Keysborough College 1 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
CONTENTS INTRODUCTORY SECTION 4 Senior Pathways 4 ATTENDANCE 4 GUIDE TO SUBJECT SELECTION 5 Some Common Myths and the Reality 7 THE VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education) 8 VCAL 9 WHAT IS (VET)? 10 EXTENSION STUDIES FOR VCE STUDENTS 10 UNIT 1 AND 2 STUDIES IN YEAR 10 11 UNIT 3 AND 4 STUDIES IN YEAR 11 11 AUSTRALIAN QUALIFICATIONS FRAMEWORK 11 MANAGED INDIVIDUAL PATHWAYS (MIPS) 11 REFERENCES & ASSISTANCE IN CHOOSING YOUR CAREER 12 CAREERS INFORMATION 12 FINANCIAL INFORMATION: 12 OF VCE, VET AND VCAL 12 Section 2: 15 STUDY DESCRIPTORS 15 VCE SECTION 16 ACCOUNTING 16 ART 16 AUSTRALIAN & GLOBAL POLITICS 17 BIOLOGY 18 BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 18 CHEMISTRY 19 DANCE 20 DRAMA 20 ECONOMICS 21 ENGLISH REQUIREMENTS 21 ENGLISH 22 ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE 22 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 33 FOOD AND TECHNOLOGY 23 GEOGRAPHY 24 HEALTH and HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 24 HISTORY 25 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 26 INDUSTRY AND ENTERPRISE 26 LEGAL STUDIES 27 LITERATURE 28 LOTE - FRENCH 28 LOTE- CHINESE 29 MATHEMATICS 29 FOUNDATION MATHEMATICS 32 GENERAL MATHEMATICS 32 GENERAL MATHEMATICS (FURTHER) 32 GENERAL MATHEMATICS (SPECIALIST) 32 FURTHER MATHEMATICS 32 MATHEMATICAL METHODS 32 SPECIALIST MATHEMATICS 32 MEDIA 32 MUSIC PERFORMANCE 33 MUSIC STYLES 34 OUTDOOR AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES 34 PHYSICAL EDUCATION 35 PHYSICS 36 PRODUCT DESIGN and TECHNOLOGY (WOOD) 36 PRODUCT DESIGN and TECHNOLOGY (TEXTILES) 37 PSYCHOLOGY 38 STUDIO ARTS 38 THEATRE STUDIES 39 VISUAL COMMUNICATION AND DESIGN 40 VET SECTION 40 BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (OFFICE) VET 40 CISCO COMPUTER NETWORKING (VET) 41 COMMUNITY SERVICES (VET) 41 FINANCIAL SERVICES (VET) 42 HOSPITALITY (VET) 42 INTERACTIVE DIGITAL MEDIA (VET) 43 MUSIC INDUSTRY SKILLS (VET) 43 VCAL SECTION 44 VCAL - LITERACY 44 VCAL - NUMERACY 44 VCAL - PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SKILLS 45 VCAL - WORK RELATED SKILLS 46 Keysborough College 2 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
Welcome to Senior Studies at Keysborough College. Today there are ever-increasing pressures on young people to perform well in the final years of secondary schooling in order to be successful in a highly competitive world. Achieving success in the senior years is an excellent way of launching your future beyond the compulsory school years. Work at school is challenging, students are expected to strive to achieve personal excellence in their work and we hope you will make full use of the resources within the school when you need assistance. We hope you will have the confidence to ask for help. We want you to set realistic goals and to work hard to achieve them. Keysborough College graduates have had an ever increasing rate of success in gaining entry to tertiary institutions, employment and training. This has, in no small way, been due to commitment, hard work and careful planning for the future by students when selecting their post-secondary pathways. This document contains curriculum information for students entering Year 10, 11 and 12. It is a guide to planning programs and pathways for the important senior years of secondary education. Keysborough College affirms the nature of individual pathways and strives to effectively cater for individual differences. The senior years should be viewed as a three year program and in some cases students may complete their program over four years. It is essential to carefully read the Senior School Handbook, work through the Senior School Curriculum Information and give careful thought to your individual abilities and interests. In planning for the future, students need to consider the past by asking themselves: - What am I good at? - What do I enjoy doing? The senior years can be a most enjoyable experience if students are able to commit themselves to study because they are enjoying the subjects they have chosen. Yours Sincerely, Heather Lindsay College Principal Keysborough College 3 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
INTRODUCTORY SECTION Senior Pathways What am I interested in? What am I good at? What kind of work or further training do I want to do? VCE The VCE is a pathway to further study at university, TAFE and to the world of work. It is designed to be undertaken mainly in Years 11 and 12. What can I choose from? VCE units VCE VET programs Enhancement studies VCAL The VCAL is based on applied learning. It is a pathway to further training in the workplace or at a TAFE institute. What must I do? You must complete the following compulsory strands: Literacy skills Numeracy skills Work related skills Industry specific skills selected from a VET subject Personal development skills Work experience USING THE HANDBOOK This handbook has been prepared to assist students in making their course selections. The handbook contains an Introductory Section followed by Course Descriptors. An introductory section containing information and advice regarding further education and employment, course structures and requirements, promotion and counselling has been included before the course details. Such information should be read first, as it sets the scene for more accurate understanding of specific subject requirements and will allow for more informed decision making when course selection takes place. COUNSELLING Around the time when students are making their selections, extensive counselling will take place. Factors such as interests, planned career and/or later studies and past performance will be considered. STUDENT DECLARATION Before undertaking any Senior Sub-school studies (Year 10 and VCE, VCAL and VET), all students must sign an agreement to abide by the College s and the VCAA s regulations. Continued enrolment in the Senior Sub-school program at Keysborough College is dependent upon satisfactory academic progress and meeting both VCAA and College requirements. Students also need to complete a declaration regarding the release of data to the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre and other organisations to comply with Privacy Legislation requirements. ATTENDANCE 90% attendance in all scheduled classes (including Xcel and other sub-school assemblies) for each term is required and will be rigidly enforced. Students who are absent without the express permission of the College for more than 10% of scheduled class time for any one unit in semester may receive an N for that unit. Keysborough College 4 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
GUIDE TO SUBJECT SELECTION If you have decided upon a particular career or pathway, make QUITE SURE you know what qualifications are required for it, and what subjects will enable you to obtain those qualifications. The Career s Teacher and MIPs Coordinators are the only people qualified to give you advice in this area. If necessary, phone the training institution or an employer of people in the career to find out what is required. MAKE CERTAIN YOU KNOW WHAT IS NEEDED. DO NOT GUESS! You can do this by looking through VTAC Guides and VICTER publications. WHAT IF I HAVE NOT DECIDED ON A FUTURE CAREER OR TERTIARY COURSE? First of all, don t worry. It is very common for students to be unsure at this stage. You should be using the resources of the Career s room at school to explore ideas. The Career s teacher can help provide information, resources and counseling. The VCE allows students flexibility in choosing their preferred pathway through the VCE. In selecting units to be studied, students are not locked into units chosen at this stage, as changes can be negotiated at a later date, such as after the completion of Units 1 and 2. It must be stressed, however, that not having the background provided by Units 1 and/or 2 may be difficult to overcome. Other than meeting the specified program requirements, students are free to choose from the range of units provided. In order to obtain the highest possible ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) score, students are advised to select subjects which are: Required as prerequisites for tertiary courses. Subjects which they enjoy, are good at and which they are interested in. Consistent with career pathways they might be interested in. SAMPLE CAREER PATHWAYS Interested in: Art/ Design/ Architecture Subjects to consider in addition to 4 units of English/ESL: Art/ Studio Art/ Visual Communication and Design/Media, VET Multi-media, Drama, Physics or Maths (for Architecture or Product Design). This might lead to: TERTIARY STUDIES SUCH AS: Bachelor Degrees: Fine Arts, Art and Design, Visual Arts, Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Interior Design, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education, Bachelor of Technology, Industrial Design, Fashion, Architecture (some courses). TAFE: Courses in Arts, Design, Advertising, Art & Design, Ceramics, Photography Assistant, Arts (Finished Art, Visual Merchandising), Fashion Design & Production, Architectural Drafting, Art - Visual Art. EMPLOYMENT IN AREAS SUCH AS: Teacher, Designer (Fashion, Interior, Industrial), Architecture, Drafting (Mechanical & Architectural), Art Administrator, Graphic Artist, Advertising, Photographer, Textile Designer, Sign writer, Graphic Composition, Printing Trades areas, Poster designer, Visual Merchandiser (display, exhibitions). Interested in: Business/Accounting/Office/Commerce Subjects to consider in addition to 4 units of English/ESL: Business Management, Economics, Legal Studies, Psychology, VET Financial Services, Vet Office Administration, Maths Methods, Specialist Maths. This might lead to: TERTIARY STUDIES SUCH AS: Bachelor Degrees in Accounting (some courses), Business, Marketing, Office Management, Sports Management, Information Technology, Business Systems, International Trade, Tourism and Hospitality, Teacher Education, Commerce (some courses), Insurance. TAFE: Courses in Business, Computing, Accounting, Marketing, Business Applications, Business/Secretarial Studies, Office Practices, Tourism, Ecotourism, Hospitality. EMPLOYMENT IN AREAS SUCH AS: Banking, Insurance, Marketing, Finance, International Trade, Tourism and Travel, Office Management, Secretary, Retailing. Keysborough College 5 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
Interested in: Health/ Physical Education/ Biological and Environmental Sciences Subjects to consider in addition to 4 units of English/ESL: Biology, Physical Education, Outdoor Education and Environmental Studies, Health and Human Development, Psychology, Maths Methods, Specialist Maths, Food and Technology, Physics, Chemistry. This might lead to: TERTIARY STUDIES SUCH AS: Bachelor Degrees in Science, Medicine, Agricultural Science, Behavioral Science, Biological/Cognitive Science, Applied Chemistry, Human Biology, Human Movement, Applied Biology/Biotechnology, Applied Science, Biological Science, Health Promotions, Aquatic Science, Applied Science (Environmental Management, Parks and Recreation), Nutrition, Health Studies, Biomedical Science, Physiotherapy. TAFE: Courses in Fitness Education, Occupational Health and Safety, Dental Technology, Laboratory Technology, Animal Care, Veterinary Nursing, Resource Management, Horticulture, Parks Management. EMPLOYMENT IN AREAS SUCH AS: Child Care, Nursing, Personal Fitness Trainer, Psychologist, Agricultural Science, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Dental Technician, Medicine, Medicine, Youth worker, Biology, Animal Technician, Veterinary Nursing, Meteorology, Fisheries and Wildlife, National Parks, Environmental Management. Interested in: Physical Sciences / Engineering Subjects to consider in addition to 4 units of English/ESL: Physics, Chemistry, Maths Methods, Specialist Maths, Information Technology. This might lead to: TERTIARY STUDIES SUCH AS: Bachelor Degrees in Science, Engineering Computer Science, Science Engineering, Applied Science, Communication Engineering, Architecture, Computer Technology, Applied Chemistry, Applied Physics, Surveying, Applied Geology and a range of combined Degrees (e.g. Science/Engineering, Arts/Engineering, Arts/Science, Science/Law). TAFE: Courses in Electronics, Engineering, Laboratory, Technology, Design Drafting, Meteorology, Audiovisual technology. EMPLOYMENT IN AREAS SUCH AS: Medicine, Engineering, Computing, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Laboratory, Technician, Teaching, Surveying, Radiology. Interested in: Computing and Information Technology Subjects to consider in addition to 4 units of English/ESL: I.T. Maths Methods 1-4, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Business Management, Economics, Accounting, Legal Studies, VET Cisco, General Maths. This might lead to: TERTIARY STUDIES SUCH AS: Bachelor Degrees in Computing (Digital Technology), Computing & Instrumentation (P), Information & Library Management, Accounting/Computing, Business Management, Computer Science, Information Systems, Multimedia Technology (P). [Note: (P) indicates Physics required for some of these] TAFE: Courses in Computer Operations, Information Technology, Applied Science - Information Technology, Computing - Applied Physics, Computer - Business Applications, Computing, Business Microcomputers, and Engineering - Computer Systems. EMPLOYMENT IN AREAS SUCH AS: Accounting, Banking, Insurance, Computer Operations & Management, Computer Programming and Games industry, Library Management. Keysborough College 6 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
