STRUCTURE OF YEAR 10 ACADEMIC STUDIES
Welcome to Year 10
Which options should I choose?
What will my Year 10 timetable look like?
INTRODUCTION TO CHOOSING OPTIONS
Options ranking and combinations
Options by Learning Area
Making the final decision
Submitting your choices
Class allocation
Changes of options during the year
Philosophy
Biomedical
As a transition year into Senior School, Year 10 students will be given more choice in the range of Year 10 subjects available while still maintaining a breadth of learning. Year 10 is a very important year as it allows students to build a foundation for Years 11 and 12. Results from the Year 10 Semester 1 Report will be used to indicate which courses students will select in Year 11. Students will be made aware of existing Year 11 prerequisites in Year 10 to help them to focus on their studies Year 10 is also a year in which students need to form good study and organisational habits as the workload increases and they strive to prepare themselves for the demands of Senior School.
The Year 10 options program is designed to allow students to develop more skills in the subjects in which they are interested and potentially continue in Senior School. Education has changed significantly over recent years enabling many courses to be offered as part of a university pathway and TAFE recognised qualifications delivered at school in the form of Certificates.
Parents and students will receive more information regarding the structure of Senior School and post-school options next year; however, it is important to have some understanding of how the system works. Below each option description in this Handbook you will find listed one or more Senior School courses (General or ATAR) and/or Certificate courses related to the option. As students progress into Senior School, they will complete ATAR courses for a direct university entry pathway and General courses for TAFE or other training options Certificates are nationally recognised qualifications that John Wollaston has introduced to further enrich the options of our students. These qualifications are the same as those being delivered by a TAFE
As you consider your options for next year, think about what areas you would like to continue with in Years 11 and 12.
It is very important that you choose options in which you are interested, not what you think your friends will choose or which subject you think has the best teacher Options are an opportunity for you to study in an area of strength and interest, and should be treated with as much regard as your other subjects. Remember, your four options may end up being directly related to four of your Senior School courses! Make sure you talk to your teachers and parents, and become actively involved in deciding your future.
A Year 10 timetable is made up of the following allocation of sessions:
* Please read the section Options Combinations (Page 4) to find out more information
You need to study options from at least three different Learning Areas. The ranking order of your options is important! Ensure that the option you rank as your first preference is the one you most want to study.
The
(Arts)
Digital Arts
Musical Theatre
Visual
Languages (Lang) Learning Enrichment Centre (LEC)
Japanese:
* Four session option
Health and
Humanities (Hum)
Sport Science Philosophy and Ethics
(Mat) Science (Sci) Technologies (D&T)
Childcare Food and Hospitality Futures
Materials and Design
Science
Textiles and Innovation
Read through the information regarding each option carefully. You will be allocated four options.
U B M I T T I
S
Students will submit their selections. Further information will be provided regarding the process involved with this.
Every effort to allocate a student’s first preference will be made. Where a student is not allocated their first preference, priority will be given to the student’s second and third preferences.
Please note that not all options are guaranteed to run as they are subject to student numbers, timetable and staffing considerations.
When students receive a confirmation of their options in Term 4, there will be a short period of time to request changes Changes can only be made if there are places available in the relevant class
You are encouraged to discuss any concerns with your teachers and to attempt all challenges that arise with enthusiasm. C L A S S A L L O C A T I O N
You are not permitted to change your timetable during the year unless there are exceptional circumstances
2
L E A R N I N G A R E A
Science
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
C O S T
$75 approx Resource Levy
S E N I O R S C H O O L P A T H W A Y S
This course is ideally suited for students who are considering Biology and Human Biology courses in Years 11 and 12
In the Biomedical Science elective course, students will explore different areas of biology which relates to both human and animal health It is designed for students with an interest in pursuing careers in industries such as medicine, dentistry, radiology, veterinary science, and zoology.
The course includes an exploration of topics such as:
Body systems
Microbiology
Diseases
Human genetics
Pharmacology
Toxicology
Modern medical technologies.
This course is based on research methodologies and provides an opportunity for students to gain a deeper understanding of these concepts by offering hands-on experiences.
Technologies
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
Open to all current Year 9 students
C O S T
$60 approx Resource Levy
Children, Family and the Community General, Food Science Technology General, Materials, Design and Technology-Textiles General S E N
Childcare explores the stages of human development from conception to pre-school. It also focuses on the roles and responsibilities of parents and caregivers, to ensure the physical, emotional and social needs of children are met.
Students will be required to care for the virtual baby to experience parenting as part of their assessment There is an opportunity for students to develop activities and interact with children. Students will also complete a range of practical activities such as creating and producing suitable play items for this age group
Childcare is a good choice for any student wishing to pursue a career involving children such as childcare, nursing or teaching.
$80 approx Resource Levy
S E N I O R S C H O O L
Computer Science General/ATAR, Applied Information Technology General, Business Certificate II
Computing is an essential skill for the workplace as technology continues to evolve at an astounding rate In Computer Science, students will study core topics such as digital systems, office applications, communications, and presentation software. The main areas in the option include programming, Artificial Intelligence robotics, and network security.
Learning in Digital Technologies focuses on further developing understanding and skills in computational thinking such as precisely and accurately describing problems and the use of modular approaches to solutions In Year 10, students consider how human interaction with networked systems introduces complexities surrounding access to, and the security and privacy of, data of various types. Students will further develop their skills using Python, Minecraft Java Code and LEGO Mindstorms
The skills learnt in Computer Science are highly desirable and transferable to any future career as technology continues to be a strong focus in the workplace Computer Science is an important part of the STEM initiative
C O U R S E S U M M A R Y
L E A R N I N G A R E A
Technologies
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
C O S T
$55 approx Resource Levy
S E N I O R S C H O O L
P A T H W A Y S
Materials, Design and Technology
General, Applied Information Technology General, Computer Science General, Visual Arts ATAR or General
Creative Computing enables students to learn many transferable skills in a fun, engaging and interactive STEM environment. A sound understanding of computers, problem-solving and the desire to express creativity are key employability skills in this world.
Creative Computing is interdisciplinary in nature and topics covered include many applications in the Adobe suite, evolution of game design and graphics theory.
Students will use a variety of software to create 3D design art, computer gaming characters, design game platforms, computer games, multimedia, web design and other interactive systems.
Creative Computing would suit any student who wishes to work in the media industry, the Arts and all aspects of the computing industry including game design and development.
$25
Digital Arts is a rapidly expanding field that encompasses the production of visual information particularly for online media. By selecting this option, students will learn the fundamental principles and techniques used in digital photography Students will know and understand how to use a DSLR camera and/or smart phone to capture images. Digital Arts will provide students with the opportunity to learn about composition and design along with developing creative problem-solving skills Students will develop their Arts language skills as they reflect on their work and that of others, including analysing visual media.
The main components to this option:
Photography techniques: Introduction to using a DLSR camera, including aperture, shutter speed, compositional devices, portrait photography
Creative photography: Use your photography skills to express your creativity through macro photography, photomontages, flat lay arrangements and a range of other techniques.
Digital Drawing: Use of Adobe Photoshop and other digital software, to create digital drawings and paintings using a tablet. Use digital drawing to explore character design, create comics, posters and advertisements.
There is an expectation that students take photographs outside of school hours. Participants may also be asked to photograph school events such as sports carnivals, performances or assemblies
L E A R N I N G A R E A
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
C O S T
$70 approx Resource Levy
S E N I O R S C H O O L
P A T H W A Y S
Drama ATAR and Drama General
2 S E S S I O N S
Drama allows students to develop drama skills with a focus on style and performance.
Students will explore acting styles and theatre forms including scripted drama, devised drama, representational theatre and Epic theatre The course builds knowledge for those moving onto Year 11 General and ATAR, as well as for students who want to develop an appreciation for fine performance
Students will gain an understanding of the Elements of Drama (including language and texts, situation, dramatic tension, mood and atmosphere, voice and movement, and characterisation and relationships) through research, workshops, improvisation, playbuilding and performance.
