Electives Subject Handbook

ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK 2026

www. kingswoodcollege.vic.edu.au

YEARS 8 & 9 ELECTIVES The following electives are offered to students in Years 8 & 9 in 2026. They are distinct subjects that are offered for a single semester. They may be chosen once by each student and not repeated across Year 8 and Year 9.

1 Semester

Advanced Product Design - Year 9 Only Animation Applied Sports Strategy Art Ceramics & Sculpture Coding Drama Film & Media Global Chef Health and Fitness Make Bake and Create Music (Group) Music (Solo) Photography Robotics Textiles Theatre Studies Visual Communication Design 2

ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK I 2026

Full Year

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES The following electives are offered to students in Year 10 in 2026.

1 Semester

Full Year

Body In Motion Cafe Masterclass Chinese (First Language and Second Language) Commerce Digital Film & Media Enhanced Sports Performance French History’s Mysteries Music Photography Product Design Technologies Programming & Games Design Psychology Robotics Engineering Textiles Theatre Studies Visual Art Visual Communication Design 3

YEAR 10 ENGLISH, LITERATURE & EAL ELECTIVES 1 Semester

Beyond Tomorrow Seize The Day More Than Meets The Eye Australian Stories - EAL

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ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK I 2026

Full Year

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YEARS 8 & 9 ELECTIVES ADVANCED PRODUCT DESIGN Students will have the opportunity to design a small lamp using the design process to develop initial ideas in a refined piece. Students will continue their exploration of design movements and creative designers to elevate their creation. The practical knowledge of the safe and correct use of a range of hand and power tools commonly used in design manufacture will be taught along with the use of cutting-edge technology like 3D-printing and CNC machining.

Students will work in a dynamic environment that encourages creative design solutions and be introduced to the idea of using environmental resources in a sustainable and ethical manner.

Assessment: •

Folio of design activities and visualisation of the product

•

Working lamp made from a range of materials using 12V LEDs for a light source

•

Exploration of design styles project

Please note this elective is only available for Year 9 students to select.

ANIMATION Animation is a powerful tool in entertainment, advertising, and gaming, often present in our daily lives in ways we may not even notice.

In this course, you’ll dive into the fascinating world of animation, exploring Traditional Animation, Stop Motion Animation, and Digital Animation. You’ll get hands-on experience creating your own animations using either Lego or Plasticine, as well as both handdrawn and digital drawings.

Additionally, you’ll develop your skills in scriptwriting and storyboarding, all while analysing a variety of animated works from different genres. You will also be introduced to the exciting field of Digital Animation and Drawing, where you’ll produce a series of short animations and GIFs. Discover how animation can open doors to careers in the film, advertising, and gaming industries.

Join us to unlock your creativity and bring your stories to life through the art of animation!

Areas of Study: • History of Animation • Digital Animation • Stop Motion Animation

Assessment: • Review an Animation from the Golden Age • Create a Scene in Animate • Make a Stop Motion Animation 6

ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK I 2026

APPLIED SPORTS STRATEGY In this practical elective subject, students explore the application of transferable tactical concepts across various sporting contexts. Through their active participation in engaging, team-based learning experiences, they develop and execute offensive and defensive strategies, and evaluate the impact of their decisions on game outcomes. Students investigate current and historical examples to illustrate the influence of strategy in sport, and utilise data and technology to critically analyse the tactical performances of elite athletes and teams.

Assessment: •

Apply and evaluate the impact of strategy through participation in a range of practical-based learning experiences

•

Analyse real-world examples of strategy in sport and share these in the form of a multimedia presentation

•

Engage in a SEPEP Unit (Sports Education Model) through which students collaborate to manage and participate in a shortened season of sport. Within teams, they are required to devise and implement strategies, and complete weekly reviews of their own performance to improve their tactical awareness and application.

YEARS 8 & 9 ELECTIVES ART This elective explores a range of artforms and mediums. If you choose this subject, you could be working with materials such as paint, drawing, collage, digital art, charcoal, pastels, inks, image transfer, scraperboard, sculpture, and printmaking, while delving into themes such as Still Life, Landscape, Portraiture, and Social Commentary, just to name a few.

Students are encouraged to bring personal influence into their artmaking, as well as draw inspiration from established artists. They will examine a range of historical and contemporary artists and art styles, demonstrating their understanding through both practical application and written analysis in their developmental work, final artworks, and theory tasks.

