Kanahooka High School Elective Choices€¦ · 2015-2016 Elective Choices Kanahooka High School. Kanahooka High School ... poetry, drama, non-fiction, film, media, multimedia and

■ Phone: (02) 4261 4011■ Fax: (02) 4261 4700■ Email: [email protected]

■ Website: www.kanahooka-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

"Towards a Better World" Kanahooka High School

Robert Street

Dapto NSW 2530

•

for Year 9 and 10 2015-2016

Elective ChoicesKanahooka High School

Kanahooka High School

Page 2

In this book ... Foreword ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 3

Important Information .................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Compulsory Subjects ....................................................................................................................................................................... 4

English ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 4

Geography ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 4

History ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 5

Mathematics ................................................................................................................................................................................... 5

Personal Development, Health & Physical Education ...................................................................................................................... 6

Science ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

Electives ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7

Aquaponics ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 7

Child Studies .................................................................................................................................................................................. 7

Commerce ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 8

Design & Technology ....................................................................................................................................................................... 8

Italian ..............................................................................................................................................................................................9

Drama ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 9

Japanese ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 9

Food Technology ........................................................................................................................................................................... 10

Industrial Technology – Metal ....................................................................................................................................................... 10

Music ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 11

Industrial Technology – Timber ..................................................................................................................................................... 11

Physical Activity & Sport Studies ................................................................................................................................................... 12

Visual Arts ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 12

Creative Design – Textiles .............................................................................................................................................................. 13

Work Education ............................................................................................................................................................................ 13

Photography & Digital Media ........................................................................................................................................................ 14

History's Greatest Mysteries ......................................................................................................................................................... 14

2015 Years 9 and 10 – Elective Choice Sheet .................................................................................................................................. 15


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Foreword The selection of elective subjects for Years 9 and 10 is a very important decision time for students and parents.

Students should select subjects they like and have an interest in and believe they will do well in for the Record of

School Achievement (RoSA).

It is important for students to select their most enjoyable subjects, as this will give them a positive attitude to all

aspects of their studies and this positive attitude will then be carried on into the very important Years 11 and 12.

Students should not select subjects based on what their friends are doing, the teacher they think might be teaching a

certain subject and, to a lesser extent, as a pre-requisite to their Year 11 and 12 studies.

It is also important to give your initial thoughts a lot of care; change of subjects is not impossible, but it does place the

student at a distinct disadvantage as they will be behind the other students completing the course. It is also possible

that the other classes are full. It is much better to choose carefully and correctly the first time. High demand electives

will fill quickly, so it is important that Elective Choice Sheets are returned promptly.

Students will be asked to complete an Elective Choice Sheet, a copy of which is included in this booklet. It is suggested

that you record your choices here as a reminder for you. A Parent/Caregiver signature is required to indicate that

students have discussed their choices.

Christine Toohey Christine Toohey Principal

Important Information

All students entering Stage 5 at Kanahooka High School are required to study English, Mathematics, Science,

History, Geography and Personal Development/Health/Physical Education.

Students are required to study three of the elective subjects listed. These subjects are listed on pages 7-14.

We cannot guarantee that all elective subjects listed will actually run as this is dependent on sufficient students

wanting to study a particular subject. We are therefore asking students to list their first five (5) preferences FROM

THE SUBJECTS LISTED.

Parents are urged to discuss the subject offerings with their child. Students should choose courses in which they are

interested, and which will provide them with a sound preparation for the future.

It is important to know too, that students need not limit their elective choices in Years 9 and 10 to areas which they

think they might wish to pursue in senior years. Almost all subjects studied in Years 11 and 12 need not have been

taken in the junior school.

Please note that:

These course expectations are set by the Board of Studies and the Department of Education and Communities.

Satisfactory participation in electives is required for the Record of School Achievement. Students should ensure

that they choose carefully and wisely as there will be little or no opportunity to make changes to selections.

Some electives have associated fees to pay for materials. These elective costs are compulsory.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE SCHEME:

The Department of Education and Communities provides the school with a small amount of money to help students of families in need.

