures existedalong the way? How has the Earth changed over time to supportdifferent forms of life? How does one species over take another andwhy do others die off completely? What really happened to thedinosaurs? In this unit we explore the history of life and Earthitself. Throughout the geological past the Earth has seen manystages and has left us with all sorts of evidence on what has comebefore.

Science

Students are expected to complete one independent assignment aswell as regular journal entries.

Cost: NilRelated electives: NilRelated HSC subjects: EnglishAdvanced, English Extension 1, English Extension 2

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Electives

Electrons to Electrochemical cells

Students will develop a deeper understanding of the Stage 5chemistry content which will lead to a more familiar environment ifchoosing Chemistry in Year 11 and 12. This course is designed togain a greater understanding of the chemical properties of elementsand how they react. Experiments will be used to demonstrateextraction techniques, the use of electrochemical cells and basicbattery systems, titration techniques, Acid-Base interactions andbasic stoichiometry.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Astrophysics and ProjectileMotionRelated HSC subjects: Chemistry

Modern Medicines

Students build knowledge and understanding of medicine and howit works on the human body. Students investigate different aspectsof modern medicine, how these are discovered and the processesinvolved in their developments. Effects of financial, social, andcultural implications of modern medicine will be investigated.Professionals from different aspects of the medical field will beinvited to speak and answer questions in a Q & A style forum. Aresearch project and presentation will be assessable

Cost: NilRelated electives: Working Scientifically, Astrophysicsand Projectile MotionRelated HSC subjects: Biology

Astrophysics and Projectile Motion

This course will be divided into two units; Astrophysics andProjectile Motion. Students will examine important concepts inAstrophysics including; the existence of life in the Universe, theproperties of Dark Matter and Dark Energy and the nature and usesof Optics in an attempt to answer these concepts. Projectile Motionwill involve a study of motion, involving displacement, velocityand acceleration along with the Mathematics to describe thetrajectory of moving bodies.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Electrons to Electrochemical CellsRelated HSC subjects: Physics, Mathematics, Mathematics Extension1

Working Scientifically

Working Scientifically is a STEM elective in which studentsdevelop a deeper understanding of the process of scientific reportwriting. This elective teaches students to think more criticallyabout observations and make informed decisions about availableevidence. This elective has a significant practical component inwhich students use Arduino electronic modules to analyse andcontrol chemical reactions and then use this understanding to formthe basis of their independent scientific investigation. They willgain practical skills and improve their ability to understand whatis required from a scientific practical report and this will assistwith all science related subjects in Year 11 and 12.

Cost: $20 (optional: competition entry fees)Related electives:Electrons to Electrochemical Cells, From Cells to Ecosystems,Astrophysics and Projectile MotionRelated HSC subjects: Physics,Chemistry, Biology

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The Future of Food

Heston Blumenthal captured the imagination of millions with hisculinary creations, foods that tasted nothing like they appeared.Food is the single great unifier across cultures. Food nourishes,heals and provides comfort. Where is the future of food takingus?

In this unit we explore the way in which food has becometransformed from a natural product to a processed commodity. Theworld will need to rethink its approach to food as the populationgrows and the planet warms. Sustainable farming is of criticalimportance. And yet, food is a chemical, and we need to ensure asafe supply of ingredients for all that consume it.

This unit incorporates an understanding of the chemistry of foodand the biology of organisms that can enhance or destroy food. Itincorporates technology and a STEM focus when we look at futurefoods, such as 3D printed foods.

The topics may include:• Food Safety and Handling• Paddock toPlate• Natural Foods• Food as Medicine• From Food to Cosmetics•Future Food: Chemicals as Food• Food as Art, 3D Food Printing andEdible Ink

Cost: NILRelated Electives: Working ScientificallyRelated HSCSubjects: Chemistry, Biology

Operation: Robotic Medicine

Ever wondered what it must be like to be a surgeon in a modernworld? What is robotic assisted surgery or remote surgery and howis it performed by robots? Learn about medical imaging techniquesused in modern medicine. Learn about remote surgery and remotesurgery robotics. Build a robotic arm and program it to performremote simulated surgery. Work as part of a robotic team tocomplete a complex simulated surgery. This unit incorporates anunderstanding of the physics of medical imaging and biology throughthe field of anatomy. It also involves learning elementary skillsin programming and robotic engineering to perform the simulated,remote surgery. Topics will Include:• Medical Imaging• Anatomy•Arduino Programming• Robotics• Remote Simulated Surgery RelatedElectives: The Future of Food, Extension MathematicselectivesRelated HSC Subjects: Physics, Biology, EngineeringStudies, Extension 1 Mathematics

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Electives

Curriculum Support (Elective) Years 9 & 10

This elective is designed for students who wish to consolidateand develop fundamental literacy skills. Skills developed in thiscourse will directly benefit studies in all literacy rich subjectsin Stage 5. The unit allows for students to work on ways ofdeveloping their composition and comprehension skills across avariety of different subjects’; including literacy for numeracy,Science, History, Geography and any other subjects course membersmay request. Support and assistance in assessment work across allsubject areas will be a component of this course.

Students studying Curriculum Support will undertake unitsdesigned to develop fundamental Reading, Writing, Speaking andSpelling skills.

• Text types for composition – persuasive writing, essays,reports, narrative, HSIE Research Action Project

• Text types for comprehension – persuasive texts, essays,reports, drama, poetry

• Support and assistance in assessment work across all subjectareas.

Criteria for Year 9Students who apply for this subject should:•be genuinely looking to improve their literacy

skills across all subjects• be motivated workers• will havepreviously been receiving additional support in Years 7 or 8,unless new to the school in Year 9

Positions will be strictly limited and determined by theAcademic Support Coordinator in consultation with the EnglishCoordinator and the Director of Studies.

Academic SupportCriteria for Year 10 Students who apply for thissubject should:• be genuinely looking to improve their literacy

skills across all subjects• be motivated workers• will havepreviously been an English Plus student in Years 7 or 8, unless newto the school in Year 10 Positions will be strictly limited anddetermined by the Academic Support

Coordinator in consultation with the English Coordinator and theDirector of Studies.

Cost: NilRelated HSC subjects: Students considering enrolling ina School Based Traineeship (English Studies) or EnglishStandard

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Languages - FrenchFrancophones

France is one of the leading destinations for travelers and theability to communicate in French enriches this experience. In thisunit, we foster confidence in speaking, listening, reading andwriting in French as we take a journey through iconic and historicParis and the French countryside. French is not only the officiallanguage of France and francophone countries, but also anadministrative and diplomatic language of the world, next toEnglish and Mandarin. French is also the official language of alarge number of international organisations such as the UnitedNations and the European Union. To be a francophone gives you moremeaningful interactions with people and opens new possibilities fortravel and work. En plus, the biennial French Tour takes place in2020 and is offered to students participating in this course. Thisexciting trip is a must, exposing students to the wonders of Frenchculture, food, history, architecture and outstanding scenery.

Cost: Nil

Related electives: Destination France, French Tour andParlez-vous français? Related HSC subjects: French Continuers,French Extension

Destination France!

Calling all Francophiles to explore France and its romanticculture! If you are someone who has a strong interest in andadmiration of all things French, this is the unit for you.Usingvisual arts, film and music to enrich understanding of Frenchlanguage and culture, we traverse the country from the Alps to thebeaches of the Cote d’Azur and along the rugged coastline ofBrittany.

Learning about various modes of transport and the types ofaccommodation we could find along the way, we make our way aroundthe cultural regions of France and sample the best foods they haveto offer. The French celebrate with food and French food is acelebration! We discover typical regional cuisine like crêpes (andwe eat some too) and more unusual dishes like escargot! We look atthe importance of food to the French way of life and link lagastronomie (the practice and art of choosing, cooking and eatinggood food) to everyday life in France.En plus, the biennial FrenchTour takes place in 2020 and is offered to students participatingin this course. This exciting trip is a must, exposing students tothe wonders of French culture, food, history, architecture andoutstanding scenery.

Cost: NilRelated electives: French Tour, Parlez-vous français?and FrancophonesRelated HSC subjects: French Continuers, FrenchExtension

Parlez-vous français?

We study a range of popular pastimes and leisure activitiespursued by the French, building confidence in speaking, listening,reading and writing, giving new insights into l’esprit Français.Students study the language features necessary for understandingand composing texts in French. We also focus on masteringconversational skills, talking about where you’re from and whatyou’re passionate about, in a way that would make anyone thinkyou’re a native francophone! This will set students up for puttingthese skills and knowledge into practice as we prepare for theexciting 2020 French Study Tour!

Cost: NilRelated electives: Destination France, French Tour andFrancophonesRelated HSC subjects: French Continuers, FrenchExtension

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Electives

French Tour

Unravel fantastic French films, be inspired by French literatureand become a fan of funky French Celtic rap. Check out sports likeParcour and cheer les Bleus (the French soccer team) at their homeground of Stade de France in Paris. Follow the Tour de France andlearn things about this cycling race that you may not know. Wedelve in to some of the most interesting and iconic Frenchfestivals like the Cannes Film Festival, the American Film Festivaland Brittany’s Celtic Music Festival. The importance of BastilleDay, Easter and Christmas celebrations and many other events suchas the breathtaking spectacle of the Versailles Festival areexplored.

The French are serious about their leisure time and spend it ina wide variety of ways. Where can you ski in the morning and swimin the ocean in the afternoon on the same day? Find out in thisunit as we learn to fit into French society and prepare for the2020 France Study Tour. Bon voyage!

Cost: NilRelated electives: Destination France, Parlez-vousfrançais? and FrancophonesRelated HSC subjects: French Continuers,French Extension

School Exchange and Homestay

This Unit is to prepare students for experiencing a homestay andparticipating on a school exchange. This course is language basedand will assist students with the language necessary to make themost from both experiences. In this School Exchange section of thecourse, students will learn about Japanese schools, subjects, clubactivities and the daily routine of Year 9 and 10 students.Students will have the opportunity to interview Japanese studentsto find out about their life at school. The Homestay component ofthe course will explore Japanese houses, etiquette and describingrooms. Students will have the opportunity to learn the languageappropriate for living in a Japanese house and to be able toactively participate in a conversation with the host family. Wewill also explore living in a boarding house at a school likeMeitoku Gijuku. Students in Year 10 have the opportunity to liveand attend school in Japan as an exchange student at Meitoku Gijukufor two months during Term 4.