Over the course, students will complete short skill-building exercises, create two major artworks, and complete topic quizzes and theory assignments.

Assessment: • Practical skill building short tasks such as drawing, collage, ink and brush, and relief printing.

• Two major practical projects spanning six weeks each, culminating in two finished artworks.

• Submission of two theory tasks which link to each of the practicalprojects.

A visual diary that contains all working processes.

CERAMICS & SCULPTURE This hands-on elective introduces students to the creative and technical aspects of threedimensional art through ceramics and sculpture. Students will work with a variety of materials such as clay, wire, plaster, and found objects while learning essential techniques in both traditional and modern sculptural practices. The subject will also involve an excursion to an art gallery, museum or artist’s studio. In ceramics, students will explore hand-building methods including pinch, coil, and slab construction, as well as an introduction to wheel throwing. They will learn surface decoration, glazing, and basic firing processes, with a focus on craftsmanship and personal expression. The sculpture component encourages experimentation with form, texture, and space. Projects may include abstract and figurative work, reliefs, and assemblages.

Students will study influential sculptors and explore how culture and history inform three-dimensional art.

CODING In this course, you’ll embark on a journey into essential programming concepts that are fundamental for problem-solving and computational thinking. You will build a foundation in programming starting with the basics. You’ll learn to write and execute code, manipulate data using variables and data types, and perform calculations. As you progress, you’ll gain proficiency in managing data collections with lists and implementing decision-making in your programs through conditional statements.

By the end of the course, you will have the knowledge and confidence to tackle more complex programming challenges and continue your learning journey in computer science. This course not only prepares you for further studies in coding but also equips you with critical thinking and logical reasoning skills applicable across various academic and realworld scenarios.

You will need a laptop to work on.

Areas of Study: • Coding 101

Assessment:

• Variables

• Two major practical projects that result in at least two finished artworks

• Organising Data

• Visual diary research and documentation

Assessment:

• Two theory tasks (these may be short research assignments or tests)

• Classic Games

• Understanding code and computing tasks • Manipulating data project • Game project 7

YEARS 8 & 9 ELECTIVES DRAMA

FILM & MEDIA

GLOBAL CHEF

This elective is perfect for students passionate about acting, eager to sharpen their performance skills, and excited to write original scripts and bring creative ideas to life on stage.

Media is everywhere: at home, at school, on the bus, and out in the world. There is no way we can avoid it, so why not enjoy it? In this course, you’ll dive into the captivating world of Film and Media, exploring how media both influences and reflects society. You’ll develop a range of skills in filming, editing, and audio recording to produce a variety of media products. These media products will cover a range of genres, giving you a broad understanding of different styles and techniques.

The Global Chef course aims to extend student skills in the kitchen.

We explore the influences of culture, geography, history and society on food in different regions around the world. Students extend their understanding of various issues surrounding food including ethics, sustainability and nutrition. We look closely at the sensory property of different foods. The overall aim is to extend students food and cooking literacy and extend their skills in the kitchen.

In this elective, you will explore and develop skills to bring authentic, believable characters to life on stage.

Through practical workshops and creative exercises, you’ll engage with the acting techniques of Konstantin Stanislavski—one of theatre’s most influential practitioners. You will learn how to tap into emotion, motivation, and physicality to create compelling, three-dimensional characters. We will continue to develop improvisation and ensemble skills by making theatre games a regular classroom practice to build skills and confidence. Using exciting stimulus material as your starting point, you will learn how to structure a script, experiment with theatrical styles, and apply dramatic elements to create an original, self-devised script and ensemble performance.

You will also attend a live theatre performance to enhance your understanding of production roles and develop your ability to observe, reflect, and provide constructive feedback, strengthening both your performance and analytical skills.

• A practical cooking session (100 mins) each week (two assessed practicals over the semester) • A theory lesson per week (one assessed written task)

Areas of Study: • Understanding and using the camera • Editing,, codes and convention • Podcasting

Assessment:

• Realism Performance Task

• KWC Tropfest film task

• Script Writing and Performance Task

• Create a horror film trailer

ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK I 2026

Assessment:

Discover how media can open doors to careers in film, television, advertising, and beyond. Join us to unlock your creativity and bring your stories to life through the art of Film and Media!

Assessment:

• Performance Analysis Task 8

You will learn to purposefully use a camera, master editing techniques, as well as the codes and conventions of genre. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to create engaging podcasts, combining your new skills in a dynamic and modern format.

• Host and record a podcast

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YEARS 8 & 9 ELECTIVES HEALTH & FITNESS This subject takes a holistic approach to Health and Fitness, exploring both personal and community perspectives. Students design and implement personalised plans that target specific fitness components and examine the importance of nutrition and recovery in maintaining optimal body function. They apply strategies for navigating challenging situations and develop the necessary knowledge and skills for making informed and safe decisions.

Students analyse the broader impact of contemporary issues on health outcomes and work collaboratively to propose strategies for promoting physical, mental, and social health within their communities.

Assessment: • Design, implement, and evaluate personalised fitness programs • Engage in practical workshops to investigate methods of recovery and injury prevention • Develop and critique health promotion strategies and campaigns to improve health outcomes at a community level

MAKE, BAKE & CREATE The Make, Bake and Create course looks at the science behind baking and teaches students to understand why products are made using different techniques. The sensory properties of food is explored with a focus on presentation. Students will explore the benefits of home baking compared to commercial products though a nutrition lens. This course will further extend students’ food and cooking literacy.

Assessment: • A practical cooking session (100 mins) each week (two assessed practicals over the semester) • A theory lesson per week (one assessed written task)

MUSIC (GROUP) In Year 8/9 Music (Group), students have the opportunity to explore music through the lens of group performance. The music theory component of this course has a focus on basic harmony and understanding the relevance of different chords within the key structures of a given song. Fundamental aural skills, such as interval recognition, chord recognition and cadences are also taught.

Students will prepare and perform songs of differing musical styles in a group context, and will analyse how their performance of the songs varies from the original performance/ composition. Students also prepare an in-class oral presentation which introduces a popular music artist/ band, and explores the cultural significance of the artist and their music. This elective aims to provide students with an opportunity to build contextual understanding around their prior music learning, and further develop their group performance skills.

• Explore case studies and scenarios to analyse the influence and impact of decisions and behaviours.

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YEARS 8 & 9 ELECTIVES MUSIC (SOLO)

PHOTOGRAPHY

ROBOTICS

In Years 8 & 9 Music (Solo) students have the opportunity to gain experience performing as a soloist, and undertake complementary units of study to support their performance studies. The music theory element of this course will see students studying formal music theory concepts, including tonality, keys, key relationships, metre, rhythmic grouping and music notation conventions.

In this elective, students explore the environment, people, and the world around them through the lens of a camera. They develop a fundamental understanding of photographic composition using both analogue and digital cameras. Historical and contemporary photography is examined, with students drawing inspiration from personal influences and established artists. Students imaginatively document their surroundings, recording their exploration in a visual diary that reflects individual ideas, technical processes, aesthetic choices, and evaluative decisions.

Get ready to dive into the exciting world of robotics in our elective course! You’ll have the chance to explore, design, and build robotic solutions that tackle real-world challenges head-on.

The aural component of the course will require students to identify intervals, chords and scales. As part of this unit, students will have an opportunity to write their own, notated composition, setting the text of a chosen poem.

Students will also undertake a unit of study in Aboriginal Australian music, learning about the cultural significance of song lines. For the performance component of this course, students will be asked to prepare solo repertoire, that will be presented in an in-class performance.

This elective aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop cultural, conceptual, theoretical and aural understandings of music, to support their solo performance practice.

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ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK I 2026

They gain hands-on experience in shooting, film processing, darkroom developing, and digital photo editing.

Students apply their understanding of light through practical projects involving pinhole cameras, photograms, sun exposure, and experimentation with light-sensitive paper. In addition to traditional darkroom techniques, students are introduced to digital workflows, learning basic image editing and refinement using programs such as Photoshop and Lightroom.

Throughout the course, you’ll need to use higher-order thinking skills to come up with innovative hardware and software ideas that robots can actually use. Working in teams, you’ll collaborate to analyse problems and develop mechanical and electronic solutions together.

By the end of the course, you’ll have a deeper understanding of robotics and how they’re applied in industries around the world. You’ll also get to explore cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing, which play a key role in modern robotics.

Get ready to bring your creativity and problem-solving skills to the table.

Let’s build the future of robotics together!

Areas of Study: • Robot Training • Space Challenge • SumoBots

Assessment:

• Robots in Industry

• Practical skill building short tasks such as photograms and sun exposures.

Assessment:

• Two major practical projects

• Space Challenge

• Two theory tasks

• SumoBots Challenge

• A visual diary that contains all working processes

• Industry Research Project

• Robot Course Challenge

YEARS 8 & 9 ELECTIVES TEXTILES

THEATRE STUDIES

Dive into the vibrant world of textiles and fibre arts in this engaging and hands-on course. Explore the diverse universe of textiles, from traditional fabrics to contemporary materials.

Gain insight into their characteristics and applications in creative projects.

Understand the essentials of operating a sewing machine, from threading to stitching. Improve your technique as you learn to sew straight lines and patterns with confidence. Step into the world of garment construction by selecting a fabric and following a pattern to create a personalized clothing item.

Discover the art of embroidery and its endless possibilities for creative expression. Learn various stitches and techniques to embroider captivating designs onto fabric.

Unleash your creativity by designing and sewing your very own whimsical monster. Using your embroidery skills to give your imaginative creature personality. Experience the calming and meditative effects of knitting. Learn fundamental knitting stitches while exploring the therapeutic benefits of this timeless craft.

This elective is ideal for students wanting to learn more about the theatre production process and who are eager to explore both acting and design roles, bringing pre-existing scripts to life through creative interpretation and performance work. In this elective, you will learn about the theatre production process and a range of production roles including directing, set design, lighting, costume, hair and make-up, props, and sound, discovering how these roles help create dramatic meaning. You will build practical skills across these areas and interpret scripts by applying your knowledge and understanding. Collaborating in groups, you will produce and perform a short pre-existing script, exploring theatrical styles, conventions, and directing techniques such as blocking and stage use. You will have the opportunity to take on both a design and an acting role for the class performance. As a class, you will analyse a professional theatre production, examining how the script has been interpreted and how production roles, elements of theatre composition, and direction, combine to create dramatic meaning, using appropriate theatre terminology in a written analysis.

Assessment: • Handmade 3-d creature • Equipment and techniques workbook • PJ shorts • Fashion Project

VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN This course introduces students to the four fields of design practice: Messages, Interactive Experiences, Objects, and Environments. It offers an engaging introduction to the world of design and encourages students to see and think creatively like designers. Students undertake practical projects such as logo and packaging design, while also exploring sustainable design practices. In this elective, students respond to design briefs in the Messages and Objects fields, learning both manual and digital drawing methods using software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. A design theory component complements the practical work. Students are expected to complete design analysis, knowledge quizzes, and a theory assignment to consolidate their understanding.

Assessment: • Practical skill building short tasks such as freehand drawing, technical drawing and digital collage.

Assessment:

• Two major design projects spanning six weeks each, culminating in two finished design presentations.

• Design Role Task

• Submission of two theory tasks.

• Group Performance Task

• A visual diary that contains your working processes using the Double Diamond Model.

• Performance Analysis TasK

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YEAR 10 ELECTIVES BODY IN MOTION Body in Motion explores human movement from a physiological perspective. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students investigate how the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems function to enable movement. They study the various components of fitness and analyse how these can be applied across a range of physical contexts.

Students are introduced to the energy systems and examine the important role that these play in the performance of an athlete.

Assessment: • Practical workshops • Apply training principles through the creation of bespoke training programs • Structured questions to assess key knowledge of body and energy systems • Semester Examination

CAFE MASTERCLASS Café Masterclass is a unit of study focusing on café culture in Melbourne. Students will investigate different types of cafes, including menu items, advertising, and ways they are distinct from one another.

This will assist students in designing their own café food, including current trends. As part of the practical lessons, we will make cafe classic dishes as well a mystery box challenge for a menu special.

Students will develop their hot beverage skills as they work as a collaborative team to run the Spire café at Kingswood College. This experience will provide transferable skills for use in the Hospitality industry. It is also an excellent introduction to Commercial Cookery offered in Year 11.

Assessment: • Running Kingswood Spire CaféPractical Skills assessment and reflection • An excursion to a café to research trends- Café Culture Assignment • Mystery Box Cooking Design Task • Fair Trade Coffee Investigation

CHINESE (FIRST & SECOND LANGUAGE) There are two possible pathways for Chinese at Year 10. Chinese First Language and Chinese Second Language. For eligibility requirements please contact the College.

Year 10 Chinese First Language is an advanced class which will follow the VCE course with students taking Units 1 & 2 in Year 10 and Units 3 & 4 in Year 11. Students wishing to take this subject should refer to the information in the VCE subject selection handbook.

The study of Chinese Second Language at Year 10 aims to develop the communication skills which enable students to express their views and talk about topics relevant to their age groups in readiness for VCE Chinese studies.

This is a compulsory subject for students wishing to pursue studies in VCE Chinese. It prepares them to deal with various daily situations and problems in Chinese, developing an awareness of language as a tool for communication and of how language works.

Assessment: Activities revolve around the practice of the four main language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing, which also incorporate the grammar and vocabulary from each unit of work.

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ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK I 2026

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES COMMERCE This Year 10 Commerce Unit introduces students to key concepts in Economics, Business Management, Legal Studies, and Accounting.

Students will explore resource allocation, scarcity, and opportunity cost. They will gain insights into market dynamics, customer understanding, and macroeconomic indicators like the standard of living and balance of trade. The unit also covers the essentials of small business, including competition types, product development, and business planning. Additionally, students will learn about the legal system, focusing on criminal and civil law. This comprehensive unit aims to equip students with foundational knowledge and practical skills for future commerce studies.

Assessment: • Inquiry Report • Mini Task (balance sheet) • Small Business Plan • Test: The Australian Legal System

DIGITAL FILM & MEDIA If you are interested in animation, film, and media, then this is the course for you!

In Digital Media and Film, you will have the opportunity to dive deep into the world of visual media through a variety of engaging projects. You’ll develop your skills in image manipulation using Adobe Photoshop, undertake in-depth film analysis and production techniques, and engage in both major film production and digital animation.

You’ll use current industry software programs to help you manipulate, edit, and produce your work. With access to the Kingswood College TV studio and recording facilities, your projects will look polished and professional. Discover how digital media and film can lead to exciting careers in the creative industries.

Join us to unlock your creativity and bring your visions to life through the art of Digital Media and Film!

Areas of Study: • Digital Image manipulation • Film Analysis

ENHANCED SPORTS PERFORMANCE Enhanced Sports Performance is a comprehensive study of the key elements that drive athletic success.

Students actively investigate a variety of coaching styles and examine the role that feedback plays in skill acquisition and development.

They are provided with regular opportunities to apply their knowledge through their participation in peer-led coaching sessions, with a clear focus on the implementation of sound instructional practices to improve performance. Students delve into the field of biomechanics to analyse the technical aspects of movement, and they explore how sports psychology can be used to enhance an athlete’s motivation, resilience, and focus.

Assessment: • Peer Coaching sessions • Coach investigation • Video Analysis • Practical workshops • Semester Examination

• Film Production • Digital Animation

Assessment: •

Mythical Me Photoshop task

•

Major Film Production

•

Create an Animated Dreaming Story 13

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES FRENCH The study of French at Year 10 aims to develop the communication skills which enables students to express their views and talk about topics relevant to their age groups in readiness for VCE French studies.

This is a compulsory subject for students wishing to pursue studies in VCE French. It prepares them to deal with various daily situations and problems in French, developing an awareness of language as a tool for communication and of how language works. The study of a foreign language such as French fosters understanding and tolerance of other cultures and broadens the student’s cultural horizons and general knowledge by introducing them to the French way of life

HISTORY MYSTERIES This Year 10 History Mysteries Unit delves into intriguing historical enigmas, exploring why they persist and how they can be examined through logic and epistemology.

Students will learn to formulate analysis through critical thinking and research skills. The unit covers ancient mysteries like Babylon and Atlantis, as well as modern-world conspiracies, such as ‘did man really land on the moon?’ By investigating these topics, students will develop a deeper understanding of historical events, enhance their analytical skills, and learn the importance of evidence-based reasoning in uncovering the truths behind historical mysteries.

Assessment:

Assessment:

Activities revolve around the practice of the four main language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing, which also incorporate the grammar and vocabulary from each unit of work. Assessment takes place in various forms to accommodate the development of the skills of listening, speaking, reading, writing and viewing. Grammar and vocabulary are also assessed throughout the year.

• Case study and research task • Written analytical response • Case study and research task • Student created documentary/ podcast/report

MUSIC In Year 10 Music students focus on the development of aural and theoretical skills, such as recognising key signatures, intervals, scales, chords, rhythms and melodies.

Students develop these skills through both explicit theoretical analysis, and through the incorporation of these concepts in an original composition project, which is completed using the notation software, Sibelius. All students are required to present a prepared performance on their chosen instrument. Students undertake musicological research concerning the history of European music traditions, and ethnomusicological research which discusses musical elements that are familiar and unfamiliar, in both local and international music traditions. Year 10 Music is a broad and enriching subject, which serves as the gateway to VCE Music Performance studies.

Assessment: • Performance – Solo recital • Composition – Original, notated work • Research essay – Musicology • Comparative essay – Ethnomusicology • Written examination – Aural and theory skills

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ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK I 2026

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES PHOTOGRAPHY Year 10 Photography is designed for students who are passionate about capturing and creating visual imagery through both traditional and modern photography. Throughout the semester, students explore both analogue and digital photography, developing their ability to observe and represent subject matter with creativity and technical skill. They learn how to operate SLR cameras, understand black and white film processes, and gain practical experience in darkroom developing and printing. In parallel, students expand their digital photography knowledge, mastering DSLR camera functions and learning to enhance their compositions using editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Students document their creative process in a visual diary, capturing the progression of ideas, technical experimentation, and reflective responses. They explore a range of themes that support personal expression, visual storytelling, and aesthetic development.

Assessment: • Practical skill building short tasks such as photograms and exposures.

• Two major practical projects, culminating in two finished artworks.

• Submission of two theory tasks which link to each practical project.

PRODUCT DESIGN TECHNOLOGIES

PROGRAMMING & GAMES DESIGN

Students will be building upon skills gained in Years 7, 8 & 9, and be challenged with more complex design problems. Students will continue to develop their talent as designers, operators and users of technology.

The Design Process sets out a path for solving a problem or meeting a need. Students will follow the design process of investigating, designing, producing and evaluating products.

Students will always follow safe and competent workshop practices.

Delve into diverse game genres as you unravel the intricacies of game creation. Throughout this course, you’ll examine the gaming industry’s profound impact on society and dissect various game genres. By harnessing digital drawing skills, you’ll learn to craft unique sprite designs essential for bringing your games to life. Hands-on activities will guide you through creating your own games using versatile programming tools. From mastering simple command structures to tackling coding challenges, you’ll build a solid foundation in game development.

You’ll culminate your learning journey by creating your own unique game.

Embark on a creative exploration where innovation meets technology, and unleash your imagination to create a compelling game designed to captivate players.

Areas of Study: • Design and problem solving • Materials and skills • Production • Evaluation

Assessment: • Folio of design activities and visualisation of the design problem • Product that addresses the design problem • Examination of relevant theory and the Design Process

Areas of Study: • Working in Industry • Games Programming • Sprite Design and Digital Drawing • Game Development

Assessment: • Game Review • Jobs In Industry Presentation • Sprite Design • Game Design Project

• A visual diary that contains all working processes 15

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES PSYCHOLOGY This elective would seek to make connections between the student’s existing knowledge in Psychology and assist in developing new knowledge.

Currently, psychology is not a part of the Victorian Curriculum and thus, this elective better enables students to make an informed choice regarding studying VCE Psychology.

The elective will have four areas of study: mental illnesses, forensic psychology, performance psychology (including sports psychology), and all things psychology (a small taste of some of psychology’s most interesting areas). Students will have the opportunity to learn about underlying principles and theories, perform simple practical investigations, and examine case studies which reflect real-world contexts. This elective is designed to assist in developing knowledge and skills to better prepare students for VCE Psychology, however, it is not a prerequisite to studying VCE Psychology.

Assessment: A key component of the course would be inquiry based learning, revolving around practical investigations and folio activities.

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ROBOTICS ENGINEERING Explore the frontier of technology and innovation where you will build mechanical systems using engineering techniques before writing code to guide your robots to complete a variety of simple and complex tasks. Throughout this course, students delve into how technology profoundly impacts daily life. They design, build, program, and manipulate robots to apply innovative ideas that enhance existing processes. Robots serve as tangible examples of technology meeting user and societal needs. You will work through the engineering design process and learn to navigate constraints, brainstorm multiple solutions, and refine skills in problem-solving, troubleshooting, and invention. You will be empowered you to solve real-life challenges, and illuminate the diverse career paths within the robotics and engineering industries.

TEXTILES Embark on a journey of creativity while focused on sustainable and ethical fashion design. This course invites you to develop both hand sewing and machine sewing techniques to craft a range of pieces that address ethical considerations in fashion production. You will explore traditional and modern dyeing techniques to create products that blend aesthetics with ecoconscious practices. Engage in sewing projects that repurpose clothing sourced from opportunity shops, fostering sustainable living principles and reducing fashion waste. Delve into the discourse surrounding fast and slow fashion, examining their societal impacts and environmental implications. Utilize design thinking methodologies to identify needs and opportunities, then develop innovative solutions that integrate ethical practices into fashion design.

Areas of Study:

Areas of Study:

• Hand & Machine Sewing skills

• Introduction to engineering

• Dying fabric methods

• Programming robots

• Upcycled fashion piece

• Real life problem solving

• Fashion sustainability

Assessment:

•

Creating a podcast

• Careers in the robotics & engineering industries

•

Research poster

Assessment:

•

Analysis and evaluation of primary and/or secondary data

• Combined technique sewing challenge

• Engineering build

• Artisan-crafted creation

•

Folio practical task

• Programming challenge

• Upcycled fashion creation

• Problem solving task and reflection

• Research and samplers Folio

• Careers Project

• Sustainable fashion report

ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK I 2026

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES THEATRE STUDIES This elective allows you to explore the significant theatrical styles developed throughout history including both Pre-modern and Modern Theatre styles. You will be asked to participate in practical classroom sessions as we explore these styles, by performing small script excerpts to the class. You will also be working as part of a group ensemble to perform a Documentary Drama based on a social issue of your choice. You will choose a target audience for this performance, with the intention of bringing about social change. You will also get to explore various Production roles such as sets, costumes, hair & make-up and props.

You will then have the opportunity to present a scene to the class using design choices of your own.

Throughout the course there will be both practical and theoretical work as we dive deeper into the world of Theatre.

Assessment: • Research presentation on a theatre style of your choice • Documentary Drama (ensemble performance) • Scene presentation using your own design choices • Written examination

VISUAL ART Year 10 Visual Art encourages personal and creative responses to a range of stimulus through the investigation of different materials, techniques and processes. Students will enhance their understanding and application of the Art Elements and Principles learnt in previous years.

The course develops student’s individual styles through a comprehensive study of artforms which may extend to Sculpture, Drawing, Painting, Installation, Textiles, Printmaking, whilst examining two prominent Modern Art Movements. Students are supported to produce highly imaginative visual approaches, experimenting and documenting their ideas in a visual diary. This course mirrors the intentions of VCE Art courses as students set largely independent projects. As a result, the growth of student’s artistic skills allows them to produce final artworks that reflect their unique individuality and creativity.

Assessment: • Practical skill building tasks such as drawing, collage, ink and brush, painting.

VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN Visual Communication Design builds skills in drawing, creative thinking, problem solving, and communicating messages through design. In this course, students learn how to identify design problems and explore new opportunities to create innovative and meaningful solutions that meet the needs of different users and audiences. Students are introduced to the four fields of design practice: Messages, Interactive Experiences, Objects, and Environments. In this elective, the major projects focus on the Environments and Interactive Experiences fields. Students undertake design tasks such as interior design, architecture, model making, and website or app interface design. Both freehand and digital drawing methods are used to develop and present ideas. Students gain confidence using industry-standard design programs, including Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, to create professional and polished final presentations.

Assessment:

• Two major practical projects culminating in two finished artworks.

• Practical skill building short tasks such as freehand drawing, technical drawing and digital collage.

• Submission of theory tasks which link to each of the practical projects.

• Two major design projects, culminating in two finished design presentations.

• A visual diary that contains all working processes.

• Submission of two theory tasks.

• A visual diary that contains your 17

YEAR 10 ENGLISH, LITERATURE & EAL ELECTIVES Kingswood College runs yearlong Electives for Year 10 students which adhere to the mainstream English program.

Students will have a choice of three Electives. This is a Kingswood generated program, created by Kingswood Teachers to prepare and engage students in readiness for VCE English, Literature and EAL The Electives will offer a combination of English and Literature; in English a term focussed on Frameworks and a term on Argument and Language Analysis, and in Literature an indepth study of Shakespeare’s Macbeth for a term and a text response to a novel for a term.

The purpose for this approach is to provide the students with choice in their study and to engage them with maximum interest in the learning and teaching environment of the classroom. The focus is to deliver academic rigour in English and Literature, assisted by a differentiated approach to assessment in Macbeth and crafted lessons that provide the right amount of support and challenge for every student.

The selected text for Term 2 will be one approved by the English Faculty but selected by the teacher for each Elective.

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ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDBOOK I 2026

Each Elective has a different focus and students are asked to give a first and second preference. However, whilst every effort will be made to consider student preference, Kingswood reserves the right to finally place students.

Your interest in writing specific text types, from short stories to personal reflection or poetry, will be what guides you in the choices you make.

BEYOND TOMORROW For “Beyond Tomorrow” the writing Framework is about Futures in Term 1. In Term 2 there will be a text response to a novel; in Term 3 the area covered will be Argument and Language Analysis, and included in this area, some analysis of selected articles on the Future. Then in Term 4 there will be a whole new and exciting study based on an investigation of Macbeth by William Shakespeare.

The assessment for this study will be chosen by you from the ‘Macbeth Matrix’.

Activities: • Framework: Writing about Futures • Mentor text: “Growing up, grow up, grown-ups” by Ambelin Kwaymullina, in Growing up Aboriginal in Australia, edit. Anita Heiss, p.136-137.

• Argument and Language Analysis: Articles • AI in Education

Assessment: • Mid-Year Examination – Writing about Futures and Text Response • Final Examination – Argument and Language Analysis and Differentiated Assessment Macbeth.

YEAR 10 ENGLISH, LITERATURE & EAL ELECTIVES SEIZE THE DAY For “Seize the Day” the writing Framework is about Play in Term 1. In Term 2 there will be a text response to a novel; in Term 3 the area covered will be Argument and Language Analysis, and included in this area, some analysis of selected articles on Play. Then in Term 4 there will be a whole new and exciting study based on an investigation of Macbeth by William Shakespeare. The assessment for this study will be chosen by you from the ‘Macbeth Matrix’.

Activities:

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

AUSTRALIAN STORIES - EAL

For “More than Meets the Eye” the writing Framework is about Change in Term 1. In Term 2 there will be a text response to a novel; in Term 3 the area covered will be Argument and Language Analysis, and included in this area, some analysis of selected articles on Change. Then in Term 4 there will be a whole new and exciting study based on an investigation of Macbeth by William Shakespeare.

The assessment for this study will be chosen by you from the ‘Macbeth Matrix’.

For “Australian Stories” the writing Framework is about Change in Term 1, with Mentor Texts from ‘Paper Boats’, about the immigrant experience of children. In Term 2 there will be a text response to the Australian historical fiction film, ‘The Sapphires’; in Term 3, there will be a focus on persuasive speaking as well as deep study of Argument and Language Analysis.

Then, in Term 4, there will be a whole new and exciting study based on crafting texts, around the features and purposes of different text types.

The assessment for this study will be chosen by you from the ‘Text Types Matrix’.

• Framework: Writing about Play

Activities:

• Mentor text: “The sporting life” by Adam Goodes, in Growing up Aboriginal in Australia, edit. Anita Heiss, p.100-103.

• Framework: Writing about Change

• Argument and Language Analysis: Articles • Olympics/competition/sport

Assessment: • Mid-Year Examination – Writing about Play and Text Response • Final Examination – Argument and Language Analysis and Differentiated Assessment Macbeth.

• Mentor text: “It’s not over” by Bebe Backhouse, in Growing up Aboriginal in Australia, edit. Anita Heiss, p.16-20.

• Argument and Language Analysis: Articles • Climate change/EV

Assessment: • Mid-Year Examination – Writing about Change and Text Response • Final Examination – Argument and Language Analysis and Differentiated Assessment Macbeth.

Activities: • Framework: Writing about Change • Mentor text: “Counter 27”, written

by Azaara Perakath, collated by Yasar Duyal, in Paper Boats, , p.65-69.

• Argument and Language Analysis: Articles • Climate change/EV

Assessment: • Mid-Year Examination – Writing about Change and Text Response • Final Examination – Argument and Language Analysis and Differentiated Assessment Macbeth.

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