Year 9 Handbook 2027

2027

Year 9 Handbook

Contents

STRUCTURE OF YEAR 10 ACADEMIC STUDIES Welcome to Year 9

01

INTRODUCTION TO CHOOSING OPTIONS Which options should I choose?

02

Options combinations

02

Steps involved in selecting your options

03

Changes of options during the year

03

Options Descriptions

ENGLISH Literary Foundations

10

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION Outdoor Recreation

15

LANGUAGES Japanese

09

TECHNOLOGIES Food Specialisation

06

Materials and Design

11

Textiles and Fashion

18

MATHEMATICS Mathematics Extension

12

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES Computer Science and Security

04

Creative Computing

05

Game Design

07

Robotics

16

SCIENCE Science Challenge

17

THE ARTS Music

13

Musical Theatre

14

Theatre Arts

19

Visual Arts

20

LEARNING ENRICHMENT Gardening and Enterprise

08

Welcome to Year 9 A Year 9 timetable is made up of the following allocation of sessions:

SUBJECT

SESSIONS PER WEEK

English

4 sessions

Mathematics

4 sessions

Science

4 sessions

Humanities

4 sessions

Health

1 session

Physical Education

2 sessions

RAVE

1 session

Value Added Program (VAP)

1 session

Extended House Group

1 session

Option 1*

2 sessions

Option 2*

2 sessions

Option 3*

2 sessions

Option 4*

2 sessions

01

*Please read the section Options Descriptions to find out more information

Introduction to choosing options WHICH OPTIONS SHOULD I CHOOSE? It is very important that you choose options which are an area of interest, not what you think your friends will choose or which option you think has the best teacher. Options are a chance for you to study in an area of strength and interest, and should be treated with as much regard as your other subjects.

OPTION COMBINATIONS

You need to study options from at least three Learning Areas as shown below. Therefore, it is essential that when you are ranking the options in order of preference, your first four preferences are across three different Learning Areas or the School will select for you.

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.

You will not be permitted to study the following combinations: Computer Science and Security and Creative Computing You can still rank more than one of these in your preferences as a reserve.

SUBJECTS BY LEARNING AREA The Arts (Arts)

Music Musical Theatre Theatre Arts Visual Arts Learning Enrichment (LEC)

Digital Technologies (DT)

English (Eng)

Health and Physical Education (HPE)

Literary Foundations

Outdoor Recreation

Languages (Lang)

Game Design Computer Science and Security Creative Computing

Japanese

Robotics Mathematics (Maths)

Science (Sci)

Technologies (D&T)

Food Specialisation Gardening and Enterprise

Mathematics Extension

Science Challenge

Materials and Design Textiles and Fashion Design

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STEPS INVOLVED IN SELECTING YOUR OPTIONS Read through the information within this Handbook regarding each option carefully to help you make your choices.

SUBMITTING YOUR CHOICES Simply select your options and submit the form online. Further information will be provided regarding the process involved with option selection via direqt message.

OPTIONS ALLOCATION

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.

Students who submit forms after the due date will be allocated options where vacancies exist.

CHANGES OF OPTIONS DURING THE YEAR You are not permitted to change your timetable during the year unless there are exceptional circumstances. You are encouraged to discuss any concerns with your teachers and to attempt all challenges that arise with enthusiasm and dedication.

03

COURSE SUMMARY Computer Science supports the latest Digital Technologies curriculum and will provide you with the skills to be future ready. This option introduces students to new technology with a strong focus on coding and networks.

LEARNING AREA

Technologies COST

$55 approx Resource Levy SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Although not a prerequisite, this is

Computer Science will engage students in problem-solving, logic and computational thinking. Students learn programming languages such as HTML, Minecraft Java code, LEGO Mindstorms and Python. Students will also learn about spreadsheets, databases, game development, computer hardware and security.

Computer Science is suited to students interested in a career in the IT industry as a software developer, IT helpdesk manager, database manager, app developer and many more technology-based areas of employment.

a recommended pathway for students wishing to study Computer Science in Years 10, 11 and 12

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Technologies

Computer Science and Security

Technologies

Creative Computing COURSE SUMMARY

LEARNING AREA

Technologies SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Creative Computing is recommended for students looking to continue with studies in Computing or Visual Arts

05

Creative Computing supports the development of personal connections to computing by drawing upon creativity, imagination and visual interests. Students learn software and design skills which are transferable to any career which may require an employee to help promote or present their work, including but not limited to web, graphics, Digital Content Creator, game design, special effects maker and many more.

Creative Computing allows students to gain skills in using Adobe Creative Suite to design graphics, websites, posters, games, apps and much more.

