2027
YEAR 9 Subjects
Religious Education
English
Mathematics
Science
Humanities
Physical Education
Health Education
Electives
The Rite Journey
Flexible Learning Period
• Three periods per week
• No class streaming
• Four periods per week
• Streamed: Extension, Standard, Essentials
• Class allocated by Head of English
• Four periods per week
• Streamed: Extension, Standard, Essentials
• Class allocated by Head of Mathematics
• Four periods per week
• Streamed: Extension, Standard, Essentials
• Class allocated by Head of Science
• Four periods per week
• No streaming
• Two periods per week
• No streaming
• One period per week
• No streaming
• Choose three Electives, each two periods per week
• Study of a Second Language is optional
• Study of Technologies is optional
• Study of the Arts is optional
• One period per week
• Rite of passage program
• No formal assessment
• One period per week
• Autonomy opportunity: Students to set own goals
• Can be used for admin: Assembly, assessment etc
YEAR 9 Electives
Choose three Electives
Follow the links below to view the course information.
AFL Extension
Board Builders
Catering
Ceramics and Sculpture
Creative Writing and Analysis
Dictators in History
Digital Music Creation
Digital Technology
Love of Learning Project
Mathematics Problem Solving
Media: Movies and Mockumentaries
Metalwork
Music
Music: AMEB Theory
Music: Rock Workshop
Outdoor Education
Drama: Performance and Backstage Philosophy
Drawing and Illustration - Build Your Skills Photography
Engineering
Future Worlds
Global Games: Outdoor Recreation and Motorsport
Graphic Design
Horrible History: Medieval Monstrosities
Italian
Public Speaking and Communication
Soccer Extension
Sports Journalism
Sport Science
Visual Arts - Make Your Mark
Woodwork
Note: at the discretion of the College, some electives may run on a Semester basis to allow a greater number of students to participate in the course
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Electives
When
can I select my electives?
Online elective selections will open in Week 1 of Term 3 and close on 7 August 2026.
Information regarding the selection process, including instructions for completing online preferences, will be communicated to students via email and the Daily Notices.
What if I do not meet the deadline?
Students are more likely to receive their preferences if they have submitted their form on time and if they have a high percentage of positive indicators on their College Report.
Do I need to submit my elective requests early?
There is no benefit to submitting elective choices early. Each submission received before the deadline will be given equal weighting when allocating classes.
Can I change electives during the year?
Movements can potentially be made in early Term 1. Students may request an elective change, and this will be approved if there are available spaces.
Some movement between electives may be possible between Semester 1 and 2.
Do I need parent permission to complete my selected electives?
Elective choices / non-choices, with the exception of Italian, do not limit opportunities for future study.
Therefore, parent sign-off is not required as part of the selection process. Some electives incur an additional resources cost.
If these are selected, parents will be contacted after the request period to ensure they are supportive of your elective choices. If changes are required, this will not impact your ability to access other electives after the deadline.
When will I find out which electives I have been allocated?
Elective allocations will be confirmed in Term 4.
All electives require only standard stationery items, meaning that elective allocations are not required to be able to complete booklist orders.
Who should I contact if I have any additional questions?
Questions about the subject selection process should go to Mrs Barbara Granville, Executive Assistant to the Deputy Principal, at bgranville@cbcfremantle.wa.edu.au.
Questions about individual subjects should be directed to the relevant Head of Department See each subject page for more details.
YEAR 9 ELECTIVES Course Information
AFL EXTENSION
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Already involved in School / Community AFL
The AFL Extension course is aimed at students who have a keen interest in the sport of AFL and are currently playing AFL for CBC or at their local community club. The program focusses not only on the physical aspects of the game but also health science and the psychology of effective leadership and team cohesion. Students also focus on in-game decision making and game sense that can assist them in both school and community football.
As part of this unit, students will also obtain an introduction to coaching, umpiring, training management, fitness components and skill analysis.
The requirements for selecting this unit are:
• Must be playing School / community AFL, or
• Must be umpiring School / community AFL and
• Must be available to play or umpire after school matches throughout the season
BOARD BUILDERS
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Students with advanced skills and interest in Engineering and Materials subjects are invited to apply for the Brotherhood of Board Builders.