Should parents have difficulty making payments for subject materials they should request a Student Assistance Application form from

the front office. After all applications have been considered some assistance towards subject fees may be approved.


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Compulsory Subjects

English

Contact: Mr J Philpot

English in Years 9 and 10 develops skills which enable students to

become critical communicators. They will learn to analyse how

language is used to influence them and how to use language to

influence the world around them.

Students will respond to and create a wide variety of texts in a wide

variety of ways. These include prose, poetry, drama, non-fiction, film,

media, multimedia and Shakespearean texts from both the past and

present and Australian and multicultural contexts. Through this study

students also develop employment related skills such as:

communication; teamwork; problem solving; initiative and enterprise;

planning and organising; self-management; learning skills;

information technology; and cross-cultural understanding.

Student achievement over the two years will be based on ongoing class work and formal whole group assessment

tasks; further developing essential literacy, organisational and time management skills.

Stage 5 English provides students with important skills which are both vital for ongoing education and highly valued

by employers.

Geography

Contact: Mr A Glasgow

Geography is about the world and how people live and work. The Year 9/10 Geography course allows students to

enjoy and take an interest in their world and its future management. They achieve this as they develop geographic

knowledge, understanding, skills and values, and become informed and active citizens.

Topics:

The unique features of the Australian environment, natural disasters in Australia, the changing nature of Australia’s

population and how people live, types of Australian communities and things that cause them to change.

Current issues in the Australian environment, management for future

generations, Australia and its role in world affairs such as human rights,

tourism, defence and trade.

Local field studies allow students to collect information about issues such as

urban salinity, water management, growth and changes in towns and give

them the knowledge and skills to take action as active and informed citizens.

Senior Studies: Geography provides an excellent preparation for aspects of

HSC courses, such as Geography, Legal Studies (Environmental Law), Business

Studies (Global Business) and Society and Culture.

Careers: Geographers go into careers such as architecture, town planning,

environmental science, park rangers, marine science, teaching, tourism, social

work, international relations and overseas aid.


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History


History is about people in the past. History students investigate the lives of people and the

events they lived through, using different sources and artefacts that have been left behind.

This allows us to look at our world today with an understanding of how events have unfolded

over time. The Stage 5 History course explores the making of the Modern World and

Australia. It was a period of industrialisation, change, imperialism and nationalism culminating

in two world wars. The emphasis after 1945 is on Australia in its global context and provides

an understanding of Australia’s place within the Asia-Pacific region and the world.

The study of history equips students with the knowledge and skills essential for their future

roles as active, informed citizens and advocates for a fair and just society. Historical skills in

critical thinking and independent inquiry-based learning enable and encourage students to

become engaged in lifelong learning.

There is one formal assessment task for each topic, such as a research assignment or source

study exercise. In addition there will be a common test. It is essential to keep up-to-date with

class tasks as these are relevant for each assessment task.

Mathematics

Contact: Mrs K Lowis

In Years 9 and 10, students are placed in one of three courses depending

on their ability. The three courses are Stage 5.3 (Advanced), Stage 5.2

(Intermediate) and Stage 5.1 (Standard). In Stage 5 Mathematics students

continue to build on their skills in each of the proficiency strands

(Understanding, Fluency, Problem Solving and Reasoning) and content

strands (Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, Statistics and

Probability).

The depth of study incorporating the process of questioning, reflecting,

reasoning and proof depends on the course of Mathematics being

studied. Students will be given the opportunity to solve meaningful and

challenging problems in both familiar and unfamiliar contexts to develop

their “mathematical thinking, understanding, competence and

confidence in the application of mathematics.”

Assessment is carried out by class or course assignments, tests and formal examinations. The non-calculator

component in the formal examination is common across all courses.

It is important to note that:

A scientific calculator is essential (Can be purchased from the front office for $20)

The level of Mathematics studied in Years 9 and 10 may affect or limit a student’s choice of Mathematics

course for the HSC


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Personal Development, Health and Physical Education

Contact: Mr P Kipp

The focus of this course is to allow students to develop their own personal wellbeing, enjoy an active lifestyle, maximise

movement potential and advocate lifelong health and physical activity. The students are encouraged to adopt a

healthy, active and fulfilling lifestyle by developing skills in communicating, decision making, interacting, moving,

planning and problem solving.

Personal Development and Health is concerned with enhancing each student’s sense of self, improving their ability to

manage challenging circumstances and to develop caring and respectful relationships. It assists students to take action

to protect, promote and restore individual and community health.

Physical Education allows for students to develop individual and teamwork abilities through the medium of movement.

Students are offered opportunities to participate in a variety of physical experiences.

Assessment is conducted using a range of methods including: presentations, group work, written reports, topic tests,

research projects, self-assessment, peer assessment and physical performances. Year 10 has a formal assessment

schedule with common tasks across the year group.

Science

Contact: Ms C Dove

The Stage 5 Science syllabus requires students to develop concepts and language skills taught in Stage 4. Students will

be challenged in the various branches of Science in practical and theoretical tasks. Students will solve problems related to every day situations and be asked to think about challenges for their future. They will use technology to investigate

problems in areas including gravity, evolution, chemistry, light, electricity, plate tectonic, inertia and heredity.

As well, students will develop literacy, numeracy and

presentation skills to enable them to successfully

complete their own research project. Students will also

learn to develop reseach skills to enable them to

formulate questions that they can study.

In Stage 5, students use their laptops for scientific practicals and research. Many students successfully

engage in the Science and Engineering Challenge.

Common assessments in Year 9 include an energy saving

design, a body systems presentation, a materials timeline,

a technology assessment, a disasters study, a commonpractical test and a field report about one ecosystem. In Year 10, the assessment schedule includes a model, a graph,

an individual student research project, a chemistry practical report, a video analysis and common tests.


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Electives

AquaponicsContacts: Mr J Higgins

Marine and Aquaculture TechnologyThe Marine and Aquaculture Technology elective is a highly practical and "hands-on" insight into farming and keeping of fish species for human consumption (aquaculture). The coursework will focus closely on the school's own 'Aquaponics' fish and vegetable farms, in addition to local examples of commercial scale aquaculture facilities. Students will learn methods of catching, keeping, breeding and cultivating edible fish species.

The Aquaponics course offers students opportunities to:

Learn practical skills

Undertake theoretical research and presentations

Develop responsibility and independence

Develop lifelong interest in the environment and living things

Fish care

Child Studies

Contact: Mrs C Powell

Child Studies is an innovative course for both boys and girls to learn valuable skills for life. Child Studies looks at the fascinating and important world of the first 7 years of life. The course involves 2 years of study that is practically based, giving students a ‘taste’ of the senior course “Exploring Childhood”.

Materials/Equipment: A4 book, pens and pencils.

Course Fee: $10 plus project costs

Course fee: $25 per year

The importance of the Family, Pregnancy and Childbirth,

Effective Parenting, How a child grows and develops,

Importance of play, Food and health issues, Behaviour

Management and Child Care industry career choices.


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Commerce

Contact: Mr A GlasgowCommerce gives students the knowledge to make more informed decisions in everyday life. It deals with people and

how they make decisions about money, being consumers, being in business and using the law.

Topics

Consumer choice - learn to avoid the traps

Personal finance - budgeting

Employment issues – rights and responsibilities at work

Law and society – how the law works for everyone

Investing and making money – share market game

Travel – getting the most for your money

Government and politics – being informed voters

Running a business – developing a hypothetical business

Becoming independent – it is cheaper to live at home

Our Economy – how interest rates, inflation and

unemployment is controlled

Senior Studies:

Commerce provides an excellent preparation for aspects of HSC courses, such as Economics, Business Studies, Legal

Studies, and Business Services (VET).

Careers: Commerce is an excellent start towards careers in business management, marketing, accountancy, human

resources, investors, stock broking, banking, financial advising, law, tourism, politics, overseas work and travel, real

estate, economics.

Design and TechnologyContact: Mr T Ivatt

This course endeavours to develop the student's ability to respond to everyday design problems by applying creative and innovative thinking strategies whilst using a range of materials and technologies.

The Structure of the course follows a learning continuum that builds on from the previous knowledge gained in Technology Mandatory.

Throughout this course students will select from a wide range of technologies to satisfy a variety of design briefs.

Technologies can include: Art Metal, Electronics, Robotics (Lego Mindstorm), Computer Graphics, Additive Manufacturing (3D printing), Jewellery design, Furniture design, Transport systems and sustainable living. Students will learn to follow workshop safety protocol whilst working individually or as part of a group to create, evaluate and test their quality designed solutions.

Course fee: $35


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JapaneseContact: Mrs A Shoebridge

With a focus on Japan and cultural awareness the Japanese class at Kanahooka experience a wide variety of learning activities.

Language, Culture, History, Geography, Art and Design, Music and Food.

Face to face Cultural exchange with visiting OKAZAKI JOSEI Senior High School students.

Each term in 2015, the Year 9 Japanese class will engage in at least one meaningful class trip or cultural experience. These experiences enhance student engagement and learning.

Kanahooka HS has been proactive in promoting Asian Literacy by offering its students Japanese Language and Culture classes. Students have learning experiences that encourage them to look beyond the horizon and prepare for challenges and opportunities in a changing world.

Course fee: Vary with excursions

DRAMAContact: Mr J Philpot

The Drama course involves students in all aspects of drama and theatre. Areas to be covered include acting, movement, mime, script writing, performance, theatre space and technical production. Student swill be given opportunities to perform in a variety of situations, from brief improvised exercises to polished productions before invited audiences.

Drama aims to develop and foster in students:Self confidence and ability to react to new and strange situations.Ability to be expressive and imaginative.Verbal skills.

Course fee: $25

Italian__________________________________________________________________________________________________Contact: Mrs L Mar

The Italian course in Years 9 and 10 is designed to equip students with skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. The topics covered relate to everyday situations for example - shopping, travel, daily activities and dining out.

The course is covered through the use of magazines, internet,

films and songs.

Course fee: Nil


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Food Technology

Contact: Ms P Middlebrook

The study of Food Technology provides students with a broad knowledge and understanding of the requirements that

are needed to gain employment in the food or hospitality industry. At present local food outlets want young

employees to have a good general work ethic and be equipped with the appropriate skills. All of this can be achieved

through studying this course.

You will learn about:

Food properties

Food processing

Food preparation

Nutritional considerations and eating patterns

Students will develop food specific skills, enabling them to

produce quality food products while learning the finer points

of hygiene and safe working practices. Studying Food

Technology will give you the opportunity to learn the basic

skills of a Barista through working in our new Coffee Shop.

This could lead you to gaining the industry skills required to

work in many local food outlets.

Focus Areas of study may include:

Food in Australia

Food Selection and Health

Food for Special Needs

Food Product Development

Food Services and Catering

Materials/Equipment Required: Covered shoes, A4 size 128 page book, apron, containers and tea towel.

Course fee: $60 for consumables

Industrial Technology - Metal

Contact Person: Mr T Ivatt

Metal is a key material of technology and has many important uses within daily life. Metal related industries provide

full time employment to around 170,000 people in NSW alone making it the largest provider of fulltime employment

in the state. Students will develop competence with metal working machinery and equipment including lathes, drills, grinders, electric arc and MIG welding, oxy-acetylene welding/brazing/cutting and computer controlled metal cutting lathes, spot welders, shears and guillotines, etc.

Some of the potential projects students develop include:

Centre punch

Tool caddy

Metal Art

Heavy Gauge Toolbox

Students can use this course as a base for senior Design and Technology

and VET courses. Students who are interested in careers such as

engineering, metals trade, motor mechanics or farm maintenance maybenefit from this course.

Equipment required: Covered leather footware - Course fee $35 per year for consumables

Camp BBQ


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Industrial Technology – Timber

Contact Person: Mr B Powell

Timber is a renewable resource that has been of great value to humans throughout history. This practical-based course

introduces students to modern timber products, tools and techniques, while maintaining traditional concepts of

craftsmanship and pride in work completed. The projects made in the course enable students to develop the

knowledge and skills to confidently work with timber.

Some of the projects students develop are:

Laminated mallet

Jewellery Box

Coffee Table

Fruit Bowl

Major design project

All projects are designed to offer a challenge and gradually

build the level of skill.

Industrial Technology Timber offers a balance of practical

skills and academic challenges to suit any ability level. This

course is a good basis for senior Design and Technology,

Industrial Technology and VET courses. Students interested in careers in cabinet making and the building industry will

benefit from this course.

Equipment required: Covered footwear – Course fee: $35 per year for consumables

Music

Contact: Ms S Dedini

The music course for Stage 5 is designed for students who enjoy

playing music, listening to music and even writing songs and pieces

of their own.

The course offers a diverse range of topics from two main groups,

art music and contemporary music. Such topics may include: music

and technology, contemporary art music, music from film, radio and

television, Australian music, rock and pop music and classical music.

When studying these topics students will be given the opportunity

to listen to and play a variety of well-known songs as well as

discover new music and even create their own compositions.

During the study of this course students will be provided with the opportunity to:

Develop performance skills using a variety of instruments

Experiment with a range of music technology

Learn about composition and music analysis

Students will value and appreciate the aesthetic value of music and the enjoyment of engaging in performing, composing

and listening.

Course fee: $14 per year


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Physical Activity and Sport Studies

Contact: Mr P Kipp

This course for students in Years 9-10 will extend learning in team games, fitness, gymnastics and dance as well as the theory of the structure and function of the body. Students will also study a range of recreational activities which are not part of the PD/H/PE program. Students will be taught to take on leadership roles such as refereeing and organising competitions.

Parents should note that the Physical Activity & Sports Studies class will, on occasions, undertake activities away from the school.

Course fee: $30Visual Arts

Contact: Mr S Traicevski

Visual Arts is a comprehensive course where students build skills in a variety of forms including drawing, painting,

printmaking and sculpture. A broad range of tasks will give students the opportunity to explore a range of techniques

and challenge their creativity. Students explore artists, their world and artwork through assorted tasks in art making

and art history and criticism.

This course aims to:

Create an awareness of the career opportunities in the visual arts

Progressively develop students visual communication skills and techniques

Provide a pathway to study in Stage 6 Visual Arts

Equipment: A3 Visual Arts sketchbook - Course Fee: $25 per year for consumables

Practical units of work studied include:•Swimming

•Fitness activities

•Team games (Basketball, Touch

Football, Soccer, Volleyball)

•Indoor sports

•Recreational sports

Theoretical units to be studied include:

•The Human Body

•Basic First Aid Procedures

•History of Sport

•The Science of Sport

•Theory of Fitness

These units of work are not repeated in Year 9/10 PE lessons. The course will be made up of 60% practical and 40% theory. Students who have an interest in sport, health issues, fitness, coaching, recreational activities and skills development would be suited to this course.


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Creative Design - TextilesContact: Mrs C Powell

This is an extension of Year 7 and 8 Technology and is designed for students who are keen to explore the latest fashions and create them using textile materials and the new automatic sewing machines.

Students will be involved in the practical experiences of designing and production in Textile arts and includes:

Bags and Beading, Embroidery, Quilts and Patchwork, Clothing and Accessories, Swimwear, Applique and Formal Outfits

Students will gain competencies using the sewing machine and will have opportunities to experience and practice a variety of hand stitching techniques, mainly in the form of embroidery stitches and beading.

Students will develop a basic understanding of textiles studies - fibres, fabrics and other textile related areas. They will study commercial patterns and apply the knowledge in garment construction.

Textile Art Projects include tie dyed bags, pyjamas, swimmers and tracksuits.Three to four major projects will be undertaken. Students will have the opportunity to use computers to transform their ideas into suitable visuals and then into functional design solutions.

Course fee: $10 per year plus project costs


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History's Greatest Mysteries_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


The world is full of incredible mysteries that even today remain unsolved. Mysteries interest everyone. The world we live in is not as simple as it might be. There are many mysterious phenomena which find no answer in Science.

In this elective we research some of the world’s greatest unsolved mysteries including the Bermuda Triangle, Crystal Skulls, The Pyramids, The Nazca Lines, Who was Jack the Ripper, Legends of Bigfoot/Sasquatch, the Supernatural/Ghosts, Alien Life and Probability, JFK, O J Simpson, Lizzie Borden and the Lost Cities of Atlantis and Petra.

A research project is the major assessment component with computer skills and library research forming part of the student’s skill development.

Course fee: Nil

Work Education_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Contact: Mr G KnowlesThis course is about the nature of work and the workplace. Students will gain an understanding of a range of current work and employment issues and identify types of work options from their own experiences and the experiences of others.

During the course students will undertake a range of workplace experiences within the school and community, as well as explore the links between education and training systems and employment options.

Subject contribution will be costs incurred by excursions and travel to work placements.

Photography and Digital Media ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Students who take this course will develop knowledge, understanding and skills in the following areas:how to make photographic and digital workshow to control light in order to capture photographic imageshow to operate a darkroom enlarger to make black and white printshow to manipulate digital images using information technologyhow studying the work of famous photographers can improve their own photographyhow the study of photographic works can affect the interpretation, meaning and significance we place on them

Students completing this course will be able to:use film and/or digital cameras skilfullymanipulate their images and make prints from themproduce images using information technology and traditional silver based methodsselect appropriate procedures and techniques to make and refine photographic and digital works

Students will be required to:keep a journal to record their investigations, experiments with images, technologies and techniques, and to record technical informationbuild a portfolio that shows their development as a photographer and shows a range of techniques and investigations

••••••

••••

•

•

Course fee: $50


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2015 Years 9 and 10 - Elective Choice Sheet Student’s Name: ___________________________________________________________________________ Year: _____________

The following courses are compulsory in Years 9 and 10: English, Mathematics, Science, PDHPE, History, and

Geography.

In addition every student will complete three elective courses. Each of these electives will be included on a student’s

Record of School Achievement. The successful completion of an elective in Year 9 and 10 is the best possible

preparation for the senior school years as well as for TAFE.

Students must complete these choices NO LATER than Friday, October 31. The 2015 elective lines are indicated below; students are to make TWO selections from each line (in order of preference). There will be a box placed outside

Mr Panecasio's office in which the students’ choice sheets should be placed. High demand electives will fill quickly, so it is important that Elective Choice Sheets are returned promptly.

We make every effort to meet students’ requests, but sometimes this will not be possible.

Please return this page to Mr Panecasio in person or by email to [email protected] by 31 October 2014

Student signature:___________________________________Parent/Carer signature:____________________________________

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY -

TIMBER CHILD STUDIES JAPANESE

FOOD TECHNOLOGY AQUAPONICS MUSIC

VISUAL ARTS DESIGN &

TECHNOLOGY

COMMERCE FOOD TECHNOLOGY

HISTORY'S GREATEST MYSTERIES WORK EDUCATION DRAMA

PHOTOGRAPHY & DIGITAL MEDIA

CREATIVE DESIGN TEXTILES ITALIAN

1st

Choice Choice

5th

Choice

2nd

Choice

4th

Choice

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY - METAL

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & SPORT STUDIES

3rd

Junee High School

Page 16

Documents

Kanahooka High School Elective Choices€¦ · 2015-2016 Elective Choices Kanahooka High School. Kanahooka High School ... poetry, drama, non-fiction, film, media, multimedia and