GRADE 8
SUBJECT SELECTION GUIDE
Grade 8 Subject Selection Guide 2026
Grade 8 Overview
Students in Grade 8 in 2026 will study a range of subjects, most of which form the core of their academic programme and as such are compulsory. The rest of their programme is made up of elective subjects.
Core Subjects
Eight subjects form the basis of the Grade 8 curriculum. They are English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, Health and Physical Education, Languages (French or Chinese) or Language and Literacy, and Christian Studies.
Students are organised into core classes for these subjects with the exception of Mathematics, where students are grouped according to their relative mathematical strengths, and Languages, where students continue to be grouped according to the language that they study.
Students also participate in one timetabled lesson of Wellbeing per cycle. This Pastoral session is scheduled in addition to the vertical Pastoral Care time with their tutor, to support students with maintaining balance, prioritising wellbeing and engaging actively with their Head of House.
Language and Literacy
In Grade 8, Language and Literacy is provided as an alternative to a foreign language for those students have been identified as needing additional learning support, particularly in literacy. Entry to this subject will take place in consultation with Mr David Clark, Head of Learning Enrichment, and the family involved.
Language and Literacy is designed to support students who require additional assistance in developing their reading, writing, and comprehension skills. This course aims to bridge literacy gaps and empower students with the necessary tools to achieve academic success. Through targeted instruction, personalised support, and engaging activities, students will enhance their literacy abilities and build confidence in their communication skills.
This subject uses the Macquarie Literacy Programme for small group instruction. This course is designed to assist students with significant language difficulties as evidenced by a professional report or school-based assessment.
Grade 8 Subject Selection Guide 2026
Learning Areas
Our Learning Area Leaders are the dedicated educators who guide teaching and learning across each subject at Launceston Grammar. They oversee curriculum, support our teaching teams, and ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive in their chosen subjects.
Below, you’ll find a list of each learning area and the leader you can contact for guidance, subject advice, or further information.
English
Mathematics
Science
Humanities
Learning Enrichment
Technology
Art
Health and Physical Education
Christian Studies
Music
LOTE
Outdoor Education
Drama
Natalie Stewart
Paul Townsend
Lilli Hyatt
Gail Harris
David Clark
Michelle Bradley
Paul Snell
Dale Augostin
Victoria Legg
Daniel Wahl
Allison Sheehan
Angela Cunningham
Marianna Hedges
Elective Subjects – how it works
Grade 8 students have six elective subjects during the year, with each course running for one semester. Students may opt to study some subjects for the full year, however, they are encouraged to have a balance between subjects and to take the opportunity to experience new areas of the curriculum. At this level, previous experience is not required for any of the subjects.
Elective subjects on offer for Grade 8 2026 are:
Art
Creative Writing
Da Vinci
Design Workshop
Digital Innovation
Nourish & Flourish
Drama Spark
Music
Stitched Up
Musical Theatre Sustainable Ecosystems
Grade 8 Subject Selection Guide 2026
Using Edval to Register Elective Preferences
Current Grade 7 students will enter their preferred subjects for Grade 8 directly into our timetabling software called Edval. Each student will receive a unique 7 character webCode via their school email account. To Login, follow this link to the Edval website Edval Education enter the webCode and click on Login.
The next screen allows students to enter their subject preferences for each line as well as a reserve preference.
Three electives need to be selected for each semester, six for the year. Each subject runs for a semester, so if a student wishes to study the subject for the full year they will need to choose it in their Semester 1 and Semester 2 preference. (e.g Art 1 and Art 2). In all, students are asked to register twelve preferences, six main preferences (three per semester), plus six reserve preferences (three per semester).
Once all subjects have been chosen it is essential to click on the Submit icon to register the choices and the following form appears. The selection can be varied up until 5pm on Monday 25th August after which time Edval will no longer be accessible. Please print the registration form and ask your parent (or guardian) to sign the printout Students must hand the signed form to their Class Teacher by Tuesday 26th August
Grade 8 Subject Selection Guide 2026
Elective Subject outlines
Art
Grade 8 Art is an exciting and creative course that encourages students to explore, experiment, and express themselves through a wide range of engaging projects. Whether you're building on past experience or trying Art for the first time, this friendly and supportive environment is the perfect place to grow your confidence and skills.
Across the year, students will dive into hands-on activities in drawing, printmaking, painting, and three-dimensional construction, discovering new materials, techniques, and ideas along the way. Each project is designed to spark creativity and encourage individual thinking, while developing a strong foundation in the Elements and Principles of Art and Design.
Students who choose Art for the full year will build a dynamic folio of work and develop skills that prepare them for the challenges and creativity of the Grade 9 and 10 Art programs. Come ready to imagine, make, and be inspired!
Creative Writing
Students develop their writing skills by examining a number of genres and the stylistic components which form the basis of these. They will produce a collection of their own writing and develop proof reading and editing skills in a collaborative environment. Students will engage in discussions of texts and techniques as a source for their own ideas and style of writing.
Da Vinci
Da Vinci is an innovative, challenge-based subject designed for curious, creative, and collaborative learners who love to think outside the box. Drawing inspiration from the Da Vinci Decathlon and Tournament of Minds, this subject invites students to dive into real-world problems and imaginative scenarios that stretch the brain across disciplines. Students will work in teams to explore topics from science, literature, philosophy, engineering, mathematics, and the arts, building skills in critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and teamwork. The course combines long-term projects with spontaneous challenges, encouraging flexible thinking and confident presentation.
Design Workshop
In Design Workshop, students follow a problem-solving approach through the design and production of small projects in a range of materials including wood, metal and plastics. Students gain experience in using tools and equipment and learn relevant processes associated to these materials. Personal safety and workshop operation are important aspects also covered by the course.
Digital Innovation
Digital Innovation gives students the opportunity to learn and further develop skills relevant in today’s world. ICT skills are taught to develop logical, creative and critical thinking skills. The areas of graphic manipulation, video creation, animation, coding, artificial intelligence and virtual reality are taught. This is a project-based subject and students can work individually or as a productive member of a team.
Grade 8 Subject Selection Guide 2026
Drama
Through this course, students will acquire an increased understanding of the use of spoken language, drama and movement. They will be involved in working co-operatively and creatively with others to explore social issues, attitudes and opinions. Students will be expected to present polished performances in public. They will also be involved in problem-solving situations. The development of knowledge and skills in speaking, listening, script-writing and performing will be undertaken to an appropriately high standard. This will be achieved through the setting of shortterm goals and reflecting on personal achievement throughout the course.
Nourish and Flourish
The Food Technology course gives students an opportunity to develop cooking skills along with an understanding and awareness of food in our daily lives. In line with food sustainability guidelines, students are encouraged to make wise food choices when planning meals for themselves and their families. Students will prepare and present a variety of nutritious meals and snacks as well as some festive foods. Students who complete this subject will have a strong foundation for further studies in Food and Nutrition.
Music
Grade 8 Music builds on the foundational skills developed in Grade 7 Music, offering students the opportunity to deepen their musical abilities and broaden their creative expression. Students will refine their instrumental or vocal skills through solo and/or group work, with regular performance opportunities throughout the year helping to their build confidence, stage presence, and technical accuracy. Practical work is a strong component of this course, with an emphasis on performance
To support and strengthen their practical work, students will be introduced to music theory directly applicable to their relevant instrument and style, using this as a tool to enhance their understanding of musical structures, notation, and stylistic interpretation. Students will also explore a wide variety of musical styles by listening and analysing pieces from different genres, cultures, and time periods. In addition, they will have the opportunity to compose and arrange their own music, using both traditional methods and digital music technology.
Musical Theatre
Discover the magic of musical theatre!
This engaging and energetic course invites Grade 8 students to explore the exciting world of musical theatre through singing, acting, and movement. Designed as a stepping stone to seniorlevel study, students will build confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills while working as part of an ensemble. Learners will:
• Develop basic performance skills in voice, movement, and characterisation
• Explore storytelling through music and drama
• Respond to scripts and songs with imagination and empathy
• Participate in group rehearsals and showcase a short musical performance
No prior experience is needed just a willingness to learn, perform, and have fun! This course is perfect for students curious about the performing arts and keen to build skills that can lead to future study in Dance, Drama, or Music.
Grade 8 Subject Selection Guide 2026
Spark
Spark is a dynamic, digitally-focused subject designed to empower students to explore innovative projects that connect with their coursework. Through a project-based learning approach, students will engage in design thinking to develop creative and critical solutions to real-world challenges. The subject encourages exploration across a variety of software tools and platforms, fostering digital literacy, problem-solving, and collaborative skills. Students will have the opportunity to prototype, iterate, and present their ideas, building confidence and capability in both independent and team-based work.
Sustainable Ecosystems
Agriculture and Horticulture is one of the fastest growing and technologically innovative industries in Australia. In this subject, students who are interested in the outdoors, growing plants, working with animals and who have a passion for investigating ways we can adapt to climate change will thrive!
Agriculture and Sustainability at Grammar explores the many exciting interactions between agriculture and Tasmania’s economy. Through a variety of excursions, students will hear from industry researchers and scientists establishing new ways to overcome issues such as food wastage, pest and disease threats, weed control, land degradation and biosecurity issues. Practical lesson in the Grammar Ag Plot will give students hands on vegetable production experience, and knowledge to evaluate the differences between small and large-scale production and quality control. In the classroom, students will delve into exciting agriculture innovation projects, investigate animal welfare issues including ethical eating, apply green building design principles, learn about indigenous perspectives, and landscape design.
Stitched Up
Textiles and Design students engage in design, construction, and evaluation of their finished textile products. Projects are guided by design briefs, the design process, and design thinking strategies, with a focus on garment construction and decorative techniques. As students gain confidence working with textiles materials, tools, and processes, they begin to consider the broader role of textiles in society. This leads to an increased awareness of sustainability and the environmental impact of textile waste in their creative making.