Cost: Nil Related electives: Leisure and Entertainment in Japan,Introduction to Anime and Manga, and 2020 Olympics in Japan RelatedHSC subjects: Japanese Continuers and Japanese Beginners

Languages - Japanese

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Introduction to Anime and Manga

Students will learn about the wonderful world of Japanese mangaand anime. Young people in Japan and around the world are obsessedwith this art form and we will explore the history and styleswithin this culture. This unit allows students to explore thedifferent formats of anime and manga and enhance their knowledge ofJapanese society, culture and the people. Students will create amanga book (yes, writing it from back to front) and analyse anumber of different types of anime. This course is ideal forstudents who have a strong interest in Anime and Manga and wish toexplore this area further. We will learn how to draw differentcharacters, use of onomatopoeia and language. You will also explorethe fashion and language appropriate for the different styles usedby the famous artists in Japan. You will also be able to learn thelanguage and culture of another society that is significantlydifferent to your own.

Cost: Nil Related electives: Leisure and Entertainment in Japanand 2020 Olympics in Japan, School Exchange and Homestay RelatedHSC subjects: Japanese Continuers and Japanese Beginners

2020 Olympics in Japan

This Unit will focus on the upcoming 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. Wewill look at the events taking place and the countriesparticipating in the Olympics. Students will imagine they are aguide for a group of Australians visiting Tokyo. They will assistthe group with organising tickets, creating an itinerary in andaround Tokyo and acting as a Japanese translator for a variety ofsituations. Students will create a booklet and video clips toassist first time travellers to Japan from arriving at NaritaAirport to returning to Australia with appropriate souvenirs. Thebooklet and video clips will include language and advice for:

• Booking accommodation• Eating in a restaurant• Tokyo transportsystem• Places to visit in and around Tokyo• Location of thedifferent Olympic events

With the Olympics taking place during this course and in theappropriate time zone, we will be able to stay up to date andreport on events live in the classroom.

Cost: Nil Related electives: Introduction to Anime and Manga,and Leisure and Entertainment in Japan and School Exchange andHomestay Related HSC subjects: Japanese Continuers and JapaneseBeginners

Electives

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Electives

Leisure and Entertainment in Japan

This unit will allow students to explore modern Japanese cultureincluding Cosplay, fashion, cat cafe and manga. We will explore howteenagers use their spare time through a variety of leisureactivities eg, karaoke, skiing and amusement parks. Students willhave the opportunity to sing popular songs, look at the weird andwonderful fashion of Harajuku and popular holiday places that youngpeople visit.

Students will be able to compare the lifestyles of Japanese andAustralian youth and appreciate the cultural differences andreasons for the different lifestyles.

Costs: NilRelated electives: 2020 Olympics in Japan,Introduction to Anime and Manga and School Exchange andHomestayRelated HSC subjects: Japanese Continuers and JapaneseBeginners

Creative Arts - DramaStaging a Play

This unit allows you to learn about, and experience, the joy andexcitement of staging and performing a theatrical production.You’ll work as a theatre company to choose a script, plan out avision, and work through rehearsals towards performance, all thewhile building or getting all the production and technical elementstogether. At the end of the unit you’ll be responsible for sellingtickets and getting an audience through the doors to enjoy the hardwork exerted throughout the semester.

So, want to walk the stage as an Actor? Curious about what itwould be like to sit in the Director’s chair? Fancy yourself a Setor Lighting Designer? Want to get creative with outfits as aCostume Designer? How about creating interesting social mediamarketing campaigns? Staging a play could involve all theseactivities and many more to create an incredible, powerful andwildly fun theatrical experience for an audience.

Cost: $20 (ticket to touring production)Related electives:Acting Centre Stage, Write, Direct, Perform, Dangerous DramaRelatedHSC subjects: Drama, English

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Swashbuckling Shakespeare

Some of the most exciting, comedic, dramatic and epic plays werepenned by Shakespeare over 400 years ago. This unit is all aboutgetting you comfortable with interpreting and performingShakespeare, finding new ways into his iconic characters and scenesand transforming these classic works into new, contemporary piecesof theatre. You’ll get to experience the richness and power of hisdramas, the wacky joy to be found in his comedies and thebloodthirsty delights of his tragedies. And to do this you’lldevelop a broad range of performance skills that include stagecombat and swordplay, circus tricks, movement and physical theatre,voice training and slapstick comedy. So, whether you want toperform some of the greatest lines ever written, you love the ideaof transforming Macbeth into a high-octane action extravaganza, oryou just hope to make the language of Shakespeare lessintimidating, hold a skull and say ‘To be!’ For this shalt truly bethe most fun to be had with Shakespeare. Cost: $20 (ticket totouring production) Related electives: Acting Centre Stage, Staginga Play Related HSC Subjects: Drama, Advanced English, EnglishExtension 1

Dangerous Drama

Theatre has been used as a powerful weapon for social criticismand change and theatre makers have frequently taken on the mantleof ‘revolutionary’ as they challenge social, cultural and politicalconditions. This unit allows students to explore differenthistorical and cultural theatre styles, theatre practitioners orplays that have challenged audiences and attacked the wrongs in theworld. From the Epic Theatre of Bertolt Brecht that challenged NaziGermany and social hypocrisy to the emergence of Verbatim Theatreand the telling of real stories and words, the course looks at therich heritage of theatrical protest. Activities and workshops willsee the students performing different scripted material andimprovising new pieces in different performance styles and dramaticforms.

