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Mathematics Extension 2: 15260 (Y12 Only)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Mathematics Extension 2 is designed for students with a special interest in mathematics who have shown that they possess special aptitude for the subject.
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Mathematics Extension 2 provides students with the opportunity to develop strong mathematical manipulative skills and a deep understanding of the fundamental ideas of algebra and calculus, as well as an appreciation of mathematics as an activity with its own intrinsic value, involving invention, intuition and exploration. Mathematics Extension 2 extends students’ conceptual knowledge and understanding through exploration of new areas of mathematics not previously seen.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Exclusions:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
One unit for the HSC Course (Year 12)
50 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Mathematics Standard
Satisfactory completion of Mathematics Extension 2 course fulfill the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR.
Prerequisite:
The Mathematics Extension 2 Year 12 course has been developed on the assumption that students have studied the content and achieved the outcomes of the Mathematics Advanced Year 11 course and the Mathematics Extension 1 Year 11 course. The Mathematics Extension 2 Year 12 course has also been constructed on the assumption that students are concurrently studying the Mathematics Advanced Year 12 course and the Mathematics Extension 1 Year 12 course
Suitability:
Career Pathway:
Students who consistently achieve an A-B grade in Year 10 Mathematics 5 2/5 3 (Advanced) Students who successfully complete the Year 11 Mathematics Extension course will be invited to enrol in this course
Students who undertake Mathematics Extension courses can explore relevant careers here
Science Courses
Biology
Biology: 11030 (Y11) / 15030 (Y12)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
The Biology Stage 6 Syllabus explores the diversity of life from a molecular to a biological systems level. The course examines the interactions between living things and the environments in which they live. It explores the application of biology and its significance in finding solutions to health and sustainability issues in a changing world.
The study of biology, which is often undertaken in interdisciplinary teams, complements the study of other science disciplines and other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) related courses. Through the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data, students are encouraged to solve problems and apply knowledge of biological interactions that relate to a variety of fields.
The Biology course builds on the knowledge and skills of the study of living things found in the Science Stage 5 course. The course maintains a practical emphasis in the delivery of the course content and engages with the technologies that assist in investigating current and future biological applications.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Biology course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Career Pathway:
Interested students who have consistently achieved a C grade or higher in both Year 10 Science and Year 10 English
Students who undertake Biology can explore relevant careers here
Chemistry: 11050 (Y11) / 15050 (Y12)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Chemistry involves using differing scales, specialised representations, explanations, predictions and creativity, especially in the development and pursuit of new materials.
It requires students to use their imagination to visualise the dynamic, minuscule world of atoms in order to gain a better understanding of how chemicals interact.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Chemistry course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Career Pathway:
Interested students who have consistently achieved a B grade or higher in both Year 10 Science and Year 10 English It is essential that students have strong mathematical skills e g 5 3 Mathematics Students need to be prepared for a significant amount of learning to be conducted at home on a weekly basis to support the classroom learning
Students who undertake Chemistry can explore relevant careers here
Physics: 11310 (Y11) / 15330 (Y12)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
The Physics Stage 6 Syllabus involves the study of matter and its motion through space and time, along with related concepts that include energy and force.
Physics deals with the study of phenomena on scales of space and time – from nuclear particles and their interactions up to the size and age of the Universe. This allows students to better understand the physical world and how it works, appreciate the uniqueness of the Universe, and participate in navigating and influencing the future.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Physics course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Career Pathway:
Interested students who have consistently achieved a B grade or higher in both Year 10 Science and Year 10 English It is essential that students have strong mathematical skills e g 5 3 Mathematics Students need to be prepared for a significant amount of learning to be conducted at home on a weekly basis to support the classroom learning
Students who undertake Physics can explore relevant careers here
Science Extension: 15345 (Y12 only)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Science Extension is a new course with a focus on the authentic application of scientific research skills to produce a Scientific Research Report generally acceptable for publication.
Students propose and develop a research question, formulate a hypothesis and develop evidencebased responses to create their Scientific Research Report which is supported by a Scientific Research Portfolio. The four modules integrate the skills of Working Scientifically within the course content to form the framework for the Scientific Research Project.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
One unit for the HSC Course (Year 12)
50 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Study one or a combination of Biology, Chemistry or Physics Year 11 (up to six units of study)
Study one or a combination of Biology, Chemistry or Physics Year 12 (up to seven units of study).
Satisfactory completion of the Science Extension course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Career Pathway:
Students who consistently achieve an A grade in Year 10 science
Science Extension is designed for students with an interest in scientific research. The course lays a foundation for students planning to pursue further study in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts or Mathematics (STEAM) based courses offered at the tertiary level, and to engage in new and emerging industries
Design and Technology (D&T): 11080 (Y11) / 15080 (Y12)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
The Year 11 course involves the study of both designing and producing. This is explored through areas such as design theory and practice, design processes, environmental and social issues, communication, research, technologies, and the manipulation of materials, tools and techniques. The Year 11 course includes the completion of at least two design projects. These projects involve the design, production and evaluation of a product, system or environment and includes evidence of the design process recorded in a design folio. The design folio can take a variety of different forms.
The HSC course applies the knowledge and understanding of designing and producing from the Year 11 course. It involves the development and realisation of a Major Design Project, a case study of an innovation, along with the study of innovation and emerging technologies. The study of the course content is integrated with the development of a Major Design Project, worth 60% of the HSC mark. This project requires students to select and apply appropriate design, production and evaluation skills to a product, system or environment that satisfies an identified need or opportunity. A case study of an innovation is also required with students identifying the factors underlying the success of the innovation, analyse associated ethical issues and discuss its impact on Australian society.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Design and Technology course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Students who are creative problem solvers, who are organised, selfmotivated and are able to maintain a continuous level of commitment over long periods for project work
Engineering Studies: 11120 (Y11) / 15120 (Y12)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
The Engineering Studies Stage 6 course is designed towards the development and application of mathematical, scientific and technological skills and their integration with business and management. It provides students with skills, knowledge and understanding associated with a study of engineering, its practices and associated methodologies.
The subject promotes environmental, economic and global awareness, problem-solving ability, engagement with information technology, self-directed learning, communication, management and skills in working as a team.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Engineering course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Students who consistently achieve a C grade or higher in Year 10 Mathematics
Food Technology: 11180 (Y11) / 15180 (Y12)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
The Year 11 course will develop knowledge and understanding about food nutrients and diets for optimum nutrition, the functional properties of food, safe preparation, presentation and storage of food, sensory characteristics of food, the influences on food availability and factors affecting food selection. Practical skills in planning, preparing and presenting food are integrated throughout the content areas.
The HSC course involves the study of: sectors, aspects, policies and legislations of the Australian Food Industry; production, processing, preserving, packaging, storage and distribution of food; factors impacting, reasons, types, steps and marketing of food product development; nutrition incorporating diet and health in Australia and influences on nutritional status. Practical experiences in developing, preparing, experimenting and presenting food are integrated throughout the course.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Food Technology course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
The study of Stage 5 Food Technology would be advantageous.
Students who undertake Food Technology can explore relevant careers here
Enterprise Computing: TBC (Y11) / TBC (Y12)
The Year 11 course provides students with the opportunity to develop and apply an understanding of enterprise computing systems in the safe and secure usage and storage of data. This is done by manipulating tools and resources while being aware of their social, ethical and legal implications.
The Year 12 course provides students with the opportunity to extend their knowledge and understanding of enterprise computing systems. This will then be applied to the development of a major enterprise project using project management skills.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Enterprise Computing course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Prerequisites:
Career Pathways:
Completion of the two-unit Year 11 course is a prerequisite to the study of the two-unit HSC (Year 12) course
Students who undertake Enterprise Computing can explore relevant careers here.
Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE)
Courses
Ancient History
Modern History
History Extension
Geography
Studies of Religion
Legal Studies
Business Studies
Economics
Society and Culture
Ancient History: 15020
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
The study of Ancient History enable students to acquire knowledge and understanding, historical skills, and values and attitudes essential to an appreciation of the ancient world; to develop a lifelong interest and enthusiasm for ancient history; and to prepare for informed and active citizenship in the contemporary world.
The Year 11 course provides students with opportunities to develop and apply their understanding of methods and issues involved in the investigation of the ancient past. Students have the opportunity to engage in the study of a range of features, people, places, events and developments of the ancient world.
The Year 12 course provides students with opportunities to apply their understanding of archaeological and written sources and relevant issues in the investigation of the ancient past. Through a core study, students investigate the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and explore issues relating to reconstruction and conservation of the past. They also study the key features and sources of an ancient society, personality and historical period.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Ancient History course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Students who have an interest in investigating the past, and a willingness to develop writing skills
Students who undertake Ancient History can explore relevant careers here.
Modern History: 11270
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
The study of Modern History engages students in an investigation of the forces that have shaped the world, based on the analysis and interpretation of sources. It offers students the opportunity to investigate the possible motivations and actions of individuals and groups, and how they have shaped the world politically, culturally, economically and socially. Modern History stimulates students’ curiosity and imagination and enriches their appreciation of humanity by introducing them to a range of historical developments and experiences that have defined the modern world. Modern History enables students to trace the historical background of contemporary issues and to explore the significance of individuals, events and ideas. It equips students with knowledge, understanding and skills to help them examine and make sense of the world around them.
The study of Modern History requires students to understand and use historical concepts and apply skills in their investigation of people, ideas, movements, events and developments of the modern world within personal, local, national, regional and global contexts. Students are introduced to the complexities associated with the changing nature of sources, their expanding quantity, range and form, and the distinctive characteristics of modern historical representation. Students are encouraged to interpret sources for evidence, establish which evidence is relevant to an inquiry, and use evidence to construct and analyse historical accounts
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Two for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Students who have an interest in investigating the past, and a willingness to develop writing skills.
Students who undertake Modern History can explore relevant careers here
History Extension: 15280 (Y12 Only)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
History Extension provides students with opportunities to examine the way history is constructed and the role of historians.
Students investigate the nature of history and changing approaches to its construction through sampling the works of various writers, historians and others involved in the practice of history. Students apply their understanding to undertake an individual investigative project, focusing on an area of changing historical interpretation.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Exclusions:
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
The HSC Course (Year 12) equates to 1 Unit
50 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Must be studying Ancient History and/or Modern History
Students who achieve high results in Preliminary Ancient or Modern History and demonstrate ability to conduct independent inquiry
Students who undertake History Extension can explore relevant careers here
Geography: 15190
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Geography is an investigation of the world which provides an accurate description and interpretation of the varied character of the earth and its people. It is a key discipline through which students develop the ability to recognise and understand environmental change and the interactions which take place in our world.
Geographers investigate the opportunities for human activities, the constraints placed upon them and the impacts of these activities. The study of Geography allows students to perceive the world in a variety of ways and helps them make sense of a complex and changing world. Students complete a Geographical Investigation in Year 11 and undertake 12 hours of fieldwork in both Year 11 and Year 12.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Geography course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Students who show a sound ability in Year 7-10 Geography and enjoy learning about the world
Students who undertake Geography can explore relevant careers here
Studies of Religion 2: 11360 (Y 11) / 15380 (Y12)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Studies of Religion 2 promotes an understanding and critical awareness of the nature and significance of religion and the influence of belief systems and religious traditions on individuals and within society.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Suitability:
Exclusions:
Career Pathways:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Students consistently achieving at an A-B range for both Religion and English
Studies of Religion 1
Students who undertake Studies of Religion can explore relevant careers here
Legal Studies: 15220
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Our society is regulated by a complex set of rules and regulations which both guide and protect individual and community rights. Being well informed about legal issues, including the rights and responsibilities integral to our society, is part of being an active and informed citizen.
Legal Studies students will develop an understanding of legal concepts and the way the law functions in our society. The syllabus focuses on the way in which law is generated, how it is structured and how it operates in Australian and international contexts. Learning about our legal system will allow students to investigate the way our society operates and the influences that shape it.
Students will develop an understanding of the implications that legal decisions can have for Australian society and the ways in which the legal system can affect the lives of Australian citizens. A critical understanding of the processes of reform and change will help students to contribute to making our society more equitable for all
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Students who have an interest in studying how law governs society and the way we live
Students who undertake Legal Studies can explore relevant careers here.
Business Studies: 15040
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Business activity is a feature of everyone’s life. Throughout the world people engage in a web of business activities to design, produce, market, deliver and support a range of goods and services. In addition, investors, consumers and employees depend on the business sector for much of their quality of life.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Business Studies course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Students who enjoyed studying Commerce and would like to learn more about how businesses operation and interact with our society
Students who undertake Business Studies can explore relevant careers here.
Economics: 11110
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Economic decisions have a crucial influence on the quality of life experienced by people throughout the world. The study of economics can help individuals, groups and societies make choices that assist them to improve their quality of life. Discussion of economic issues dominates the media and politics. By understanding economics, students can make informed judgements about issues and policies and participate responsibly in decision-making.
The discipline of economics has a theoretical basis and economists often debate the relative merits of different theories when assessing economic issues and proposing solutions to economic problems, including economic modelling.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Contribution to the HSC and ATAR:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Satisfactory completion of the Economics course fulfills the pattern of study requirements for the HSC and can be eligible for the calculation of the ATAR
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Students who enjoyed studying Commerce and would like to learn more about how businesses operation and interact with our society
Students who undertake Economics can explore relevant careers here
Society and Culture: 15350
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
The central goal of Society and Culture is the development of social and cultural literacy and a clear understanding of the interaction of persons, societies, cultures, environments and time. The influence of other aspects of societies and cultures – including power, authority, identity, gender, technologies and globalisation – is also central to the course. Society and Culture draws on cross-disciplinary concepts and social research methods from anthropology; communication; cultural and media studies; philosophy; social psychology; and sociology.
Society and Culture encourages students to manage their own learning, including opportunities to experience working within teams. In allowing students to study in areas of direct relevance to their lives, Society and Culture contributes greatly to the promotion of lifelong learning, providing opportunities for students to acquire a range of skills to support such learning. The study of Society and Culture prepares students for adult life by developing knowledge, understanding, skills and other qualities associated with effective citizenship at local, national, regional and global levels.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Students who enjoyed learning about different cultures and societies in 7-10 History and Geography and are willing to use or develop high level reading and writing skills
Students who undertake Society and Culture can explore relevant careers here
Creative and Performing
Arts Courses
Drama
Music Visual Arts
Drama: 15090
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Students in Drama study the practices of making, performing and critically studying. Students engage with these components through collaborative and individual experiences.
Year 11
Content comprises an interaction between the components of Improvisation, play building and acting, elements of production in performance and theatrical traditions and performance styles. Learning comes from practical experiences in each of these areas.
HSC Course (Year 12)
Australian Drama and Theatre and Studies in Drama and Theatre involve theoretical study through practical exploration of themes, issues, styles and movements of traditions of theatre, exploring relevant acting techniques, performance styles and spaces. Learning comes from practical experiences in each of these areas.
The group performance (3-6 students) involves creating a piece of original theatre (8–12 minutes duration). It provides an opportunity for each student to demonstrate his or her performance skills.
For the individual project, students demonstrate their expertise in a particular area. They choose one project from Critical Analysis or Design or Performance or Scriptwriting or Video Drama
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Suitability:
Exclusions:
Career Pathways:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Students who like to work collaboratively and independently in an active classroom, who are creative, imaginative and organised and enjoy sustained engagement in project-based learning driven by areas of personal interest Students who are receiving a C grade or higher in English would be most suitable for this course
Projects developed for assessment in one subject are not to be used either in full or in part for assessment in any other subject.
Students who undertake Drama can explore relevant careers here
Music 1: 15290
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
In the Preliminary and HSC courses, students will study the concepts of music through the learning experiences of performance, composition, musicology and aural skills within the context of a range of styles, periods and genres.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Students who have experience and previous study in Music; who like to work collaboratively and independently; are creative, organised and prepared to engage in sustained instrumental practise outside of school hours. Students who are generally receiving a C grade or higher in English would be most suitable for this course.
Students who undertake Music 1 can explore relevant careers here
Visual Arts: 15400
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Visual Arts involves students in artmaking, art criticism and art history. Students develop their own artworks and art images culminating in a ‘Body of Work’ in the HSC course. Students critically and historically investigate artworks, critics, historians, artists from Australia as well as those from other cultures, traditions and times.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Students who are creative, imaginative and enjoy representing, discussing and writing about ideas presented in visual forms Students must be organised, independent problem solvers, and willing to engage with artmaking in a sustained manner. Students who consistently achieve a C grade or above in English would be most suitable for this course
Students who undertake Visual Arts can explore relevant careers here
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) Courses
Community and Family Studies (CAFS)
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)
Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation Studies
Community and Family Studies (CAFS): 11060 (Y11) / 15060 (Y12)
NESA Stage 6 Syllabus
Community and Family Studies is designed to develop in each student an understanding of the diverse nature and interdependence of families and communities, within Australian society. The course enables students to plan and manage resources effectively in order to address contemporary issues facing families and communities. The Preliminary course consists of three mandatory modules and the indicative course time allocated to their study. The HSC course consists of three mandatory modules representing 75 per cent of course time. An options component representing 25 per cent of course time includes three modules of which students are to study only one.
Students are required to complete an Independent Research Project (IRP) in the context of the HSC core module Research Methodology and this forms part of the HSC internal assessment. The focus of the IRP should be related to the course content of one or more of the following areas: individuals, groups, families, communities, resource management.
Number of Units:
Marks available:
Suitability:
Career Pathways:
Two units for each of the Preliminary Course (Year 11) and HSC Course (Year 12)
100 marks for the HSC Course (Year 12)
Students who are community based minded and show interest in concepts relating to well-being, needs, resources or welfare of families, communities, individuals and children CAFS is suited to occupations such as: social worker, early childhood and infant’s teacher, counselling, psychologist and other human resources roles.
Students who undertake CAFS can explore relevant careers here
