Year 9 Program 2013 - Diamond Valley College

2013 

Year 9 

Course 

Handbook

2013 Diamond Valley College Year 9 Course Handbook 2

Table of Contents 

Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 4 

Material Intensive Elective Charges ............................................................................... 5 

The Junior School Team 2012 ................................................................................ 6 

Expectations of Students ................................................................................................. 6 

General Information ................................................................................................ 6 

Year 9 Program 2013 ...................................................................................................... 7 

Compulsory Subjects ...................................................................................................... 8 

English-EN09 .......................................................................................................... 8 

Mathematics-MA09 ................................................................................................ 8 

Science-SC09 .......................................................................................................... 9 

History -HI09 ........................................................................................................ 10 

Future Directions-DIR9 ........................................................................................ 11 

Health-HE09 ......................................................................................................... 11 

Civics-CIV9 .......................................................................................................... 12 

Elective Program-Semester Length Units ..................................................................... 13 

Leadership ..................................................................................................................... 13 

‘High Resolves’ and Community Action-HR09 ................................................... 13 

Arts Domain .................................................................................................................. 14 

Art: Art-AR09 ....................................................................................................... 14 

Art: Digital Art-DA09 ........................................................................................... 15 

Art: Drawing for Design-DRAW .......................................................................... 15 

Performing Arts ............................................................................................................ 16 

Performing Arts: Dance-DANC ........................................................................... 16 

Performing Arts: Creation & Performance-DRCP ............................................... 16 

Performing Arts: Music-MU09 ............................................................................. 17 

English Domain ............................................................................................................ 18 

English: Creative Writing-ENCW ........................................................................ 18 

English: Media Issues & Analysis-ENMI ............................................................. 18 

Health & Physical Education Domain .......................................................................... 19 

Health & PE: Fitness for Life-PEFL ..................................................................... 19 

Health & PE: Football Codes-PEFC ..................................................................... 20 

Health & PE: Physical Education-PE09 ............................................................... 20 

Humanities Domain ...................................................................................................... 21 

Humanities: Dollars and Sense-HUDS ................................................................. 21 

Information Technology Domain ................................................................................. 22 

Information Technology: Multimedia-MULT ...................................................... 22 

LOTE Domain .............................................................................................................. 23 

Italian-LO09 .......................................................................................................... 23 

Science Domain ............................................................................................................ 24 

Applied Science-SCAS ......................................................................................... 24 

TECHNOLOGY Domain ............................................................................................. 25 

Technology: Fashion TECF .................................................................................. 25 

Technology: Create and Make TECM .................................................................. 25 

Technology: Robotics -TERO .............................................................................. 26 

Technology: Design & Tech Materials-DT09 ..................................................... 27 

Technology: Patisseries-TEPA ............................................................................. 28 

Technology: World of Food -TEWF .................................................................... 28 

Sample Practice Course Planning Guide .............................................................. 29 

Sample VCE Research for Course Selection ....................................................... 30 

Practice VCE Research for Course Selection ....................................................... 31 

Notes ............................................................................................................................. 32 


Introduction 

Dear Year 9 Students and Parents 

Welcome to Year 9, 2013. Promotion to Year 9 marks a point in the development of 

our students, where they can begin to exercise more control in the direction of their 

learning. At this level, students begin to think about their future educational pathway 

and how this might link with their talents and interests. 

Year 9 provides a more mature learning environment, where students accept greater 

responsibility for their education and the curriculum is more flexible. Students along 

with their parents design their own program, which will prepare them for post 

compulsory education and training. 

The Year 9 curriculum framework at Diamond Valley College ensures that students 

not only undertake core subjects, which provide them with skills necessary for 

cognitive and personal development, but also enables them to select from a range of 

electives. 

Students’ sense of purpose and commitment is increased when they are given the 

opportunity to choose the subjects that they will study so it is important that they 

make well-considered selections. Decisions should be based on their future 

directions/career, subject descriptions and information from teachers and parents 

rather than on hearsay or choosing the same subjects as a friend. 

The Year 9 program has an emphasis on developing the whole person. Leadership 

opportunities, sporting activities, work experience and other co-curricular programs, 

such as the year level camp, the City Campus experience and the Alpine School for 

Student Leadership extend the students and enrich their learning. 

Our aim is to ‘set students up for success’ and this success has its foundations in a 

supportive environment and in a purposeful and challenging course of study. Students 

need to know why they are pursuing particular courses of learning and take the 

opportunity to select units of study that will stretch and broaden their skills. With this 

in mind, it is hoped that this handbook assists students and parents in selecting their 

subjects for a successful Year 9 course. 

Junior Sub-School Team 


Material Intensive Elective Charges 

The cost of running many of the subjects offered is incorporated into the Year 9 

General Levy, but there are some electives that are more expensive to run, and 

therefore have a fee attached to them. 

Participation in these electives is dependent upon payment of the Material Intensive 

charge. Non-payment of these charges makes running the classes very difficult, as 

teachers do not have the money to provide the resources needed for successful 

implementation. 

Please be aware when you are working with your child in subject selection, that these 

fees must be met to enable him/her to participate in the subject next year. 


The Junior School Team 2012 

This team along with the Homegroup teachers can provide advice and 

support in the subject selection process. 

Principal-Junior Sub School 

Junior Sub-School Leader 

Year 9 Co-ordinator 

Year 8 Co-ordinators 

Year 7 Co-ordinators 

Learning Support Co-ordinator 

Student Welfare Co-ordinators 

Careers Co-ordinator 

Allison Bennett 

Peter Maddock 

Richard Oldfield 

Rosemary Lanigan & David Carnie 

Jade Cahill & Natalie Stalder 

David Finlayson 

James Anderson & Judith Jones 

Graham Sinclair 

Expectations of Students 

General Information 

Students are expected to take considerable responsibility for their learning by 

participating actively in and reflecting upon their work. 

It is their responsibility to: 

attend all classes 

work constructively and purposefully in class 

be punctual 

complete all set work in the prescribed way by the due date 

ensure that all work is their own 

find out about and complete the work missed after absences 

use their College Planner in an effective manner 

manage their study and research time effectively outside school contact hours 


Year 9 Program 2013 

The Year 9 curriculum plan consists of eight compulsory or core units. 

English and Mathematics are compulsory units and will run in separate blocks. These 

subjects are not published on the selection form. Students complete two semesters of 

each subject. 

English 2 Semesters 

Mathematics 2 Semesters 

The following compulsory units will run within the elective blocks and are published 

on the subject selection form. They must be selected as a first preference in one block. 

Science 1 Semester 

History 1 Semester 

Future Directions 1 Semester 

Health 1 Semester 

Civics 1 Semester 

Electives – Student Choice 

Students must choose other elective subjects as indicated on the subject selection 

form. Students are encouraged to choose broadly and they must select at least one 

elective from each Domain. 

Language Other Than English (LOTE) as an Elective 

Students choosing Italian must select this subject for both Semesters one and two. 


Compulsory Subjects 

English-EN09 

Year 9 English is built around the three interrelated strands of language, literature and 

literacy. The strands focus on developing students’ knowledge, understanding and 

skills in listening, reading, viewing, speaking, writing and creating. 

The Year 9 English program allows students to interact dynamically and reflect 

critically upon their work and the work of others. Students engage with a variety of 

texts and create a range of imaginative, informative and persuasive pieces, both in 

writing and orally. Students also study and use complex language and grammar. 

Requirements of the course include: 

• Maintaining an organised and up -to-date workbook 

• Completing pieces of writing in different styles and for different purposes and 

audiences 

• Reading texts 

• Participating in small group and whole class discussions about texts, ideas, 

themes and issues 

• Delivering formal oral presentations 

• Demonstrating knowledge and skills in the two end of semester examinations 

Contact Teacher – Sarah Parr 

Mathematics-MA09 

This course aims to provide students with the essential 

mathematical skills and knowledge that students need in 

their personal, work and civic life; building on the skills 

and knowledge acquired in previous years. 

The curriculum focuses on developing students’ 

mathematical understanding, fluency, logical reasoning 

and problem solving skills. These capabilities enable 

students to respond to familiar and unfamiliar situations by employing mathematical 

strategies to make informed decisions and solve problems efficiently. 

The topics studied in Year 9 cover the content strands of Number and Algebra, 

Measurement and Geometry, and Statistics and Probability. These will include real 

numbers; money and financial mathematics; patterns and algebra; linear and nonlinear 

relationships; using units of measurement; geometric reasoning; Pythagoras’ 

theorem and trigonometry; chance and data representation and interpretation. 

To meet the course requirements each semester, students need to complete a 

combination of skill development activities, investigation work, topic tests and 

homework tasks, and to demonstrate an adequate understanding of all topics. 

Contact Teacher - Glenys Kidd 


Science-SC09 

Science has a subject charge of $25.00 to cover materials. 

Aims of Year 9 Science: 

To excite interest in Science as a way of understanding the world. 

To value Science as an important part of an integrated approach to learning. 

To improve specific skills and knowledge so that Science is considered a future 

study choice into Year 10, VCE and beyond. 

To increase awareness of the extensive range of scientific careers and jobs. 

To revise and build on the Science learnt in Years 7 & 8. 

To work toward meeting the AUSVELS standards for this year level. 

Learning Focus: 

In Year 9, students consider the operation of systems at a range of scales. They explore 

ways in which the human body as a system responds to its external environment and the 

interdependencies between biotic and abiotic components of ecosystems. They are 

introduced to the notion of the atom as a system of protons, electrons and neutrons, and 

how this system can change through nuclear decay. They learn that matter can be 

rearranged through chemical change and that these changes play an important role in 

many systems. They are introduced to the concept of the conservation of matter and 

begin to develop a more sophisticated view of energy transfer. They begin to apply their 

understanding of energy and forces to global systems such as continental movement. 

Students are encouraged to improve their scientific understanding and skills by 

interacting with a variety of learning experiences that includes an emphasis on 

laboratory work and safety. The way ideas develop in Science is explored. 

Throughout the unit students consolidate their use of thinking tools as well as being 

introduced to new methods. 

Students record and communicate their progress using a variety of techniques such as 

workbook entries, written scientific reports, posters, models and multimedia 

presentations. 

Students propose, develop and implement assessment procedures including self 

evaluation. 

COURSE CONTENT 

Science knowledge and understanding: 

Reactions and equations 

Sustainable management of a resource 

Energy changes (chemical, biological and physical) 

DNA, genes, cell division and genetic inheritance 

Co-ordination and regulation in plants and animals 

Science at work: 

Science based occupations and scientists in our 

community 

Ethical issues and evaluation of sscience in the media 

Scientific methodology including risk assessments and sustainability 

Interdisciplinary and Social learning: 

Problem solving/inquiry approach, creative and critical thinking, 

Social competencies and team work skills, 

Reflection, self-evaluation and personal growth, 

ICT 

Research skills and mathematical tools 


History -HI09 

History has a subject charge of $35.00 that covers an excursion to the Eureka 

Stockade Museum and Sovereign Hill in Ballarat. 

This core history subject focuses on Australian History from settlement to 1918. Key 

areas of study include the arrival of the first Europeans to Australia and their attempts 

to create a penal settlement. Students will investigate the lives of pioneers, settlers and 

explorers and their rebellious spirits, the Victorian Gold Rush and the Eureka 

Stockade, Bushrangers, the distribution of land, Federation and World War 1. 

Class Work: 

Individual and group investigation tasks 

Research and Projects including a dramatic performance 

Field work reports on excursion activities 

A folio of exercises related to developing history skills 

Participation in this unit includes an excursion to Ballarat where students visit the 

Eureka Stockade Museum and Sovereign Hill. 

Contact Teacher - Geoff Portbury 


Future Directions-DIR9 

This unit investigates the learning and vocational objectives of individual students. It 

will encourage students to take a proactive interest in the way they learn and their 

future education and working life. There will be a continuation of the work done in 

Year 8 PDL (Personal Development of Learning) as well as looking at “Pathways”. 

Who am I What am I good at What Job would I be good at What qualifications 

would I need 

Students will:- 

Continue to analyse the way they learn and ways to improve their learning by 

looking at their strengths and weaknesses. 

Gain an understanding of the rapidly changing world of work and provide a solid 

basis for their future planning and direction. Students will examine different 

career resources, industries and listen to various guest speakers. 

Class Work 

Evidence folders and related learning activities 

Work experience and Job application, resume writing and mock interview 

Investigation of vocational pathways, education and training requirements 

Folio of exercises 

Real life game 

The unit will culminate in a compulsory two week work experience placement at the 

end of the year (3 to 14 December 2013) 

Contact Teacher - Graham Sinclair 

Health-HE09 

This course will extend the themes introduced at Year 8, including developing 

positive self-esteem, decision-making and problem-solving skills, human sexuality 

and a harm minimisation approach to risk taking behaviour. 

Throughout the course, the teacher will introduce topics relating to the identification 

of one’s self, adolescent physical and emotional development and social relationships. 

The approach used will be a combination of information giving and valuesclarification, 

designed to enable each student to make informed choices and decisions. 

Class Work 

Maintain a record of the issues covered 

Participate positively in group activities, contribute during discussions 

Display sensitivity in listening to the contributions of others 

Demonstrate an understanding through the satisfactory completion of class notes, 

homework, tests, etc. 

Contact Teachers – Katrina Aralios & Jess Gill 


Civics-CIV9 

Civics has a subject charge of $80.00 which covers the City Campus Experience for 

five days in Term 3. 

This core unit aims to give students a knowledge and understanding of the processes 

and political influences that have formed Australian democracy. Students will 

experience a lively and comprehensive course in active citizenship through 

excursions, city campus, case studies, visiting speakers and community involvement. 

Students will study: 

Aspects of our indigenous population 

Immigration from convicts to refugees 

Australia’s legal system 

Democratic processes of decision-making 

Human rights and responsibilities 

Class Work 

Investigation tasks generated from research, speakers and excursions 

City Campus report/presentation 

Projects 


End of Compulsory Units 


Elective Program-Semester Length 

Units 

Leadership 

‘High Resolves’ and Community Action-HR09 

The High Resolves Global Leadership Program involves a variety of activities over 

the year, but the subject itself will only run during Semester 2. Students will be 

expected to attend all additional activities throughout the year, which will include an 

intensive two-day program in Term 1. 

The program involves a mix of interactive simulations, role-playing exercises, small 

group discussions and student-led action projects that create a positive impact in the 

school and wider community. 

In addition to the High Resolves component, students will take part in community 

action projects that will be planned by the group. 

To successfully complete this unit, 

students are expected to: 

Develop conflict resolution skills 

Organize and take part in the 

collective action project 

Maintain a log book 

Participate in excursions and 

activities 

Satisfactorily complete a written 

assignment. 

Contact Teacher - Rosemary Lanigan 


Arts Domain 

Art subjects are Material Intensive electives that have a subject charge of $30.00 

per subject per semester. 

Art: Art-AR09 

You will have the opportunity to 

explore a range of art forms and 

develop your own art style. 

Learn skills in drawing, 

painting, sculpture, mixed 

media and composition. Find 

out about the techniques used by 

artists both past and present and 

what inspired them. Use the 

creative design process and your 

imagination to create artworks 

that explore different themes 

and subjects. 

Art Work by Megan Kelly 

Successful completion of this subject is indicated by the completion of the following 

class work: 

Folio of completed artworks 

Up to date and neatly presented 

Visual Diary that contains all 

notes, drawings of trial designs, 

techniques and visual references 

Written work and homework, 

including research assignments 

and analysis 

You are expected to supply basic 

equipment as per the book list. 

This unit is designed to prepare students for VCE Art and would be useful for VCE 

Visual Communication Design. 

Contact Teacher - Jo Poulter 


Art: Digital Art-DA09 

This unit is about communicating and expressing your ideas through the use of digital 

cameras and graphic software. Learn skills in composition and how to manipulate 

your photos to create new and unusual images using Photoshop. You will produce 

and present a folio of images, and complete task like posters and CD covers. 

Successful completion of this subject is indicated 

by the completion of the following class work: 

 

 

 

Folio of completed photographs 

Up to date and neatly presented Visual 

Diary that contains all notes, trial images, 

techniques and visual references 

Written work and homework including 

research assignments and analysis 

You are expected to supply basic equipment as per the book list. 

This unit is designed to prepare students for Art, Visual Communication Design and 

VET Media 

Contact Teachers - Jo Poulter & James Anderson 

Art: Drawing for Design-DRAW 

Improve your drawing skills and use the 

techniques of designers. Learn how to draw 

from observation, make shapes look solid and 

render textures. You will develop skills in 

linear perspective and other instrumental 

drawing methods. You will use a wide variety 

of wet and dry drawing media and illustration 

techniques including Photoshop. 

By Luke Hewitt 

Successful completion of this subject is indicated by the completion of the following 

class work: 

Folio of completed artworks 

Up to date and neatly presented Visual Diary that contains all notes, drawing 

exercises, techniques and visual references. 

Written work and homework including research assignments and analysis 

You are expected to supply basic equipment as per the book list. 

This unit is designed to prepare students for VCE Visual Communication Design and 

would be useful for VCE Art, Design and Technology. 

Contact Teacher - Jo Poulter 


Performing Arts 

Performing Arts: Dance-DANC 

Dance is a Material Intensive elective that has a subject charge of $15.00 per semester. 

The focus of this class is to introduce students to dance. 

Students will be trained to execute a range of technical, 

physical skills and body actions, which enables safe 

execution of a diverse range of movements. As a group, 

students will reach the mutual goal of a dance performance, 

which will be performed at the end of the semester. 

Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to 

work closely with their peers, to encourage further 

development of teamwork skills. Students will benefit 

physically, increasing fitness levels. Personal skills such as 

confidence, self-esteem, self- motivation and self-discipline 

prosper as students work collaboratively towards 

performing in front of an audience. 

Course Requirements/ Assessment 

Individual performance in class and participation when working in a team 

Demonstration of warm-up techniques and skills at the start of each lesson to 

prepare for the dance requirements 

Applying the dance making process: choreography, rehearsal and performance 

The learning, refining and performing of a learnt group dance work 

Costume design and making 

Contact Teacher - Katrina Aralios 

Performing Arts: Creation & Performance-DRCP 

The focus of this subject is for students to work together 

to create an original ensemble performance. As a group, 

students will experiment and workshop a range of styles to 

develop an understanding of theatrical conventions which 

they apply to their final performance. 

Students will also attend and review external 

performances throughout the semester. These 

performances will assist students in developing their 

ensemble performance which will be good preparation for 

further studies in VCE Drama. 

Class Work 

Performance based assessment at end of semester 

Research assignments on different styles of theatre (naturalistic and nonnaturalistic) 

On completion of this unit, students will have discovered and explored the challenges 

of creating an original ensemble performance. 

Contact Teacher - Judith Jones 


Performing Arts: Music-MU09 

The Year 9 Music program provides a balanced course involving performance, 

creativity and academic challenge. It enables students to be involved with music as a 

leisure pursuit, an interest, an academic study in its own right or as a future career. 

Music is experienced through three learning 

outcomes: 

Aurally and visually analysing and responding to 

music 

Reading and writing music 

Performing and composing music 

The course is developmental and sequential, covering key concepts and skills through 

the three core learning outcomes. A sample of the units offered is listed below, but 

these are continually developed to best meet the needs of the students: 

Aurally and Visually Analyse and Respond to Music 

This enables students to develop their problem solving and communication skills, 

both oral and written, through analysing the various musical styles they see and hear. 

Research has indicated that these skills transfer positively to enhance student 

performance in other subject areas. 

Students study basic acoustical properties; how sound is made and how we define the 

elements of sound such as pitch, amplitude, timbre and duration. What makes a ‘nice’ 

sound and what makes a ‘bad’ sound. 

To Play and Compose 

Students develop basic keyboard and computer skills, learn the basics of performance 

on instruments such as the piano and how the impact of technology has expanded the 

production of music. 

Famous Names in Music 

Famous composers are really just ordinary people. We study their works and explore 

their relevance to today's music while developing our skills. 

Exploring Film Music 

Music can evoke a mood, a time, place or character. In this Unit we explore the stories 

that music can tell. We examine careers in film music and we compose our own film 

score using music technology. 

Sing and Play a Varied Repertoire of Music 

Students develop their self-confidence, independent learning and teamwork skills 

through a programme of participation in and direction of vocal and instrumental 

performance. With peer and teacher support students are enabled to explore and to 

express themselves powerfully through music. 

Contact Teacher - Gary Nicholls 

End of ART Domain Electives 


English Domain 

English: Creative Writing-ENCW 

This course is aimed at enriching and extending students who have a love of writing. 

The purpose of this course is to develop students’ writing to a high level in 

preparation for the demands of senior English and Literature. Students will draw on 

ideas from film, print and electronic resources to inspire their own text creation. 

Coursework and Assessment: 

Students will create a folio of stylistic 

texts 

Contact Teacher - Sasha Hardie 

English: Media Issues & Analysis-ENMI 

This unit will explore the powerful effect the media has on society by examining how 

the media influences and manipulates information and events. Students will learn how 

to interpret and analyse different types of media and examine the relationship between 

media and society. Using journalistic techniques, students will investigate and analyse 

current media practice, focusing on a variety of mediums such as the internet, film 

and newspapers and how these are manipulated in a modern day world. 

Assessment: 

Media Impact Speech 

Investigative Narrative 

Examination 

Contact Teacher - Serene Tresidder 

End of ENGLISH Domain Electives 


Health & Physical Education Domain 

Health & PE: Fitness for Life-PEFL 

This course enables students to develop an 

understanding of the importance and 

benefits of a healthy lifestyle supported by 

lifelong fitness habits. Students will need to 

commit themselves to improving their 

fitness levels between pre and post fitness 

tests and participating in a training program 

over the semester. 

Activities include speed training, weight training, boxing and swimming. Excursions 

to community fitness facilities and other relevant venues will be part of the program. 

Students will be required to participate in the college swimming, athletic, cross 

country and interschool sporting events. 

The course will involve a theoretical component that includes: 

 

 

 

 

 

Studying the National Physical Activity Guidelines. 

Developing an individual fitness training program 

Sports injury management 

Sports nutrition 

Biomechanics 

To successfully complete this unit students are expected to: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Make an active contribution towards class activities and wear the correct 

uniform 

Demonstrate a willingness to learn and improve personal fitness levels 

Participate in excursions to community fitness facilities 

Maintain a class workbook 

Demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of relevant theory through set class 

work and knowledge tests 

Satisfactorily complete a research assignment 

Demonstrate improvement between pre and post fitness testing 

Contact Teacher – Zoe Slatter 


Health & PE: Football Codes-PEFC 

Football Codes is a Material Intensive elective that has a subject charge of $30.00 

which covers the umpiring course run by AFL Victoria. 

This unit aims to develop each student’s skills and the techniques 

required in various football codes – Australian Rules Football, 

Rugby, Soccer, Gaelic Football (International rules) and Touch 

Football. This unit is practical intensive with three double sessions 

of activity over two weeks and one double session of theory. You 

will be expected to explore your use of space on the sporting field 

and how you rely on others to achieve individual and team goals. 

Students will undertake an umpiring course, run by AFL Victoria 

and receive a level 0 accreditation. The theory component of the 

subject includes analysis of fitness, rules, umpiring and injury 

prevention. 


Demonstrate a willingness to learn game knowledge and 

display skill development or improvement 

Maintain a class workbook of class notes 

Display a satisfactory understanding of theory material 

Satisfactorily complete a research assignment 

Complete fitness testing 

Bring and wear correct change of uniform 

Contact Teacher – Grant Sargent 

Health & PE: Physical Education-PE09 

The aim of this course is to develop each student’s range of motor skills and to 

combine effectively with others in a team situation. Students will be required to apply 

themselves in basketball, netball, fitness training, lacrosse, volleyball, tennis, 

handball, softball and badminton. The unit will involve a theoretical component which 

includes basic anatomy, skill acquisition and fitness components. 


Demonstrate a game knowledge and display skill development or 

improvement 

Maintain a workbook of class notes 

Display a satisfactory understanding of 

theory material 

Satisfactorily complete a research 

assignment. 

Complete fitness testing 

Bring and wear correct change of uniform 

Please note: There will be costs for some activities such as ten pin bowling where we 

will be travelling by bus to facilities outside the college. 

Contact Teacher – Zoe Slatter 

End of HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION Domain 


Humanities Domain 

Humanities: Dollars and Sense-HUDS 

Young adults face many financial decisions that have a significant impact on the rest 

of their lives. This unit aims to develop in students a basic understanding of personal 

finance and investing, so they can make smart financial decisions during the early 

stages of their working lives and beyond. 

Topics covered include savings and investing, the dangers of 

credit card debt and the importance of financial short and longterm 

goals, budgeting and consumer rights. 

Students will investigate issues including mobile phones, 

internet banking, investments, financial contracts and credit and 

debit cards. 

Students achieve: 

* Knowledge and awareness of financial planning 

techniques 

* Financial literacy, numeracy and improved personal 

management 

* A boost in financial confidence 

* An understanding of the need to make wise investment choices 

* An awareness of current affairs issues 

Class Work 

A folio of exercises 

Investigation task 

Short Tests 

Simulation games 


End of HUMANITIES Domain Elective 


Information Technology Domain 

Information Technology: Multimedia-MULT 

Multimedia is a Material Intensive elective that has a subject charge of $25.00. 

“Multimedia” means using different media, such as text, 

graphics, animation, video and sound to create an 

information product. In this unit, students will use ICT to 

create different multimedia products such as animations, 

web pages, movies, and games 

They create a portfolio of design documents, work samples 

and completed multimedia animations. Students also study 

different types of multimedia through watching and analysing movies, animations and 

games. They use a HTML (web page) format to create an interactive exploration of 

their work, and maintain a blog in which they document their learning and evaluate 

their progress. At the end of this course, students may choose to write their finished 

work onto a CD-ROM to take home with them. 

The tasks in this course are completed through both individual and group work. 

Creation techniques used include stop motion animation, frame-by-frame animation 

development, short movie-making and game design. Layout diagrams, flow charts and 

storyboards are used to assist in the design process. Students also use sound editing 

software to create loops and soundtracks for their animations. 

Assessment in this unit will be based on: 

• Analysis of a range of multimedia products 

• Use of design techniques 

• Development of movies, animations and games 

• Maintaining an online folio and blog 

• Participation in group and individual class tasks 

Contact Teacher - Kath Corben 

End of INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Domain Elective 


LOTE Domain 

Italian-LO09 

Students interested in studying Italian at Year 9 must have successfully 

completed Italian at Year 8. 

The main focus of this course is to provide students with an appreciation of the 

modern Italian language and lifestyle. 

The course covers enjoyable topics such as: 

Being an exchange student in Italy 

Festivals and special events in Italy 

Rooms of the house 

Geography of Italy 

Planning an outdoor activity 

The body and our abilities/skills 

Cycling in Italy 

Shopping in Italy 

The aim of this course is to develop each student’s writing, reading, speaking and 

listening skills through a variety of activities such as: 

Exploring different text types including on-line newspapers and film clips 

Exposure to a wide range of vocabulary 

Performing role-plays 

Developing comic strips 

Playing language games 

Listening to various audio tracks 

Watching films related to Italian lifestyle 

Assessment will include oral presentations, listening tasks, written exercises from 

Pronti Via 2 student and workbooks, assignments and regular tests. 

This elective is essential for students wishing to study Italian at VCE. 

LOTE studies at VCE receive bonus points in students’ total VCE ATAR score. 

Contact Teachers - Enza Natalizio and Marina Lipiarski 

End of LOTE Domain Elective 


Applied Science-SCAS 

Science Domain 

Applied Science is a Material Intensive elective and has a subject charge of $25.00 

per semester. 

This unit is recommended if you have an interest in Science and especially if you intend 

to study Science at Year 10 and VCE Chemistry, Physics or Biology. 

In Applied Science students cover topics that 

complement the work covered in core Science and 

enable student to cover other facets of the National 

Science Curriculum. 

They explore how multi-cellular organisms rely on 

co-ordinated and interdependent internal systems to 

respond to changes in their environment. 

They investigate how chemical reactions involve 

rearranging atoms to form new substances and that 

during a chemical reaction, mass is not created or 

destroyed. Students also cover combustion reactions 

and the reactions of acids. 

They are introduced to the concept of how plate 

tectonics explains global patterns of geological 

activity and movement. 

Students are encouraged to improve their scientific understanding and skills by 

interacting with a variety of learning experiences that includes an emphasis on 

laboratory work and safety. The way ideas develop in Science is explored. 

Throughout the unit students consolidate their use of thinking tools as well as being 

introduced to new methods. 

Students record and communicate their progress using a variety of techniques such as 

workbook entries, written scientific reports, posters, models and multimedia 

presentations. 

Students propose, develop and implement assessment procedures including self 

evaluation. 

Science-SCAS-Semester 2 only 

Contact Teacher - Chris Misale 

End of SCIENCE Domain Elective 


TECHNOLOGY Domain 

Technology – Materials/Robotics/Textiles subjects are Material Intensive electives 

that have a subject charge of $30.00 per semester. 

Technology: Fashion TECF 

Students research, design and make products using a commercial pattern. 

Construction and Printing techniques will be explored. Students research suitable 

materials and produce a design folio. 

Students who choose this elective will be able to construct a casual outfit: i.e. Hoodie, 

skirt, dress, etc. They will also apply a print to the outfit or fabric. 

Students are expected to have their own sewing kit and workbook. 

This elective prepares students who wish to 

undertake Year 10 Fashion-making. 

Contact Teacher - Barbara Chiodo 

Technology: Create and Make TECM 

In this elective, students will take on the role of a Product designer. 

Students will be making Textiles products that are functional; products they or their 

client can use. 

Some examples are: Bean Bag, Backpack, Cushion, Carry bag, Soft sculpture, etc 

Students will learn construction techniques using a commercial pattern and will learn 

a variety of decorating and embellishing techniques to make their products useable, 

unique and fun. Students will be exposed to a variety of colouration techniques and 

creative ways of adding colour to their products. 

Students are expected to have their own sewing kit and workbook. 

This elective prepares students who wish to undertake Year 10 Fashion-making 

Contact Teacher - Barbara Chiodo 


Technology: Robotics -TERO 

Robotics & Reprogrammable Microchips 

Pre requisites- 

Students selecting this unit must be selfmotivated 

and have a definite interest in further 

enhancing their studies in the field of 

electronics, robotics and reprogrammable 

microchips. 

Course Description 

Students’ previous experiences from Year 7, with Robotics & Picaxe 

Reprogrammable Microcontrollers, will be enhanced by undertaking this unit. For any 

students new to the College the unit can also be an introduction to Robotics. 

All students in Year 9 Robotics will build and learn how to program their own Picaxe 

8M Uniboard Microcontroller using “Program Editor”. Students will attach the 

controller to their own design in order to produce a variety of set tasks to achieve 

many mechanical and electronic controlled outcomes ie: extension boards, seven 

segment displays, robots, servo motors, infrared controls, basketball counters etc. 

Any additional Add Ons that students wish to take home and keep will need to be 

purchased by them. 

1- Investigate 

Students will conduct research using the internet, with a variety of links, discovering 

many aspects of the Picaxe Microcontroller system and its capabilities. 

2- Design 

Using a “Design Brief” approach, students will design various mechanical and 

electronic outcomes including various Robots. 

3- Production 

Students will construct, test and operate various Picaxe prototypes and models, using 

problem solving techniques. 

4- Evaluation 

Students will assess the effectiveness of their designs by working in groups and by 

giving oral and practical demonstrations of their various outcomes. 

Students will automate and control models such as robotic arms, traffic lights, 

washing machines, cranes, automatic feeding devices using the computer. Students 

will be able to design and construct their own models by using a variety of materials, 

pneumatic equipment, electric motors and gearboxes. 

Class Work: 

Students will: 

construct, test and program their own Picaxe 8M microcontroller 

produce a model to be controlled by their microcontroller 

complete an evaluation of their experiences during the design and 

manufacturing phases 

Contact Teacher - Pat McMahon 


Technology: Design & Tech Materials-DT09 

This is a practical unit designed to enhance each 

student’s understanding of materials, predominantly 

wood and metal. Students will be required to select a 

project and develop a design portfolio. This will involve 

intensive research and the use of Computer Aided 

Drawing programs (CAD). Students will need to 

complete the process of investigating, designing, 

producing and evaluating as required by the technology 

study design. 

Class Work 

An investigation into materials - composition, 

manufacturing processes, uses and 

environmental impacts 

A substantial and high quality project will be 

completed by each student 

Student evaluation of their project work and 

associated production processes 

Contact Teacher - Michael Courts 


Technology: Patisseries-TEPA 

Technology – Foods subjects are Material Intensive electives and have a subject 

charge of $55.00 per semester. 

This unit aims to develop an appreciation of foods concentrating on patisserie/bakery 

techniques. It focuses on careful planning and presentation and the creativity of 

production work. Students evaluate the processes involved in producing a product and 

the product’s overall sensory properties. Production work will include a range of 

techniques and equipment, and will meet specified standards of safety. 

Students will study: 

Yeast cookery 

Pastry making 

Cake making 

Biscuit making 

Piping 

Chocolate making 

Class Work: 

Maintain an accurate record of class 

work 

Major Assignment 

Practical work 

Contact Teachers – Allison Bennett & Jade Cahill 

Technology: World of Food -TEWF 

In this unit students will focus on the multiculturalism of Australian cuisine. 

Investigating foods from all around the world and the impact this has placed on the 

foods we eat every day. Students will research food from each of these countries and 

produce a variety of meals while studying safe food handling, hygiene, costing, food 

presentation and evaluation of meals prepared. 

Students will study the following cuisine: 

Australian – Pavlova, damper, roast 

Italian – Cannelloni, pizza, Souvlaki 

French – Crepes, Tarte Tatin 

Asian – Fried rice, curry, Sushi, Wontons 

Mexican – Fajitas, rice pudding 

Middle Eastern – Felafels, Pide 

Class Work: 

Maintain an accurate record of all class work 

Major assignment 

Practical Work 

Contact Teachers - Jade Cahill & Claire Lee 

End of TECHNOLOGY Domain Electives 


Sample Practice Course Planning Guide 

Year 10 Year 10 

English 


English 


Maths 


Maths 

Advance 

Placement 

Unit 1/VET 

Advance 

Placement 

Unit 2/VET 





English 

Unit 1 

English 

Unit 2 

English 

Unit 3 

English 

Unit 4 

Advance 

Placement 

Unit 3/VET 

Advance 

Placement 

Unit 4/VET 

Study 

Session 

Study 

Session 


English 


English 


Maths 


Maths 

Advance 

Placement 

Unit 1/VET 

Advance 

Placement 

Unit 2/VET 





English 

Unit 1 

English 

Unit 2 

English 

Unit 3 

English 

Unit 4 

Advance 

Placement 

Unit 3/VET 

Advance 

Placement 

Unit 4/VET 

Study 

Session 

Study 

Session 

VCE / VCAL/VET, Year 10 and Year 9 course handbooks are available on the College Website. 

http://www.dvallcoll.vic.edu.au 


Sample VCE Research for Course Selection 

List the exact name of the course, prerequisites subjects, middle band subjects and selection mode for the courses you are interested in studying. Please note this information 

can be found in the VICTER Guides, or in the newspaper supplements in July, VTAC Guide and Courselink Online(see VTAC website;www.vtac.edu.au). 

Course Name & Institution 

(course link & handbooks) 

Health Sciences 

La Trobe University 


Deakin University 

Exercise and Sports Science 

Deakin University 

Human Nutrition 

La Trobe University 


Monash University 

Physiotherapy 

Monash University 

Biomedicine 

University of Melbourne 

Prerequisites Studies 

VICTER 2013 

Units 3 & 4-Study score of 25 in English and 

a study score of at least 20 in one of Biology, 

Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics (any) and 

Physical Education. 

Units 3 & 4 -Study score of 25 in English 

Units 3 & 4-Study score of 25 in English 

Units 3 & 4- English and Chemistry 

Units 3 & 4-study score of at least 25 in 

English 

Units 3 & 4-study score of at least 25 in 

English and a study score of at least 25 in 

any 2 of Chemistry, Specialist Maths, 

Physics, Mathematics Methods (any). 

Units 3 & 4-a study score of at least 25 in 

English and a study score of at least 25 in 

Chemistry and in Mathematical Methods or 

Specialist Mathematics. 

Middle Band 

(As given in VTAC guide 2012. Note: these 

might change for 2013) 

Relevant work experience and consideration is also based 

on criteria associated with VTAC’s Special Entry Access 

Schemes. 

Consideration will be given to performance in English, 

biology or health and human development, and to Deakin 

Access and Equity Program applicants. 

Consideration will be given to performance in physical 

education or health and human development, and to Deakin 


Consideration will be given to performance in physical 

education or health and human development, and to Deakin 


Study score of 25 or more in biology, chemistry, health 

and human development, history, legal studies, literature, 

LOTE and psychology = 2 points higher per study to a 

maximum of 6 points. SEAS 

Consideration will be given to SEAS applicants. 

Consideration will be given to Access Melbourne 

applicants. 

Selection Mode 

Courselink online 

ATAR and two stage 

process with a middleband 

of approximately 

20% 




20% 




20% 




20% 




20% 

UMAT 

Interview 

ATAR 




20% 

ATAR 

VTAC 2011 

61.50 

76.70 

85.00 

61.75 

72.70 

RC, offers made 

to applicants 

based on a range 

of criteria 

98.45

Practice VCE Research for Course Selection 

List the exact name of the course, prerequisites subjects, middle band and selection mode for the courses you are interested in studying. Please note this 

information can only be found in the VTAC Guide , University & TAFE Handbooks and Courselink Online. 

Course Name & Institution 

(course link & handbooks) 

Guide Only for Prerequisites Studies 

University & TAFE Handbooks 

Middle Band Courselink 

online 

Selection Mode 

Courselink online 

ATAR 

(VTAC)

Notes 

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Year 9 Program 2013 - Diamond Valley College

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