The unit builds towards students forming a group to workcollaboratively to create an original piece of theatre thatexplores an important social issue they are personally interested.Their final work will be part of an audience showcase at the end ofthe course.

Cost: $20 (ticket to touring production)Related electives:Staging a Play, Acting Centre Stage, Write, Direct, PerformRelatedHSC subjects: Drama

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Comedy: Make ‘em Laugh

We have always been fascinated with comedy and making anaudience laugh has been a noble pursuit of actors and theatremakers since before the time of the Ancient Greeks. In this unitstudents will explore a broad range of comedic forms includingimprovisation, slapstick, Commedia dell’arte, clowning, farce andscripted comedies. The course is about you developing acting andperformance skills by working with different performanceconventions to entertain, amuse and excite. You will also developcollaborative skills as you devise and create new theatrical piecesin the chosen styles.

The unit builds to you working in a performance style as a groupto create an original work for an audience to show them just howzany, buffoonish and utterly ridiculous you can be. Cost: $20(ticket to touring production)Related electives: Acting CentreStage, Swashbuckling ShakespeareRelated HSC Subjects: Drama

Acting Centre Stage

While it takes a diverse group of people to stage a play theatrestill remains first and foremost the actor’s medium. Acting is anincredibly demanding endeavour that asks a person to be a master oftheir body, voice, emotions and mind while being in front of eagerand expectant faces. This unit is all about developing your skillsas an actor (be you a first-timer or already experienced) to bemore confident and controlled on the stage and hopefully allow youto discover what you are truly capable of in performance.

Electives

Write, Direct, Perform

Theatre productions don’t always need to begin with a script -often an ensemble collaborates together to create an exciting andoriginal work based upon the skills and interests of the group. Inthis unit you will share the roles of Playwright, Director andPerformer to create, stage and perform a play the class has devisedtogether.

You’ll learn about the features of scripts and the scriptwritingprocess, ultimately competing in a writing competition with thewinning works developed further through the course to be staged foran audience. From there you’ll learn about the role of the Directorin interpreting and imagining a script in performance, with membersof the class going through an audition process to be cast in one ofthe scripts.

We will examine different approaches to acting and actortraining and use the advice and wisdom of many differentpractitioners to unlock and refine your work. We’ll also look intohow scripts can be unpacked and interpreted and what clues existwithin text to allow engaging or unique interpretations forperformance. You will have the chance to test your mettle andexperience a rigorous audition process with mock auditions held infront of an audition panel to receive detailed feedback on yourpreparation and performance. The unit is an opportunity for you toreally sink your teeth into scripted Drama and you’ll be workingwith monologues, duologues and group scenes in a range of stylesand areas that you are most passionate about.

Cost: $20 (ticket to touring production)Related electives:Staging a Play, Swashbuckling Shakespeare, Breaking Bard, Comedy:Make ‘em Laugh, Write, Direct, PerformRelated HSC subjects:Drama

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Creative Arts - Visual Arts

Bark-Works: Dogs in Art

Love your own cute pooch, artists have been obsessed with dogsfor thousands of years; our furry friends were even painted on thewalls of caves by our distant ancestors. Since then, dogs have beenpresent everywhere in art. Dogs are one of the most popularsubjects for painting, sculpture, and photography. Throughout arthistory, they’ve made appearances in the mosaics of Rome, in thehunting scenes of the Middle Ages, in lap dog portraits in the 19thcentury and in the 20th century multiple Pop Art images of DavidHockney and Andy Warhol, they have even been immortalized asballoons! That’s just a small fraction of the dog art that existsbetween the past and today. Canines are living symbols ofprotection, loyalty, and unconditional love, so it’s easy to seewhy they’ve been such a large and colourful part of our visualhistory.

Keep the history going by adding your own unique dog images tothe gallery of Dogs in Art. We will explore different ways ofdepicting dogs in 2 and 3 dimensions, investigate famous dogs, dogswith famous masters, and take a walk with some of the many dogs inart history. Cost: NilRelated electives: Drawing Human Forms101Related HSC subjects: Visual Arts

You’ll then work on developing the pieces through differentrehearsal activities, including incorporating set and costume,before presenting the final new theatrical work for an audience offriends and family.

Cost: $20 (ticket to touring production)Related electives:Staging a Play, Acting Centre Stage, Dangerous DramaRelated HSCsubjects: Drama

Drawing Human Forms 101Since the dawn of civilisation on thewalls of caves artists have been fascinated by the subject of thehuman form. From the Hellenistic period to the Renaissance andRembrandt to Picasso, a rich heritage exists for students toimmerse themselves in. This unit begins by looking at the Classicalhuman form and developing a formal understanding of the human bodyand essential 2D drawing skills. Their study then combinestraditional and contemporary artmaking incorporating rotoscoping; adigital artmaking technique where the artist draws over frame cellsfrom film using tablets on their laptops, creating dynamic handdrawn animation in 4D.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Bark-Works: Dogs in Art Related HSCsubjects: Visual Arts

Experimental Art Practice

“I throw down the gauntlet to chance. I prepare the ground forthe picture by cleaning my brush over the canvas. Spilling a littleturpentine can also be helpful”– Joan Miro. Artists findinspiration in the unexpected, in the ‘happy accident’ and thisunit challenges students to make artworks with a range of unusualmaterials and practices that will court the unexpected. If you’veever wanted to throw a waterbomb of paint at a canvas, performabsurdist DADA art or use acid to distort a photograph this is thecourse for you. Artists explored range from the Guerrilla Girls’‘not ready to make nice’ art to Pollock’s emotional drip paintings.Bring your own ideas and be ready for some intense clean-ups. Cost:Materials outside of those provided in the courseRelated electives:Street Art and Graffiti, Text in ArtRelated HSC subjects: VisualArts

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Electives

Graphic Design

Technology redefines the world and this is just as true forartists as any other profession. Graphic designers are used in manydifferent capacities to produce work that can define a brand,launch a product or entice an audience. This unit will introducestudents to digital artmaking tools and teach them how to use, orextend their use of, software such as Photoshop, Elements andInDesign. After acquiring skills students will work as part of ateam in the role of a graphic designer to produce a portfolio ofwork in response to a number of briefs. They could be asked tocreate anything from advertising material, website designs, orposters to DVD/CD/Book covers, video game booklets or companymaterials. This unit will not only introduce students to thecompetitive nature of design but equip them with skills that willbe of great use in their artmaking and general lives.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Drawing Human Forms 101Related HSCsubjects: Visual Arts, Design and Technology

Photography and Culture

Since the invention of the camera obscura by Joseph Niepce,people have been drawn to exploring the world around them throughthe camera lens. In this unit students will examine the work of anumber of photographers and appreciate how, just like othermediums, there is a diverse range of approaches to this form ofartmaking. The processes of accomplished photographers such asAnnie Leibovitz and Ansel Adams will guide students through theheritage of photography, moving towards experimental practices andthe modern art landscape. There is a focus on digital photography,including the use of editing software and image enhancement.

Opportunities will exist to learn from local professionalphotographers. By the end of the unit students will have produced aportfolio particular to their interests and will have theopportunity to exhibit their work as a collection, receive peer andexternal review.

Cost: Photographic VAPD ($25)Related electives: GraphicDesignRelated HSC subjects: Visual Arts

Street Art and GraffitiStreet art and graffiti are inextricablylinked, both have existed since ancient times, our ancestors usedgraffiti as a means of communication before the appearance ofwriting. Today the term graffiti means any sort of unsanctionedapplication of a substance, whether it is spray paint, pencilmarkings, or even stickers to the walls and flat spaces of ourtowns and cities. However, scholars, city officials, politiciansand the public have begun to recognize the importance of and valueof these communications and political statements. Street art andGraffiti are now recognized as a legitimate source of academicstudy, so in this course you will; check out the history of streetart and graffiti, learn techniques from the masters, including Blekle Rat, Sheppard Fairy, Swoon and Banksy, and create stencils,stickers and large-scale artworks that will embody your ideas,sense of humour, political views, clever visual anomalies orexpressions of hope. Cost: NilRelated electives: VFX and ScreenMagicRelated HSC subjects: Visual Arts, Design and Technology

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Text in Art

Can’t draw, don’t want to but still want to do art? Well, thisis the course for you. Absolutely no drawing required! Many artistsuse words to create artworks, from Robert Indiana’s big lovesculpture to Annie Voight’s paper cut out love letters, wordsbecome the picture and as we all know “a picture says a thousandwords” so what does a thousand words make?. You will use words tocreate 2D, 3D and 4D artworks. Big words, little words, clever,dumb and serious words will be the elements of your artworks. Sofear not, no faces, no flowers, no animals, just glorious sublimewords. Cost: NilRelated electives: Experimental Art Practice,Street Art and GraffitiRelated HSC subjects: Visual Arts

Creative Arts - Film and Media

Part of their study will involve a familiarisation with filmediting software, as well as use of the TAS Film Production Studio,to enhance their work in post-production. By the end of the unitstudents will have worked collaboratively in a group to produce ashort film to be screened at a gala event for an audience.

Cost: NilRelated electives: VFX and Screen MagicRelated HSCsubjects: Drama, English Extension 2, Visual Arts

VFX and Screen Magic

Explosions! Superpowers! Magic! This unit explores how films canbe made to be exciting, dramatic or imaginative throughpost-production work and editing. Beginning with sound editing,students will shoot short comedic films and see how their work canbe enhanced through creative and silly choices in sound. They willthen be introduced to film compositing and After Effects, creatingan effects portfolio showcasing the use of digital resources andtechniques to make striking super powers or supernatural magic. Theunit builds towards the whole class shooting and editing a completeshort science fiction or fantasy action film to share with anaudience. By the end of the course students will have examineddifferent examples of VFX from television or film and have learneda range of editing techniques, be familiar with new software andhave the skills to create some amazing visual effects.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Writing and Shooting a ShortFilmRelated HSC subjects: Drama, English Extension 2, VisualArts

Writing and Shooting a Short Film

This unit looks at the craft of scriptwriting and the process ofcreating film in an effort to appreciate the challenge, and reward,of working in film. We’ll begin by creating a Sweded Trailer andquickly building up our film literacy skills, learning all aboutdifferent shots, angles, movements and transitions. We’llexperiment with this knowledge in a range of filmmaking activitiesand different roles in a filmmaking team.

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Electives

Musical Mayhem: Ensemble Skills

There is something powerful and exciting about musicians comingtogether to share musical ideas. This unit explores the role ofensembles in a broad range of music styles and allows students tonot only expand the breadth of their music appreciation but alsospecialise in areas of musical interest. This unit provides astrong base for developing ensemble skills through an integratedapproach to the learning experiences of performing, composing andlistening. Students will extend their ensemble skills and have theopportunity to work alongside professional musicians. Students willcreate an ensemble and share the stage with their peers to wow anaudience. Cost: NilRelated electives: Music Performance Craft;Music Innovations; Media and Film SoundtracksRelated HSC subjects:Music 2, Extension Music

Music Performance Craft

Of all art forms Music is perhaps the one that changes mostfrequently, responding to popular trends and reinventing paststyles and forms. This unit allows students to explores differentmusic and performance styles, where each student can focus on theirinstrument and the repertoire that excites them.

Music from many styles, periods, genres and cultures will beexamined in order to gain a greater understanding of how eachstudent’s instrument is used in a variety of contexts. Studentswill have a specialised focus based around their selectedinstrument and a significant part of the unit will work onadvancing their skills. The exploration of musical concepts isemphasised throughout the unit.

Cost: NilRelated Electives: Musical Mayhem: Ensemble Skills,Music Innovations; Media and Film SoundtracksRelated HSC subjects:Music 2, Extension Music

Music InnovationsMusic comes alive through performance, but howdoes music become influential? This unit explores the impact ofmusical innovations through platforms such as YouTube and Spotify;and how performers deal with musical trends and incorporate them intheir own creations. Students will explore the skills necessary tocreate their own arrangements and learn to produce high qualityperformances. This course will provide performance opportunities inand out of the classroom, developing organisational andcommunication skills necessary to pull a performance together. Theunderstanding of musical concepts will be embedded across allaspects of the course and will incorporate skills in performing,listening and composing. Cost: NilRelated Electives: MusicalMayhem: Ensemble Skills. Music Performance Craft, Media and FilmSoundtracksRelated HSC subjects: Music 2, Extension Music

Creative Arts - Music

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Music Tech

This unit looks at the Music Industry in contemporary societyand focuses on the performance and professional production ofmusic. Students will have the opportunity to analyse and performmusic from a variety of contexts ranging from Art Music to PopMusic, from Australia to abroad. Part of this unit will teachskills in music tech such as loop pedals, audio engineering,multi-tracking stations and a range of cool recording software.This will allow students to refine and share their work with anaudience over digital mediums.

Students can select to focus on individual performance orensemble performance as part of this unit. A portfolio will bedeveloped throughout the unit that includes an analysis andrecording of the student’s individual or ensemble performancepiece. As a result of this unit students will have developed skillsin listening, composing and performing.

Cost: Nil

Media and Film Soundtracks

Musicians have an important role to play in the Media and theirwork can be seen in everything from film, theatre and television tovideo games and multimedia. The power of music can be seen in thememusic that instantly conjure images, background music that setstone and atmosphere to dramatic moments and original scores thatdenote iconic texts. Students will research and appreciate the roleof music in media and develop their skills in performance,composition and listening. They could choose to develop theme songsfor television series or video games, create soundtracks for afilm, perform music inspired by theatre or explore many otherpossibilities driven by their creativity and passion. Cost:NilRelated Electives: Musical Mayhem: Ensemble Skills, MusicInnovations; Music InnovationsRelated HSC subjects: Music 2,Extension Music

Related Electives: The Magic of Broadway, Pop and RockSuperstars, Music Inc.Related HSC subjects: Music 1, Music 2,Extension Music

The Magic of Broadway

Discover the magic of Music Theatre and learn how to respondcreatively to songs and scripts on the stage. In this unit,students will learn to collaborate effectively with others in amusical setting and make informed decisions about characterinterpretation. They will learn to develop their skills in ensembleand solo singing in a range of musical theatre repertoire.

As part of this unit, students will examine music theatreproductions from around the world, including the tradition ofmusicals, rock operas, ballets, revues, and music theatre inAustralia. The course will incorporate skills in performing,listening and composing. At the end of the unit, students willdevise, direct, produce and perform a Music Theatre Showcase.

Cost: NilRelated Electives: Music Tech, WPop and RockSuperstars, Music Inc.Related HSC subjects: Music 1, Music 2,Extension Music

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Electives

Music Inc.

Music Inc. is aimed at students who wish to develop their skillsacross all aspects of Music. This course offers the opportunity forstudents to explore a wide range of musical experiences with theoption to choose either performance; song writing; or musicalinvestigation as their major project.

As part of this unit, students will focus on an individual taskselected from their area of interest. A portfolio will be developedthroughout the unit that includes their progression of ideas andreflection. This course provides the opportunity for students tohone in on areas of interest and expertise.

Cost: NilRelated Electives: The Magic of Broadway, Pop and RockSuperstars, Music TechRelated HSC subjects: Music 1, Music 2,Extension Music

Pop and Rock Superstars

Through the last century, music has increasingly become aconduit for society’s voice. Love, hate, tributes, reflections,global issues, cultural understanding and political commentary haveaffected the context of popular and rock music. In this unitstudents will explore the elements of Pop and Rock music; it’sinfluences on music today and the technological advancements thathave supplied it with global flavours. Experiences in performance,composition and skill development will provide opportunities forcreativity, investigation and collaboration. Cost: NilRelatedElectives: The Magic of Broadway, Music Tech, Music Inc.Related HSCsubjects: Music 1, Music 2, Extension Music

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HSIEHistory I should know about

This course allows you to ‘duck and weave’ throughout the agesand across continents. Follow Alexander the Great as he conquersPersia, study the archaeology of ancient cities such as Pompeii andlearn about knights and infidels in our investigation of theCrusades. Discover the real story of the Trojan Wars, the causes ofthe Chinese Communist Revolution, Ghandi’s India or the devastationof the Irish Potato Famine. There will also be an opportunity forstudents to do a ‘passion project’ on an era or person that theyare particularly interested in.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Introduction to Modern History,Introduction to Ancient History, The history & geography ofconflict in the Middle East, Seven Wonders of the Ancient World,European EmpiresRelated HSC subjects: Modern History, AncientHistory, History Extension

The History and Geography of Conflict in the Middle East

Frequently in the news, the complex story of how and why thereis such conflict in the Middle East is something that every globalcitizen should know.

Dating back to ancient times, we will attempt to understand thebackground to this conflict and investigate the geopolitics of thearea, with a particular focus on the conflict between Israel andPalestine and the various attempts made for peace in the past.

Cost: NilRelated electives: History I should know aboutRelatedHSC subjects: Modern History, Geography, History Extension

Into Africa

Discover the intriguing continent of Africa, as we ‘visit’ someof its most famous places. We’ll travel the mighty Nile River fromsource to mouth, recording our adventures in our very own traveldocumentary- with the help of a green screen. Find out about thevarious countries and cultures that make up thisenormous continentand learn about the challenges faced by some of the fastest growingcities inthe world. Travel ‘into Africa’ without leaving theclassroom.

Cost: NilRelated electives: SustainabilityRelated HSC subjects:Geography

Sustainability

Sustainability is the motto of our times, and is discussedacross every industry and community in Australia. The ability toconsume at sustainable levels so that resources will be availablefor all intothe future is a necessity. We’ll learn about theefforts being made across the world for a more sustainable futureplus some of the technologies being used to achieve this.

We’ll also find ways to make our own contribution, looking atways we can make TAS more sustainable, running a school veggiepatch and getting involved with community projects such as treeplanting.Definitely an elective for those who care about our futureand who like to get their hands dirty.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Agriculture electives, TechnologyelectivesRelated HSC subjects: Geography, Agriculture

Electives

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Running a Business and Marketing

Do you dream of running your own business one day? Do you wantto be the head honcho? The boss? The decision-maker? Well thissubject might be for you. This course allows you to plan, organiseand run a small business while learning how to address problems asthey arise. You will get to run your own business, which you willoperate at school during recess and lunch. This is a great way ofbeing able to put into practice, all the theory you learn intheclassroom. Additionally, you will learn the importance ofmarketing and how particular products are marketed to us indifferent ways.

Cost: $30 (seed capital for business start up)Related electives:Personal Finance and Investing, Accounting, Introduction to theEconomy, The Law and the ConsumerRelated HSC subjects: BusinessStudies, Economics and Agriculture, General Mathematics

Personal Finance and Investing

One of the important aspects of growing up is seeking financialindependence. In this course, you will develop the knowledge,understanding and skills that will assist you in achieving futurefinancial independence.

In this course you will take part in the Sharemarket Game whichallows you to invest in the ASX 200 companies. This simulation ofthe real Australian stock exchange will enable you to develop yourknowledge of the Sharemarket while using a virtual$50,000.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Running a Business andMarketingRelated HSC subjects: Business Studies and Economics,General Mathematics

Introduction to the Law

This subject introduces students to the topic of how the lawworks in our society and outlines different aspects of the law thatstudents may come in contact with during their lives. It will allowstudents to form a solid understanding of the relationship betweenvalues, morals and laws and understand the need for, and the roleof, laws as a citizen.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Running a business andmarketingRelated HSC subjects: Legal Studies, Business Studies

Introduction to the Economy

The Introduction to the Economy elective is a course thatprovides students with a formative grounding in how the economyworks. Students will learn about the interactions of demand andsupply in markets, international economic systems, and factors thatcontribute to the fluctuations in the business cycle, such asinflation, unemployment, consumer spending and interest rates. Thiselective is designed to make students more aware of the economy inwhich they will become an important piece, as a consumer, taxpayerand perhaps even as an Economist!

