9-12 Course Selection Guide - Mount Eliza Secondary College

LiteratureThis unit offers a study of different genres of literature. Students may study Gothic and modern horror genres, aimingto develop an understanding of how ideas and themes in texts comment on personal experiences. Another possibilityis the study of how Shakespeare’s work has influenced the culture of today; including the adaptation of his plays intomodern films and their influence on everyday speech and popular culture. The unit should be viewed as anintroduction to both the skills and areas of study covered by VCE Literature..HEALTH and PHYSICAL EDUCATIONADOLESCENT HEALTHAdolescent Health will investigate a range of health issues and challenges that can affect young people during the timeof adolescence. Students will explore the social and cultural factors that influence the development of personal identityand values. They will identify the rights and responsibilities associated with developing greater independence, includingthose related to sexual matters and sexual relationships. They will investigate mental health issues relevant to youngpeople. Students will compare and evaluate the ideas of challenge, risk and safety in relation to home, school and theworkplace. They will investigate harm minimisation strategies, identify health services offered by government and nongovernmentagencies and analyse how these can be used to support the health needs of young people. Students willexamine strategies that address the current trends in nutritional status of Australians and analyse the factors that affectfood consumption. There will also be an active component of this subject with students required to participate in lowintensity exercises such as yoga, pilates, walking etc.PHYSICAL EDUCATIONIn Physical Education the units offered are inter-related but may be studied as separate units with noprerequisites. Students planning to study Physical Education at VCE level are advised to take bothunits over Years 9 and 10, or if taking only one semester it should be Body Systems.Physical Education – Coaching and Umpiring (Semester 1 only)Students focus on manipulative and movement skills in selected physical activities, demonstrating skill learning, gamesense, and appropriate sporting behaviour.Students will investigate coaching styles and develop knowledge of coaching principles and techniques. Throughcoaching experiences the students will be required to use skills that develop sport specific knowledge, communication,organisation and umpiring.Students will be encouraged to coach a MESC Junior Sports Team (Year 7 or 8). They will plan and organise trainingsessions. The practical component of the course is compulsory and will include activities to assist the students in theircoaching and umpiring roles.Physical Education - Body Systems & Training (Semester 2 only)Students focus on manipulative and movement skills in selected physical activities, demonstrating skill learning, gamesense and appropriate sporting behaviour.A study of the muscular, skeletal and cardio-respiratory systems is undertaken. The students also investigate thedifferent components of fitness, learn to set personal fitness goals and develop a fitness program. The study oftraining methods and principles as well as the effect training has on the body systems is covered. The practicalcomponent of the course is compulsory and will include participation in a variety of training methods.OUTDOOR AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIESOutdoor Education is the study of natural ecosystems and the techniques required to journeythrough these environments. Students study the history, characteristics, flora, fauna, human usesand conservation of a range of ecosystems and participate in a series of excursions and camps.Students planning to study VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies are advised to study at leastone of the Outdoor and Environmental Studies Education units offered.Outdoor and Environmental Studies – Coastal & Forest (Semester 1 only)Term 1 is the study of coastal environments and the skills required for safe surfing and other aquatic activities. Topicscovered include flora and fauna of the coast, how waves are formed, weather, water safety, basic surf skills. Studentsdevelop their practical skills through: