Yr 8 - 10 Electives Handbook by KingswoodCollegeBoxHill

YEAR 8 - 10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK 2027

www.kingswoodcollege.vic.edu.au 1

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF CURRICULUM SECONDARY SCHOOL At Kingswood College, we believe that every student should have the opportunity to discover their strengths, explore their interests and develop the confidence to shape their own learning journey. As students move through Years 8 – 10, elective choices become an important part of that journey, providing greater ownership of learning while opening doors to new passions, experiences and future pathways. Our vision of Emboldening Hearts and Inspiring Minds is at the centre of everything we do. We are committed to nurturing curious, capable and compassionate young people who are prepared to embrace challenges, think creatively and make meaningful contributions to the world around them. The elective program reflects this vision by encouraging students to step outside their comfort zone, pursue areas of personal interest and develop the skills needed to thrive in an ever changing future. The Kingswood curriculum values both breadth and choice. While students continue to build strong foundations in the core learning areas, our diverse range of electives allows them to broaden their experiences across the arts, technologies, humanities, languages, health, business and STEM.

Exploring a variety of disciplines helps students discover new talents, deepen existing interests and make more informed decisions about future study and career pathways. This handbook has been designed to support students and families in making thoughtful and informed subject selections. As you explore the available electives, consider: your interests, strengths and passions; areas you would like to challenge yourself in or experience for the first time; the skills you would like to develop; and how your choices may support your future aspirations and senior school pathways. Elective learning is about much more than preparing for senior school. It provides opportunities to develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, resilience and independence, skills that are essential for success in learning, work and life. Most importantly, it allows students to take increasing ownership of their education, becoming active participants in shaping the learning experiences that inspire and motivate them. We look forward to seeing each student build their passions, develop their purpose and make the most of the rich learning opportunities that a Kingswood education provides.

Casey Hawley Head of Curriculum - Secondary School 2

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 8 ELECTIVES The following ellectives are offered to students in Year 8 in 2027. They are distinct subjects that are offered for a single semested. 1 Semester Animation Applied Sport Strategy Art Ceramics & Sculpture Coding Digital Media Drama Music Textiles Visual Communication Design

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 9 ELECTIVES The following ellectives are offered to students in Year 9 in 2027. They are distinct subjects that are offered for a single semested. 1 Semester Art Ceramics & Sculpture Coding Design & Robotics Digital Animation Film & Media Forensic Science Global Chef Health & Fitness Make, Bake & Create Music Photography Product Design & Technology Textiles Theatre Studies Visual Communication Design

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES The following ellectives are offered to students in Year 10 in 2027. They are distinct subjects that are offered for a single semested. 1 Semester

Full Year

Body in Motion Cafe Masterclass Chinese (First & Second Language) Commerce Digital Film & Media Enhanced Sports Performance French Second Language History’s Mysteries Music Photography Product Design & Technology Programming & Games Design Psychology Robotics Engineering

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES The following ellectives are offered to students in Year 10 in 2027. They are distinct subjects that are offered for a single semested. 1 Semester

Full Year

Textiles Theatre Studies Visual Art Visual Communication Design

YEAR 10 ENGLISH, LITERATURE & EAL ELECTIVES 1 Semester

Full Year

Beyond Tomorrow Seize The Day More Than Meets The Eye English as an Additional Language (EAL)

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES SUBJECT HANDB OOK

2027

YEAR 8 ELECTIVES

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 8 ELECTIVES ANIMATION

APPLIED SPORTS STRATEGY

Animation is a powerful tool in entertainment, advertising, and gaming, often present in our daily lives in ways we may not even notice. In this course, you’ll dive into the fascinating world of animation, exploring Traditional Animation and Stop Motion Animation. You’ll get hands-on experience creating your own animations using either Lego or Plasticine, as well as both hand drawn and object animations. Additionally, you’ll develop your skills in scriptwriting and storyboarding, all while analysing a variety of animated works from different genres. Discover how animation can open doors to careers in the film, advertising, and gaming industries. Join us to unlock your creativity and bring your stories to life through the art of animation!

In this practical elective subject, students explore the application of transferable tactical concepts across various sporting contexts. Through their active participation in engaging, team-based learning experiences, they develop and execute offensive and defensive strategies, and evaluate the impact of their decisions on game outcomes. Students investigate current and historical examples to illustrate the influence of strategy in sport, and utilise data and technology to critically analyse the tactical performances of elite athletes and teams.

Areas of Study: History of Animation Stop Motion Animation Assessment: Review an Animation from the Golden Age Create a Flip Book Create an Object or Drawing Animation Make a Stop Motion Clay Animation.

ART

This elective explores a range of artforms and mediums. If you choose this subject, you could be working with materials such as paint, drawing, collage, digital art, charcoal, pastels, inks, image transfer, scraperboard, sculpture, and printmaking, while delving into themes such as Still Life, Landscape, Portraiture, and Social Commentary, just to name a few.Students are encouraged to bring personal influence into their artmaking, as well as draw inspiration from established artists. They will examine a range of historical and contemporary artists and art styles, demonstrating their understanding through both practical application Assessment: and written analysis in their Apply and evaluate the impact of developmental work, final artworks, strategy through participation in a and theory tasks. range of practical-based learning Over the course, students will experiences short skill-building Analyse real-world examples of complete strategy in sport and share these exercises, create two major artworks, in the form of a multimedia and complete topic quizzes and theory assignments. presentation Engage in a SEPEP Unit (Sports Assessment: Education Model) through which Practical skill building short tasks students collaborate to manage such as drawing, collage, ink and and participate in a shortened brush, and relief printing. season of sport. Within teams, Two major practical projects they are required to devise and spanning six weeks each, implement strategies, and culminating in two finished complete weekly reviews of their artworks. own performance to improve their Submission of two theory tasks tactical awareness and which link to each of the application. practicalprojects. A visual diary that contains all working processes.

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 8 ELECTIVES CERAMICS & SCULPTURE

CODING

In this course, you’ll embark on a journey into essential programming concepts that are fundamental for problem-solving and computational thinking. You will build a foundation in programming starting with the basics. You’ll learn to write and execute code creating an interactive story using python. As you progress, you’ll gain proficiency in managing data collections with lists and implementing decision-making in In ceramics, students will focus on your programs through conditional wheel work and slab building techniques to create functional and statements. sculptural forms. They will develop will explore website essential clay-handling skills while You development before producing your exploring surface decoration, glazing, and firing processes, with an own. This course not only prepares emphasis on creativity and you for further studies in coding but craftsmanship. also equips you with critical thinking and logical reasoning skills applicable The sculpture component introduces across various academic and real key sculptural concepts, materials, world scenarios. and terminology. Students will investigate individual sculptors as You will need a laptop to work on. inspiration for original artworks while learning how to analyse and discuss Areas of Study: sculpture using appropriate visual Python Coding arts language. Organising Data Sketchbook use, reflection, and class Website Coding critique support students in developing ideas and evaluating their progress. No prior experience is Assessment: Understanding code and needed - just creativity and a computing tasks willingness to experiment Interactive story using python Personal hobby webpage. Assessments: Practical skill-building tasks Two major practical projects A theory/research task Visual Diary documenting experimentation, processes, reflections, and evaluations. This hands-on elective introduces students to the foundations of threedimensional art through ceramics and sculpture. Students will explore creative processes while developing practical skills, confidence, and personal expression through making. The subject will include an excursion to an art gallery, museum, or artist’s studio, or the opportunity to work with a visiting artist.

DIGITAL MEDIA Ever noticed how a movie poster makes you want to see a film before you’ve heard a single thing about it? Or how some brands feel instantly recognisable, even cool, while others are completely forgettable? That’s not an accident. It’s design, psychology, and strategy working together and you’re going to learn exactly how it’s done. Digital Media is a hands-on course split into two areas: understanding how the media industry works and figuring out how advertising gets inside your head. You’ll analyse real campaigns and brands to see what makes them tick — then create your own. From designing a movie poster to building a brand identity and producing a product ad, with a better understanding of media tools and theory. No matter whether you’re into art, tech, gaming, film, or just making things look good — this course has something for you. Areas of Study: Media in industry Understanding campaigns

advertising

Assessment: Digital Movie Poster Brand Identity Product Advertisement

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 8 ELECTIVES DRAMA

MUSIC

TEXTILES

This elective is ideal for students who are passionate about acting, eager to refine their performance skills, and excited to create original scripts and bring imaginative ideas to life on stage.

In Year 8 Music, students explore a broad range of musical concepts and ideas, including performance, analysis, composition, theory and aural skills. Students also consider the connection between music and society. This study is intended to support students in their musical development, regardless of what their particular area of musical interest is.

The first object you make in Year 8 Textiles is one you'll use for the rest of your time in this course: a tool pouch for your scissors, needles, and fabric pencils, built to the exact dimensions of your own kit.

Through a series of engaging workshops and activities, students will develop their improvisation skills, build confidence, and strengthen their ability to work collaboratively in a practical environment. Using exciting stimulus material as inspiration, students will work in groups to devise and perform creative and original performances. Throughout the elective, students will learn how to structure scripts, experiment with a variety of theatrical styles, apply dramatic elements effectively, and develop believable and engaging characters. Students will attend a professional theatre performance to deepen their understanding of production roles and theatre-making processes. This experience will support their ability to observe, reflect, and provide constructive feedback, further enhancing both their performance and analytical skills.

You will plan and pattern your pouch, selecting fabric and other materials. Through a dedicated embroidery unit earlier in the semester you develop a set of hand stitching techniques, and the design you apply to your uniquely designed pouch — what it looks like and what it represents — is yours to decide. Once the design is completed you will construct it on a sewing machine — your primary introduction to machine stitching, from threading and tension to running neat, consistent seams.

Students will create new works using notation and sampling software, learn about Australian aboriginal songlines, study rhythm and further develop their rhythmic literacy, undertake theory and aural studies, complete a technical assessment on an instrument of their choice (voice is an option for this assessment) and will be able to incorporate solo The result is a functional, personal performance into this subject, if they object made from your own decisions. It also gives you the wish to do so. foundational skills in machine construction, hand embellishment, and design thinking that the textiles programme builds on from here. Assessment Folio – Designing Your Tool Pouch Product - Tool Pouch Embellishment – Making your Tool Pouch Your Own

Assessment: Performance Task Performance and Script Writing Task Performance Analysis Task

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 8 ELECTIVES VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN This course introduces students to Assessment: the world of Visual Communication Assessment: Practical skillDesign through the design fields of building short tasks such as Messages and Objects. Students freehand drawing, technical explore how designers communicate drawing and digital collage. ideas visually and solve problems Two major design projects creatively through practical and spanning six weeks each, engaging design projects. Throughout culminating in two finished design the semester, students develop an presentations. understanding of design thinking, typography, layout, colour, and Submission of two theory tasks branding while learning to A visual diary that documents communicate ideas through both research, idea generation and manual and digital methods. design development using the Students undertake projects such as poster and logo design, packaging design, and promotional materials, while also exploring the role of sustainable and effective design practices. They respond to design briefs and apply the Double Diamond Model to guide their creative process from research and brainstorming through to final presentation. Students are introduced to industrystandard software including Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, alongside freehand and technical drawing methods.

Double Diamond Model.

A design theory component complements the practical work and encourages students to analyse existing designs and understand the role design plays in everyday life.

YEAR 9 ELECTIVES

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 9 ELECTIVES ART

CERAMICS & SCULPTURE

CODING DESIGN AND ROBOTICS

This elective extends students’ understanding of three-dimensional art through increasingly specialised ceramics and sculpture practices. Students will further develop technical skills, creative confidence, and critical thinking while exploring historical and contemporary approaches to artmaking. The subject will include an excursion to an art gallery, museum, or artist’s studio, or opportunities to engage with visiting artists. In ceramics, students will extend their wheel work skills while exploring more advanced techniques, including slip casting and the use of drape moulds. Students will refine their ceramic practice through the creation of both functional and sculptural forms, while further developing glazing and finishing techniques. The sculpture component focuses on the history of sculpture, exploring how sculptural practices have evolved across cultures, periods, and artistic movements. Practical projects will encourage experimentation with form, materials, and conceptual thinking.

Over the course, students will complete short skill-building exercises, create two major artworks, and complete topic quizzes and theory assignments. Assessment: Practical skill building short tasks such as drawing, collage, ink and brush, and relief printing. Two major practical projects spanning six weeks each, culminating in two finished artworks. Submission of two theory tasks which link to each of the practicalprojects. A visual diary that contains all working processes.

Sketchbook use, peer critique, and reflection remain important aspects of the course, supporting students in developing ideas and evaluating their artistic growth.

Areas of Study:· Classic games App design and coding Vex Robotics Future innovations in Robotics

Assessment: Assessment: Understanding code and Practical skill-building tasks computing tasks Two major practical projects Simulated App design A theory/research task Robot space challenge Visual Diary documenting Robotic innovation Project experimentation, processes, reflections, and evaluations.

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 9 ELECTIVES DIGITAL ANIMATION

FILM & MEDIA

FORENSIC SCIENCE

Ever wonder how your favourite Get behind the camera and make the animation or game was actually kind of screen content you watch made? every day. You'll write and direct your own short film, cut a horror trailer In Digital Animation you'll learn the built to put an audience on edge, and real techniques used by professional produce a how-to video where your animators — not just the basics. You'll narration carries the whole thing. get hands-on with industry tools, You will learn to purposefully use a build original characters from scratch, camera, master editing techniques, and produce short animations and as well as the codes and conventions motion comics driven by sound. of genre while exploring how media Whether you're into gaming, comics, both influences and reflects society. film, or just love making things, this Additionally, you’ll have the course gives you the skills to bring opportunity to create engaging your ideas to life on screen. podcasts, combining your new skills You'll also break down animated in a dynamic and modern format. works you already know — figuring Discover how media can open doors out how they were made, why they to careers in film, television, work, and how to use the best advertising, and beyond. Join us to techniques in your own projects. By unlock your creativity and bring your the end, you'll have a digital portfolio stories to life through the art of Film demonstrating a range of creative and Media! skills. Areas of Study: Digital Drawing and Character Design Storytelling, Storyboarding & Animatics Short form and Digital Animation Animation Contexts and Analysis

Areas of Study: Understanding and using camera Editing Codes and convention Podcasting

Assessment: KWC Tropfest film task Assessment: Create a horror film trailer Animated Character Design Host and record a podcast Motion Comics and typographical Graphics Short Digital Animation Animation Review and Analysis

Have you ever wondered how scientists solve crimes? In Forensic Science, you'll step into the role of a real forensic investigator, using scientific techniques to uncover clues, analyse evidence and solve mysteries. Throughout the semester, you'll investigate simulated crime scenes and learn how biology, chemistry and physics are used in modern forensic science. You will examine fingerprints, analyse blood groups, investigate DNA profiling, study microscopic evidence such as pollen and fibres, identify unknown substances using chemical tests, and explore how light, glass fractures and other physical evidence can reveal what happened at a crime scene.

This highly practical elective is perfect for students who enjoy problem-solving, critical thinking and the hands-on investigations. You'll learn how to collect, analyse and interpret evidence while developing valuable laboratory and scientific inquiry skills. Forensic Science offers a fascinating glimpse into careers in forensic science, medicine, research and law enforcement, while building knowledge and skills that will support future studies in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Psychology. If you're curious, analytical and love solving puzzles, this is the elective for you. The evidence is waiting – can you crack the case?

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 9 ELECTIVES GLOBAL CHEF

HEALTH & FITNESS

MAKE, BAKE & CREATE

The Global Chef course aims to extend student knowledge of flavour. profiles and how it various among different regions of the world. Students first explore Asia, investigating its diverse flavour profiles, ingredients and food traditions, and use this knowledge to develop and evaluate designed food solutions. Students explore the influences of culture, geography, history and society on food in different regions around the world.

This subject takes a holistic approach to Health and Fitness, exploring both personal and community perspectives. Students design and implement personalised plans that target specific fitness components and examine the importance of nutrition and recovery in maintaining optimal body function. They apply strategies for navigating challenging situations and develop the necessary knowledge and skills for making informed and safe decisions. Students analyse the broader impact of contemporary issues on health outcomes and work collaboratively to propose strategies for promoting physical, mental, and social health within their communities.

The Make, Bake and Create course looks at the science behind baking and teaches students to understand why products are made using different techniques. The sensory properties of food is explored with a focus on presentation. Students will explore the benefits of home baking compared to commercial products though a nutrition lens. This course will further extend students’ food and cooking literacy.

Assessment: Students extend their understanding Two Practical Tasks of various issues surrounding food Portfolio including ethics, sustainability and Written assessment nutrition. Students look closely at the sensory properties of different foods and how these influence food choices and recipe development. The overall aim is to extend students' food and Assessment: cooking literacy while further Design, implement, and evaluate developing their practical skills and personalised fitness programs confidence in the kitchen. Engage in practical workshops to investigate methods of recovery Assessment: and injury prevention Practical Observation Develop and critique health Design Task promotion strategies and Portfolio: Recipe Folder campaigns to improve health outcomes at a community level Explore case studies and scenarios to analyse the influence and impact of decisions and behaviours.

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 9 ELECTIVES MUSIC

PHOTOGRAPHY

PRODUCT DESIGN & TECHNOLOLGY

In Year 9 Music, students continue to explore music through a wide lens, to gain not only technical understanding and skills, but to also gain an understanding of the significance of music as a cultural artform.

In this elective, students explore the environment, people, and the world around them through the lens of a camera. They develop a fundamental understanding of photographic composition and camera techniques using digital cameras. Historical and contemporary photography is examined, with students drawing inspiration from personal influences and established photographers. Students creatively document their surroundings and record their exploration in a Visual Diary that reflects their ideas, technical processes, aesthetic choices, and reflections. They gain hands-on experience with a range of photographic processes including DSLR photography, pinhole cameras, photograms, darkroom experimentation, and digital photo editing.

If you've enjoyed Product Design and Technology in Years 7 and 8, this is where the challenge gets interesting. In Year 9 you take on a single, ambitious project: designing and making a device that tells or measures time. The brief is intentionally open — there's no obvious answer, and the best outcomes come from students who are willing to push their thinking beyond the conventional.

In this subject, students will further develop their music analysis skills, exploring how mood and character is created in the performance of various different musical genres. Students will also perform an original arrangement in a group setting, create a notated arrangement and engage with professional performances. They will continue working on music theory and aural skills, building on their learning from previous years.

You'll begin by researching how different cultures across history have understood and represented time, and by choosing a design movement that will shape the visual identity of your work. From there you'll generate ideas, build a prototype to test and learn from, and use CAD to develop and communicate your design before making it real in the workshop. The folio you build along the way is as important as the product itself — it's where your thinking, decision-making and growth as a designer becomes visible

Through practical projects, students investigate the properties of light using light-sensitive paper, sun exposures, and darkroom techniques. They are also introduced to digital workflows, learning basic image editing and enhancement using Assessment: programs such as Photoshop and Folio — Telling Time Lightroom. Product — Time-Telling Device Case Studies of Time Telling Assessment includes: Devices Practical skill-building tasks such as photograms, sun exposures, and camera technique activities Two major practical projects Two theory/research tasks A Visual Diary documenting experimentation, processes, reflections, and evaluations.

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 9 ELECTIVES TEXTILES

THEATRE STUDIES

VISUAL COMMUNICATION & DESIGN

Commercial patterns are written for standard sizes. Most bodies aren't standard — and in Year 9 Textiles, that gap is where the work begins. You start by using a pattern to construct a toile: a practice version of your chosen garment — skirt or shorts — made in inexpensive fabric to test how the pattern behaves before committing to your final material. Wearing and evaluating the toile is the critical step. How well does the fit work, and how does the pattern need to change? You make those adjustments to the pattern itself, then use the revised version to construct your finished garment in cotton. You may choose two or more design techniques to embellish your garment. These could include dyeing, stitching, applique, printing or the use of recycled or found objects.

This elective is ideal for students interested in the theatre production process and eager to explore both acting and design roles while bringing scripts to life through creative interpretation and performance.

This course builds upon the foundational skills introduced in Year 8; however, Year 8 Visual Communication Design is not a prerequisite for this subject. Students are reintroduced to the Double Diamond Model and key design processes, allowing both new and returning students to confidently engage with the course. As design projects are continually evolving, students are encouraged to think creatively and develop fresh and innovative responses to design briefs. In Year 9, students further explore the field of Messages while also being introduced to the field of Environments. Students work as young designers to develop a fictional company brand and create a connected suite of visual communications, including an advertising campaign and the design of a pop-up shop or interior space. Throughout the course, students consider how interior design, layout, signage and spatial presentation influence the way people interact with environments and businesses.

This is how professional garment makers work — test, evaluate, refine, execute — and it gives you a working understanding of how a twodimensional pattern becomes a three-dimensional piece of clothing that fits your body. Assessment: Folio – Pattern Understanding Product - Toile Product - New Garment Embellishment – Range of Techniques

Students will develop skills and learn about a range of acting strategies to create authentic and believable stage characters through practical workshops. They will explore how emotion, motivation, and physicality contribute to strong character development.

The elective also introduces students to the theatre production process, including directing and production areas such as set design, lighting, costume, hair and make-up, props, and sound. Working collaboratively, students will rehearse, produce, and perform a short pre-existing script while exploring theatrical styles, conventions, blocking, and design. Each student will have the opportunity to take on both an acting and a design role in the class Assessment: performance. Practical skill-building task Two major design projects Students will analyse a professional spanning around six weeks each, theatre production, exploring how culminating in two finished design acting, direction, and production presentations elements combine to create dramatic Submission of theory tasks meaning. Skills and Knowledge Tests A visual diary that documents research, idea generation and Assessment: design development using the Design Role Task Double Diamond Model. Group Performance Task Performance Analysis Task.

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES BODY IN MOTION

CAFE MASTERCLASS

Body in Motion explores human movement from a physiological perspective. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students investigate how the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems function to enable movement. They study the various components of fitness and analyse how these can be applied across a range of physical contexts. Students are introduced to the energy systems and examine the important role that these play in the performance of an athlete.

Café Masterclass is a unit of study

Assessment: Practical workshops Apply training principles through the creation of bespoke training programs Structured questions to assess key knowledge of body and energy systems Semester Examination

focusing

café

culture

Melbourne. Students will investigate different types of cafés, including menu items, advertising, and the ways they are distinct from one another. Students will develop an understanding of café culture through a variety of taste-testing activities that explore ingredients, flavours, presentation contemporary

styles, food

and

trends.

This

knowledge will assist students in designing

their

own

café

food

products that reflect current industry trends. As part of the practical lessons, students will prepare classic café dishes and participate in a mystery box challenge to create a menu special. Students will develop their hot beverage skills and work collaboratively to facilitate the Spire Café at Kingswood College during recess. This includes taking food orders, preparing food, making hot drinks,

and

providing

customer

service. These authentic experiences will provide transferable skills for use in the Hospitality industry and serve as

excellent

introduction

Commercial Cookery offered in Year 11. Assessment: Kingswood Spire Café practical assessment and reflection Café Design Task Fair Trade Coffee Investigation Portfolio Assessment Booklet.

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES CHINESE (FIRST & SECOND LANGUAGE)

COMMERCE

There are four possible pathways for Students wishing to undertake any VCE Chinese subject should also refer Chinese in Year 10: VCE Chinese First Language Units to the VCE Subject Selection Handbook for detailed course 1&2 information. VCE Chinese Second Language

This Year 10 Commerce Unit introduces students to key concepts in Economics, Business Management, and Legal Studies. Students will explore resource allocation, scarcity, and opportunity cost. They will gain insights into market dynamics, customer understanding, and macroeconomic indicators like the standard of living and balance of trade. The unit also covers the essentials of small business, including competition types, product development, and business planning. Additionally, students will learn about the legal system, focusing on criminal and civil law. This comprehensive unit aims to equip students with foundational knowledge and practical skills for future commerce studies.

Advanced Units 1 & 2

Students currently studying Year 9 VCE Chinese Second Language Chinese Second Language should Units 1 & 2 select Year 10 Chinese Second Year 10 Chinese Second Language. This course develops the communication skills needed for Language students to express their ideas and For information about eligibility discuss topics relevant to their age requirements, please contact the group in preparation for VCE Chinese studies. It is a compulsory College. prerequisite for students intending to continue with VCE Chinese Second Students who are eligible for VCE Language. The course equips Chinese First Language will complete students to communicate effectively Units 1 & 2 in Year 10 and Units 3 & 4 in a range of everyday situations while building an understanding of in Year 11. how language functions as a tool for Assessment: Macroeconomic Research Task Students currently enrolled in the communication. Microeconomic Quiz Year 9 Chinese Advanced class may Assessment Small Business Plan be eligible to study either VCE Assessment activities focus on the Test: The Australian Legal System Chinese Second Language or VCE five key language skills—speaking, Chinese Second Language Advanced listening, reading writing and viewing, Units 1 & 2 in Year 10, followed by and incorporate the grammar and Units 3 & 4 in Year 11, depending on vocabulary covered in each unit of their eligibility. If these pathways are work. not suitable based on academic results, students may instead choose Year 10 Chinese Second Language. This decision should be made in consultation

with

their

Chinese

teacher.