Software applications used include Photoshop, Illustrator, Construct for games and InDesign.

Creative Computing is suited to students who are interested in understanding the digital world and want to develop as a creative professional in the computing, media and arts industries.

Technologies

Food Specialisation COURSE SUMMARY Year 9 Food Specialisation gives students the opportunity to design and produce products, services and environments in a food context.

You will work independently and collaboratively to focus on solutions, considering social values and economic impact.

LEARNING AREA

Technologies COST

$85 approx Resource Levy

You will explore environmental and social sustainability factors through practical tasks such as growing and using produce in the School’s herb and vegetable garden. The practical program will be complemented by a theoretical component.

In the kitchen:

SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

In Year 10 students can enrol in Food and Cafe Specialisation.

Students can then enrol in a Cert II Cookery or Food, Science and Technology in Years 11 and 12

You will recap your safety and hygiene knowledge Plan menus Explore Indigenous cuisine Cook up a storm of dishes inspired by Asian cuisine Consider the impact of transporting food and buying locally Learn about macro nutrients and specialised diets (paleo, gluten free, vegan) Take part in a range of food preservation activities Prepare a range of desserts Participate in sensory cooking and peer cooking competitions Acknowledge significant Christian and historical events such as Easter, ANZAC Day and Christmas by preparing traditional foods such as hot cross buns, ANZAC biscuits and a Christmas cake.

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Technologies

Game Design COURSE SUMMARY

LEARNING AREA

Technologies COST

$55 approx Resource Levy SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Computer Science General/ATAR, Applied Information Technology General/ATAR, Certificate II Creative Industries

This course introduces students to the exciting world of computer game design and development. It provides a solid foundation in the key concepts and skills needed to create engaging and interactive gaming experiences.

This course is designed to stimulate students’ creativity and innovation, while also teaching them about the technical aspects of game development.

Learning Objectives: Understand the basics of game design: Students will learn the fundamental principles of game design, including game mechanics, dynamics and aesthetics.

Learn programming concepts: Students will be introduced to programming concepts such as variables, loops, conditionals and functions, which are essential for game development.

Develop artistic skills: Students will understand the role of Physics in games, learning how to implement gravity, collisions and other physical phenomena.

Create a game prototype: By the end of the course, students will apply what they have learned to create a simple game prototype.

Understand the game industry: Students will learn about the game development industry, including career opportunities and ethical considerations.

This course aims to inspire students to explore their creativity, while gaining valuable technical skills.

07

Learning Enrichment LEARNING AREA

Learning Enrichment Centre (LEC) PREREQUISITES

Students with an interest in horticulture and business enterprise and students eligible for LEC programs SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

For eligible students SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Gardening and Enterprise COURSE SUMMARY 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: Safe and effective use of gardening tools Cleaning and storage of gardening tools Preparing garden beds for planting Propagating seeds and planting seedlings Re-potting Growing and harvesting produce Cooking with produce Planning, starting, advertising, running, and reviewing a mini-business enterprise.

This is a suggested pathway for students wishing to study further ASDAN short courses in Years 10, 11 and 12

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COURSE SUMMARY Japanese is designed to further advance students’ knowledge and skills in Japanese. It will consolidate previous learning and expand on spoken, aural and written language abilities with a focus on authentic texts and functional language skills.

LEARNING AREA

Languages PREREQUISITES

Minimum 65% or better in Year 8 Japanese COST

$55 approx Resource Levy SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Year 10 Japanese and ATAR Japanese: Second Language in Years 11 and 12

09

Students who enjoy studying Japanese, consistently demonstrated satisfactory achievement in Years 7 and 8, and feel they have an aptitude for the language are strongly encouraged to select this option. It gives an excellent background for further studies in Japanese and enables a student to undertake the study of Japanese in Years 10, 11 and 12.

Students do not have to go on to study the language at university level.

Students continue to discover and develop skills and strategies to assist them in the learning of the language so that they can communicate effectively.

Languages

Japanese

English

Literary Foundations COURSE SUMMARY Are you a passionate reader with a curious mind?

Do you love to write creatively and bring your imagination to life on the page?

Are you ready to explore bold texts that challenge the way you think?

LEARNING AREA

English PREREQUISITES

B grade (WAC) in Year 9 English A willingness to collaborate, share and discuss writing with others is essential COST

$180* approx Resource Levy (This includes enrolment fees for virtual and/or face to face writing workshops and visiting author visits)

Literary Foundations is a dynamic and engaging course for passionate readers, curious thinkers, and aspiring writers. You’ll read and explore a range of classic and contemporary texts—short stories, poetry, plays, and excerpts from novels— and build the skills to analyse how writers use language and structure to create meaning. This course is designed for students who enjoy English and want to challenge themselves with texts and writing tasks that spark discussion, imagination, and insight.

In addition to analysis, this course introduces students to the world of creative writing. You will have opportunities to develop your writing voice, explore imaginative storytelling, and craft personal responses to texts through creative tasks. You’ll compose and share your writing projects in a fun, supportive environment designed to grow your confidence and creativity and have the opportunity to attend writers’ workshops both virtually and in person, and work with published authors to hone your writing skills to improve your imaginative writing and your written responses in all your subjects.

In this course, you will:

SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

ATAR English ATAR Literature

Read and explore a variety of thoughtprovoking texts across different genres Take part in rich discussions and creative response tasks Build your creative writing skills and explore different writing forms Strengthen your vocabulary, critical thinking, and love of literature.

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Technologies

Materials and Design COURSE SUMMARY

In Materials and Design, students will continue to develop drawing, design and production skills introduced in Year 8. Students will learn further technical drawing and design skills before completing practical tasks in a range of materials.

LEARNING AREA

Technologies COST

$55 approx Resource Levy SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Materials and Design is recommended for students looking to continue with studies in Materials, Design and Technology (Woods or Metals) during Years 10, 11 and 12 or a trade pathway

11

Components of this option include: Design: Students will complete a design log book provided by the teacher; this will give step by step instruction of a basic design process and build students’ drawing and designing skills. Students also learn freehand sketching methods.

Practical: Students will complete a series of projects using a variety of materials that will build basic skills and confidence. All projects will begin with a design brief and allow students to develop a unique design. A wide variety of tools, machines and processes will be used to give the students a good grounding for further studies in this option.

Abilities: Students will learn to use machine tools and equipment safely and skillfully.

They will experience working with wood, metal and plastic.

Knowledge and understanding: Students acquire knowledge and an understanding of designing and the factors influencing design, common materials, their properties and uses, manufacturing processes, and safe working practices.

Mathematics

Mathematics Extension Unlocking Mathematical Excellence.

COURSE SUMMARY

LEARNING AREA

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!

Mathematics

Course Highlights:

PREREQUISITES

A or B grade (WAC) in Year 8 Mathematics Curiosity and a hunger for mathematical exploration Expectation to study advanced maths courses in senior Secondary School SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Mathematics Applications ATAR

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.

Mathematics Methods ATAR Mathematics Specialist ATAR

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The Arts

Music COURSE SUMMARY

LEARNING AREA

The Arts COST

$95 approx Resource Levy SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Contemporary Music is recommended for students looking to continue with studies in the Performing Arts in Years 10, 11 and 12

13

Students will learn the basics of music production and instrumentation and develop an understanding of the elements of music through the Contemporary Music genre.

Working with these elements, students use skills in listening, singing, playing, improvising, composing and using new technologies.

Each student will learn basic skills to navigate through music recording/production software.

They will play, compose and listen to a variety of genres developing knowledge, technique and skill with the use of keyboard and other instruments.

Contemporary Music contains minimal written and basic theoretical work. Contemporary Music is practical, where participation and rehearsal are the key to success. Therefore, the student’s individual involvement and cooperation are essential. There may 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 an audience.

The Arts

Musical Theatre COURSE SUMMARY

LEARNING AREA

Musical Theatre combines all the elements necessary for producing a Musical Theatre Production and allows students to create, present and analyse musical theatre. During the year, students will learn the skills to put on a one-act musical production, culminating in a performance in Term 4.

The Arts

Students will develop skills in Drama, Dance, and Singing.

COST

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.

$70 approx Resource Levy SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

This option is recommended for students looking to continue with studies in Drama or Music in Years 10, 11 and 12

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.

Musical Theatre is a practical option where participation and rehearsal are the key to success. Therefore, individual involvement and cooperation are essential. There will be time required out of normal class hours for performances and productions, and students will be expected to take part in a performance for an audience in an evening performance mid Term 4.

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Health and Physical Education

Outdoor Recreation COURSE SUMMARY Outdoor Recreation gives students the chance to get outside and develop skills across a range of exciting physical activities, all while building confidence, teamwork and a lifelong appreciation for outdoor pursuits.

LEARNING AREA

Health and Physical Education COST

$110* approx Resource Levy (This includes entry to a golf course, practice sessions and bus hire for golf and archery activities and excursions)

SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Outdoor Recreation is a recommended pathway for students wishing to study Physical Education Studies or Outdoor Recreation Certificate II in Years 10, 11 and 12

15

Throughout the course, students will learn and play the following sports: Golf Archery European Handball Frisbee Golf Floorball Pickleball Students will gain hands-on experience in a variety of settings both on and off campus.

This course is an ideal choice for students who enjoy being active and learning outside the classroom.

COURSE SUMMARY

LEARNING AREA

Technologies COST

$60 approx Resource Levy

Technologies

Robotics This course brings together design and robotics. In this course, you will use Arduino to program robots, such as robotic arms and robotic boom gates for model railways and traffic light junctions.

These will all realistically emulate real-life situations. Students will use design software and complete practical activities that involve the construction of breadboard circuitry using Arduino interfaces, Lego Mindstorms and Microbits.

SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

This course is suit to students who are considering Computer Science ATAR/General course in Year 11 and 12

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Science

Science Challenge COURSE SUMMARY

Science Challenge is a project-based science course with a focus on scientific method.

Students will be involved in project-based learning and a variety of competitions with a range of topics covered where they will identify and test solutions to real world problems.

LEARNING AREA

Science COST

$85 approx Resource Levy SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

This option provides additional context for students with an interest in science. It is ideally suited for students who may consider doing ATAR Science courses in Years 11 and 12

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The project-based learning and competitions in Science Challenge may include: Science Talent Search Eureka Sleek Geeks Science Prize Chevron Focus Environment Spirit Telescope Image Science Challenge is for students with a passion for science who wish to further their understanding. It will enable students to better plan and conduct and to report scientific concepts by incorporating complex competiencies.

COURSE SUMMARY

Technologies

Textiles and Fashion

Develop your sewing skills by creating a personalised hoodie from a commercial pattern using stretch fabric. Learn precision construction techniques, understand fabric properties and gain confidence producing a professional quality garment.

LEARNING AREA

Technologies COST

$65 approx Resource Levy SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Textiles and Fashion is

In Semester 2, students will transform an opshop purchase or two into a unique project of their own design. They will investigate ideas, develop a design brief and create an innovative product that reflects their personal style while exploring sustainable fashion practices.

Whether you enjoy fashion, creativity or hands-on learning, Textiles and Fashion offers the opportunity to design, make and transform your ideas into reality.

recommended for students looking to continue with Materials and Design: Textiles in Years 11 and 12 or a VET Certificate qualification in Textile Design In Year 10, students have the option to choose Textiles and Innovation

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The Arts

Theatre Arts COURSE SUMMARY Theatre Arts enables students to develop Drama skills and build on performance, creativity and confidence.

LEARNING AREA

The Arts COST

$70 approx Resource Levy

SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Theatre Arts is recommended for students looking to continue with studies in Drama in Years 10, 11 and 12

Students will develop 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, play-building and performance.

This option involves some design and production work and students are required to study non-actor roles such as costume, lighting, scenography (set and staging), props and marketing. Theatre Arts contains written and theoretical work including text and character analysis, research, design, reviews of performance, and a reflective journal.

Students will learn multiple forms and styles of Drama, such as melodrama, multi-formed devised drama and Commedia Dell’arte. Students will develop skills in production and technical support roles, such as operating a lighting board or learning design roles.

Theatre Arts is a practical option where participation and rehearsal are the keys to success. Therefore, individual involvement and cooperation are essential. There will be time required out of normal class hours for performances and productions. Theatre Arts involves both individual and group work.

Students will work on a one-act production in Terms 3 and 4 to be performed in an evening production for an invited audience in mid Term 4.

All students will be required to perform.

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The Arts

Visual Arts COURSE SUMMARY Visual Arts offers an opportunity for students to express themselves visually in a creative and original manner. In Year 9 Visual Arts there is a strong practical focus with students given the opportunity to develop skills in drawing, ceramics, printmaking and painting.

LEARNING AREA

The Arts COST

$55 approx Resource Levy SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Students will be required to purchase an Art Pack SENIOR SCHOOL PATHWAYS

Visual Arts ATAR Visual Arts General

Drawing: Explore a variety of specialised drawing techniques to develop your skills, including cross-hatching, scumbling, stippling and blending.

Painting: Experiment with acrylic painting techniques inspired by art movements such as Impressionism, to create artworks with atmosphere, depth and space.

Street Art: Using spray painting techniques, stencils and paint makers, you will create a design inspired by local and international street artists.

Ceramics: Develop practical skills using construction methods including pinch, coil and slab in the creation of a threedimensional sculpture.

Printmaking: Create an edition of handpulled prints using traditional printmaking techniques.

Students produce work that may contribute to the School Art Exhibition, feature their work around the school grounds, including art installations, or enter into local competitions.

Students interested in developing their art skills for personal interest or as preparation for further study in Senior School are encouraged to enrol.

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Contact Us PHONE 08 9495 8100 EMAIL mail@jwacs.wa.edu.au WEB www.jwacs.wa.edu.au