Interested in: Media Industry (Film, Television, Radio, Print and Multi-Media, Advertising and Marketing) Subjects to consider in addition to 4 units of English/ESL: VET Music Industry Skills, VET Multimedia, Media Studies, Visual Design and Communication, Creative Arts- Drama/Visual, Maths, Science, and Technology, Business. This might lead to: TERTIARY STUDIES SUCH AS: Bachelor of Arts Degrees in Media Studies, Media/Arts, Theatre Studies, Media & Communications. TAFE: Courses in Media, Arts & Design, Arts - Sound Production, Corporate Video Production, Arts, Visual Art. EMPLOYMENT IN AREAS SUCH AS: Media - Film & Television, Games Development, Fashion, Design Industry, Illustrators, Graphic Designers, Media Communications, Radio, Video Production, Public relations, Photography/Film/TV, Screenwriting, Small Business Management. Interested in: Hospitality A VCAL course could be considered. VCAL is made up of units from 4 strands: - Literacy and numeracy - Industry specific skills - Personal development - Work related skills (the work related skills units can be chosen from a variety of VCE units) This might lead to: TAFE Courses such as Hospitality Management, Event Management, Tourism Management, Hotel, Restaurant & Catering Management. POSSIBLE TERTIARY STUDIES Hospitality Management, Event Management, Human Resources Management, Tourism Management, Tourism & Hospitality Management, Hotel, Restaurant & Catering Management. EMPLOYMENT IN AREAS SUCH AS Hotel Management, Chef, Chef s Assistant, Maitre d Hotel, Food Styles. SOME COMMON MYTHS AND THE REALITY MYTH 1- It is impossible to obtain a high ATAR score without choosing science subjects. MYTH 2- You should improve your chances of obtaining a good ATAR by choosing subjects that are scaled up. MYTH 3- I should study business subjects for a later career in business even if I don t like them at the moment. MYTH 4- I should know what my future career will be when I choose subjects. FACT 1- This is completely untrue. If you are a good student in any subject area you have the opportunity to obtain a top ATAR score. FACT 2- This is a misguided notion. Scaling is a way of making subjects equivalent in degree of difficulty. You should choose subjects that are in your interest and ability range. If you don t, you run the risk of a lower score than you might otherwise have obtained even with scaling. FACT 3- A large number of business courses at universities don t require school business subjects as pre-requisites. You should choose subjects you like or are good at. FACT 4- Most people don t and most change courses later. Choose subjects to give yourself a wide range of options when you finish. Keysborough College 7 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) The VCE is a two-year certificate for Years 11 and 12. It is made up of half-year or semester length units of study. Studies may be selected from the areas of ENGLISH, ARTS, HUMANITIES, LANGUAGES, MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION. WHAT YOU WILL HAVE TO DO Most students will do 22 units over two years. Within your 22 units, the units you MUST select are 4 units of English. The idea is to select a program that includes units that meet the requirements plus other units that are appropriate to your interests and aspirations for tertiary study, training and employment. TO GAIN THE VCE To be awarded the VCE, you will have to satisfactorily complete a total of no less than 16 units. These units must include: at least 3 units of English at least 3 sequences of Units 3 and 4 studies (other than English) You may include any number of VET (Vocational Education and Training) units. ENTRY TO STUDIES Students may enter studies at Units 1, 2 or 3. Some study designs include advice that students should complete either or both Units 1 and 2 before attempting Unit 3. Unit 3 and 4 studies are designed to be taken as a sequence. Students MUST undertake Unit 3 of a study before entering Unit 4 of that study. THE VCE AND TERTIARY ENTRANCE Satisfactory completion of the VCE does not ensure automatic entry to tertiary institutions. The following information is the most up-to-date published by the Victorian Tertiary Admission Centre; refer to Tertiary Entrance Requirements 2013 if you will be in Year 12 in 2012 and Tertiary Entrance Requirements 2014 if you will be in Year 11 in 2012. Entry to tertiary courses consists of two parts: a) General Entry Requirements Satisfactory completion of the VCE Satisfactory completion of Units 3 and 4 of English b) Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) Students who successfully meet the VCE criteria and apply to VTAC (Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre), for a place at a tertiary institution are issued with an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank). On the basis of the performance in School Assessed Coursework, and Examinations; each student will be allocated an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) by VTAC. This rank will be derived from the students scaled study scores in English or ESL and the best 3 other studies at Year 12 (Units 3 and 4), plus 10% of up to 2 more studies. This will be a percentile score, an ATAR of 63.4 means that this student has scored better than 63.4% of students in the state. The higher the score, the better the outcome in comparison to other students. c) Special Requirements Some courses require additional information from students other than just their ATAR. For such courses students might have to: attend an interview present a folio go to an information session send in an application form detailing reasons for wanting access to a particular course, etc sit a test e.g. DULSAT (Deakin University Law Schools Admission Test); UMAT (Undergraduate medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test); etc d) LOTE carries a bonus of 5 points, which is added to the scaled mean. The bonus is not added onto the ATAR (score out of 99.95), but the VCAA study score (out of 50). Do not elect to do a LOTE just because of this, if you do not perform well this may not help your ATAR. Keysborough College 8 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) THE STRUCTURE OF VCAL The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) is an alternative option to the VCE. The VCAL provides practical, work related experience, as well as literacy and numeracy skills and the opportunity to build personal skills that are important for life and work. Just like the VCE, the VCAL is a recognised qualification and has three levels - Foundation, Intermediate and Senior. At Keysborough College, students in Year 11 usually begin their VCAL at Intermediate level, however, this can be negotiated to meet the requirements and needs of individual students. Students who select to do the VCAL are likely to be interested in going on to training at TAFE, doing an apprenticeship, or getting a job after leaving school. The VCAL consists of four separate strands: Literacy and Numeracy Skills Industry Specific Skills (selected from a VET subject) Work Related Skills Personal Development Skills TO GAIN THE VCAL To gain your VCAL certificate, you need to satisfy the learning outcomes that are specified for each strand you are studying. Once you satisfactorily complete your VCAL, you will receive a certificate and statement of results that details the areas of study that you have completed. WHAT YOU WILL HAVE TO DO You have to complete the four compulsory strands, plus undertake training in a VET course and participate in a work experience program which is linked to your VET course. To meet the Literacy Skills strand, you will be required to complete the outcomes specified for this course. Note that once you have completed 2 Units of VCAL Literacy in Year 11, you will not be able to meet the requirements for VCE English and this has an impact on your ability to transfer back into the VCE at Year 12. If you have any concerns about this you should talk to the VCAL Coordinator. To meet the requirements of the Numeracy Skills Strand, you will complete the outcomes specified for numeracy by undertaking Yr 11 studies in VCE Foundation Mathematics (description located in the VCE section of this handbook). In Yr 12 you will study a unit of VCAL Numeracy. To meet the requirements of the Industry Specific Skills you are required to undertake a VET course in an area of interest. (NOTE: In some instances you could select VCE units in the areas of Food and Technology or Product Design for a VCAL Foundation certificate only.) To meet the requirements of the Work Related Skills strand, you will study units that will help prepare you for work, for example occupational health and safety or job interview skills. In order to develop 'employability' skills, you will also have to undertake a structured work placement. To meet the requirements of the Personal Development Skills strand, you will participate in projects and/or activities that will help develop your teamwork skills, selfconfidence and other skills important for life and work. The VCAL gives you a qualification that is recognised by TAFE institutes and employers. Together these will help you move from school into work, an apprenticeship or traineeship and/or further training at TAFE. Alternatively, if you start studying for your VCAL in Year 11 and successfully complete it, you may consider going on to a higher level of VCAL. Once you have completed your VCAL you will have knowledge and skills that are a useful preparation for a trade or industry certificate. This knowledge and skills may also count towards a traineeship or apprenticeship. Keysborough College 9 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
WHAT IS VOCATIONAL EDUCATION TRAINING (VET)? A VET program allows students to complete VCE or VCAL and a TAFE certificate together. VET provides options for TAFE curriculum as an integrated part of the VCE or VCAL program. A student enrolls for VCE or VCAL and all results are recorded on their Statement of Results. Upon successful completion of a study a student is awarded a completed VCE Certificate and an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). VCAL students would be awarded their VCAL certificate. Students can also be granted credits towards related TAFE Certificate, Advanced Certificate, Associate Diploma and Diploma courses. VET PROGRAMS Opportunities exist for students to increase vocational education and training opportunities through additional studies programs. This may allow students to gain advanced standing into TAFE courses, while at the same time studying for their VCE or VCAL certificates. ADVANTAGES Partial or full completion of a TAFE course which will lead to a reduction in time required to complete a TAFE qualification. Further exploration of the world of work. Students can expand their career options. Students can complete a nationally accredited and recognised TAFE program. Students can experience an adult, tertiary educational environment. Students will develop vocational skills that are practical and relevant to employers. When a student applies for a job, they can show greater commitment to, and knowledge of, their chosen career. VCE/VET subjects contribute towards a student s ATAR. Students will gain assistance in finding their chosen career path. Students will have easy access to TAFE resources through a partnership with the secondary college. VET has unique features. VET units: Count as part of the 16 units needed to successfully complete the VCE. VET units will count as one of the four Unit 3-4 studies in the calculation of an ATAR score if they have a study score calculated for them. Count as part of the units needed to successfully complete a VCAL certificate at either Intermediate or Senior levels. Successful completion of this program continues to give students a higher education option but also provides additional pathways to training and work, thereby multiplying opportunities. EXTENSION STUDIES FOR VCE STUDENTS Students who achieve very good results in Units 1 and 2 may elect to become involved in the Extension Studies program. This program allows students to study a first year University subject and gain credit towards their Tertiary Admissions Rank and credit towards a Monash University or Melbourne University degree. Extension studies are there to challenge the most able students. These students are selected by their school using university guidelines. The guidelines help to ensure that selected students are capable of completing their VCE and an extension studies program. A range of subjects are available. Depending upon numbers, these classes may be held at Keysborough College, at neighbouring schools, at the university or by correspondence. The cost of the program is approximately $350 per student. Classes are held after school hours at the host Secondary College and are taken by sufficiently qualified teachers of that college. The time commitment is usually 1-2 hours per week as well as occasional weekend tutorials at Monash University campuses. Students who are interested in this program are advised to go to the following websites for further information. - Monash University http://www.monash.edu.au/pubs/enhancement - University of Melbourne http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/umep For further information and application forms, students should contact head of sub-school. Keysborough College 10 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
UNIT 1 AND 2 STUDIES IN YEAR 10 Students should consider undertaking a Unit 1-2 study in Year 10. Students must meet certain academic requirements to be eligible to do this, firstly by performing above the expected VELS standard in relevant year 10 subjects. The advantage of this is to increase ATAR possibilities and allow students to complete an additional subject at Year 12 level, while being able to spread the workload. Please see the Head of Senior School for further information. UNIT 3 AND 4 STUDIES IN YEAR 11 Students should consider undertaking a Unit 3-4 study in Year 11. This has been done successfully in a range of subjects. The advantage of this is to increase ATAR possibilities and allow students to complete an additional subject at Year 12 level, while being able to spread the workload. Please see the Head of Senior School for further information. THE AUSTRALIAN QUALIFICATIONS FRAMEWORK Qualifications certify what has been achieved through courses of study and training or other learning experiences such as on the job training. The Australian Qualifications Framework has been developed and agreed by all States and Territories. The aim is to make qualifications nationally consistent, help to make them better understood internationally and to take account of recent changes in the structure and content of vocational education and training. The Australian Qualifications Framework covers qualifications issued by senior secondary schools, vocational education and training providers (including TAFE and other registered providers) and higher education institutions (mainly universities). The qualifications in the framework are shown below. Each qualification is listed under the education and training sector that is mainly responsible for delivering it. Secondary School Vocational Education and Training Universities and Higher Education Certificate I Certificate II Diploma Associate Degree Senior Secondary Certificate of Certificate III Bachelor degree Education Certificate IV Graduate Certificate Diploma Advanced Diploma Graduate Diploma Masters Degree Doctoral Degree Vocational Graduate Certificate Vocational Graduate Diploma Under the Australian Qualifications Framework (revised 2007) it has been required that all courses must be organised under this Framework. MANAGED INDIVIDUAL PATHWAYS (MIPS) MIPS is a school program that assists students at the college in their journey through school, into higher education and the workplace. The program aims to provide students with mentoring, coaching the ability of knowing how to ask for additional help i.e. Where am I now? Where do I want to be? How do I get there? The MIP s Co-ordinator works with a committed team of Xcel Teachers, Welfare Staff, Year Level Co-ordinators and Careers personnel to ensure all students have a blue print for the future. Exit Plans Each student who believes they will be exiting or not returning the following year is placed on an exit plan program. In this time they are given referrals, resume assistance, a booklet with job agency contacts and various addresses of support within our local community. Keysborough College 11 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
Tracking All exited students are assisted for a further 6 months after leaving school to ensure the pathway they have chosen is right for them. On Track After Year 12 the Department of Education & Early Childhood Development s On track program will keep a regular track of ex-students regarding their career or study destination pathway. REFERENCES AND ASSISTANCE IN CHOOSING YOUR CAREER Your best contact for careers information is your careers teacher. Assistance can also be found through your parents, friends, other staff and counsellors at Universities and TAFEs. You can also consult: Careers /MIPs Coordinators Apprenticeships Victoria: 9613 6700 VECCI: 8662 5333 Centrelink Career Information Centre: 9299 1038 or email: cic.melbourne@centrelink.gov.au TAFE Course line (DEECD): 131 823 CAREERS INFORMATION CAREER S ROOM Some of the useful resources that may be available in the Career s Room at your campus: a) Job Guides: updated each year. Now also available on computer. Outlining the job description, educational prerequisites, personal attributes, training needed and where to get further information about a wide range of jobs. b) Course Link: Students can input an ATAR score to receive a list of all TAFE and University courses for which you could be considered with that ATAR requirement. c) OZJAC: The Job and Course Explorer Computer Program includes job descriptions and courses Australia wide. You can get print outs about jobs or courses or just explore the vast array of information. e) Guides to Careers at TAFE Institutes and Universities. Choosing a post secondary course - some issues to consider; VTAC guides. Opportunities for school leavers. f) Handbooks and pamphlets for most Institutes and Universities. g) Information about closing dates for scholarships. h) Information about Open Days - Dates and Times. Tertiary Institutes open their doors for prospective students, a good chance to see things first hand. i) Guides for Job Seeking - How to apply for a job - Taking an interview - Preparing resumes - Telephone techniques k) Relevant videos, disks and CDs with career information. l) ATAR Information - lists of clearly in ranks (or cut offs) for courses. m) VTAC Guides - lists courses and entrance requirements. n) VICTER guides - list prerequisite studies for courses. FOR ALL CAREER ENQUIRIES FOR STUDENTS, EX- STUDENTS, PARENTS OR STAFF -TRY THE CAREERS ROOM FIRST. FINANCIAL INFORMATION: If you stay at school: You may be eligible for YOUTH ALLOWANCE. Youth Allowance (financial support for students) is a Commonwealth payment to help with living costs while you are still a student. If you go on to study at a TAFE College: You may still be eligible for Youth Allowance. CSP (Commonwealth Supported Places) contributions do not apply. If you decide to leave school and seek work: You may need to cancel your Youth Allowance payments. You may not be eligible to receive a Youth Allowance whilst you are seeking employment. TO RECEIVE ADVICE AND/OR INFORMATION ABOUT ANY OF THE ABOVE, PLEASE SEE THE STUDENT WELFARE COORDINATOR OR CAREER S TEACHER. OF VCE, VET AND VCAL The VCE: The VCE comprises just over 40 studies. Most studies are made up of 4 units each. A unit represents one semester of work. Units 1 and 2 are usually undertaken at Year 11, Units 3 and 4 are usually undertaken at Year 12. Assessment is based on a combination of Examinations and School assessed work. There is a strong emphasis on students being assessed on Keysborough College 12 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
work done IN CLASS as part of the teaching program. OUTCOMES Each VCE unit has a set of "Outcome Statements" that a student must demonstrate they have achieved in order to achieve a satisfactory result for that unit. Achievement of an outcome means: The work meets the required standard. The work was submitted on time. The work is clearly the students own. There has been no breach of Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority rules. If all the outcomes for a particular unit are achieved, the student will receive an S (Satisfactory) for that unit. If any of the outcomes are not achieved, the student will receive N (not satisfactory) for the unit. Examples of outcome statements include: SCHOOL ASSESSED COURSEWORK For each VCE study, a series of assessment tools have been prescribed. These must be undertaken as part of the regular teaching and learning program and must be completed mainly in class and within a limited timeframe. They could consist of a written report or essay or a class test. These apply only for units undertaken at Unit 3 and 4 level. These pieces of work will then be marked according to a set of criteria published by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. Tasks completed as school assessed coursework will be further moderated against the marks received for the mid-year and end of year examinations. For this reason, examination performance has become much more important than in the past. Teachers will provide specific details of these tasks at the beginning of each semester. TASKS For studies at Unit 1 and 2 levels, as a further means of assessing student work Assessment Tasks will be conducted. Such a task may be a research project, essay, practical activity, test, etc. Assessment tasks for Units 1 and 2 are internally set and internally assessed. Assessment tasks for Units 3 and 4 in any particular program are common to all students in the state. They are externally assessed, or at least externally verified. Each study includes at least one examination. All students enrolled in Units 3 and 4 of a study will receive three assessments for each study. Assessments will be on a ten point scale - A+ to E (all of which are satisfactory) or UG (ungraded). VCE REPORTING The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority will provide all students with a Statement of Results on the completion of Units 1 and 2, and again on the completion of Units 3 and 4. A descriptive report will be provided by the college at the end of Units 1, 2 and 3. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority will provide a detailed description of your achievements at the completion of Units 3 and 4. GENERAL ACHIEVEMENT TEST (GAT) Students undertaking any Unit 3 or 4 study must undertake the General Achievement Test midyear. This test provides information for the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority to adjust scores for school assessed coursework assessed in schools. All students studying one or more subjects at Unit 3 and 4 level must attempt the GAT. The VCAL: In VCAL units, assessment is based upon whether a student has demonstrated that they have met certain criteria. Assessment is usually based upon the work that is done in the class as part of the teaching and learning program. LEARNING OUTCOME STATEMENTS Each VCAL unit has a set of Learning Outcome Statements that a student must demonstrate they have achieved in order to provide a satisfactory result for that unit. These statements have been developed by the Victorian Qualifications Authority. Class teachers provide details of each of these learning outcome statements to the students in the class at the beginning of each semester. If all of the learning outcomes for a unit have been demonstrated, the student will receive an S for the unit. If any of the learning outcomes are not achieved, the student will achieve P (Result Pending i.e. still to be completed) for the unit. Examples of learning outcome statements include: Personal Development Skills Intermediate Unit 1: Demonstrate teamwork skills. Students are required to contribute to a collaborative activity, Keysborough College 13 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
describe their contribution to the team work, reflect upon the factors that influence the team behaviour, evaluate the effectiveness of the team for achieving goals and evaluate their own contribution. VCAL REPORTING The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority will provide all students with a Statement of Results on the completion of their VCAL Certificate (Intermediate), and again on the completion of their Senior VCAL Certificate. A descriptive report will be provided by the college at the end of Semester 1 and 2 for Year 11 VCAL students and at the end of Semester 1 for Year 12 VCAL students. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority will also provide a detailed description of your achievements in both your VCAL and VET studies at the end of each year. VET and REPORTING Assessment and Reporting in VET programs involves gaining competency in the units that are studied. This is measured by students demonstrating that they have acquired the necessary underlying skills and knowledge that underpin each unit. Assessment will be carried out for each unit in a simulated workplace environment in accordance with the requirements set by VCAA and the relevant Training Package for each VET program. effectively and are keen to continue learning. These types of skills are known as employability skills. These employability skills now play an important part in the way that students are assessed in each unit of a VET program. The following is a list of employability skills that students will be expected to demonstrate: Communication Teamwork Planning and organizing (or making suggestions to improve work) Initiative and enterprise Problem-solving Self-management (or making goals at work) Technology (using correctly and safely) Learning (new things and improving how you work) All VET assessments must also comply fully with the rules of assessment as set out by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. A study score is available for most VET programs offered by the college and VET can contribute to both a VCE and VCAL program. See pages 42 to 46 for further details on the ways in which VET studies can contribute to a student s overall program, including the Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR). For a student to be assessed as competent in each unit, they will need to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a number of ways over a period of time. The assessment will be carried out in a way that will allow the student to demonstrate that they are competent. During this time, the teacher may do some or all of the following: Ask you questions about the work done Observe you carrying out specific tasks Ask other people to comment on your work Take into account feedback about your work Ask you to prepare a portfolio of your work Ask you to demonstrate your skills Ask you to complete assessment activities for each major element of the unit Give you a final assessment to complete Employers today value people who fit well into their workplace, use their initiative to solve problems, work productively, manage their time Keysborough College 14 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
Section 2: STUDY DESCRIPTORS VCE SECTION 16 ACCOUNTING 16 ART 16 AUSTRALIAN & GLOBAL POLITICS 18 BIOLOGY 18 BUSINESS MANAGEMENT 18 CHEMISTRY 19 DANCE 20 DRAMA 20 ECONOMICS 21 ENGLISH REQUIREMENTS 21 ENGLISH 22 ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE 22 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 23 FOOD AND TECHNOLOGY 23 GEOGRAPHY 24 HEALTH and HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 24 HISTORY 25 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 26 INDUSTRY AND ENTERPRISE 26 LEGAL STUDIES 27 LITERATURE 28 LOTE - FRENCH 28 LOTE- CHINESE 29 MATHEMATICS 29 FOUNDATION MATHEMATICS 32 GENERAL MATHEMATICS 32 GENERAL MATHEMATICS (FURTHER) 32 GENERAL MATHEMATICS (SPECIALIST) 32 FURTHER MATHEMATICS 32 MATHEMATICAL METHODS 32 SPECIALIST MATHEMATICS 32 MEDIA 32 MUSIC PERFORMANCE 33 MUSIC STYLES 34 OUTDOOR AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES 34 PHYSICAL EDUCATION 35 PHYSICS 36 PRODUCT DESIGN (WOOD) 36 PRODUCT DESIGN (TEXTILES) 37 PSYCHOLOGY 38 STUDIO ARTS 38 THEATRE STUDIES 39 VISUAL COMMUNICATION AND DESIGN 40 VET SECTION 40 BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (OFFICE) VET 40 CISCO COMPUTER NETWORKING (VET) 41 COMMUNITY SERVICES (VET) 41 FINANCIAL SERVICES (VET) 42 HOSPITALITY (VET) 42 INTERACTIVE DIGITAL MEDIA (VET) 43 MUSIC INDUSTRY SKILLS (VET) 43 VCAL SECTION 44 VCAL - LITERACY 44 VCAL - NUMERACY 44 VCAL - PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SKILLS 45 VCAL - WORK RELATED SKILLS 46 Further VET subjects are available from external providers- see VET handbook and the Head of Senior School for more information. Keysborough College 15 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
VCE SECTION ACCOUNTING This study focuses on the financial recording, reporting and decision-making processes of a small business. Students will study both theoretical and practical aspects of accounting. Financial data and information will be collected, recorded and reported using both manual and information and communications technology methods. Many students will go on to further studies in business and finance, and other students will go on to become small business owners, the study of Accounting will enable them to develop their financial knowledge and skills. Unit 1: Establishing and operating a service business This unit focuses on the establishment of a small business and the accounting and financial management of the business. Students are introduced to the processes of gathering, recording, reporting and analysing financial data and information used by internal and external users. Recording and reporting is restricted to the cash basis. Students examine the role of accounting in the decision-making process using single entry recording of financial data and information for the owner of a service business. Unit 2: Accounting for a trading business This unit focuses on accounting for a single activity sole trader. Using the accrual approach, students use a single entry recording system for the recording and reporting of cash and credit transactions stock. They use financial and nonfinancial information to evaluate the performance of a business. Using these evaluations, students suggest strategies to the owner on how to improve the performance of the business. Unit 3: Recording and reporting for a trading business This unit focuses on financial accounting for a single activity trading business as operated by a sole trader and emphasizes the role of accounting as an information system. Students are introduced to the double entry system of recording using the accrual basis of accounting. The perpetual method of stock recording with the First In, First Out (FIFO) method is used. Unit 4: Control and analysis of business performance This unit provides an extension of the recording and reporting processes from Unit 3 and the use of financial and non-financial information in assisting management in the decision-making process. The unit covers the accrual recording and reporting system for a single activity trading business using the perpetual inventory recording system. Students learn about the role and importance of budgeting for the business and undertake the practical completion of budgets for cash, financial performance and financial position. * Unit 3 S.A.C. 17 % * Unit 4 S.A.C. 17 % * Mid year exam 33 % * End of year exam 33 % ART This study encourages students to explore their ideas through the planning and production of personal artworks. They investigate compositional options and explore of a range of media and technical skills using safe and effective working methods. It also equips students to respond to art in an informed and articulate manner. Students selecting these units may also be required to purchase/pay for additional materials that the college does not normally provide. Entry: There are no prerequisites for Units 1, 2 and 3. Students must undertake Unit 3 prior to undertaking Unit 4. Unit 1 Area of study 1: Art and meaning Students are supported to learn how to discuss and interpret the meanings and messages of artworks at a meaningful level with the use of analytical frameworks. They examine both historical and contemporary artworks that reflect the social and personal interests, experiences and intention of artists. Students also form personal opinions with reference to artworks. Area of study 2: Artmaking and personal meaning Students are encouraged to develop and apply skills while exploring areas of individual interest to create artworks. They build confidence through investigation and the guided exploration of techniques, materials and processes. In the production of their art making, students focus on Keysborough College 16 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012
realising their ideas through observation and imagination. Unit 2 Area of study 1: Art and culture This area of study focuses on the ways in which art reflects and communicates the values, beliefs and traditions of the societies for and in which it is created. Students explore and investigate the ways in which the world and the artist have changed over time and the factors that influence these changes. They use frameworks to analyse and interpret artworks of artists. Area of study 2: Artmaking and cultural expression In this area of study students explore areas of personal interest related to their cultural identification and experiment with visual language to present their ideas. Observations, imagination, ideas or concepts may be starting points for them to experiment with techniques, materials, processes and art forms. They analyse formal qualities in their artworks and document their creative and technical processes. Unit 3 Area of study 1: Interpreting art Students will gain an appreciation and understanding of artworks through discussion and through the practice of interpreting and analysing their meanings and messages. They will compare and contrast works by artists from different eras using the Formal, Personal, Cultural Framework and Contemporary Frameworks. Area of Study 2: Investigation and interpretation through artmaking. Unit 4 Area of study 1: Discussing and debating art Students will discuss, debate and compare two or more viewpoints or arguments expressed in commentaries on art regarding an art issue. They will use evidence, refer to commentaries and develop a personal point of view on issues about art using relevant aspects of the Formal, Personal, Cultural Framework and Contemporary Frameworks. Area of study 2: Realisation and resolution Students will use imagination and creativity to develop a folio of their own artworks. They will experiment with a range of materials, techniques, processes and art form/s. They will engage in ongoing exploration, reflection, analysis and evaluation as they progressively develop and refine their ideas to develop personal finished artworks. *Unit 3 S.A.C. 10 % *Unit 4 S.A.C. 10 % *Unit 3/4 S.A.T. 50 % (This includes a folio of student work developed throughout Units 3 and 4) * Unit 3/4 Exam 30 % AUSTRALIAN and GLOBAL POLITICS VCE Australian and Global Politics offers students the opportunity to engage with key political, social and economic issues, and to become informed citizens, voters and participants in their local, national and international communities. Australian Politics increases awareness of the nature of power and its influence. It allows students to become informed observers of, and active participants in, their political system. Global Politics provides students with an insight into the political, social, cultural and economic forces that shape our rapidly changing world. Unit 1: The National Citizen In this unit students are introduced to the study of politics as the exercise of power by individuals, groups and nation-states. Students consider key concepts related to power and influence, types of power, political ideology and values, political involvement and active citizenship. The nature of and philosophical ideas behind democracy are studied, as well as the operation and nature of contemporary Australian representative democracy. Students examine the reasons why people seek political power, the characteristics of successful political activists and leaders, and the political ideas that motivate them. Unit 2: The Global Citizen This unit focuses on the contemporary international community. Students examine their place within this community through considering the debate over the existence of the global citizen. They explore the myriad ways their lives have been affected by the increased interconnectedness the global threads of the world through the process of globalisation. Students also consider the extent to which the notion of an international community exists, and investigate its ability to manage areas of global Keysborough College 17 Senior School Curriculum Handbook 2012