This hands-on course examines the world of rideable boards. Skateboards, sandboards, snowboards, wakeboards, surfboards and skim boards are all examples of these fun and fully customizable products. Students accepted into this group will receive high level training in the engineering behind board design and commence work creating their very own ridable. This includes customisation and personal branding.
This elective incurs an additional resources cost and is subject to parent approval before commencement. Students must have shown success in both Practical and Digital Technologies subjects to be accepted into the Brotherhood of Board Builders.
CATERING
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Food Technology (Catering) provides opportunity for upskilling into ‘super chefs’ with a focus on increasing the students’ skill level with baking, preparing new dishes and creating an internationally inspired dish.
Food Technology prepares the students for a more diversified taste and skill experience in catering, as well as promoting teamwork, time management and an ability to engage in planning and pre-preparation.
CERAMICS AND SCULPTURE
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
In this Visual Arts course, students will get their hands dirty with mud, ceramics and clay in oreder to bring their artistic creations off the page and into 3 dimensions. In all Visual Art electives students will:
Learn the design process from idea, to drawing and to final studio artwork
• Engage with expert artists
• Create art using a variety of styles, techniques, skills and processes
• Develop safe and sustainable visual arts practice
• Have the opportunity to display their creativity at the annual art exhibition
CREATIVE WRITING AND ANALYSIS
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
What makes some books interesting and others boring?
Do you want to learn the skills that make your writing impossible to put down?
Immerse yourself in the world of creative writing in this engaging course. In this elective you will learn amazing writing skills and strategies that will help you improve your writing and enable you to craft original and exciting pieces of short fiction!
This Elective is highly recommended for students who have engaged in Book Club via the Library, as well as students who are keen to improve their skills in English in a fun and collaborative environment.
DICTATORS IN HISTORY
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
This Elective unit takes students deeper into the Modern History curriculum, seeking to understand the ideologies, actions and impact of the world’s most infamous dictators. How did they come to power? How is their impact still relevant today? How can we learn from the mistakes of the past?
Students with a keen interest in learning about these aspects of Modern History will enjoy the more relaxed, collaborative and discussion-based approach to this topic.
DIGITAL MUSIC CREATION
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Explore the dynamic world of electronic music. This includes analysis of recording and mastering techniques in your favourite songs as well as exploring:
• Digital tools used in music creation
• Introduction to loops and sampling
• Experimentation with recording techniques and digital instrumentation
• DJ skills and events AV setup
This course is appropriate for all students who love music, regardless of the ability to play an instrument. Students taking part in the course should be prepared to join the AV committee, learning to set up and run sound equipment for major college events.
DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
This dynamic and diverse course is designed to give the students experience in the practical application of technology in their everyday life.
Using a range of Adobe computer packages including Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign, students will have the opportunity edit images, create visually pleasing artwork and produce high quality designs that can be produced both digitally and physically. Living in a mobile world, our students will also create their own Apps eventually testing them on their phones.
This area of Digital Technologies will be a stepping stone into computer coding for App creation and a possible future path to employment in this exciting area. Website creation will also be studied, with the boys building sophisticated , modern websites, viewable on any device.
DRAMA: PERFORMANCE AND BACKSTAGE
Course Type
Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Year 9
Drama: Performance and Backstage is a course aimed at all students who enjoy the exciting world of entertainment. Whether this is performing on stage, on screen, or working behind the scenes to become an expert in and planning a production, there is something challenging for you to learn.
Drama: Performance and Backstage is a hands-on course, where students can choose to grow their acting skills for performing in their favourite genres of film and theatre or gaining the valuable backstage technical skills required to put on shows. This includes operating cameras, sound, lighting and vision equipment, designing sets and costumes and stage management.
You will also work with several creative apps and software programs to help you become an expert in the digital aspects of the performing arts.
Drama is not only for those who love performing! It can be selected by students who have a keen interest in backstage, logistic and technological aspects of Theatre.
Alternative assessment methods are available in the course for students who do not want to be on stage.
DRAWING AND ILLUSTRATION – BUILD YOUR SKILLS
Course Type
Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Drawing and Illustration is a creative, skills based subject for students who enjoy sketching, using their imagination, and bringing ideas to life on paper. If you like drawing characters, designing visuals, or refining your own style, this class is for you.
You’ll explore and build confidence using pencil, graphic markers, and Posca paint pens, while learning both realistic drawing techniques and cartoon / comic illustration styles. Through sketching, planning, and practice, you’ll develop strong drawing skills and create finished artworks with impact.
This course encourages experimentation, creativity, and personal expression, helping you sharpen your technique while developing a style that’s uniquely yours. Whether you’re a beginner or already love to draw, this subject will push your skills to the next level.
This Visual Art elective is appropriate for ALL abilities.
ENGINEERING
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Engineering is about combining a creative approach, technical skill and available tools and equipment to solve problems.
In this course, students will be coached in how to use a critical thinking process to:
• Design creative solutions to problems
• Build working prototypes and products
• Examine failures and revise models
As part of this design process, students will be able to access technology such as:
• Digital design programs
• 3D printers
• Laser cutters
• Vinyl cutters
Students work individually and collaboratively, using design meetings to ensure they are on track, organised and progressing well on shared and individual projects that meet the needs of their clients.
FUTURE WORLDS
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
What will our world look like in 2050? In Future Worlds, students will explore creative ideas about the future of our planet, focusing on the natural environment and how we can shape it for the better. Through handson projects, imaginative thinking, and real-world inspiration, students will become future makers… designing, dreaming, and doing.
This elective is all about creativity, collaboration, and action. Students will learn about environmental challenges and imagine bold, fun, and practical solutions for a better world.
Topics include ‘Wild ideas’, ‘Green Dreams’ and ‘Design for Change’. If you are committed to making the world a better and more sustainable place, join the revolution!
GLOBAL GAMES: OUTDOOR RECREATION AND MOTORSPORT
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
This elective continues the highly successful Global Games series which debuted with Year 8 students in 2026. Based on the HUGE number of non-fiction loans from the Library on the following topics:
• Fishing
• Outdoor recreation (mountain biking, trail biking and exploring)
• Motorsport
• Adventure Travel and Holidays
The Global Games team have developed a new course that dives deeper into the very topics that students are showing an interest in. Learn more about the things YOU like while gaining exclusive access to the racing and aviation sims during class time to build your skills in these areas.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
In Year 9 Graphic Design students apply artistic skills in a digital format, learning the techniques of the world’s best designers and advertisers. Beginning with simple design ideas and production in for everyone applications such as Canva, students will soon move into using the advanced tools in the Adobe Suite in order to:
• Understand how to use colour, space and design principles to make striking designs
• Learn how to make professional level presentations for school and future work
• Edit photos and video
• Create digital designs and personal brands which can be printed as vinyl stickers and even 3d products
HORRIBLE HISTORY: MEDIEVAL MONSTROSITIES
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
This course continues the Horrible History series which started with Year 8 Vikings in 2026. This time, we will wander through the wild, worrying weird and wacky world of Medieval Europe as we learn more about the most interesting parts of the Humanities Ancient History Curriculum.
In this collaborative and discussion based course, students will learn more about the way of life for Medieval Europeans, dive deeper into the causes and outcomes of wars and battles and try to explain the thinking behind some of the most outlandish and gruesome parts of Ancient Medieval History.
ITALIAN
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite ‘C Grade’ or higher in Year 8 Italian
Year 9 Italian Course involves cultural, conversational and grammatical work-based themes like school, family, friends, weather, health and eating. It builds on the students’ previous knowledge of the language and strives to make them more accomp lished speakers. It is an enjoyable course and allows students to gain a greater appreciation of the Italian language and culture in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Year 9 Italian is a prerequisite for continuing the study of Italian in Year 10.
LOVE OF LEARNING PROJECT
Course Type
Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
If you could choose to study ANYTHING, what would you choose?
Year 9 Love of Learning project is an opportunity for students to create their own challenge and work towards self-defined goals within a problem-based learning structure.
With the assistance and guidance of a Learning Coach, as well as a project mentor, students completing the Love of Learning Project will:
• Define their own problem and the way they will solve it
• Be given time during the school day to work towards their personal goals
• Receive 1:1 coaching on critical thinking and project management skills
• Take part in the Love of Learning Showcase featuring their journey, outcome and skills growth over the year
Students completing a personal project should be responsible and willing to work independently towards a goal they are passionate about.
Love of Learning projects are subject to approval by the College. Students who’s projects are not approved will be allocated a reserve subject.
MATHEMATICS PROBLEM SOLVING
Course Type
Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
The Year 9 Mathematics Elective course is designed to expose students to various activities that will both extend and accelerate students within the Australian Mathematics Curriculum.
Students will:
• Develop critical thinking and lateral thinking skills through problem solving in context
• Apply and extend topics covered in class
• Work collaboratively in enquiry-based projects that specifically need mathematics for modelling, and be exposed to mathematical content that will further strengthen their mathematical foundation as they progress through the senior High School years and tertiary education
MEDIA: MOVIES AND MOCKUMENTARIES
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Students who elect to study Media Arts in Year 9 should have a specific interest in continuing to develop their abilities in a variety of film and radio contexts. The course is designed to teach skills used by the best film-makers, directors and producers while encouraging teamwork, negotiation and collaboration.
This unit has a particular focus on film and documentaries. Students study iconic directors, before producing their own famous film scene recreations, documentaries and radio broadcasts. Including the famous ‘Spielberg on a Shoestring Budget’ project. Students will have access to editing software and film equipment to assist in their production processes.
If you enjoy hands-on experiences and learning through experimentation, come and try Year 9 Media Arts and create your own film masterpiece!
METALWORK
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
This course provides the opportunity to further develop the skills learned in Year 8 Metals by creating challenging, practical opportunities for students to design and make projects by applying metalworking techniques.
Students will learn to shape, cut, join and mold metals, as well as exploring the chemical and physical properties of these materials as they relate to the solution of engineering problems. Students will also develop skills in using equipment such as a metal lathe, metal cutting equipment, arc welding, MIG welding, oxygen acetylene equipment and others.
Students will also complete one design project which is made to a set design criteria.
MUSIC
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Currently learning an instrument in school / privately OR via check-in with Head of Music
Take your musical progress to another level with this elective. Designed to help you develop your skills and abilities on your chosen instrument, students will be learning classic rock and popular music pieces, as well as favourite movie themes.
Extra practice time means extra skills. In addition, this elective allows students opportunities to perform solo to your family, friends and community members.
Budding musicians apply here!
Music Scholarship students are expected to a select a Music elective in Year 9.
MUSIC: AMEB THEORY
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Currently learning an instrument in school or privately OR via check-in with Head of Music.
Take your musical progress to another level with this elective. Designed to help you develop your skills and abilities on your chosen instrument, students will be learning classic rock and popular music pieces, as well as favourite movie themes.
Extra practice time means extra skills. In addition, this elective allows students opportunities to perform solo to your family, friends and community members.
Budding musicians apply here!
Music Scholarship students are expected to a select a Music elective in Year 9.
MUSIC: ROCK WORKSHOP
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Basic skill in playing an instrument
Do you prefer to play LOUD? Do you want to play the kind of music you hear in your everyday life? If so, join the brand new ‘Rock Workshop’ elective.
Open to students who are still new to their instruments, as well as our most proficient performers. Music: Rock Workshop is designed to connect budding musicians with peers of similar ability and have them enjoy the rehearsal and performance part of playing in a band.
Extra practice time means extra skills. In addition, this elective allows students opportunities to perform solo to family, friends and community members.
Music Scholarship students are expected to a select a Music elective in Year 9. Students do not have to be able to read music to participate in this Course.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
The Year 9 Outdoor Education course uses a variety of practical learning experiences to develop an understanding about the great outdoors.
Students will develop skills and attitudes in activities such as roping and climbing, body boarding, navigation, and orienteering as well as studying surf rescue. There will be a focus on leadership skills, selfreliance and self responsibility in a variety of environments.
Students must be strong and confident swimmers to access this elective. Swimming ability may be tested prior to student release for excursion activities.
This subject incurs an additional fee. Parental approval will be sought before commencing this course.
Outdoor Education practical periods may begin as early as 7.45am. Students should not select the subject if they are unable to attend early morning classes.
PHILOSOPHY
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Are you ready to embark on a journey that will challenge your mind and expand your horizons? Welcome to Year 9 Philosophy, where we dive into the big questions that have fascinated humans for centuries. This exciting new course investigates philosophical concepts, introduces some of the world’s most famous philosophers and helps us understand how our thinking can impact the way we view ourselves, others and our world though thought-provoking discussions and a series of engaging activities
PHOTOGRAPHY
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Ever wondered how to turn everyday moments into jaw-dropping images? In the Photography elective, you’ll learn how to see the world through a creative lens … literally.
This course will teach you secrets behind lighting, composition, editing, and storytelling through photos. You’ll get hands-on experience with real gear, explore interesting techniques, and even build your own portfolio.
Plus, photography isn’t just about taking pictures. It’s about expressing yourself, building confidence, and seeing beauty in unexpected places.
So if you’re curious, creative, or just love capturing memories, this is your chance to turn snapshots into masterpieces. Say cheese!
PUBLIC SPEAKING AND COMMUNICATION
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Do you want to captivate an audience, express your ideas confidently and become a master communicator? Some people try to avoid it, but learning the skills in crafting and delivering a great speech can be an essential skill to get you far in life.
In this elective you will explore:
• How to structure a speech and tell story people want to listen to
• Techniques to enhance your vocal presence and engage your audience
• Body language and non-verbal communication
• Creating high quality speaking aids like presentation slides and infographics
• Making recorded voice (podcasts etc) more engaging
Most importantly, you will get better with practice! This elective is open to anyone who wants to improve their everyday communication skills.
SOCCER EXTENSION
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Already involved in school / community soccer
The Soccer Extension course is aimed at students who have a keen interest in the sport and are currently playing soccer for CBC or a local community club. The program focusses not only on the physical aspects of the game but also health science and the psychology of effective leadership and team cohesion. Students also focus on in-game decision making and game sense that can assist them in both school and community football.
As part of this unit, students will also obtain an introduction to coaching, umpiring, training management, fitness components and skill analysis.
The requirements for selecting this unit are:
• Must be playing School / community soccer, or
• Must be umpiring School / community soccer and
• Must be available to play or umpire after school matches throughout the season
SPORTS JOURNALISM
Course Type
Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Sport is big business and is on every media channel making it available to almost everyone around the globe! This year-long elective takes you behind the scenes of CBC and local sport, examining the data, research, commentary and writing techniques used by the best ‘sports journos’ including preparing match reports for both print, online and radio news, interviewing sports people and training in media ethics.
On completion of this elective, students should be able to:
1. Analyse the practical requirements of sports coverage for radio and print
2. Research, write and edit sport news and features for radio and print
3. Conduct ‘match reports’ of school and local sporting events
4. Research, conduct and edit interviews
This unit will involve students with CBC sports teams with the possibility of involvement with community / league teams as skills progress. Students will also be given ‘backstage access’ to significant Carnivals and College sporting events to see how they work.
SPORT SCIENCE
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
The Year 9 Sports Science course uses a variety of practical learning experiences to develop an understanding about the health and fitness industry. Students will develop skills in practical activities such as European Handball, Badminton and Netball.
Students will develop attitudes in coaching, officiating and volunteering in sporting associations. There will be a focus on leadership skills, self- reliance and self responsibility in a variety of environments. Students selecting this unit should have an interest in sports and fitness. Studying this course will provide a sound foundation for Sport Science in Years 10 and Physical Education Studies in Years 11 and 12, across both pathways (ATAR and General).
VISUAL ARTS – MAKE YOUR MARK
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
Visual Arts is a hands on, high energy subject for students who like bold ideas, strong visuals, and making things that stand out. If you’re into street culture, design, or creating with your hands, this course is for you. You will explore exciting studio areas such as skate deck design, spray and graffiti styles, clay and sculpture, and print design. Along the way, you’ll develop your own ideas through sketching and planning, then turn them into finished artworks with impact.
This subject is all about experimenting, taking creative risks, and expressing your own style while learning solid design and composition skills. Whether you want to build your skills, try something new, or just enjoy making cool art, Visual Arts gives you the space to create.
WOODWORK
Course Type Full Year
Time Allocation Two Periods Per Week
Prerequisite Nil
This course will further develop student’s technology skills by learning traditional and modern material manipulative skills. Students will complete several skills-based models with an increased emphasis on the Design, to produce solutions to set problems.
These models build in difficulty and size from those completed in Year 8. Materials used in this course will be predominantly wood, though the use of other materials such as plastic will be encouraged. Students will use a variety of tools such as hand tools, power tools, and small workshop machines.