Drama involves design and production work and students are required to study non-actor roles such as costume, lighting, sound and scenography (set and staging) Drama also contains written and theoretical work including text and character analysis, research, design, reviews of performance, a reflective journal and a written examination. This option requires students to attend and review a professional theatre production selected by the Department.
Drama is a practical option where participation and rehearsal are the key to success. Therefore, individual involvement and cooperation are essential. There will also be some time required out of school hours for attending public performances and productions. This option involves both individual and group work
Students studying Year 10 Drama are expected to perform in the Year 10 Drama Night as part of their assessment All students will also participate in YOH Fest, an annual competition hosted by Act-BelongCommit, which will require them to write and rehearse a short drama piece to be presented in an evening performance. C
S
Drone technology is rapidly advancing and creating many possible career options.
L E A R N I N G A R E A
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
C O S T
$330 approx specialised subject fee
S E N I O R S C H O O L
P A T H W A Y S
Remote Pilot Licence (RePL) or Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot)
Drone pilots are required in areas such as:
Aerial photography
Shipping and delivery
Geographic mapping
Disaster management
Precision agriculture
Search and rescue
Weather forecasting
Wildlife monitoring.
Drone Pilot will give you the opportunity to build, code and fly your own drone and learn about the science of flight and meteorology. You will also learn some of the safety considerations around flying drones.
This option will lead into a Certificate III Remote Pilot qualification which is a CASA approved course allowing you to work as a drone pilot in Australia.
L E A R N I N G A R E A
Technologies
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
C O S T
$105 approx Resource Levy
S E N I O R S C H O O L P A T H W A Y S
Food, Science and Technology
General
Cookery Certificate II
Step into the fast-paced world of food and hospitality through this dynamic practical course. Designed to prepare students for future studies and employment opportunities, this subject combines Food Specialisation and Café Studies into one engaging learning experience.
Students will spend two terms investigating food science concepts, nutrition, food sustainability, menu development, and advanced food preparation techniques and a further two terms focusing on hospitality skills including customer service, teamwork, event catering, food presentation, and café operations
Through practical cooking experiences, students will develop confidence, independence, and industry-relevant skills while learning how food businesses operate. They will also strengthen their planning, organisation, communication, and problem-solving abilities
This course provides an excellent foundation for Year 11 Food Science and Technology General and Year 11 Hospitality/Cookery and is suitable for students interested in food, hospitality, events, tourism, or developing valuable life skills for the future.
Technologies
C O S T
$55 approx Resource Levy
Open to all current Year 9 students P R E R E Q U
S E N I O R S C H O O L P A T H W A Y S
Computer Science General/ATAR
Applied Information Technology
General/ATAR
Certificate II Creative Industries
2 S E S S I O N S
O U R S E S U M M A R Y
L E A R N I N G A R E A
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
Students with an interest in horticulture and business enterprise and students eligible for LEC programs
S P E C I A L C O N S I D E R A T I O N S
S E N I O R S C H O O L P A T H W A Y S Suitable for eligible LEC students
This is a suggested pathway for students wishing to study further ASDAN short courses in Years 11 and 12
Gardening and Enterprise offers eligible students the opportunity to create and care for gardens, gaining valuable knowledge and skills related to the horticulture industry.
Students learn about plant and soil types and develop skills to create and care for gardens. Knowledge and skills are further developed through the involvement in community projects
Students experience business enterprise by marketing and selling products from the garden project.
Examples of skills developed include:
Preparing garden beds, propagating seeds, planting seedlings and re-potting
Growing and harvesting produce
Cooking with produce Planning, starting, advertising, running and reviewing a mini-business enterprise Safe and effective use of gardening tools including cleaning and storage.
S E
L E A R N I N G A R E A
Languages
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
Minimum 65% or better in Year 9
Japanese
C O S T
$55 approx Resource Levy
S E N I O R S C H O O L
P A T H W A Y S
Japanese: Second Language ATAR
Students who have enjoyed studying Japanese, consistently demonstrated satisfactory achievement in Year 9 and feel they have an aptitude for the language are strongly encouraged to select this option It provides an excellent background for further studies in Japanese and enable a student to undertake the study of Japanese in Years 11 and 12. Universities in Perth currently add extra points to a student’s entrance ranking (ATAR) if a language is studied in Years 11 and 12 The student does not have to go on to study the language at university level.
