Secondary Curriculum Handbook

The 2024 Curriculum Handbook gives you an overview of what students are learning on the Secondary Campus

Secondary Campus CURRICULUM HANDBOOK

PRINCIPAL ’ S MESSAGE

Welcome to The Lakes South Morang College ’ s Secondary Campus Curriculum Handbook.,

At the heart of our College lie our students, whose journey through learning forms the very core of our mission and purpose.

Our curriculum is meticulously designed to engage, challenge, and ignite a passion for learning. Through collaborative efforts between students and teachers, we foster a culture of learner agency, empowering our learners to take charge of their educational paths and ownership of their progress through an understanding of their performance data. Central to our approach is the belief in personalised learning plans, where each student's unique strengths and aspirations are nurtured and honed. We prioritise differentiation in our work, setting and achieving goals that drive us towards personal and collective excellence in a supportive and secure environment. Our curriculum is not confined to the classroom; it extends to real - life experiences through our comprehensive extra - curricular programs. These opportunities enrich our students' learning journey and prepare them for the complexities of the world beyond academia. We take pride in our small class sizes, a contemporary and robust educational focus, and active involvement of students as leaders and ambassadors. Their voices are instrumental in shaping our educational landscape, ensuring that our programs remain dynamic and relevant. We continuously refine our learning spaces, incorporating real - world scenarios and cutting - edge technologies to enhance learning outcomes. This is supported by experienced teachers who will challenge and excite the inner passions for learning in every student. The college is committed to investments in exponential and applied learning technologies and we work in association with numerous partners who advise on content, skill and knowledge acquisition, and, in school equipment focus needs. Assessment and reporting are integral parts of our educational framework, providing timely feedback and opportunities for reflection and growth. We encourage our students to explore advanced academic pathways, guiding them towards future endeavours in higher education or vocational pursuits. This includes supported participation in Early - Entry VE/VET subjects. Students selecting VCE subjects receive assistance to ensure that subject choices leave as many options as possible open, in terms of tertiary education, further education or future employment opportunities. For prospective students, we extend invitations to school tours, discussions with our leaders, and participation in transition programs. Your enrolment is a privilege we cherish, and we are committed to supporting you in realising your educational and professional aspirations.

Together, let us embark on a journey of discovery, growth, and achievement, shaping a future filled with endless possibilities .

Bill Panas College Principal

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

YEAR 9

Student Support

Year 9 English

Year 9 Mathematics

TEACHING & LEARNING

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Year 9 Science

Year 9 Humanities

VIA Program

Year 9 HPE

Learning Coach Program

Year 9 Electives

CURRICULUM OVERVIEW

Year 9 Subject Charges

SUBJECT SELECTION ADVICE

Year 9 Arts Electives

Year 9 Technology Electives

YEAR 7

Year 7 English

YEAR 10

Year 7 Mathematics

Year 10 Curriculum Overview

Year 10 English

Year 7 Science

Year 10 Mathematics

Year 7 Humanities

Year 10 Science

Year 7 HPE

Year 10 Electives

Year 7 Languages

Year 10 Subject Charges

Year 10 Subject Selection

YEAR 8

Year 10 Science and Humanities Electives

Year 8 English

Year 8 Mathematics

Year 10 Arts Electives

Year 8 Science

Year 10 Technology Electives

Year 8 Humanities

Year 10 HPE Electives

Year 8 HPE

Year 8 Languages

YEAR 7 & 8 ARTS & TECHNOLOGY

Arts Overview

Technology Overview

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

VCE

VCE Information

VCE Terminology

VCE Units

VCE VM

VCE Attendance

VCE Assessment

VCE Vocational Education Training (VET)

VCE Scored Assessment

VCE Completing VCE Units without a study score

VCE Examinations

VCE General Achievement Test

VCE Special Provision

VCE Student Progress

VCE Student Appeals to School - based Assessment Procedures

VCE Change of Subject

VCE Subjects

VCE Subject Charges

VPC & VET

VPC Program

VPC Assessment

VPC Special Provision

VET Program

VET Subjects Offered

SCHOOL BASED APPRENTICESHIP

Head Start Apprenticeships & Traineeships

ENROLMENT ENQUIRIES

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this handbook is to provide students and families with information and advice to enable them to choose a sequence of studies that suit their interests, abilities and future aspirations.

The handbook explains:

• The programs offered at The Lakes South Morang College

• A description of all of the studies offered in the Secondary years

The requirements of each program

•

As part of the subject selection process students and families will be required to:

• Attend an information session and read important information provided in this handbook

• Investigate what subjects students might need to select depending on their future career pathway

Attend a selection interview with a parent/carer

•

STUDENT SUPPORT

Key Personnel with specific responsibilities –

• Year Level Leader: assistance with general information in Years 7 - 12 and enrolments

• Learning Area Leaders: assistance with specific subject information.

• Student Wellbeing & Disability Inclusion Leader: assistance with areas that affect student wellbeing and disability inclusion, provision of information on outside agencies offering assistance, both personal and financial. Careers Advisor: careers direction and information

• Careers & Pathways Leader: careers and pathways direction and information

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

TEACHING & LEARNING

CURRICULUM PROVISION The curriculum is aligned to the Victorian Curriculum from Prep to Year 10 and VCE Study Designs for Years 11 and 12. These provide a coherent and comprehensive set of prescribed content and common achievement standards which are used to plan student learning programs, assess student progress and report to parents/carers and additional stakeholders as required. The unit planning from Years 7 to 10 addresses the disciplines of English, Mathematics, Humanities (History, Economics, Geography, Civics & Citizenship), Science, Health and Physical Education, Language - Indonesian, Technology (Textiles, Food Technology, Product Design and Digital Technology) and The Arts (Music, Dance, Drama, Media, Visual Arts, Visual Communication). Our teaching practice is built on a values system that incorporates our core values of Respect, Teamwork, Leadership and Learning that embed into the school culture. The knowledge, skills and conceptual understandings that underpin the learning outcomes are carefully scaffolded. Genuine and trusting relationships are harnessed through a range of personal and social development programs and a deeper understanding in restorative practices which value diversity and individuality.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

TEACHING AND LEARNING

Effective teaching is the single biggest determinant of student improvement. Teachers have a direct impact on student achievement, engagement and motivation for learning. Teachers at The Lakes South Morang College use contemporary, high - impact teaching strategies and flexible practices to build the individual and collective strengths of both teachers and students in learning. Every student at The Lakes South Morang College is respected as a unique learner with individual strengths and talents. Student data is used to inform individualised approaches, groupings, differentiation, intervention and extension. Learning programs are complimented with access to purpose - built facilities and digital technologies. Diverse learners are supported through the provision of alternative and complimentary learning programs. These programs are targeted to meet the individual interests, needs and talents of students, and include: VIA; focused teaching groups; oral language programs; individual learning programs, MYLNS and the Tutor Learning Initiative program. Curiosity and inquiry are approaches to learning that are supported through student agency and voice. The opportunity for elective subject selection in Year 9 allows students ownership of their own learning pathways.

ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE (EAL)

Students who are learning English as a language in addition to their first language follow an individual pathway of development in learning English.

Programs are delivered in class with a strong oral and visual focus to support EAL learners. The VCAA EAL curriculum is used by teachers to assess EAL students and enhance their learning of English through targeted teaching to support individual student ’ s needs.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

VIA PROGRAM

The VIA program sees students engage with core subjects using a lens of next - century learning.

The aim of the VIA Program is to motivate and extend students by:

1. Providing access to a progressive, challenging and tailored curriculum

2. Addressing the individual academic needs of high achieving students in a range of areas

3. Incorporating a range of project based, self - directed learning programs to encourage the development of 21st century learning skills and competencies

4. Promoting and modelling the value of both independent and collaborative approaches to learning

Further information can be found at http://www.thelakes.edu.au/uploads/8/3/9/0/83901006/ viaprospectus.pdf

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

LEARNER COACH PROGRAM

A Learner Coach is a guide, a supporter, and a motivator who helps further stimulate learning for individual student progression.

The goal of Learner Coaches at The Lakes is to support all students to have agency over their learning to enable them to achieve growth and achievement whilst having the ongoing support of a trusted adult who is deeply knowledgeable about the student as both a person and a learner.

The Learner Coach program comprises of:

1 Session per week

•

• On the Secondary Campus, groups are created vertically in Year 7 - 9. Year 10, 11 and 12 are separate.

• Learner Coaches will work with the same students from 7 - 9.

• Goal setting, monitoring and review of Individual Education Plans for all students are undertaken during this time.

