Biology

Biology

Course Summary

Are you interested in uncovering the ‘what’, ‘why’, and the ‘how’ of the living world at a macro and micro level? The study of Biology helps us understand humans, animals and plants and their interconnectedness. You will learn how to critically assess the strengths and limitations of science, respect evidence-based conclusions and gain an awareness of the ethical, social and political contexts of scientific endeavours.

Biology is a recommended Year 10 Science choice.

VCE: Unit 1, Unit 2 and Unit 3 & 4 sequence available

Learning Activities & Assessment

  • Explore the challenges of sustaining life through theory, research and hands-on investigation
  • Conduct student-designed practical investigations into an area of interest related to the concepts taught
  • Conduct an investigation into an issue related to genetics and/or reproductive science
  • Develop a deeper understanding of more complex biological concepts and theories
  • Conduct a student-designed practical investigation into biological that is reported in the form of a scientific poster

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Approximate Costs

Unit 1 & 2

Excursions $50

Unit 3 & 4

Compulsory Excursions $50

Learning Area Contact

Science Learning Area Leader

Terri Gregotski

Systems Engineering

Systems Engineering

Course Summary

Do you like solving complex problems? Are you creative? Systems Engineering involves the design, production, operation, evaluation and iteration of integrated systems, which mediate and control many aspects of human experience. You will identify and quantify systems goals, generate system designs, practice trial and error, justify design trade-offs, select and implement the most appropriate designs. In addition, you will test and verify that the system is well-built and integrated before evaluating how well the completed system meets the intended goals and reflect on the systems engineering process to create a satisfactory design outcome.

VCE: Unit 1, Unit 2 and Unit 3 & 4 sequence available

Learning Activities & Assessment

  • Build several projects including a simple machine, an electrical system and an integrated system containing a microcontroller
  • Produce a folio containing designs, production, testing and evaluating diagrams, data, notes and conclusions
  • Develop knowledge of electrical, mechanical, open and closed-loop systems to design and build an integrated system and portfolio
  • Demonstrate knowledge of planning, design, hand skills, component identification, testing procedures and safe work practices

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Approximate Costs

Unit 1 & 2

Subject Contribution $170

Unit 3 & 4

Subject Contribution $170

Learning Area Contact

Technology Learning Area Leader

Paul McMullen

Chemistry

Chemistry

Course Summary

Are you creative and interested in reactions, chemical reactions? Do you want to know what underpins the production and development of energy, the maintenance of clean air and water, the production of food, medicines and new materials, and the treatment of waste? Studying Chemistry enables you to examine a range of chemical, biochemical and geophysical phenomena through the exploration of the nature of chemicals and chemical processes. You’ll develop an understanding of the structure of materials, ionic compounds, periodic table, chemical energy sources, manufacturing processes and much more.

VCE: Unit 1, Unit 2 and Unit 3 & 4 sequence available

Learning Activities & Assessment

  • Explore the origin and nature of material through a combination of theory, research and hands-on investigation
  • Conduct research investigations in relevant topics
  • Design a practical investigation into physical and chemical properties of water; acid and base reactions; redox reactions; and analysis of water
  • Develop a deeper understanding of more complex chemistry concepts and theories
  • Design a major practical investigation into an area of interest that is reported in the form of a scientific poster

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Approximate Costs

Unit 1 & 2

Unit 3 & 4

Checkpoints (Optional) $35

Learning Area Contact

Science Learning Area Leader

Terri Gregotski

Computing – Applied Computing

Computing – Applied Computing (1 & 2)

Course Summary

Are you interested in understanding how computers are used in business? Do you want to work in the Information Technology industry? In Unit 1 & 2 Applied Computing you will develop a deep understanding of computing systems to design and develop databases, programs, digital systems/devices and networks. You will engage in hands on practical experience to develop industry skills and knowledge.

Applied Computing is a recommended Year 10 Science choice.

VCE: Unit 1 and Unit 2 available

Learning Activities & Assessment

  • Learn how to use database and spreadsheet software to collect, manipulate and present data
  • Interpret software requirements to design, create and evaluate working programs
  • Create innovative digital devices or systems
  • Understand networks and security to design and build secure network

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Approximate Costs

Unit 1 & 2

Learning Area Contact

Technology Learning Area Leader

Paul McMullen

Computing – Software Development

Computing – Software Development (3 & 4)

Course Summary

Looking at extending the skills and knowledge you learnt in Applied Computing? In this subject, you will develop a detailed understanding of the analysis, design, development, evaluation and programming language to develop software programs. You will apply this knowledge to design and develop a software program for a real business or organisation.

VCE: Unit 3 & 4 sequence available

Learning Activities & Assessment

  • Interpret teacher provided requirements to create a working program
  • Analyse and document the requirements to create a program that meets a need or opportunity for a business/organisation
  • Develop and evaluate a working program that meets the requirements documented for a business/organisation
  • Identify cybersecurity risks and protection that should be considered when developing a program

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Approximate Costs

Unit 3 & 4

Learning Area Contact

Technology Learning Area Leader

Paul McMullen

Automotive Technology (VET)

Automotive Technology (VET)

Course Summary

Do you have a passion for cars? Spend your spare time tinkering with motors? By studying Automotive you will develop the skills and knowledge required to perform minor maintenance and repair of an automotive vehicle body. By completing the requirements of this subject you will be able to undertake a limited range of tasks related to identifying and inspecting mechanical and electrical components and systems of light vehicles, heavy vehicles, outdoor power equipment, bicycles, marine craft and motorcycles.

VCE: Unit 1, Unit 2 and Unit 3 & 4 sequence available

ATAR Contribution: Unit 3 & 4 students do not receive a Study Score for this subject. Instead, they receive an ATAR increment of 10% of their fourth Study Score in other subjects 

VET: AUR20720 Certificate II  in Automotive Vocational Preparation

Structured workplace learning advice: 80 hours strongly recommended but not compulsory 

Learning Activities & Assessment

  • Develop an understanding of occupational health and safety relevant to the automotive industry
  • Maintain automotive tools and equipment
  • Dismantle and assemble engines
  • Construct and test basic electronic circuits
  • Opportunity to participate in Structured Workplace Learning

This program is run as part of an Auspicing arrangement with Australia Institute of Education and Training Pty Ltd, a Registered Training Organisation.  TIOD: 121314

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Approximate Costs

Unit 1 & 2

N/A

Unit 3 & 4

N/A

Learning Area Contact

Technology Learning Area Leader

Paul McMullen

French

French

Course Summary

VCE French focuses on student participation in interpersonal communication, interpreting the language of other speakers, and presenting information and ideas in French on a range of themes and topics. Students develop and extend skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing and viewing in French in a range of contexts and develop cultural understanding in interpreting and creating language. 

VCE: Unit 1, 2, 3 & 4 sequence available

Learning Activities & Assessment

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Approximate Costs

Unit 1 – 4

French/English dictionary (optional)  

Learning Area Contact

Language Learning Area Leader

Lyn Zhang

Indonesian

Indonesian

Course Summary

Are you looking to travel or looking to pursue a global career? Studying a foreign Language has great benefits. You will improve verbal and spatial skills, promotes creativity and improves attention to detail. Practising a language helps the brain more healthy, complex, active and engaged.

VCE: Unit 1, Unit 2 and Unit 3 & 4 sequence available

Learning Activities & Assessment

  • Expand on your Indonesian language skills further
  • Learn about the life of Indonesian young person
  • Investigate a range of social and environmental issues impacting Indonesia
  • Learn how to express ideas and opinions in a variety of different situation using Indonesian

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Approximate Costs

Unit 1 – 4

Learning Area Contact

Language Learning Area Leader

Lyn Zhang

Philosophy

Philosophy

Course Summary

Are you interested in ethics and life’s big questions? Do you enjoy debating? VCE Philosophy is a broad introduction into western philosophy and methods of inquiry. You will investigate human nature through questions about the relationship between body and mind, and personal identity, leading to an examination of the good life. VCE Philosophy is a challenging and stimulating study, which nurtures curiosity, problem-solving skills, open-mindedness and intellectual rigour. You will explore foundational ideas and enduring questions related to diverse fields including the humanities, sciences and the arts.

VCE: Unit 1, Unit 2 and Unit 3 & 4 sequence available

Learning Activities & Assessment

  • Socratic seminars 
  • Philosothon
  • Critical debate and discussion 

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Approximate Costs

Unit 1 & 2

Unit 3 & 4

Readings $25

Learning Area Contact

Humanities Learning Area Leader

Michelle Heintze

Japanese

Japanese

Course Summary

Are you looking to travel or looking to pursue a global career? Studying a foreign Language has great benefits. You will improve verbal and spatial skills, promotes creativity and improves attention to detail. Practising a language helps the brain more healthy, complex, active and engaged.

VCE: Unit 1, Unit 2 and Unit 3 & 4 sequence available

Learning Activities & Assessment

  • Develop an understanding of personal identity, lifestyles, relationships, aspiration, education and visiting Japan
  • Apply Japanese language in a personal, imaginative, persuasive, informative and evaluative context
  • Develop an of the Japan speaking community, significant people and a changing Japan
  • Undertake a detailed study on one of the topics covered

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Approximate Costs

Unit 1 – 4

Learning Area Contact

Language Learning Area Leader

Lyn Zhang