Cost: NilRelated electives: Introduction to Law, PersonalFinance and Investing, Running a Business and Marketing.Related HSCsubjects: Economics, Business Studies

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Accounting

Accounting is a business-based elective, designed to teachstudents the foundations of accounting and bookkeeping, andprogressing to more sophisticated financial analysis and businessskills.

Students will participate in a practical activity run byAustralian Business Week, which will require students to work inteams to manage a hypothetical business’ finances. In this activitystudents will learn how to interpret balance sheets, income andcashflow statements. Once they have learned to construct financialstatements, then begins the task of learning to analyse and pickapart a business’ books and put them back together again.Accountants are the mechanics of the business world!

Cost: $50 (Approx- subcription to Australian Business Weekprogram)Related electives: Introduction to Law, Personal Financeand Investing, Running a Business and Marketing.Related HSCsubjects: Business Studies, Economics, Legal Studies, GeneralMathematics

European Empires

Long before the outbreak of World War 1, European empires rose,ruled and faded. This course will investigate how the earlymodern-day nations came to be, which is excellent backgroundknowledge for those choosing to study Modern History in Stage 6. Inaddition to this students will investigate conflict from a varietyof perspectives.

Cost: NilRelated electives: History I should know about, SevenWonders of the Ancient WorldRelated HSC subjects: Modern History,History Extension

Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

This course is designed to introduce students to aspects of theancient world and to the work of the archaeologists and historianswho bring the ancient world back to life. Through a study ofwritten and archaeological sources, students learn about the SevenWonders of the Ancient World – the Great Pyramid of Giza, theHanging Gardens of Babylon, the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, theStatue of Zeus at Olympia, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, theColossus of Rhodes and the Lighthouseof Alexandria. Students usethe study of these landmarks as a starting point to explore theculture, myths, legends, art and architecture of the ancienteastern Mediterranean rim. Students will also be givenopportunities to conduct their own mini- historicalinvestigations.

Cost: NilRelated electives: History I should know about,European EmpiresRelated HSC subjects: Ancient History, HistoryExtension

Electives

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PDHPEElite Performance 1: Making an elite athlete

This module examines the early developmental stages of the eliteathlete. This will entail studying the elite pathways withinAustralia as well as other countries. The search, discovery andcollation of a talent pool, the refining of the process so the mosttalented receive the opportunities for advancement. Students willcomplete the talent identification process and compare results withstandardised tables. Students will participate in developmentprograms as well as develop, implement and assess their ownPersonal Exercise Program (PEP) based on the sport of theirchoice.

Cost: NilRelated electives: The Sporting Body, Elite Performance2-enhancing elite performancesRelated HSC subjects: PDHPE, SportRecreation Fitness (VET)

Sports Coaching : Are you the next National Coach? This moduleis designed to allow students the opportunity to gain a coachingand/or refereeing accreditation in one or more of sports. They willexamine the role of the coach and how they can maximise theperformance of their athletes. Students will also develop andparticipate in a coaching program as well.

Cost: $120 (Accreditation costs) Related electives: SportsSociology & Psychology Related HSC subjects: PDHPE

Optimizing Sporting Performance Analysis

This module will examine the strategies used by sports coachesand administrators to assist the athlete to enhance performance.Students will examine the role of technology in athlete developmentand the application of sports science principles to skilldevelopment. By analyzing the ‘perfect model’, students will makecomparisons with themselves and elite athletes.

Cost: NilRelated electives: The Sporting BodyRelated HSCsubjects: PDHPE

Elite performance 2: Enhancing elite performances

This module builds upon the previous Elite Performance module bytaking the developing athlete and using advanced trainingtechniques to further enhance the skills and fitness components.This will be a practical unit were the students will closelyexamine the techniques used to develop the athlete and incorporatethese strategies for the expansion of their Personal ExerciseProgram (PEP). Students will use the knowledge and skills gainedfrom each of the strategies for personal fitness advancement.

Cost: NilRelated electives: The Sporting Body, Elite Performance1-making an elite athleteRelated HSC subjects: PDHPE

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Sports issues : Controversies and debates

This module will examine the contemporary issues in sportcausing debate and controversy. The student will study the issuesfrom the personal health perspective and their impact on theathlete, sport and wider communities. Students will completeextensive research into each issue making decisions as to thevalue, effectiveness and safety concerns for each. The ethical useof the media to promote sport as well as raise the profile of theelite athletes and create sporting identities. Examine the pressureon athletes to fit the model and expectations of supporters,administrators, media and other athletes and make judgments as tothe fairness and appropriateness of the conclusions drawn.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Nil Related HSC subjects: PDHPE

World’s Greatest Athlete

This module will offer students the opportunity to compete in arange of different sports in the endeavour to find the best athletewithin the school environment. In order to achieve this distinctionthe students will develop assessment procedures based onappropriate methods of evaluation and analysis of the inherentperformances within the sport. The experiences will draw on a rangeof sports that require different skills bases in teams, partner andindividual based sports.

Cost: NilRelated electives: Optimizing Sport Performance andAnalysisRelated HSC subjects: PDHPE

The Sporting Body

This module is the study of the human body and its body systemsand how they function under the pressure of exercise. Students willalso examine the roles the skeleton, muscles and cardi