• The program includes relevant Victorian Curriculum content from cross curriculum capabilities as well as team building, Passion Projects and Community Engagement Projects. • Whole year level activities such as Elevate sessions are run in the Senior School. Subject information sessions for students or wellbeing workshops are timetabled into this session.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

CURRICULUM OVERVIEW

At Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 all students undertake a full course of study that encompasses all Domain areas. All students study the following subjects all year, unless stated otherwise. Students remain in home groups for all subjects except for electives. Some changes, according to student ability levels, occur for English and Mathematics.

SESSIONS PER CYCLE

SUBJECT

YEAR 7 & 8

YEAR 9

YEAR 10

Learner Coach Program

English

Mathematics

Science

Humanities

Health

Physical Education

Languages Indonesian

2 (Semester based)

Careers

2 (Semester based)

Year 7 & 8 Arts & Technology Rotation

Arts: Dance/Drama, Music, Media & Visual Arts

Technology: Textiles, Food, Materials & Digital

Year 9 & 10 Electives

(10 electives open from Art, Technology, HPE & Humanities)

Arts: Dance/Drama, Music, Media & Visual Arts

Technology: Textiles, Food, Materials & Digital

3 units per semester 8 sessions each

TOTAL SESSIONS

* Subject to change

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

SUBJECT SELECTION ADVICE

Each student (in Years 9, 10 & 11) will be given the opportunity to discuss:

career interests and aspirations

•

school performance to date

•

proposed program and subject choice for next year

•

Parents/carers are encouraged to participate in this selection process. A substantial section of this handbook includes information on VCE and VET courses. This is provided to assist students in planning for their chosen pathways. They should read this section very carefully.

Further interviews will be held with students where:

subject/s selected will not run due to insufficient demand

•

subject/s chosen clash on the timetable

•

• subject/s chosen do not align with the student ’ s strengths and prior study record

• subject/s chosen do not align with the students career aspirations

For students who have satisfactorily completed the coursework for Year 10, a final course offer will be made later in the year when comprehensive assessments of their Year 10/11 studies have been made.

It is important to note that VET studies and some subjects attract additional fees.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Keep options open:

Students are encouraged to keep career and further study options as open as possible, consider two or three possible VCE/VET courses rather than just one. It is important that students select subjects/programs that will develop and meet the required competencies of their chosen pathway.

Be sure to cover any prerequisite subjects for tertiary courses:

Many courses at universities and some TAFEs have prerequisite studies that must be successfully completed for entry into a course. These are outlined on www.vtac.edu.au and must be taken into account. It is the responsibility of students to research prerequisites for courses they are interested in.

Use accurate information:

It is essential that students choose VCE or VET programs on the basis of accurate information. Entry requirements and pathways change from year to year, so students must ensure that they have done their research.

Achieving a balance:

Students need to balance their emotional, intellectual, physical and artistic needs when choosing subjects so that they enjoy them! Students are more likely to do well in subjects that they are interested in.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

YEAR 7

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 7 ENGLISH

SEMESTER ONE

Students participate in an individualised program based on literacy data to allow for targeted learning based on student needs. Decoding strategies to improve fluency and expression in reading are explored. Students learn a wide variety of comprehension skills across a range of text types and learn how to apply these skills in different settings and contexts. Students expand knowledge of how to use formal language and grammatical techniques to compose persuasive and descriptive pieces of communication. When focusing on persuasive writing students express views and values other than their own and discuss the ways in which persuasive texts present opinions and evidence, justify positions and persuade. They improve the accuracy and readability of writing through the use of appropriate spelling and punctuation and utilising the editing process. When Speaking and Listening students develop confidence in the use of particular structures and features of language. They explore ways of using texts to enhance verbal communication.

SEMESTER TWO

Students study a range of mentor texts to explore effective and cohesive writing through vocabulary, text structures and language features, and to consider the purpose, context and audience of the texts. Students use mentor texts to inspire their own creative processes to generate ideas for their writing. A film study of ‘ Turning Red ’ is undertaken to identify and analyse the features of digital texts. Students develop their understanding of how the visuals and spoken text work together to create meaning. Students respond to the text through a variety of assessment formats.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 7 MATHEMATICS

NUMBER AND ALGEBRA

Students solve problems involving the order, addition and subtraction of integers. They make the connections between whole numbers and index notation and the relationship between perfect squares and square roots. They solve problems involving all four operations with fractions, decimals, percentages and their equivalences, and express fractions in their simplest form. Students compare the cost of items to make financial decisions, with and without the use of digital technology. They make simple estimates to judge the reasonableness of results. Students use variables to represent arbitrary numbers and connect the laws and properties of number to algebra and substitute numbers into algebraic expressions. They assign ordered pairs to given points on the Cartesian plane and interpret and analyse graphs of relations from real data. Students develop simple linear models for situations, make predictions based on these models, solve related equations and check their solutions.

MEASUREMENT AND GEOMETRY

Students use formulas for the area and perimeter of rectangles. They classify triangles and quadrilaterals and represent transformations of these shapes on the Cartesian plane, with and without the use of digital technology. Students name the types of angles formed by transversals crossing parallel lines and solve simple numerical problems involving these lines and angles. They describe different views of three - dimensional objects, and use models, sketches and digital technology to represent these views. Students calculate volumes of rectangular prisms.

STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY

Students identify issues involving the collection of discrete and continuous data from primary and secondary sources. They construct stem - and - leaf plots and dot - plots. Students identify or calculate mean, mode, median and range for data sets, using digital technology for larger data sets. They describe the relationship between the median and mean in data displays. Students determine the sample space for simple experiments with equally likely outcomes, and assign probabilities outcomes.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 7 SCIENCE

SEMESTER ONE

Students develop scientific investigation skills through the use of problem - based learning and through planning and conducting a range of experiments and fair tests. The content covered includes activities that explore various methods and separating techniques to isolate, purify and extract different substances. In order to best explore these separation techniques students will delve further into the three primary states of matter. Students learn that there are differences within, and between, groups of biological organisms through classification. They explore the role of food chains, food webs and human activity on the interactions between groups of living things.

SEMESTER TWO

Students focus on understanding the vital resources that our Earth provides. The longevity (or otherwise) of renewable and non - renewable resources is investigated. Students also look at water in more detail as both an important example of an essential resource that cycles through the environment, as well as a resource that is significantly affected by human activity. Students explore aspects of the relationship between the Earth, the Sun and the Moon with a particular focus on the predictable phenomena on Earth, including seasons, solar and lunar eclipses and climate variation. Through an exploration of simple machines they conduct investigations to determine the effects of applying different forces to everyday objects.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 7 HUMANITIES

SEMESTER ONE

Students explore the key question ‘ How have Ancient Civilisations Influenced Society? ’ Students examine historical evidence and determine what it tells us about Ancient Chinese and Egyptian societies. This includes the study of key features such as geography, daily life, systems of government and groups within society and the effect they had on them. They participate in a learning inquiry investigation in which they identify a particular area of interest and develop a series of research questions that will enable a deep exploration of the topic. The concept of ‘ Megacities ’ are introduced, along with the impact human movement and action have on the environment people live in. Students explore features of population distribution, economic and social change. They explore the process of urbanisation and how it impacts on features such as safety, infrastructure, economics, and environment. Focussing on Jakarta, Indonesia, they analyse the cause and effect of population growth on humans and the environment.

SEMESTER TWO

Students undertake Economics and consider the ways in which work can contribute to wellbeing and discuss the personal skills and values they can contribute to the working environment. They create a digital e - portfolio which outlines enterprising behaviours and capabilities. They discover the nature of the working environment and their influence within that environment. Students explore the key features of Australian government and democracy in Civics and Citizenship through a focus on current world events. Students examine the key features of democracy, such as: the separation of powers; levels of government; role of parliament; the constitution; and law of Australia. Understandings of these features are applied to current world events and comparisons with other democracies and governments such as the United States. Students begin utilising comparative, research and analysis of cause - and - effect skills as part of the Civics and Citizenship unit through a portfolio of tasks.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 7 HPE

HEALTH

Students explore aspects of physical and mental health, focussed on how these influence on self - identity. There is a strong focus on respectful relationships where students compare and analyse roles and responsibilities of themselves, friends, and family, and explore the influence of beliefs, attitudes, opportunities, decisions, behaviours and actions. Students investigate various forms of bullying, including cyberbullying, and practise help - seeking behaviours in this context. Students explore the role food and nutrition has on the variety of dimensions of health, and complete practical tasks to apply theoretical understanding of maintaining a balanced life.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Students participate in Physical Education classes designed to build confidence and develop manipulative and locomotive skills in a supportive environment. They focus on developing specific skills and movements and use feedback from staff and peers to consolidate development. Students develop their understanding of a range of theoretical concepts which underpin Physical Education through to Year 12. These concepts are applied within a practical environment to consolidate learning. Concepts include recreational activities and safe choices when engaging in active transport within the wider community.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 7 LANGUAGES

OVERVIEW

Learning languages broadens students ’ horizons about the personal, social, cultural and employment opportunities that are available in an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world. The interdependence of countries and communities requires people to negotiate experiences and meanings across languages and cultures.

The Languages curriculum in Year 7, aims to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to ensure that students:

• communicate in the language they are learning ( Indonesian )

• understand the relationship between language, culture and learning

develop intercultural capabilities

•

understand themselves as communicators

•

Students interact using Indonesian in classroom routines and communicative tasks. They respond to short texts in Indonesian, locating specific details and gist. Students extend the range and quality of their writing through increased vocabulary and grammar knowledge, and by drafting and editing their own work and that of their peers. They recognise text - type features and use models to create a range of texts. Students extend their grammatical knowledge, such as how language structures and features are used in texts. They become increasingly aware of connections between language and culture, noticing, for example, degrees of formality in language use according to social relationships. Students explore Indonesian cultural concepts, such as gotong - royong , jam karet and selamatan , and compare them to concepts in their own language and culture. They learn to reflect on their own language and culture and how identity impacts on intercultural experiences.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

YEAR 8

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 8 ENGLISH

SEMESTER ONE

Students read the graphic novel ‘ Coraline ’, identifying the ideas, themes and issues explored in this text and provide supporting evidence to justify interpretations. After classroom discussion and analysis, students write an expository essay focused on developing consistency of viewpoint and development of ideas as well as a creative narrative response. Students explore a range of texts related to the Holocaust that are factually accurate including rich primary source material. The program is logically sequenced and thematically rich and explores the significance of the Holocaust. Students respond through a number of formats including verbally and through the creation of a comparative essay.

SEMESTER TWO

Students complete an in - depth textual study of ‘ Grace beside me ’. Through research, class discussion, questioning and detailed written responses, students develop analytical skills. Through rich discussion and annotation students learn to gather and organise evidence and then to manipulate language features to express complex ideas. When writing they edit for effect, selecting vocabulary and grammar that contributes to the precision of written and verbal output, using accurate spelling and punctuation. Students follow this up with a study of the film ‘ Freedom Writers ’ as text, comparing the way writers explore important ideas with the way film makers do it. They apply a specific analytical method to scenes of their own choice and explain their interpretations with a formal oral presentation to their peers. This task builds analytical skills which are then applied to a formal analytical essay that focusses on the ability to justify opinions using knowledge of film. Throughout, there is a concurrent focus on improving grammar, spelling and punctuation which is designed to give students a strong base for all their thinking and expression, in any genre or form of communication.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 8 MATHEMATICS

NUMBER AND ALGEBRA

Students use efficient mental and written strategies to make estimates and carry out the four operations with integers, and apply the index laws to whole numbers. They identify and describe rational and irrational numbers in context. Students estimate answers and solve everyday problems involving profit and loss rates, ratios and percentages, with and without the use of digital technology. They simplify a variety of algebraic expressions and connect expansion and factorisation of linear expressions. Students solve linear equations and graph linear relationships on the Cartesian plane .

MEASUREMENT AND GEOMETRY

Students convert between units of measurement for area and for volume. They find the perimeter and area of parallelograms, rhombuses and kites. Students name the features of circles, calculate circumference and area, and solve problems relating to the volume of prisms. They make sense of time duration in real applications, including the use of 24 - hour time. Students identify conditions for the congruence of triangles and deduce the properties of quadrilaterals. They use tools, including digital technology, to construct congruent shapes.

STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY

Students explain issues related to the collection of sample data and discuss the effect of outliers on means and medians of the data. They use various approaches, including the use of digital technology, to generate simple random samples from a population. Students model situations with Venn diagrams and two - way tables and explain the use of 'not', 'and' and 'or'. Students choose appropriate language to describe events and experiments. They determine complementary events and calculate the sum of probabilities.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 8 SCIENCE

SEMESTER ONE

Students investigate the change to an objects motion caused by unbalanced forces acting on it and the exchange of energy. Students investigate the formation of rock types over a variety of timescales. They explore how ancient knowledge has helped to inform our understanding of our place in the universe. Students explore the development of the particle model used to describe atoms in their three main states. They explore the properties of various materials and observe the difference between, physical and chemical changes that matter can undergo. They learn to show and describe the difference between an element, a compound and a mixture. Through participation in the learning inquiry, students focus on gaining an understanding of the science inquiry process and key skills associated with its investigative nature.