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES DIGITAL FILM & MEDIA

ENHANCED SPORTS PERFORMANCE

Enhanced Sports Performance is a comprehensive study of the key elements that drive athletic success. Students actively investigate a variety of coaching styles and examine the role that feedback plays in skill acquisition and development. They are provided with regular opportunities to apply their knowledge through their participation in peer-led coaching sessions, with a clear focus on the implementation of sound instructional practices to improve performance. Students delve into the field of biomechanics to analyse the technical aspects of movement, and they explore how sports psychology can be used to enhance an athlete’s motivation, Image, animation, and film: the resilience, and focus. complete media experience. Whether you're eyeing a career in the creative Assessment: industries or just want to make Peer Coaching sessions something you're genuinely proud of, Coach investigation this course is a real step toward Video Analysis senior study and beyond. Practical workshops If you love animation, film, and media, this is the course for you. In Digital Media and Film, you'll get the full toolkit of the digital mediamaker across three hands-on projects. First, you'll reinvent yourself as a mythical creature in Adobe Photoshop, exploring the creative possibilities and ethical questions of image manipulation. Then you'll dive into the power of First Nations storytelling and animate a story of your own in Adobe Animate. Finally, working in teams, you'll write, shoot, and edit a short film using the same techniques professionals build their craft on with access to the Kingswood College TV studio and recording facilities to make it look the part.

Areas of Study: Digital Image manipulation Film Analysis Film Production Digital Animation Assessment: Mythical Me Photoshop task Film Production Animated Story

Semester Examination

FRENCH (SECOND LANGUAGE) The study of French at Year 10 aims to develop the communication skills which enables students to express their views and talk about topics relevant to their age groups in readiness for VCE French studies. This is a compulsory subject for students wishing to pursue studies in VCE French. It prepares them to deal with various daily situations and problems in French, developing an awareness of language as a tool for communication and of how language works. The study of a foreign language such as French fosters understanding and tolerance of other cultures and broadens the student’s cultural horizons and general knowledge by introducing them to the French way of life. Assessment: Activities revolve around the practice of the four main language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing, which also incorporate the grammar and vocabulary from each unit of work. Assessment takes place in various forms to accommodate the development of the skills of listening, speaking, reading, writing and viewing. Grammar and vocabulary are also assessed throughout the year.

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES HISTORY MYSTERIES

MUSIC

PHOTOGRAPHY

In Year 10 Music students focus on the development of aural and theoretical skills, such as recognising key signatures, intervals, scales, chords, rhythms and melodies. Students develop these skills through both explicit theoretical analysis, and through the incorporation of these concepts in an original composition project, which is completed using the notation software, Sibelius. All students are required to present a prepared performance on their chosen instrument. Students undertake musicological research concerning the history of European music traditions, and ethnomusicological research which discusses musical elements that are Assessment: familiar and unfamiliar, in both local Case study and research task and international music traditions. Written analytical response Year 10 Music is a broad and Case study and research task enriching subject, which serves as the Student created gateway to VCE Music Performance documentary/podcast/report studies. This Year 10 History Mysteries Unit delves into intriguing historical enigmas, exploring why they persist and how they can be examined through logic and epistemology. Students will learn to formulate analysis through critical thinking and research skills. The unit covers ancient mysteries like Babylon and Atlantis, as well as modern-world conspiracies, such as ‘did man really land on the moon?’ By investigating these topics, students will develop a deeper understanding of historical events, enhance their analytical skills, and learn the importance of evidence-based reasoning in uncovering the truths behind historical mysteries.

Year 10 Photography is designed for students who are passionate about capturing and creating visual imagery through both traditional and contemporary photography practices. Throughout the semester, students explore analogue and digital photography, developing their ability to observe, compose, and represent subject matter with creativity and technical skill. Students learn how to confidently operate SLR and DSLR cameras, exploring camera settings such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO, depth of field, and composition. They also gain hands-on experience with black and white film photography, including darkroom developing and printing processes. Alongside traditional techniques, students expand their digital photography knowledge through image editing and enhancement using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Students document their creative process in a Visual Diary, recording the progression of ideas, technical experimentation, artist research, Assessment: editing processes, and reflective Performance – Solo recital responses. Through a range of Composition – Original, notated practical and conceptual tasks, work students explore themes that Research essay – Musicology encourage personal expression, Comparative essay – visual storytelling, and aesthetic Ethnomusicology development. Written examination – Aural and theory skills.

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES PHOTOGRAPHY

PRODUCT DESIGN TECHNOLOGIES

PROGRAMMING & GAME DESIGN

Assessment includes: Practical skill-building tasks Two major practical projects culminating in resolved photographic artworks Two theory/research tasks linked to practical investigations A Visual Diary documenting experimentation, processes, annotations, reflections, and evaluations

Year 10 brings the design process to life around a genuinely personal brief: designing and making a piece of furniture for a specific person and a specific daily ritual. Whether that's a reading chair for a grandmother, a meditation stool for a sibling, or a journaling desk for yourself — the challenge is to research your user deeply, understand the ritual they perform, and design something that serves both with intelligence and craft.

You've been playing games your whole life, now it's time to make one. In Game Design, you'll explore the gaming industry, understanding how games are built to target specific audiences. You will investigate what separates a forgettable game from an addictive one, and why certain genres dominate the market. From there you'll move into learning to code, designing characters and game worlds, and crafting a story that gives your game a reason to exist.

You'll draw on everything developed across Years 7 to 9 — research, ideation, CAD, prototyping and production planning — and bring it together in your most sophisticated folio yet. The skills and habits you build here map directly onto VCE Product Design, giving you a real head start if you choose to continue. But this subject is worth taking on its own terms: there's something genuinely satisfying about designing for a real person and making something that fits their life. Assessment: Folio — Furniture Design Product — New Furniture Piece Case Studies of Furniture Designs

This isn't just a coding class or a design class. It's the full game development process, end to end. Embark on a creative exploration where innovation meets technology and unleash your imagination to create a compelling game designed to captivate players. Develop a genuine understanding of one of the world's biggest and fastest-growing industries. Areas of Study: Gaming and Audiences Games Programming Game Development & Telling

Story

Assessment: Game Review Coding tasks Game Design Project

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES PSYCHOLOGY

ROBOTICS ENGINEERING

TEXTILES

Have you ever wondered why people behave the way they do, how athletes stay focused under pressure, or how psychologists help solve crimes? In this engaging elective, students will explore the fascinating world of Psychology through topics such as mental illness, forensic psychology, performance psychology (including sports psychology), and a range of other intriguing areas within the field. Students will investigate how the brain, behaviour, and emotions influence the way people think and act. Through case studies, class discussions, simple practical investigations, and real-world examples, students will explore key psychological theories and concepts while developing critical thinking and scientific investigation skills.

Explore the frontier of technology and innovation, where you will build mechanical systems using engineering techniques before writing code to guide your robots to complete a variety of simple and complex tasks.

In Year 10 Textiles, you work as a designer under commission. Your brief: research a subculture community, identify a specific person within it as your end user, and design a garment for them — constructed entirely from second hand clothing or fabric remnants you source yourself. The community you choose has an aesthetic history and a set of values, and both need to be understood before any design decision is made. The garment reflects the community's visual identity. The embellishment — created through handwork techniques rather than a sewing machine — is designed to communicate something the community actively stands for.

Throughout this course, students delve into how technology profoundly impacts daily life. They design, build, program, and manipulate robots to apply innovative ideas that enhance existing processes. Robots serve as tangible examples of technology meeting user and societal needs. You will work through the engineering design process and learn to navigate constraints, brainstorm multiple solutions, and refine skills in problem-solving, troubleshooting, and invention. You will be empowered you to solve real-life challenges and illuminate the diverse career paths within the robotics and engineering industries.

As Psychology is not currently part of the Victorian Curriculum, this elective offers students valuable insight into the subject and helps them make informed decisions about studying VCE Psychology in the future. While the elective provides an excellent introduction and foundation for VCE Areas of Study: Psychology, it is not a prerequisite for Introduction to engineering later study. Programming robots Real life problem solving Assessment: Careers in the robotics A key component of the course is engineering industries inquiry based learning, revolving around practical investigations Assessment: and folio activities. Engineering build Research poster Analysis and evaluation of Programming challenge primary and/or secondary data Problem solving task Folio of practical task. reflection Careers Project

The project is grounded in sustainable and ethical fashion practice: all materials are repurposed, all design decisions are justified against research. Students also examine the broader landscape of fast and slow fashion, investigating the environmental and social impacts of how clothing is made and consumed.

Assessment Folio – Designing for a community Product – Community Garment & Embellishment – Connecting Communities Sustainable Fashion Report

and

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ELECTIVES THEATRE STUDIES

VISUAL ART

This elective allows you to explore the significant theatrical styles developed throughout history including both Pre-modern and Modern Theatre styles. You will be asked to participate in practical classroom sessions as we explore these styles, by performing small script excerpts to the class. You will also be working as part of a group ensemble to perform a Documentary Drama based on a social issue of your choice. You will choose a target audience for this performance, with the intention of bringing about social change. You will also get to explore various Production roles such as sets, costumes, hair & make-up and props. You will then have the opportunity to present a scene to the class using design choices of your own. Throughout the course there will be both practical and theoretical work as we dive deeper into the world of Theatre.

Year

VISUAL COMMUNICATION & DESIGN

encourages Visual Communication Design builds personal and creative responses to a skills in drawing, creative thinking, range of stimulus through the problem solving, and communicating investigation of different materials, messages through design. In this course, students learn how to identify techniques and processes. Students design problems and explore new will enhance their understanding and opportunities to create innovative application of the Art Elements and and meaningful solutions that meet Principles learnt in previous years. the needs of different users and The course develops student’s audiences. Students are introduced individual styles through a to the four fields of design practice: comprehensive study of artforms Messages, Interactive Experiences, which may extend to Sculpture, Objects, and Environments. In this Drawing, Painting, Installation, elective, the major projects focus on the Environments and Interactive Textiles, Printmaking, whilst Experiences fields. Students examining two prominent Modern Art undertake design tasks such as Movements. Students are supported interior design, architecture, model to produce highly imaginative visual making, and website or app interface approaches, experimenting and design. Both freehand and digital documenting their ideas in a visual drawing methods are used to develop diary. This course mirrors the and present ideas. Students gain intentions of VCE Art courses as confidence using industry-standard students set largely independent design programs, including Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, projects. As a result, the growth of to create professional and polished student’s artistic skills allows them to Assessment: final presentations. produce final artworks that reflect Research presentation on a their unique individuality and Assessment: theatre style of your choice Documentary Drama (ensemble creativity. Practical skill building short tasks performance) such as freehand drawing, Assessment: Scene presentation using your technical drawing and digital Practical skill building tasks such own design choices collage. as drawing, collage, ink and Written examination. Two major design projects, brush, painting. culminating in two finished design Two major practical projects presentations. Submission of two theory tasks. culminating in two finished A visual diary that contains all artworks. working processes. Submission of theory tasks which 10

Visual

Art

link to each of the practical projects. A visual diary that contains all working processes. 26

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ENGLISH ELECTIVES BEYOND TOMORROW Kingswood College runs year-long Each Elective has a different focus For “Beyond Tomorrow” the writing Electives for Year 10 students which and students are asked to give a first Framework is about Futures in adhere to the mainstream English and second preference. However, Term1. In Term 2 there will be a program. Students will have a choice whilst every effort will be made to study of William Shakespeare's of three Electives. This is a consider student preference, Kingswood generated program, Kingswood reserves the right to Macbeth; in Term 3 the area covered will be Argument and Language created by Kingswood Teachers to finally place students. Analysis, and included in this area, prepare and engage students in readiness for VCE English, Your interest in writing specific text some analysis of selected articles on Literature and EAL. types, from short stories to personal the Future. Then in Term 4 reflection or poetry, will be what there will be a novel study. The Electives will offer a combination guides you in the choices you make. of English and Literature; in English a Activities: term focussed on Frameworks and a Framework: Writing about Futures term on Argument and Language Mentor text: “Growing up, grow Analysis, and in Literature an indepth study of Shakespeare’s up, grown-ups” by Ambelin Macbeth for a term and a text Kwaymullina, in Growing up response to a novel for a term. Aboriginal in Australia, edit. Anita The purpose for this approach is to provide the students with choice in their study and to engage them with maximum interest in the learning and teaching environment of the classroom. The focus is to deliver academic rigour in English and Literature, assisted by a differentiated approach to assessment in Macbeth and crafted lessons that provide the right amount of support and challenge for every student.

Heiss, p.136-137. Argument and Language Analysis: Articles : AI in Education. Assessment: Mid-Year

Examination:

Writing

about Futures and Text Response on Macbeth Final Examination: Argument and Language

Analysis

and

Text

Response on the novel.

The selected text for Term 2 will be one approved by the English Faculty but selected by the teacher for each Elective.

YEAR 8-10 ELECTIVES HANDBOOK

2027

YEAR 10 ENGLISH ELECTIVES SEIZE THE DAY

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE

For “Seize the Day” the writing Framework is about Play in Term 1. In Term 2 there will be a study of William Shakespeare's Macbeth; in Term 3 the area covered will be Argument and Language Analysis, and included in this area, some analysis of selected articles on Play. Then in Term 4 there will be a novel study.

For “More than Meets the Eye” the writing Framework is about Change in Term 1. In Term 2 there will be a study of William Shakespeare's Macbeth; in Term 3 the area covered will be Argument and Language Analysis, and included in this area, some analysis of selected articles on Change. Then in Term 4 there will be a novel study.

Year

EAL,

the

writing

Framework is about Destiny in Term 1. In Term 2 there will be a study of William Shakespeare's Macbeth. In Term 3, students continue to focus on their analytical skills by studying The Truman Show. Then, in Term 4, students consider the different ways authors can express arguments and position

Activities: Activities: Framework: Writing about Play Framework: Writing about Change Mentor text: “The sporting life” by Mentor text: “It’s not over” by Adam Goodes, in Growing up Bebe Backhouse, in Growing up Aboriginal in Australia, edit. Anita Aboriginal in Australia, edit. Anita Heiss, p.100-103 Heiss, p.16-20. Argument and Language Analysis: Argument and Language Analysis: Articles - Olympics/ competition/ Articles : Climate change/EV. sport. Assessment: Assessment: Mid-Year Examination: Writing Mid-Year Examination: Writing about Change and Text Response about Play and Text Response on on Macbeth Macbeth Final Examination: Argument and Final Examination: Argument and Language Analysis and Text Language Analysis and Text response on the novel. response on the novel.

different

audiences.

Students practice presenting their own arguments by presenting a speech on an issue that they choose. Activities: Framework: Writing about Destiny Mentor text: Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" and the Pixar film Wall-E Argument and Language Analysis: Articles. Assessment: Mid-Year Examination: Writing about Destiny and Text Response on Macbeth Final Examination: Argument and Language

Analysis

and

The

Truman Show.

355 Station Street, Box Hill Victoria, Australia, 3128 P: +61 (0)3 9896 1700 E : reception@kingswoodcollege.vic.edu.au W: www.kingswoodcollege.vic.edu.au CRICOS Provider 00150G