Senior School Curriculum 2016

Transcription

1 Senior School Curriculum 2016 Years 11, 12 and 13

2 Curriculum Handbook 2016 The curriculum handbook is an important part of your son s educational pathway it provides information on subjects, courses and careers. The handbook also provides an up-to-date explanation and comparison of the IB and NCEA qualifications. Well-informed course selection is crucial! It is important that families and their sons spend time discussing the appropriate courses for their future aspirations. As a general rule of thumb, courses should be chosen which leave doors open as young men are likely to change their goals as they move through the senior school. Please read the careers section carefully. The requirements for certain careers may include prescribed subjects. An appointment with the Careers Adviser, Mr Field-Dodgson is a useful first step as he has the most up to date information available especially from the Universities. There are also many other avenues for sound advice within the College, from Senior Management to House Deans and Heads of Department. Matthew Bertram Principal, Senior School July 2015

3 01 Contents Introduction 02 Course Planning for Careers 03 Some useful websites 06 University Entrance 07 Course Structures (IB) International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) 09 Course structure diagram (IB) 10 International Baccalaureate Course Design 11 Frequently asked questions 12 IB subjects and pre-requisites 14 Details of individual subjects: Group 1: Mother Language 14 Group 2: Language Acquisition 14 Group 3: Individuals and Societies 15 Group 4: Experimental Sciences 16 Group 5: Mathematics 17 Group 6: The Arts 18 Course Structures (NCEA) National Certificate in Educational Achievement (NCEA) 20 Course Structure diagram (NCEA) 22 General Course Information (NCEA) 23 Details of individual subjects: Accounting/Business Studies 25 Art History 26 Biology 27 Chemistry 28 Classical Studies 29 Construction & Materials Technology 30 Design & Visual Communication (Graphics) 31 Digital Technologies 32 Drama 33 Economics 34 English 35 Geography 36 History 37 Languages 38 Mathematics 39 Music 41 Physical Education 43 Physics 44 Science 45 Visual Arts 46 NCEA and IB Compared 48 Qualification Fees 49 Key Contacts 49

4 02 Introduction This booklet is designed to give parents and students an overview of the courses offered in the Senior School at Scots College so that they are in a position to make wise course selections in the students final three years at Secondary School. It gives general details about courses and careers, and then outlines details of each individual subject. Please note: the topics and assessment information for each subject are indicative only. They are a guide to the type of content that can be covered in each course and the likely assessment weightings. The actual combinations of subjects available in Years in any one year depend on the constraints imposed by the timetable and the numbers of students opting to do particular subjects. Subjects will only be available if there is a sufficient number of students wishing to take them. Early Term 3, parents and students are asked to make choices, and at this stage we do our best to satisfy all these choices, though we cannot guarantee that any particular combination of subjects will be available. Once the structure of the timetable is established, and a decision made about which subjects are timetabled at the same time as other subjects, then this structure cannot be changed. This means that if at a later date the student wishes to change his course he can only do so within that established structure. If you have any questions concerning your own particular situation as far as course selection is concerned, please don t hesitate to contact Senior School Assistant Principals, or your son s House Dean.

5 Course Planning for Careers When choosing a course it is best to keep your subject choice as broad for as long as possible. Entry to many courses does not depend as much on course choice as it does on achievement. The list below is not exhaustive but will give some guidelines. Note: 1. For entry to any university course, University Entrance is required 2. No subjects are compulsory. Universities label them recommended / highly recommended. CAREER AREA QUALIFICATION MINIMUM ENTRY SCHOOL SUBJECTS Agriculture/Farming Diploma NCEA 48 Credits or Level 2 Biology, English, more in best 4 subjects Maths, Chemistry/Physics Level 2 recommended Degree Level 3 Biology, Maths, Chemistry recommended Apprenticeships: Certificate & Check Polytechnic Level 1 English, Maths & e.g. Electrician, Diploma programmes for specific Physics can be required. Plumber, Builder requirements Painter Aviation (i) Air Force Air Force Officer 90 Credits Level 3 Calculus, Physics, English English, Maths, Physics preferred Pilot/Navigator Physics, 18 credits Physics, Chemistry or Level 2 Maths, English, Computer Studies, English Science preferred (ii) Massey Pre-selection exam & Level 3 Physics, Calculus, Degree: high standard of English English B. Aviation (iii) Flying Academies/ Pre-selection process, Level 2 Maths, Physics Schools 18 years of age Architecture Degree: All require Auckland: No specifics but Auckland: Auckland min. 16 credits Physics, Maths, Design, Bachelor in two subjects from DigiTech may be useful. Architect Studies Table A & Table B + portfolio. Victoria Vic Competitive entry to Victoria: Calculus, BAS/BBSc Year 2 no portfolio Statistics, Physics English, Unitec: Unitec Portfolio Tech, Art, Design & BAS Graphics are useful CAREER AREA QUALIFICATION MINIMUM ENTRY SCHOOL SUBJECTS Architectural Polytechs: 60 Level 2 in best four or Weltec: Level 2 Maths, Technology Diploma equiv at Level 3. Science, English Architectural Otago Polytech 35 Level 2 credits or higher Level 2 Maths, Physics, draughting Diploma English, Chemistry Commerce/Business NZ DipBus 48 NCEA Credits or better, English, Maths Level 2 Degree Some universities have Maths, English, Accounting, limited entry. Eco recommended. NB: Specialist commerce Calculus if majoring in Eco degrees at LIN & MAS or Finance. Construction Diploma Level 2. Good Marks Maths, Eco, Computer Economics Studies Degree Maths essential. Eco, Physics (Quantity Surveying) & Computer Studies rec. Construction Diploma Level 2 Maths & English Management or AS Maths & English Degree Maths, English, Computer Studies Dentistry Degree See Health Science Intermediate Otago Design Hons. degree Portfolio required, competitive Art essential entry, Massey, Auckland Useful English, His, Maths, University of Technology, Physics, Art History, Unitec, Otago Polytechnic. Computer Skills, Graphics Victoria. no portfolio, competitive to Year 2 Engineeering Diploma Maths & Physics: Level 2 Maths, Physics, 48 credits Level 2 or better graphics desirable in best four AUT: Calculus and Physics at Level 3. B. Engineering 42 Level 3 credits & Technology 14 in Calculus & Physics Calculus, Physics Degree Auckland: limited entry. Level 3 Calculus & Physics Canterbury: open entry. essential. Chemistry highly Intermediate year. recommended. English & Statistics recommended 03

6 CAREER AREA QUALIFICATION MINIMUM ENTRY SCHOOL SUBJECTS Fine Arts Diploma Portfolio required Polytechnics: Level 2 in English & Art Degree Canterbury: Good passes in Art, Art History 2 Art Level 3 subjects & portfolio, or 2 portfolios. Auckland: Portfolio and written application required. Massey: Competitive entry, portfolio. Refer to individual varsity websites Food Science Degree Degrees at Auckland Chemistry essential. Human Nutrition University of technology, Biology, Maths, Physics Massey, Otago, Auckland recommended Forestry Degree Canterbury: first year BForSc Biology, Statistics can be taken at any university. Chemistry, essential, Economics & English recommended Health Science Medicine, Auckland Medical School: Auckland: (Medicine) Dentistry, either Year I B. Health Sc or For MBChB, Biology, Pharmacy, B.Biologymed Sc: Chemistry and one English Med Lab Science, rich subject. Physiotherapy Physics, Statistics/Calculus useful Otago Med School: Otago: Health Science Intermediate Recommended: Biology, compulsory Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Chemistry, Physics, Statistics Statistics Competitive 2nd year entry Useful: Calculus, English for Auckland and Otago. rich subject Horticulture BAg.Sc/HortSc Biology, Chemistry, Maths DipHort Minimum 40 credits NCEA Level 2 + numeracy/ literacy for Journalism BCS Auckland University of Art History, Classics, Bachelor of Technology. Preference to English, Geography, Communication 60 credits Level 3 in four NCEA History or Media Studies Studies subjects. IB 28 with min 5 in language rich subj. also at Diploma Waikato, Massey, Unitec post-graduate Canterbury degree required. CAREER AREA QUALIFICATION MINIMUM ENTRY SCHOOL SUBJECTS Landscape Architecture Diploma Unitec: NCEA Level 2 credits. Maths, Design, Biology, Geography recommended Law Degree Very competitive entry to English, Hist, Art History, second year. Classics, Eco, Geography Limited entry to Waikato Physics, Maths Languages, first year. good preparation Medicine: Med Lab.Science see Health Science Media Studies Certificate Good grade in English. Level 2 English Work experience desirable. BCS Auckland University of English, History, Art Bachelor of Technology, Unitec, History, Classics, Communication Waikato and Massey Geography, Media Studies Studies Written application, Competitive entry, high grades for Auckland University of Technology Media Studies & Communication are also BA majors Medical Radiation Degree Otago. Post Grad. English, Maths, Physics, Therapy programmes require Science Biology. degree. Music Degree in various NZSM some papers require Music to at least Level 2, disciplines music theory and some preferably Level 3 require audition. Optometry Degree at Auckland: (Year 1 of B.Sc.Bio Chemistry, Biology, Physics Auckland Med). competitive entry Pharmacy Degree Auckland: competitive. Maths, Chemistry, Biology Direct entry and interview. essential, Physics, English Level 3 Biology & Chemistry recommended. essential Otago Health Science for first year. Physical Education Degree at Otago Min 16 in each of four English, Biology & P.E. at Level 2 subjects. Level 2 and Level 3 Admission competitive recommended. 04

7 CAREER AREA QUALIFICATION MINIMUM ENTRY SCHOOL SUBJECTS Physiotherapy Degree at Otago: Health Sci. int. Otago: English, Biology, Auckland Chemistry, Physics, Maths. University of Auckland University of Auckland University of Technology and Technology competitive Technology no Otago entry NCEA 56 Level 3 prescribed subjects credits in 3 subjects. Sport and Recreation Degree: P.E. recommended. Sport & Exercise Auckland Biology, English, Science Canterbury Geography helpful Massey Science Certificate Level 2 Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics depending on major Degree Limited entry Auckland for Maths, Biology, Physics, some courses Chemistry depending on major Speech & Language Degree Competitive entry to second Science to at least Level 2, Therapy Postgraduate year, Massey & Canterbury Biology recommended and Auckland Post-graduate Auckland. English Social Work Degree Competitive entry to second General education year Surveying Diploma Minimum 35 Level 2 credits Maths, Physics, Graphics in best 3 subjects including Yr12, Computer Studies Maths, 12 credits in Algebra useful & trig Degree Intermediate year at Otago English, Calculus, Statistics, Computer Studies & Geography useful Teaching Primary: degree Primary: some required subjects Secondary: degree Secondary: 4 year degree or Post Graduate diploma Technology Degree Auckland: Limited entry Physics & Calculus; programmes. Victoria & Chemistry if major in Massey B. Tech degree Veterinary Science Degree Vet Sc. intermediate. Massey. Biology, Statistics Competitive entry to Chemistry, Physics, English Semester 2. Visual Communication Diploma, Degree Very competitive. Portfolio English, Art required 05

8 06 Some useful websites Career Services Qualifications Tertiary Study New Zealand Universities Auckland University of Technology Lincoln University Massey University University of Auckland University of Canterbury University of Otago University of Waikato Victoria University of Wellington Polytechnics Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology Eastern Institute of Technology Manukau Institute of Technology Open Polytechnic Otago Polytechnic Southern Institute of Technology Unitec New Zealand Universal College of Learning Wellington Institute of Technology Whitireia Community Polytechnic

9 07 University Entrance NCEA NCEA Level 3 Three subjects at Level 3, made up of: 14 credits each, in three approved subjects Literacy 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of: 5 credits in reading 5 credits in writing specified Level 2 and Level 3 achievement standards through a range of subjects Numeracy 10 credits at Level 1 or above, made up of: achievement standards specified achievement standards available through a range of subjects International Baccalaureate Completion of the Diploma (minimum of 24 points). An IB Diploma completed with English as Language A at either Higher or Standard Level and including any mathematics subject satisfies the literacy and numeracy requirements for university entrance. Students should feel free to visit the Careers Centre at any time and/or make an appointment with Mr Field-Dodgson

10 08 Course Structures (IB)

11 09 International Baccalaureate Diploma This is important for students in Year 11 and below The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is an internationally recognised two-year qualification based on subjects studied in Years 12 and 13. It aims to give students a broad holistic qualification. It is assessed in six main subject areas as well as creativity, action and service (CAS this looks at community service, sporting and cultural activities), theory of knowledge (TOK this looks at the philosophy of knowledge) and an extended essay (4000 words) in a subject of the student s choice. In 2010 the IB Diploma was introduced by the College at Year 12, which means that the current Year 9 to 11 students will have a choice of doing either the IB or NCEA (it is not possible to do both). The Diploma programme prepares students for university and encourages them to: ask challenging questions learn how to learn develop a strong sense of their own identity and culture develop the ability to communicate with and understand people from other countries and cultures. If you are considering the IB Diploma programme the following are important: a sound record of achievement to date self motivated and a desire to be challenged independent learning skills good organisational and time management skills a desire to keep your options broad an interest in an international perspective. In the IB Diploma there are six groups of subjects to choose from: Mother Language Language Acquisition Individuals and Societies Sciences Mathematics Arts

12 Secondary School Course Structures 2016 (IB Diploma) 10 Y13 TOK English Mathematics History CGRS Environmental Biology Chemistry Physics Economics Business & Film Music Visual Arts Japanese French Spanish Chinese SL Systems & Management SL Socities Y12 TOK English Mathematics History CGRS Environmental Biology Chemistry Physics Economics Business & Film Music Visual Art Japanese French Spanish Chinese SL or HL SL, HL or Studies SL or HL SL SL SL or HL SL or HL SL or HL SL or HL Management SL or HL SL or HL SL or HL SL SL or HL SL or HL SL SL or HL Y11 RE PE English Mathematics History Geography Biology/Chemistry Chemistry/Physics Technology Digital Economics Accounting/ Drama Music Art French Spanish Chinese (Theory) Technology Business Studies Y10 RE PE English Mathematics Humanities Science Technology Digital Enterprise Drama Film TV Music Art French Spanish Chinese Technology Studies Subject Underlined: Subject may be commenced at this level RE: Religious Education and Life Skills Thick Lines: Continuation of this subject is compulsory PE: Physical Education Thin Lines: Continuation of this subject is optional TOK: Theory of Knowledge Broken Lines: Continuation of this subject SL: Standard Level HL: Higher Level

13 11 International Baccalaureate Course Design The IB Diploma subjects are offered at two levels, standard level (SL) and higher level (HL). Each course is 150 hours and 240 hours of study respectively. All students must study three SL and three HL subjects chosen from each of the six groups with the exception of group 6 which can be omitted allowing two choices from either of the groups 3, and 4. A third Science could replace the Individual and Societies option. Environmental Systems and Societies cover both the Science and Individual and Societies subject areas. This allows students to select two subjects from another area. The table below outlines the subjects available: Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 4 Group 5 Group 6 Mother Language Language Acquisition Individuals & Societies Sciences Mathematics The Arts English French Economics Biology Mathematics (HL) Music Spanish History Chemistry Mathematics (SL) Film Chinese (Ab Initio) Business and Management Physics Maths Studies (SL) Visual Arts *Refer course outline page 17 Spanish (Ab Initio) Classical Greek & Roman Studies Environmental Systems and Societies (SL only) Some examples of choices taken by current students are: Higher level Standard Level Higher level Standard Level English Mathematics Mathematics History French Chemistry Chemistry Spanish (Ab Initio) History Physics Physics English

14 12 Frequently asked questions How is the IB Diploma assessed? Assessment happens in a variety of ways throughout the two-year Diploma. It includes assessment of student work both by outside examiners, as well as the students own teachers. Each course has an internally assessed component of around 25-50% of the course and the balance is from external examinations at the conclusion of the two-year Diploma. This gives students every opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have acquired. Subjects are scored on a 1-7 scale with up to three bonus points for Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay. Students must get at least 24 points out of a possible 45 to be awarded the IB Diploma. Do all students who attempt the IB Diploma earn the qualification? No. Students must achieve the pass mark of 24 or more points. On average the world average score is 30 and the average Diploma award rate is 80%. On average in Australasia the average score is 33 and the award rate is 92%. To date, at Scots the average score is 33 and 100% of students have gained University Entrance. How are the subjects developed? Each subject area is reviewed every five years, guaranteeing the most relevant, contemporary curriculum anywhere in the world. What about learning specific to NZ? As well as focusing on international perspectives of learning and teaching, the curriculum insists students fully explore their home culture and language. This equips IB Diploma holders to not only debate real-world issues from an international perspective but also to provide leadership and support both locally and globally. The IB Diploma sounds like a lot of extra work. What are the advantages? The Diploma is based on a broad and balanced curriculum. The Diploma encourages students to become lifelong learners rather than aiming to simply get the grade. Students develop a sense of the world around them, their responsibility to it, and the skills with which to embrace the complexities of life. The IB Diploma, based upon the best practices from national systems of education around the world, is designed to provide a qualification recognised by universities all over the world. There is little extra time involved. The IB Diploma commitment is comparable to the workload for students who wish to achieve merit or excellence in NCEA. It encourages students to appreciate cultures and attitudes other than their own and to be informed, tolerant and willing to communicate with others. The Diploma provides a broad general education while still allowing specialised study in areas corresponding to an individual s particular interests and plans for the future. Can a student do NZQA Scholarship examinations? All IB students will be offered the opportunity of sitting scholarship examinations. Many of the Diploma courses are a good preparation for scholarship and some such as English may give students a distinct advantage. Can students transfer from one Diploma Programme school to another? Yes, but while the Diploma itself is the same from school to school, the subject choices available to students will vary. Timelines and deadlines for a Diploma s central elements Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity- Action-Service (CAS) usually vary also. What is Theory of Knowledge? Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a seminar-type course that explores the linkages between subject areas. It challenges students to consider what they know and how they learn. Students submit a presentation and reflective paper in order to successfully complete the course. Essentially this is helping to teach them how to think. What is CAS? CAS stands for Creativity-Action- Service. In order to successfully complete the IB Diploma, each student performs a number of activities that are evenly split among creative, action, and service-oriented endeavours. This allows students to formalise and reflect on activities that they are already doing. The CAS coordinator assists all students to develop an appropriate programme.

15 13 Can a student be in the IB Diploma and be in sports, music, or other extracurricular activities? Absolutely. Many of our IB students are involved in either sports or other extra-curricular activities such as band, scouting, church groups, external music or dance lessons, etc. Some of our most successful students are our busiest. Success in the IB Diploma depends upon the student s ability to manage his time, set priorities, and follow through with commitments. What foreign language should I choose for the Diploma? We would encourage students to continue to study any language course from previous years thus maintaining a continuum of learning to a good level of understanding. However if a foreign language was not studied previous to Year 12 there is the choice of the Ab Initio option which is a beginners course and currently is Spanish or Mandarin. The study of a foreign language is compulsory for the IB Diploma. My skills and interests are in the sciences. How does the IB Diploma address this? Many good science students elect to take two higher level science courses. Taking three is also possible and just involves working together to ensure achieving a good balance with the other selected subjects. The science courses have an interdisciplinary project which involves solving a science problem from the perspective of all three experimental sciences. This is a good reflection of the approach taken in real situations. If IB isn t right for me, can I transfer to NCEA? Yes, this is possible either during or at the end of Year 12 but not thereafter. How will IB help me at university? The IB Diploma is an excellent preparation for university studies and is accepted by leading universities worldwide, and in New Zealand as a university entrance qualification. Some universities offer scholarships to students with the Diploma and others, like the University of Canterbury, at the discretion of academic departments, may reward students with excellent Diploma grades by exempting the requirements for admission to second level courses. What happens if I do not gain the Diploma? If a student does not achieve the required number of points they may resit exams again in May or November. These resits can be undertaken anywhere in the world and the student does not have to be enrolled in school, ie they could be on their GAP year.

16 14 IB Subjects and Pre-requisites (AVAILABILITY SUBJECT TO MINIMUM CLASS NUMBERS) GROUP 1: Mother Language LANGUAGE A (HIGHER OR STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description This is a literature-based course in which students study both regionally or locally selected pieces and world literature. A wide variety of literary genres are studied including poetry, short stories, drama and prose fiction. Assessment Internal: 30% Oral. External: 70% Written Assignment and written examination Pre-requisites Students will require mainly merit grades at Level 1 English. GROUP 2: Language Acquisition YEARS 12 AND 13 The languages currently offered at Scots College in the IB Diploma Programme are French, Japanese and Spanish. Chinese is currently available only as an Ab Initio language. FRENCH (STANDARD AND HIGHER LEVEL) SPANISH (AB INITIO, STANDARD AND HIGHER LEVEL) CHINESE (STANDARD LEVEL AB INITIO ONLY) JAPANESE (STANDARD LEVEL AB INITIO) Course Description These two year courses focus on language acquisition and development in the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. The syllabus comprises three parts: language, texts and cultural awareness, and gives students the opportunity to reach a high degree of competence in the language, and to explore its culture in an international context. Students develop an ability to interact and communicate clearly and effectively in a range of situations, to express their opinions on a variety of subjects and to understand and use a range of vocabulary. Students read both literary and non-literary texts and learn to write in a variety of formats and contexts. Ab Initio (Standard Level) Course Description The Ab Initio course is designed for those students who have little or no prior experience in language of choice. Students can choose to study a European Language (French or Spanish) or an Asian Language (Chinese or Japanese) Assessment SL and HL Internal: 30% Individual and Interactive Oral External: 70% Written Examination (Text Handling and Written Production) Assessment (Ab Initio) Internal: 25% Individual Oral. External: 75% Written Examination (Text Handling, Written Production and Written Assignment). Pre-requisites 19 NCEA credits at Level 1, with Merit grades in four achievement standards for entry into Standard Level. At least four years of study and excellence grades in three achievement standards this must include the oral interaction standard, for entry into Higher Level. Students who do not meet the requirements for Higher Level may be admitted at the discretion of the Learning Area Co-ordinator for Languages. There are no pre-requisites for entry into Ab Initio. Overseas trips and exchanges The College and Languages Learning Area in particular benefit from several overseas connections. Scots College has a sister school relationship with Toin Gakuen in Yokohama, Japan. 10 Japanese students are annually hosted at Scots in March, and 10 Scots students visit Japan in September of the same year. This is an excellent opportunity for students to be involved in hosting, and in a cultural trip to Japan. The French Department regularly offers a study trip to Nouméa in New Caledonia during the September break. This trip is run in conjunction with CREIPAC, the body which organises home-stays and French classes for visiting school groups, and is of immense value to our young men who are studying French. In addition, a group of our senior students of French undertake a wonderful four week visit to Northern France encompassing time spent at the Lycée Baudimont in the historic town of Arras. The Spanish Department offers an exchange with the Mackay School in Chile. 12 students from Chile visit Scots annually in May for three weeks, while students from Scots will visit Chile every two years. The languages department also offers a biannual cultural trip to China that is open to all students. Extra-curricular activities Students are encouraged to take advantage of a range of other cultural and linguistic opportunities, both at and outside school, through film, TV, the international press and a host of internet sites promoting language study. Local and national speech competitions are a regular feature of the school year. For other language requests please see the IB Diploma Co-ordinator.

17 15 GROUP 3: Individuals and Societies ECONOMICS (HIGHER OR STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description This course is aimed at students who wish to understand more about the New Zealand and World economies. It prepares students for further study of social sciences or business and gives them a personal understanding of the economic environment in which they live. Traditional economic theory of demand and supply is taught and applied to a range of current economic situations. We investigate inflation, unemployment, economic growth and development issues, international trade and exchange rates. Destruction of the environment, pollution as a result of production and reduction of poverty in the less developed nations are interesting issues covered from an economic perspective. The higher level course includes a study of the theory of how firms make decisions, which involves using graphical analysis. Assessment Internal: 20%. Guided coursework (written portfolio) External: 80%. Written examination. Pre-requisites 1. Minimum of 20 credits at Level 1 Economics. 2. Those who have not taken Economics before: minimum of 18 credits in Level 1 English and 18 credits in Mathematics Level 1. HISTORY (HIGHER OR STANDARD LEVEL) The course provides students with the opportunity to study individuals and societies in a variety of 20th century contexts by exploring political, economic and social issues and developments. Within these historical contexts an understanding of the methodology and practice of the discipline of history will be developed further. Students learn to ask and answer important questions, evaluate evidence, identify and analyse different interpretations of the past, and substantiate their arguments and judgments. There is also an independent historical study component of a student selected topic known as the I.A. What will I study? Core Causes, Practises and Effects of War The Cold War Communism in Crisis Higher Level The Republic of China and the rise of communism China: the regional superpower from mid 20th century to 2000 Imperial Japan: Empire and Aftermath Assessment Internal 20% (HL), 25% (SL) Historical Investigation. External 80% (HL), 75% (SL) Three written examinations. Pre-requisites 16 credits in Level 1 History or 18 credits in English for a student new to History. CLASSICAL GREEK AND ROMAN STUDIES (STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description This course introduces students to the history and culture of ancient Greece and Rome, and the contribution these civilisations made to the development of the modern Western world. A wide range of evidence is used, including historical writing, epic, drama, and the archaeological record. Students are also encouraged to be aware of and examine contemporary outlooks and their own cultural filters, and to reflect on the nature of selection and bias in the recording and survival of evidence, and in its interpretation. In this way they can appreciate the challenge of reconstructing the past, and how the extent of historical and cultural understanding might be shaped by the availability and genre of evidence. Assessment 1) Individual Assignment 20% (Selection of and Commentary on Primary Sources). 2) Written Examination 80% (Paper 1 Extended Response; Paper 2 Short Answers) Pre-requisites 16 credits in Level 1 English. Study of Level 1 History or Drama would be useful, but is not necessary. [Particularly useful Level 1 standards would include any research internals or essay writing externals.]

18 16 BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT (HIGHER OR STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description Students examine organisational structure, aims and objectives relating to principles of delegation, power and responsibility along with theories of leadership, motivation and communication. Students use analytical techniques employed by businesses to make decisions, including improving profitability, out-sourcing production and expanding or relocating. Marketing as well as other business strategies are investigated and discussed. The course is rigorous and dynamic and is underpinned by six concepts: change, culture, ethics, globalisation, innovation and strategy. Assessment Internal: 25% (HL), 25% (SL) Guided coursework (written assignment) External: 75% (HL), 75% (SL) Written examination Pre-requisites No specific previous knowledge of business and management is required. However, the course aims for students to be able to apply business principles, practices and skills. Therefore, Level 1 Accounting/Business Studies would be beneficial as well as a minimum of 16 Level 1 English credits. ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS AND SOCIETIES (STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description This course aims to provide you with an understanding of the relationship between humans and the environment. That enables you to adopt an informed personal view of the wide range of pressing environmental issues that we face e.g. climate change and encourages consideration of the choices and decisions that you make in your own life Environmental systems and societies meets the requirements of both group 3 and 4 allowing you to choose any other subject. This includes another from group 3 or 4 or two subjects from group 6. Assessment Internal: 20% practical work External: 80% written examinations Pre-requisites No specific previous knowledge of science or geography required. However, as the course aims to foster an international perspective, awareness of local and global environmental concerns and an understanding of scientific methods, any science of geography would be good preparation. GROUP 4: Experimental Sciences BIOLOGY (HIGHER OR STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description Biology is the study of the living world. It involves the topics: Cells, biochemistry, genetics, ecology, evolution, human health and physiology, plant science and two additional option topics chosen from human evolution, environmental studies, neuroscience and biotechnology. Assessment Internal: 20% Practical work External: 80% Written examinations Pre-requisites It is strongly recommended that students wishing to take IB Biology take the Year 11 NCEA Biology/Chemistry course with preferably a minimum of 2 merit grades. CHEMISTRY (HIGHER OR STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description Chemistry is the study of matter. It involves the behaviour of materials and what happens when substances react to form new substances. This course covers: quantitative chemistry, atomic structure and bonding, states of matter, energy in reactions, rates, organic chemistry, equilibrium, acid/base chemistry, oxidation and reduction, periodicity and two additional option topics. Assessment Internal: 20% Practical work External: 80% Written examinations Pre-requisites It is recommended that students wishing to take IB Chemistry (SL) study Level 1 Physics/Chemistry or Biology/Chemistry. Those students wishing to study IB Chemistry (HL) are recommended to do both.

19 17 PHYSICS (HIGHER OR STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description The course will provide opportunities for scientific study and creativity. It will allow students to develop experimental and investigative skills along with a body of scientific knowledge and techniques and an awareness of what characterises science. Many areas of physics are covered, including: motion, forces, waves, thermal physics, electrical, magnetic and electromagnetic induction and nuclear physics. There are also options to study biomedical physics, optics, relativity and the history and development of physics. Assessment Internal: 20% Practical work External: 80% Written examinations Pre-requisites It is strongly recommended that students wishing to take IB Physics take the Year 11 NCEA Physics course with preferably a minimum of 2 merit grades. ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS AND SOCIETIES (STANDARD LEVEL) For full course description see Group 3, page 16. GROUP 5: Mathematics MATHEMATICS (HIGHER LEVEL) Course Description This course is aimed at students with a high competence and strong interest in Mathematics. The majority of these students would expect to include Mathematics as a major component of their university studies, especially within courses such as Engineering, Physics or Technology. Topics include: algebra, calculus, probability and statistics, trigonometry, graphs and geometry. Extensive use of graphic calculators is required. Assessment Internal: 20% Portfolio External: 80% Written examination Pre-requisites As a general rule of thumb (but open to negotiation), Higher Level Maths is suitable for those students who get a merit endorsement in maths at NCEA Level 2 in Year 11. MATHEMATICS (STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description The course focuses on introducing important mathematical concepts through the development of Mathematical techniques and caters for students who will expect to need a sound mathematical background as they prepare for future studies in areas such as Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Economics, Psychology and Business. Extensive use of graphics calculator is required. Topics include: algebra, functions, equations, trigonometry, calculus, statistics and probability, vectors and matrices. Assessment Internal: 20% Portfolio, External: 80% Written examination Pre-requisites Standard Level Maths is suitable for those who have done Level 2 NCEA maths in Year 11 or have a merit endorsement at Level 1. MATHEMATICAL STUDIES (STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description This course is designed to build confidence and encourage an appreciation of Mathematics in students who do not anticipate a need for Mathematics in their future studies. Topics include: number and algebra, sets, logic, probability, functions, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, financial mathematics and introductory differential calculus. Extensive use of graphics calculator is required. Assessment Internal: 20 % Project External: 80% Written examination Pre-requisites Maths Studies is suitable for other students who do not meet the prerequisites for Maths Standard Level.

20 18 GROUP 6: The Arts MUSIC HIGHER LEVEL (HL) Course Description This course prepares students for music at university level or who wish to pursue a career in music. This course enables students to develop their musical skills through solo performance and composition and to develop their perceptual skills in response to a wide variety of music (classical, jazz, world music and crossover styles) and to explore the diversity of music throughout the world. Students undertake a 2000 word investigation comparing two diverse musical styles of their own choice. Assessment Internal: 50% 20 minute solo recital performance, composition. External: 50% listening examination, in depth study of two musical works plus knowledge of all historical periods of music and world music and Musical Investigation. Pre-requisites 20 credits in Level 1 Music with Excellence grades in at least two Achievement Standards. Students must have individual instrumental or vocal lessons. Entry is determined at the discretion of the HoD Music. MUSIC STANDARD LEVEL (SL) Course Description This course is aimed at students who wish to continue develop their skills at music but not necessarily wish to study music at university level. This course enables students to develop their musical skills through solo and group performance and composition and to develop their perceptual skills in response to a wide variety of music (classical, jazz, world music and crossover styles) and to explore the diversity of music throughout the world. Students undertake a 2000 word investigation comparing two diverse musical styles of their own choice. Assessment Internal: 50% 20 minute solo recital performance or group performance, composition. External: 50% listening examination, in depth study of two musical works plus knowledge of all historical periods of music and world music and Musical Investigation. Pre-requisites 17 credits in Level 1 Music with Merit grades in at least two Achievement Standards. Students must have individual instrumental or vocal lessons. Entry is determined at the discretion of the HoD Music. FILM (HIGHER OR STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description The Diploma Programme film course aims to develop students skills so that they become adept in both interpreting and making film texts. This is done through the study and analysis of film texts and exercises in film-making, as well as exploring the history, theory and socio-economic background of film. Assessment There is no written exam. Internal 50% (One completed film project, 5-7 minutes, with associated trailer and written documentation) External 50% (Script and annotated list of sources for a documentary production, plus an oral presentation of a critical analysis of an extract from a prescribed film) Pre-requisites Access to the course does not depend upon prior learning in film but students should expect to be challenged and extended in their ability to be creative and imaginative and to communicate in film form. VISUAL ARTS (HIGHER OR STANDARD LEVEL) Course Description There are a number of options within the standard level and higher level courses but for whichever option a student chooses there are two compulsory parts: Studio work (practical exploration and artistic production) and investigation workbooks (independent critical research and analysis, visual and written, in more than one culture). The studio work criteria reward the pursuit of projects in a variety of media, the development of original ideas, the discovery of creative solutions and the acquisition of technical skills. Work of quality which shows a maturity of artistic understanding at the end of the course is preferable to work which shows a superficial acquaintance with a large number of materials. Assessment Internal: 40% Studio work and research workbooks External: 60% Studio work, exhibition, oral discussion, research workbooks. NB: All candidates complete a record booklet as part of moderation. It includes: a personal statement, photographs of studio work and photocopied workbook pages. Pre-requisites NCEA Level 1 external portfolio pass.

21 Course Structures (NCEA) 19

22 20 National Certificate in Educational Achievement (NCEA) NCEA has three levels, Level 1 (replacing School Certificate), Level 2 (replacing Sixth form Certificate), Level 3 (replacing University Bursary) and there is also NZ Scholarship for the most able Level 3 students. At least 50% of the year s work in most subjects will be externally assessed, in general by means of a three hour examination, while up to 50% (depending on the subject) will be internally assessed. This external assessment will take place in all three of Years 11, 12 and 13. Scholarship is assessed purely by means of a three hour examination (or a folio of work in the case of Graphics and Visual Art). How does it work in practice? The curriculum content of each subject at each level is divided up into about five to eight topics and each of these topics is either internally or externally assessed. For each topic there will be an Achievement Standard (AS) which specifies exactly what the students have to do in order to pass, earning credits towards the NCEA. For each standard there are three levels of achievement: achieved (for the average student), achieved with merit (for the better students) and achieved with excellence (for the top students). Some of the subjects at Scots College will be assessed by Unit Standards (US) which have been around for many years and which are similar to achievement standards except that there is no division into achieved, merit, excellence, and they are always internally assessed. Credits achieved via units standards have the same status as those from achievement standards as far as NCEA is concerned. To achieve the NCEA students will have to accumulate a certain number of credits (see below). So each student s official annual results (issued in May of the following year) will show: credits gained from the standards (both external and internal) grades (achieved, merit or excellence) for each standard examination results for the externally assessed standards the level of NCEA completed including any applicable endorsements. After students have left school, they will be able to complete or upgrade their NCEA level. NCEA credits can be gained in most courses at polytechnics and colleges of education, and in accredited private and government training establishments and on-job training programmes. NCEA results are recognised by tertiary institutions (both NZ and overseas) and employers. For some purposes, internal results may be more relevant; for others, examination results may be more relevant. But for most purposes a combination of all results will give a clear picture of a student s achievements. Learning vs Assessment It should be noted that all the above refer to the way in which the courses are assessed. What is being taught remains largely unchanged; that is, the subject being taught will continue to follow the New Zealand Curriculum which has now been in place for several years. NCEA Level 1 To achieve NCEA Level 1, a student needs to gain 80 credits from all his subjects. With each subject being on average 20 credits, a student taking six subjects will need 80 out of a likely maximum of 120 credits. A student must gain a minimum of 10 credits which contribute towards literacy (English and many other subjects contribute here) and a further 10 credits for numeracy (largely Mathematics). To qualify for a full NCEA Level 2 course, a student needs to have achieved NCEA Level 1. For individual subjects, a student needs to gain 16 credits at Level 1 (plus any stated prerequisites) to guarantee entry into the same subject at Level 2, but as always, individual circumstances will be taken into account. NCEA Levels 2, 3 To achieve Level 2 or 3, 80 credits are needed 60 credits at that level and a further 20 credits which could come from a lower level i.e. Level 1.

23 21 Endorsement for merit, excellence The NCEA Level 1, 2 and 3 qualification is endorsed with excellence or with merit if at least 50 of the credits are gained with excellence/ merit respectively. Individual subject endorsements are also available where a student gains 14 or more credits in a subject with excellence/merit respectively provided at least 3 credits are external and 3 credits are internal (PE is exempt from this requirement). Examinations NCEA Levels 1, 2, 3 A student gains credits in each subject, some internally assessed, some externally assessed see previous two pages. The externally assessed credits are examined in most subjects by means of three hour examinations in November (but not Visual Art, Graphics, Physical Education, Digital or Materials Technology). University Entrance (NCEA Level 3, English Level 2, Mathematics Level 1) Another important qualification is University Entrance, which entitles a student to a place at a university. To achieve this, NCEA Level 3 must be attained with the following provisos, 14 credits are needed at Level 3 in each of three Level 3 subjects. Also needed are 10 Literacy credits at Level 2 or above (5 reading/5 writing) and 10 Numeracy credits at Level 1 or above (refer to page 7). Please note: Minimum university entrance is no longer sufficient to ensure a place at university. A points system now operates and the de facto university entrance requirement is a minimum of achieved credits but this varies from university to university. NZ Scholarship (Year 13) In addition the most able students are encouraged to enter Scholarship in up to three subjects; each subject (except Visual Arts and Graphics) has just one examination. Students need to be aware that the Scholarship exams occur concurrently with the Level 3 exams in November and this will mean several exams in a short space of time. A decision about whether or not to enter Scholarship needs to be made early in Term 3 at the latest.

24 Secondary School Course Structures 2016 (NCEA) 22 Y13 Extension PE English Calculus Statistics Geography History Art History Classical Biology Chemistry Physics Drama Music Art Digita Construction Economics Accounting Design & French Spanish Chinese (Theory) Studies Technology & Materials Visual Technology Communication Y12 RE PE English Mathematics Statistics Geography History Classical Biology Chemistry Physics Drama Music Art Digital Construction Economics Accounting/ Design & French Spanish Chinese (Theory) Studies Technology & Materials Business Visual Technology Studies Communication Y11 RE PE English Mathematics Geography History Bio/Chemistry Chemistry/Physics Drama Music Art Digital Construction Economics Accounting/ Design & French Spanish Chinese (Theory) Technology & Materials Business Studies Visual Technology Communication Y10 RE PE English Mathematics Humanities Science Film TV Drama Music Art Digital Technology Enterprise Design & French Spanish Chinese Technology Studies Visual Communication Subject Underlined: Subject may be commenced at this level RE: Religious Education and Life Skills Thick Lines: Continuation of this subject is compulsory PE: Physical Education Thin Lines: Continuation of this subject is optional Broken Lines: Continuation of this subject

25 23 General Course Information NCEA Year 11 Courses: Students take six NCEA Level 1 subjects. In addition all students will have lessons in Leadership, Religious Education and Physical Fitness. English and Mathematics are compulsory and the remaining four subjects must be chosen from any of the following: Biology/Chemistry Chinese Accounting/Business Studies Drama Construction & Materials Technology Physics/Chemistry French Economics Music Design & Visual Communication Spanish Geography Visual Art Digital Technology History Physical Education Parents and students should consider the following: a) At Year 11 we offer two Science courses (Biology/Chemistry and Physics/Chemistry). The College policy is that all students at Year 11 are strongly advised to study at least one Science subject. The chemistry content in the Biology/Chemistry is completely different from the chemistry content in the Physics/Chemistry. Those wishing to study Physics at Year 12 should take Physics/ Chemistry. Those wishing to study Biology at Year 12 should take Biology/ Chemistry. Those students who intend to study Physics, Chemistry or Biology in Year 12 must study those subjects in Year 11. Those wishing to study Chemistry at Year 12 should take both courses. b) The course is expected to lead somewhere in terms of career choices, and so should not be too fragmented; for advice on this please see an Assistant Principal or the Careers Advisor. c) The structure of the timetable might not permit certain combinations of subjects to be offered. d) Students are likely to do better in subjects in which they are interested and also subjects in which in the past they have had success. e) The Physical Education course being offered is a full course including theory and is not the same as the compulsory physical fitness (see the summary of this course on page 43). f) Some subjects (such as Sciences, Languages, Music, Visual Art) depend on a cumulative knowledge and are difficult for the average student to pick up at higher levels. Year 12 Courses: Students take six subjects at NCEA Level 2 as well as lessons in Religious Education, Physical Fitness and Leadership. A few students find it is more appropriate to do five subjects, in which case they also have some supervised study periods. English is compulsory and it is expected that most students will study Mathematics or Statistics. The remaining subjects must be chosen from the following list: Biology Accounting/Business Studies Drama Physical Education Chemistry Classical Studies French Construction & Materials Technology Physics Economics Music Digital Technology Geography Spanish Design & Visual Communication History Visual Art Chinese