SEMESTER TWO

Students undertake investigations into the properties and behaviours of both light and sound. They explore how light and sound interact with objects and how the density of different media can affect speed of travel. They develop an understanding of visible light being part of a broader electromagnetic spectrum and explore the relationship between wavelength and colour. Students explore biological phenomena at the cellular level by comparing plant and animal cell structure and use this knowledge to explain specialised functions. They then apply their understanding of cells to further their knowledge of multi - cellular organisms, including tissues, organs and systems. Students explore the specialised functions of the circulatory, digestive and excretory systems.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 8 HUMANITIES

SEMESTER ONE

Students explore Medieval History and the role the Vikings played in changing Europe. Students analyse the role of key leaders like William the Conqueror. They assess the cause and effects of key events, like the Battle of Hastings, and examine the role religions, social structures and the bubonic plague played in influencing and changing medieval daily life. Students focus on the concept of place through an investigation of ‘ Liveability ’. They investigate the features of community and examine the processes that influence the characteristics of places. They collect, record and select relevant geographical data and information from useful sources about The City of Whittlesea and analyse it in reference to the factors of Liveability. They select and analyse data and information in a range of appropriate forms including maps and other geographical data to develop an opinion regarding the liveability of the place that they live.

SEMESTER TWO

Students discuss how work contributes to societal wellbeing and describe the influences on the work environment. They identify trends and relationships and propose alternative responses to an economics and/or business issue or event. They evaluate the costs and benefits of each alternative response and identify the effects and potential consequences of these actions. Year 8’ s participate in ‘ The Stock Market Game ’ which develops an understanding of how the market works through investment in stocks and bonds. Students then focus on Civics and Citizenship where they explore what the roles and responsibilities of an Australian Citizen are, including the right to vote and the notion of a ‘ fair go ’ for all. They analyse what it means to be an Australian in the 21st century by researching diverse groups including migrants from different eras and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, explaining the impact they have had on the broader Australian identity.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 8 HPE

HEALTH

Students investigate strategies and resources to manage changes and transitions and their impact on identities as they progress through adolescence. Students investigate various health related areas, including gender, sexuality, respectful relationships, drugs and alcohol, in order to assist and develop their understanding so that they are able to make informed and healthy choices now and into the future. Case studies are utilised within this program to allow students to align the concepts with potential real - life scenarios and help - seeking behaviours.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Students participate in both practical and theoretical sessions to develop their skills and confidence. This establishes a holistic skill - set that will equip them with the tools for future success. Within practicals, students work on their decision making and the execution of skills under pressure. Students learn to modify rules and scoring systems to allow for fair play, safety and inclusive participation. Students are exposed to different roles within teams and explore offensive and defensive strategies. Theoretical concepts explored include projectile motion, game sense and health and skill - related fitness components.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 8 LANGUAGES

OVERVIEW

The Languages curriculum in Year 8, aims to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to ensure that students:

• communicate in the language they are learning ( Indonesian )

• understand the relationship between language, culture and learning

develop intercultural capabilities

•

understand themselves as communicators

•

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 7 & 8 ARTS

ARTS OVERVIEW

In Years 7 & 8 students will participate in one semester each of Music, Dance/Drama, Visual Art and Media. At the conclusion of Year 8 students should have a sound understanding of the concepts of each art area to help inform their elective choices in Years 9 and 10.

Dance/Drama:

Students understand the concepts of making dances and creating dramatic works, including processes; generating ideas; and, creating movements, whilst using a range of stagecraft elements to communicate ideas within dance and drama. Students have the opportunity to perform a devised piece of work to a live audience for a school showcase.

Visual Art:

Students learn how to use various tools, materials, and techniques appropriately, discuss and analyse artworks, develop literacy skills and form opinions about artists and ideas from different cultures.

Music:

Students analyse the “ Elements Of Music ”, learn techniques on a variety of instruments and learn to play a contemporary pop song. This program is based on the Musical Futures program which is delivered using an inquiry model and ‘ hands on ’ skill acquisition.

Media:

Students engage with examples of classic cinema, analyse them and express and justify their opinions in a written analysis. Students learn about the art of filmmaking and create their own short films which are shared with the class.

Please note that the running of these subjects is subject to staffing availability.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 7 & 8 TECHNOLOGY

TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW

In Years 7 & 8 students will participate in one semester each of Textiles, Materials Technology, Food Technology and Digital Technology. At the conclusion of Year 8 students should have a sound understanding of the concepts of each technology area to help inform their elective choices in Years 9 and 10.

Textiles: Textiles involves using material to design and produce functional products. Students follow the design process to develop, make and evaluate unique and creative Textile products. They investigate the characteristics of selected materials to help them plan and annotate their designs. With increasing autonomy, students follow the steps involved in design tasks. Students show consideration of environmental and sustainability factors in their research. This course focuses on hand - building so students can develop foundational skills they can build on in the future. Food Studies: Students begin their Food Studies journey learning the basic principles of cooking: how to work safely and hygienically in the kitchen and how to prepare simple meals. They develop an understanding of basic cooking processes and techniques by using a wide variety of kitchen tools and equipment. Students understand the importance of a balanced diet and investigate the significant impact of food waste in Australia. Students will use their newfound knowledge and skills to design and produce their own foods.

Materials Technology:

In Materials Technology, students apply the design process to find solutions to real world problems that are presented to them. Students sketch their ideas, produce isometric drawings, carry out hazard identification and risk analysis and production planning as they transform their ideas into built products. Students develop hand skills as they produce a range of products focusing on measuring and marking out for quality, from different materials like wood, metal and plastics using hand and power tools appropriate to the task. Testing and modification play a role in product improvement as part of an evaluation process that will be included in a design folio for each product challenge.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

Junior Secondary Curriculum

Digital Technology:

Students explore how binary numbers are used to help in computer programming and coding. They explore the process of using visual programming methods to follow and create simple instructions in a variety of settings including digital game - making and robotic devices. Students test, analyse and develop their programs and codes to solve problems. They explore the different aspects of a digital environment and its impact on humans, the benefits, and pitfalls of social media to how protect your digital content and the evolution of cyber crimes and scams.

Please note that the running of these subjects is subject to staffing availability.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

YEAR 9

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 9 ENGLISH

SEMESTER ONE

Students study issues and persuasive language. By exploring the important issues of the day the students further develop their use of descriptive and persuasive language. Students must respond to current affairs with carefully researched evidence to inform their points of view. Students use their written and spoken skills to present their ideas in a way that persuades an audience effectively. Students study the novel ‘ Graffiti Moon ’. Through research, class discussion, questioning and detailed written responses, students develop analytical skills. Oral presentations and essay writing is used to manipulate language features to express complex ideas, creating innovative texts for specific audiences. They edit for effect, selecting vocabulary and grammar that contributes to the precision of written and verbal output.

SEMESTER TWO

Students study the free verse novel, ‘ The Simple Gift ’, a story about the struggles of homelessness, trauma, healing and growing up. This unit is integrated with the students ’ Inquiry focus on social issues. While continuing to improve grammar, vocabulary, clear thinking and expression, students respond to the text through creative writing, comprehension and analytical tasks.

Students study the film ‘ Rabbit Proof Fence ’. They research the history of Australia ’ s First Nations people and learn about the effects of transgenerational trauma. Students analyse and explain how images, dialogue and film techniques are used to explore themes. Students evaluate, compare and integrate ideas and information from historical research with the film text. Students combine spoken and visual presentation techniques to show how the film makes meaning and explores key themes like justice, belonging, alienation, prejudice, perseverance and family. They finish by constructing a detailed written essay that explores the ideas and themes of the film.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 9 MATHEMATICS

NUMBER AND ALGEBRA

Students apply the index laws using integer indices to variables and numbers, express numbers in scientific notation, solve problems involving very small and very large numbers, and check the order of magnitude of calculations. They solve problems involving simple interest. Students use the distributive law to expand algebraic expressions, including binomial expressions, and simplify a range of algebraic expressions. They find the distance between two points on the Cartesian plane and the gradient and midpoint of a line segment using a range of strategies including the use of digital technology. Students sketch and draw linear and non - linear relations, solve simple related equations and explain the relationship between the graphical and symbolic forms, with and without the use of digital technology.

MEASUREMENT AND GEOMETRY

Students solve measurement problems involving perimeter and area of composite shapes, surface area and volume of rectangular prisms and cylinders, with and without the use of digital technology. They relate three - dimensional objects to two - dimensional representations. Students explain similarity of triangles, interpret ratios and scale factors in similar figures, and apply Pythagoras's theorem and trigonometry to solve problems involving angles and lengths in right - angled triangles.

STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY

Students compare techniques for collecting data from primary and secondary sources, and identify questions and issues involving different data types. They construct histograms and back - to - back stem - and - leaf plots with and without the use of digital technology. Students identify mean and median in skewed, symmetric and bi - modal displays and use these to describe and interpret the distribution of the data. They calculate relative frequencies to estimate probabilities. Students list outcomes for two - step experiments and assign probabilities for those outcomes and related events.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 9 SCIENCE

SEMESTER ONE

Students look at energy transfer through different mediums, reinforcing understanding of the wave and particle models. Students undertake a range of experiments and investigations to explore one of the four fundamental forces: Electromagnetism. Students create and describe simple electrical circuits. They examine the difference between series and parallel circuits, the interaction between magnets and electricity and the use of a variety of sensors involved in robotics. Students examine, in greater detail, the structure of matter at a subatomic level. They learn how atomic theory helps to inform the structure of the periodic table and changes occurring during chemical reactions. They conduct investigations in order to study the production of new substances. Students explore radioactivity and examine the structure of the nucleus to answer questions around radioactive atoms, carbon dating, radiotherapy and a discussion which poses their stance on the use of radioactive energy in Australia.

SEMESTER TWO

Students observe ecosystems and explore the relationship between a community of organisms and the environment. They learn how organisms respond to changes in the environments, with a focus on the central nervous and endocrine systems. Students analyse the balance that must be maintained by human bodies in sensing changes and responding to threats in order to survive. They investigate multi - cellular organisms in further detail and that their internal workings are interdependent and coordinated systems. Students explore the development of the theory of plate tectonics and examine the various evidence used to justify the theory. Students analyse the location of the plates on the Earth's crust and make connections to the likelihood of natural disasters. They further explore how human activity has influenced the frequency and severity of natural disasters. Students engage in further discussion and research to determine the major effect of plate tectonics on the shape of the Earth over the next 50 million years and beyond.

Curriculum Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Junior Secondary Curriculum

YEAR 9 HUMANITIES

SEMESTER ONE Students refer to significant historical events during The Industrial Revolution and the actions of individuals and groups during this time. They examine the beliefs and values of people to identify and evaluate the patterns of change and continuity. They analyse the cause and effects of events and developments during the Industrial Revolution and explain their significance. They evaluate the different interpretations of the past and recognise the evidence used to support these interpretations. Students construct and communicate an argument about the past using a range of reliable sources of evidence. In developing these texts and organising and presenting arguments, they use historical terms and concepts, evidence identified in sources, and they use consistent referencing of these sources. Students focus on geographical and global human wellbeing. Students investigate the impact of the development of places and human wellbeing. They map and measure the topic and development on a regional scale and compare it to that of a developing country from Asia, Africa, South America or the Pacific Islands. They investigate the role of initiatives by international and national government and non - government organisations to improve human wellbeing in Australia and other countries. SEMESTER TWO When exploring Economics, students focus on Work and Work Futures. They research the way the work environment is changing in contemporary Australia and analyse the implications for current and future work. Students analyse the reasons why and how the work environment is changing and discuss the implications this has for individuals, businesses and the economy. Students discuss ways that this may be achieved and the enterprising behaviours and capabilities that could be developed by individuals to assist the work and business. Students focus on the study of Civics and Citizenship by discussing challenges to, and ways of, sustaining a resilient democracy and cohesive society. Students describe the key features of Australia ’ s court system, including jurisdictions and how courts apply and interpret the law, resolve disputes and make law through judgements. Using a variety of criminal and civil case studies they discuss the key principles of Australia ’ s justice system, including equality before the law, independent judiciary, and right of appeal.

The Lakes South Morang College Curriculum Handbook

Secondary Campus 2025

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84 Page 85 Page 86 Page 87 Page 88 Page 89 Page 90 Page 91 Page 92 Page 93 Page 94 Page 95

www.thelakes.edu.au

Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker