KOTARA HIGH SCHOOL

ELECTIVE CHOICES

ForYEAR 8 – 2012

YEAR 8 2012

This handbook outlines the Technology (Mandatory) and Elective Program for Year 8 in 2012. It has been prepared so that parents and students will be aware, not only of the variety of courses offered, but of the choice that is possible within subject areas. Our program relies heavily on student choice and a careful study of this handbook is needed.

If further advice is required ask any of the following people:

Year Adviser Miss Scobie

Subject Choice Organisers Mrs Shepherd or Mr Stone

Teacher-in-Charge of Subject

Careers Adviser Mr Blake

Please make any problems known to us.

1

TECHNOLOGY (Mandatory) / ELECTIVE CHOICES

Students in Year 8 2012 will follow the pattern of studies indicated below:

1. English

2. Mathematics

3. Science

4. History/Geography

5. PD/Health/PE/Religious Education

6. Japanese

7. Three courses per semester chosen from Technology (Mandatory) / Elective options.

This booklet provides information regarding the available options to satisfy the students’ requirements in point 7 above.

Parents and students are advised that:

o Each student will be supplied with a username and a password so that they can make their selections via the internet. Students will make their choices via the internet. When you are ready, go to http://www.webpreferences.com.au

o Each student will be able to make five attempts (if they need them) to make their selections. However,

students can also have a practice by using the selection form on page 14 of this booklet if it helps. The

selection form DOES NOT need to be handed to Miss Scobie. She will know whether you have made

your selections when she checks the web site. All of the following rules and selection information are

also available on the web site.

o The Board of Studies requires that all Year 8 students will be enrolled in Technology (Mandatory).

However students have choices as to which options they choose within the Technology (Mandatory)

course. Descriptions of these options appear in this booklet on pages 6 and 7. A summary of the

options can also be found on the selection form (page 14). The options are listed in the table on the

selection form in Groups A and B. Students and parents are advised that the module

Communications Systems Design will be studied by all students.

o Kotara High School also offers Year 8 students a choice of elective courses. The options for elective

courses are listed in this booklet on pages 8 to 13. The options for elective courses are also listed in the

table on the selection form (page 14) in Group C.

2

o Students in Year 8 in 2012 will be enrolled in three (3) Technology (Mandatory) / Elective courses in

semester one AND three (3) Technology (Mandatory) / Elective courses in semester two. This means

that students who are currently in Year 7 must choose six (6) options from those on offer in this

booklet. The nature of the selection process is such that we cannot guarantee that all of the options will

run in 2012. So we also ask students to choose four (4) reserve options. (Please refer to the next six

dot points.)

o Students are advised to carefully choose their Technology (Mandatory) / elective courses. The number

of classes allocated to particular courses and their staffing result from these choices.

o While every attempt is made to give students their first choices, in some cases, this will not always be

possible. Some students may find that the pattern of choices results in a clash of courses, with two or

more of a student’s choices being allocated to the same line of the timetable. In other cases, if

insufficient students choose a course, this course may not run. The students involved will then be

allocated their reserve choices in order of the preference indicated when they make their selections.

o Students may only be able to apply to change course choices in the last two weeks of this school year or

after the first two weeks of next year. In applying to change courses, students should not assume that

the application will be granted. Any change will depend upon vacancies in the course to which the

student wishes to change, whether or not the change will result in a course clash and whether the

student’s course pattern still complies with Board of Studies requirements.

o Changes will only be considered if an application is made after completing a form available from Miss

Scobie and is supported with a note from the student’s parent/guardian.

o Parents and students are advised that some courses involve a cost for which a contribution from

students is required. Parents are requested to meet these costs as early as possible in the semester.

o If there is difficulty in meeting the contribution, assistance is available through the Student Assistance

Scheme. Application forms are available from the school office.

What Do Parents and Students Need To Do? Read your instructions carefully. Remember that this booklet and the web site contain the same

information.

Consult with Miss Scobie (English), Mrs Shepherd (Maths) or Mr Stone (Science) if necessary.

Use your username and password to access the web site. Follow the instructions to make your

selections. Remember if you change your mind, you have a total of five (5) attempts.

The web site address is http://www.webpreferences.com.au

3

TECHNOLOGY (Mandatory) : SUMMARY OF AVAILABLE OPTIONS

Technology (Mandatory) is a mandatory course.

Technology (Mandatory) consists of three Areas of Study. For the purpose of the Kotara High School

curriculum for 2012 these three Areas of Study have been grouped as follows:

o Built Environment (Group A)

o Products (included in Group B)

o Information and Communication (included in Group B)

All students in Year 8 in 2012 will complete a minimum of three options from the Technology

(Mandatory) course. The selection rules are:

o Communication Systems Design (from Group B) will be studied by all students

o Students must choose at least one option from Group A.

o Students must have a total of at least three options from Groups A and B.

The following is a summary of the options being offered within Technology (Mandatory) at Kotara High

School in 2012. The page number refers to the page in this booklet where you will find a description of the

option.

Group A – Built Environment

1. Interior Design page 6

2. Architectural Design page 6

3. Structural Design page 6

Group B – Products and Information and Communication

4. Communication Systems Design page 7

5. Food Design page 7

6. Fashion Design page 7

7. Accessory Design page 7

8. Industrial Design page 7

9. Software Design page 7

4

ELECTIVE COURSES : SUMMARY OF AVAILABLE OPTIONS

Plus

ELECTIVE COURSE CONTRIBUTIONS 2012

FACULTY COURSE CONTRIBUTION PAGE

ART Sculpture $20 8Graphic Art $20 8Visual Arts $20 8Beginning Photography $20 8

ENGLISH Drama $10 8Film Making $5 9Writers Workshop Nil 9Multi Media Course Nil 9

HSIE Commerce Nil 10

MUSIC Contemporary Music $15 10Hands-On Music $15 10

PD/HEALTH/PE Physical Activity and Sport Studies $10 11

TECHNOLOGY AND APPLIED STUDIES ( TAS) Elective Subjects Childcare $10 11Creative Computing $10 11Industrial Technology Electronics $25 11Textiles Technology $8 12Food Technology $20 12Graphics Technology ( CAD ) $5 12Hospitality Skills $25 12Industrial Technology Jewellery $20 12Industrial Technology Metal $15 13Create your own style ( Textiles) $10 13Toy Making in Wood $10 14Industrial Technology Timber $10 14

TECHNOLOGY AND APPLIED STUDIES ( TAS) Mandatory Subjects( Fee $ 50 per year- Covers all subjects listed below)

Interior Design 6Architectural Design 6Structural Design 6Communication and Systems design 7Food Design 7Fashion Design 7Accessory Design 7Industrial Design 7Software Design 7

5

TECHNOLOGY (MANDATORY) – COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

GROUP A

INTERIOR DESIGN

Discover your creative side through designing with fibre, yarn and fabric to create a fabulous interior décor piece to suit your room, or a colourful creation for any room in the house. Students will learn about the use of colour in dyeing and printing fabrics and production techniques using both machine and hand techniques. The work of interior designers in industry is examined and inspiration gained from looking at modern trends in interior design.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

Architectural Design is a very important part of our lives. In this module students develop architectural concepts and present drawings, scale models and verbal presentations in areas that may include the design of holiday accommodation units, student bus shelters, and covered outdoor learning areas (COLAs).

STRUCTURAL DESIGN

Structural Design is an engineering based module of Technology (Mandatory), where students have the opportunity to design and construct scale models of everyday structures. These may include towers, bridges and hydraulic cranes. As part of the engineering design process the models will be tested to the point of destruction. This will give the students an insight as to how structures work and fail.

6

TECHNOLOGY (MANDATORY) – COURSE DESCRIPTIONSGROUP B

COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS DESIGN (all students must study this course)

The ‘digital revolution’ is upon us and we are increasingly being affected by the digital world. This course addresses the essential programs used in schools to enable students to become capable and confident computer users. The module Communication Systems Design is provided to equip students with the necessary skills associated with the ‘digital revolution’ and assist in the Laptops for Learning program.The software students will use after receiving laptops in Year 9 is to be incorporated into the course. Microsoft Suite and Adobe Suite will be used to develop design solutions to a range of challenges for students.The design projects undertaken in this course will extend students’ knowledge of digital media. A range of software and hardware will enable students to deliver high quality digital products. Motion, video and still camera use, as well as sound recording and multimedia specialisations are included in this course.

FOOD DESIGN

Imagine you run a design company in the business of throwing parties! Design, plan, and produce your very own Theme Party or get-together, including producing the invitations on the computer and all the food in practical cookery. Your group work will include costing, food preparation, organisation and games and entertainment for the party, culminating in presenting the party mock-up for evaluation by the client.

FASHION DESIGN

Have you ever wondered how those fashion designers work to create new clothing styles every season? Take a look back to previous fashion and forward through the study of the latest fashion designers and trends to learn the secrets of high fashion. Students will design and make a simple garment or apparel article for themselves which has a distinctive high fashion edge.

ACCESSORY DESIGN

Get creative with accessories made from the latest fabric, glass and plastic beads in modern fashion colours and designs. Students will explore the history of accessory design and discover the work of contemporary designers in the field of accessories as they apply some of their own special design flair to making jewellery, evening bags or hair accessories using fabric beads and mixed materials.

INDUSTRIAL DESIGN

In this specialisation students have an opportunity to design and make a product which may include a simple wooden toy with at least two moving parts or an innovative product for the home.

SOFTWARE DESIGN

This module is electronics based. Students will design a Lego based robot to perform a series of basic tasks. Students will gain experience in robotic software design and have the opportunity to participate in the Hunter Regional Robo Cup Junior Competition.

7

ELECTIVE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

FROM THE ART FACULTY

SCULPTURE

This course is for students who would like to develop their creative skills through a variety of sculpture techniques. You will learn a range of sculpture techniques and explore a variety of materials through practical experiences.You will need a Visual Art Diary and the contribution of $20 helps to cover the cost of clay, glazes etc.This course is a good basis for the Visual Design course in Years 9 and 10.Contribution $20

GRAPHIC ART

This course is for students who would like to use their creativity and imagination in a practical way. You will learn a range of design techniques and explore a range of media through practical experiences. Topics that might be covered in this course could include – poster design, illustration, cartooning, printmaking.You will need a Visual Art Diary and the contribution of $20 helps to cover the cost of equipment and materials used.This course is a good basis for the Visual Design course in Year 9 and 10.Contribution: $20

VISUAL ARTS

This course is for students who would like to develop their creative skills through the production of a variety of art forms – drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics and design. You will learn a range of artmaking techniques and explore a variety of media and materials.You will need a Visual Art Diary and the contribution of $20 helps to cover the cost of equipment and materials used. This elective course provides a good basis for the Visual Art Course in Years 9 & 10.Contribution: $20

BEGINNING PHOTOGRAPHY

This course is for students who would like to learn about basic photographic techniques. You will learn how to compose photographs through the camera, basic darkroom techniques, and develop skills in taking and manipulating digital photographs.You will need a Visual Art Diary and the contribution of $20 helps to cover the cost of equipment and materials used.Contribution $20

FROM THE ENGLISH FACULTY

DRAMA

In this subject fun and games will combine to work out ways of exploiting your hidden talents. The course involves participation in all aspects of theatrical skills (warm ups, improvisation, mime, playbuilding, workshops with resource people of the area), leading to a performance. The aim of the course is that students should acquire an understanding of the nature of dramatic arts and its forms. To encourage the practical application of drama it is suggested that students be involved in workshops where dramatic themes and forms are explored through active participation. This includes acting, directing, stage management, designing, costuming, lighting, make-up, sound effects and auxiliary effects.Contribution $10

8

FILM MAKING

This is a practical course in which you will learn the terms used in making films and videos and find out about the people involved.You will use the video camera to practise various camera shots and techniques and then produce a short video shot according to an acting script produced by the class.The course is about being creative and developing your technical expertise and can provide the basis for making your own film in senior years.Stephen Spielbergs of Kotara this is for you!Contribution $5

WRITERS’ WORKSHOP

This course is designed for students who enjoy writing and wish to improve their skills. It provides students with the chance to:

Read and imitate famous openings Examine clever endings Go in writing competitions Develop fascinating characters Conquer different writing styles Improve your control while being creative Meet known writers Polish and publish using technology

Contribution Nil

MULTIMEDIA COURSE

This course is for those who wish to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in relation to multimedia, photographic and associated industries.Students will use and become proficient at:

Using cameras Conquering scanners Experimenting with printing techniques Storing and sorting media images

Students will encounter the elements of: Design Animation Interactive computer bases Cinema techniques Photographic images Desktop publishing Producing their own year magazine

Contribution Nil

9

FROM THE HSIE FACULTY

COMMERCE: Be A Wise Consumer.

There is no escaping commerce – whether you study it or not, every day you are faced with decisions that influence your standard of living. Each time we pass a billboard, buy our lunch or stop at a red traffic light we are playing a part in the commercial environment, whether we know it or not.The study of commerce is about preparing people to make the best decisions they can, about knowing how our society is structured and the choices that are available to us. It enables us to understand our rights and responsibilities, and how we can manage our personal and financial resources to everyone’s benefit.Year 8 Commerce students will study the following core areas from the Stage 4 section of the 7-10 Commerce Syllabus

Consumer Choice Consumer Finance

and from the Option Topics: Promoting (Advertising) and Selling Investing E-Commerce Travel

Contribution Nil

FROM THE MUSIC FACULTY

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC

Music in Year 8 is based on Popular, Rock and Film Music and gives you the opportunity to further your skills on a musical instrument as well as listening to the modern musical styles. You can continue performing on keyboard or guitar or you might decide to take up a new instrument and see if you like it. The course aims to improve your performance, listening and composition skills and all you need is a desire to participate and develop your music skills and knowledge.Contribution $15

HANDS-ON MUSIC

This course is based on practical music making and learning how to improve and develop your skills on your chosen instrument. There will be opportunities to learn solo and group pieces and you will be able to participate in an encouraging atmosphere. There will be opportunities to continue to learn how to read and compose music on your instrument and you will listen to and watch famous performers and bands in popular and rock music styles. If you love playing and listening to music, this is the course for you.Contribution $15

10

FROM THE PD/H/PE FACULTY

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND SPORT STUDIES – Competition Aerobics

This course is an extension of the Personal Development, Health and Physical Education course. It is a movement based course and uses Competition Aerobics as the focus for practical and theory units. Pupils are given the opportunity to increase their awareness of issues relating to physical activity and health, movement skill development, participating with safety, fitness, skills and techniques, event management and career opportunities. Students may get the opportunity to represent the school at State competitions if they are interested and show commitment. Students need no prior experience in competition aerobics but do need a willingness to participate enthusiastically in practical lessons and an organised approach to theory lessons.

Contribution $10 for Choreography Resource

FROM THE TAS FACULTY

CHILDCARE

This is an introductory course to child care studies which is followed by the very popular “Personal Development: Child Studies ” course in Year 9 and 10.The aim of this course is to introduce students to child care and develop a responsible attitude to, and an understanding of, children’s needs.

Topics will include:Responsibilities and liabilities of child careInfant and child careChild centred activitiesNutritious food for young childrenHealth and safetyContribution $10

CREATIVE COMPUTING

The Year 8 course is an introduction to using Multimedia in computing. Students will learn how to take and manipulate images using digital hardware (cameras and video imaging), sort, store, use and transmit images using Movie Maker, Photostory and Photoshop, and publish their work. Students may require a USB flash drive to store data in this course.

This course is designed for students who would like to use Computer Technology in creative pursuits like art and photography, and in their printed work presentations in the future.Contribution $10

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY ELECTRONICS

This course is based on learning through building practical electronic circuits. As a student of Electronics you will work in a specially equipped room using state-of-the-art technology to produce interesting and functional projects. Projects include an electronic game, a multi-purpose timer, a light activated alarm and an FM bug.

Students who find this course interesting will enjoy the study of Electronics in Years 9 and 10.Contribution $25

11

TEXTILES TECHNOLOGY

This course is an introductory course to the “Textile and Design” course in Years 9 and 10. Pupils will study current fashion trends in clothing - e.g. sportswear, leisure and nightwear, personal and household accessories - e.g. hats, belts, cushions, makeup and hairstyles. Students will make simple garments or accessories to complement this study.

This course is designed for students with an interest in fashion and in designing and making individual clothing for themselves.Contribution $8 plus fabric for garments.

FOOD TECHNOLOGY

The study of Food Technology provides students with an opportunity to gain an understanding of food and principles of nutrition. It will enable them to make creative and effective decisions about food. Skills developed through the study of Food Technology include the ability to design, communicate, manage and use resources.

Hands on experience is encouraged at all times and food demonstrations are carried out throughout the course. This course leads on to Food Technology elective in Year 9 and 10.Contribution $20

GRAPHICS TECHNOLOGY (CAD) Computer Aided Design

Graphical communication techniques are an essential part of life. This course will give students the opportunity to develop skill in drawing and communication techniques thus having the ability to convert ideas from paper to the effective making of a project.

The course will use a wide variety of techniques including computer graphics, rendering techniques, freehand design and basic technical drawing and presentation skills. Introduction to Graphics and Design is a very useful subject for any student who wishes to study Technology in Years 9 and 10.Contribution $5

HOSPITALITY SKILLSThis is a basic introduction to food production for the hospitality industry. Students will produce meals suitable to serve to a customer for different times of the day - i.e. breakfast, dinner.Many basic food preparation skills are developed and correct, attractive presentation is emphasised. Skills in basics like table setting, table layout and decoration and restaurant etiquette are included.The basic skills learned can be continued into the Technology elective in Year 9 and 10 and Hospitality (VET course) in senior years.Contribution $25

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY JEWELLERY

Industrial Technology Jewellery is a “hands-on” Technology subject developed as an introductory course for the School Certificate subject - Industrial Technology Jewellery. In Industrial Technology Jewellery students will be given the opportunity to design and make many small articles such as silver rings, bead earrings, bracelets, necklaces, chain pendants and ornamental works.This course involves the development and appreciation of practical skills and the majority of class time will be devoted to the manufacture of quality projects. As with any technology based subject there is a component of associated theory work, but this is directly related to the practical work at hand and is intended for the student to gain full appreciation of the world of jewellery making. Contribution $20

12

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY METAL Industrial Technology Metal is an introductory subject for the School Certificate course Industrial Technology – Metal. This subject will provides students with opportunities in designing and making small projects which include wind chimes, weather vanes, book ends, tool racks, spiral candle holders and decorative pendants.This “hands-on” elective will enable students to develop and appreciate a variety of practical skills used to create quality projects. There is a component of associated theory directly related to the practical work covered.Contribution $15

CREATE YOUR OWN STYLE (TEXTILES)

This is a non-traditional course using textile methods to create art pieces. Students will experience hands-on activities in use of textiles through techniques such as silk painting, photographic screen printing, hand painting and marbling fabrics and modern machine quilting and embroidery.The course is for students who like working creatively with colours and fabrics but don’t necessarily want to make clothing. Studies continue in fabric design with the Year 9 and 10 Textile and Design course.Contribution $10

TOY MAKING IN WOOD

This elective provides an excellent opportunity for students to experience a variety of production techniques and develop valuable wood working skills. The subject is practically based with a strong emphasis on the safe use of tools and equipment. Interesting and functional children’s toys will be constructed during the semester.Contribution: $10

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY TIMBER

This is an introductory subject for the School Certificate course Industrial Technology – Timber. It is a course which provides practical and theoretical components which relate directly to timber.Students electing this course will develop a wide range of valuable skills. Workshop safety, care and maintenance of equipment, appreciating and economically using a natural and renewable resource are all important features of this course.Contribution: $10

13

Year 8 2012 Technology (Mandatory) / Electives Choice Form

Student’s Name: ………………………………………Instructions for Making Your Choices

o You are choosing three options to run in semester one and three options to run in semester two.o At least three (3) options must be chosen from the Technology (Mandatory) area (Groups A and B)

with at least one (1) being from Group A and one being Communication Systems Designo You will use the numbers 1 to 10 to indicate your choices.o Numbers 1 to 6 will be for your first choices.o Numbers 7 to 10 will be for your reserve choices.o You will be making choices for the whole year so think carefully and choose wisely.

Filling in the Table

A 1 has already been placed next to Communication Systems Design Put 2 next to any option you wish to do from Group A. Put a 3 next to any other option you wish to do from Groups A or B.

GROUP A GROUP C GROUP C

1. Interior Design 10. Ceramics /Sculpture 22. Ind tech Timber

2. Architectural Design 11. Graphic Art 23. Ind Tech Jewellery

3. Structural Design 12. Visual Arts 24. Graphics ( CAD )

13. Beginning Photography

25. Contemporary Music

GROUP B 14. Drama 26. Hands-On Music

4. Communication Systems Design 1

15. Film Making 27. Childcare

5. Food Design 16. Writers Workshop 28. Textiles Technology

6. Fashion Design 17. Multi Media Course 29. Food Technology

7. Accessories Design 18. Commerce 30. Hospitality Skills

8. Industrial Design 19. Ind Tech Electronics 31. Creating your own style ( Textiles)

9. Software Design 20. Ind Tech Metal 32. Creative Computing

21. Toy Making in Wood 33 Physical Activity and Sport Studies

Put 4, then 5, then 6 next to any other options you wish to do from groups A, B or C. Put 7, 8, 9 and 10 next to your reserve options in any group.

Checking

Have you used the numbers 1 to 10?

Have you chosen at least one option from Group A? Have you numbered this option as number 2?

14