Students continue to discover and develop skills and strategies to assist in the learning of the language so that they can communicate effectively
B grade (WAC) in Year 9 English
Completion of Literary Foundations is desirable. A willingness to collaborate, share and discuss writing with others is essential
$180 approx Resource Levy (Includes course materials, author workshops, and an excursion to The Literature Centre in Fremantle)
ATAR English ATAR Literature
Technologies
Open to all current Year 9 students
$70 approx Resource Levy
Materials, Design and Technology
General Visual Arts ATAR or General
2 S E S S I O N S
L E A R N I N G A R E A
Mathematics
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
A or B grade (WAC) in Year 9
Mathematics
Curiosity and a hunger for mathematical exploration
Expectation to study advanced maths courses in Senior Secondary School
S E N I O R S C H O O L
P A T H W A Y S
Mathematics Applications ATAR
Mathematics Methods ATAR
Mathematics Specialist ATAR
The Mathematics Extension (MatE) course is designed for curious minds who seek to delve deeper into the fascinating world of mathematics. Team up with your classmates to have fun extending your maths skills!
Course Highlights:
Explore advanced concepts
Problem-solving adventures
Creative thinking
Real-world applications
Enter competitions to see how you fare against advanced students across the state and country.
Why Choose Mathematics Extension?
Boost your understanding: Build your confidence in your mathematical ability. Future-ready: Prepare for advanced maths courses in senior Secondary School
Tertiary pathways: Prepare for further studies in mathematics or related fields.
Join us on our mathematical adventure!
Music allows students to develop music skills, techniques and knowledge.
Students will learn the basics of music production and instrumentation and develop an understanding of the elements of music. Working with these elements, students use skills in listening, singing, playing, improvising, composing and using new technologies. They respond to and evaluate music and experience a range of musical forms and styles.
It is highly recommended that the students receive music tuition (i e the peripatetic music program or private music lessons) Each student will nominate an instrument which will be their performance focus for the year. Music contains some written and theoretical work including music analysis, elementary notation, research, a reflective journal and a written examination. Music technology is an area of focus, with exploration in the development and use of this in the music industry.
Music is a practical option where participation and rehearsal are the keys to success Therefore, the student’s individual involvement and cooperation are essential. There will also be some time required out of normal class hours for performances and productions This option involves individual and group work, as well as group and individual performances for audiences.
Music is recommended for students looking to continue with studies in the Performing Arts in Years 11 and 12
Open to all current Year 9 students P
C O S T
$70 approx Resource Levy
S
P A T H W A Y S 2 S E S S I O N S
Drama ATAR/General
Music ATAR/General
Musical Theatre combines all the elements necessary for producing a Musical Theatre
Production and allows students to create, present and analyse musical theatre.
Throughout the year, students will learn all the skills to perform a one-act musical production, culminating in a performance in Term 4.
Students will develop skills in drama, dance, and singing
Drama: Students will develop drama skills in performance, with opportunities to refine their knowledge and skills in processes, techniques and conventions using creativity and spontaneity
Dance: Students will be involved in choreography and performance in the style of Musical Theatre, combining multiple dance styles including jazz, tap and hip hop as relevant to their production
Singing: Students will learn to sing in the style of Musical Theatre. All students will be expected to sing either solo or as part of an ensemble.
This is a practical option where participation and rehearsal are the key to success. Therefore, individual involvement and cooperation is essential. There will be time required out of normal class hours for performances and productions, and excursions
C O U R S E S U M M A R Y
L E A R N I N G A R E A
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
Must be competent swimmers
C O S T
$230* Enrolment fee, excursions, equipment hire and transport to be paid throughout the year. *Costs are an approximation only
S E N I O R S C H O O L
P A T H W A Y S
Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation
Physical Education Studies General
Outdoor Recreation is specifically designed to prepare students for participation in outdoor education activities Students have a chance to apply classroom theory and practical skills to a real life context with excursions to Rottnest Island (snorkelling), Champion Lakes (kayaking) and Lake Leschenaultia (mountain biking).
This option includes aspects of:
Safety in the natural environment
Flatwater paddling skills
Snorkelling
Mountain biking
Students selecting this option must be competent swimmers.
L E A R N I N G A R E A
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
S E N I O R S C H O O L P A T H W A Y S
The Philosophy and Ethics option is an introduction to classical questions about the human condition: ‘What is real?’; ‘How do we know?’ and ‘How should we live?’
Students study critical reasoning and form a Community of Inquiry to engage in philosophical dialogue, where they develop skills in questioning, reasoning, and argument. Philosophy and Ethics uses contemporary and historical case studies to explore philosophical concepts and ethical dilemmas
Students participating in this option will have the opportunities to participate in competitions such as the WA Philosothon and the Ethics Olympiad.
Students are encouraged to advance their own views by mapping and constructing arguments.
L E A R N I N G A R E A
Science
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
Open to all current Year 9 students
C O S T
$75 approx Resource Levy
S E N I O R S C H O O L
P A T H W A Y S
Psychology ATAR
Psychology General
C O U R S E S U M M A R Y
L E A R N I N G A R E A
Science
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
Open to all current Year 9 students with an interest in Science
C O S T
S E N I O R S C H O O L
P A T H W A Y S $90 approx Resource Levy
This course is ideally suited for students considering taking Mathematics and Science courses in Year 11
The Science Innovation elective course offers real-world problem-solving skills using STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), but with a focus on innovation principles.
Students will learn the necessary skills to understand the processes involved in innovation and then apply these processes to indicate what drives and ultimately what makes an innovation successful. Further, each student will participate in two competitions depending on their interests Competitions include the Titration Competition, DPIRD Innovation Challenge and First Lego League Innovation (all presented by Curtin University), the Science and Engineering Challenge (offered by the University of Newcastle) and finally Tournament of the Minds (presented by ECU). These competitions further offer students the opportunity to develop complex competency skills such as teamwork, collaboration and communication in the STEM field
Health and Physical Education
R E R E Q U I S I T E S
A minimum B grade in Health and Physical Education
$100 approx Resource Levy C O S T
S E N I O R S C H O O L P A T H W A Y S
Physical Education General, Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation
O U R S E S U M M A R Y
L E A R N I N G A R E A
Technologies
P R E R E Q U I S I T E S
C O S T
$65 approx Resource Levy (students may also choose to purchase clothing from second hand stores to use in their garment designs)
S E N I O R S C H O O L P A T H W A Y S
Materials, Design and Technology –Textiles General, Visual Arts ATAR or General
The textile industry is one of the oldest and most established industries in history It also has some of the most technologically advanced manufacturing techniques. If you are interested in fabric, fashion and technology this is the course for you.
Master the building blocks of garment construction. Through a set production project, you will develop a deep understanding of commercial patterns, professional terminology and precision construction techniques. By building a baseline of technical proficiency, you will be well-equipped to execute advanced designs.
In Semester 2, you will take what you have learnt to select and manage your own major project Whether you want to design a streetwear staple, an upcycled outfit, or a complex formal piece, you will apply your individual interests and knowledge to create a final real-world solution.
Open to all current Year 9 students
Visual Arts ATAR or General
This hands-on, practical Visual Arts option enables students to explore art and design by utilising a broad range of artistic forms including: drawing, painting, clay sculpture, printmaking and more. Students are given an opportunity to develop their own artistic style as a method of self–expression while also learning about composition, design and creative problemsolving skills
Visual Arts includes exploration of the following studio areas:
Drawing: Explore a variety of drawing techniques to develop skills, including cross hatching, scumbling, stippling and blending. Test drawing materials including charcoal, pastels, ink and pencils.
Painting: Investigate painting materials and techniques, with the potential to experiment with water colour, oil or acrylic mediums.
Ceramic Sculpture: Build on practical skills using construction methods including pinch, coil and slab in the creation of a threedimensional sculpture
Printmaking: Experiment with printing techniques to create an edition of handpulled prints.
