English
Years 7 and 8
In responding analytically and creatively to a selection of texts, students learn how language features, images and vocabulary are used to represent different ideas, recognising and explaining differing viewpoints about the world, cultures, individual people and issues. Students also explain the effectiveness of language choices writers use to influence their audience. Students practise the process of planning, drafting, editing and refining their compositions, taking into account the purposes of their work and the needs and interests of audiences. In doing so, they demonstrate their understanding of grammar, select vocabulary for effect and use accurate spelling and punctuation.
Mathematics
Students are encouraged to have a positive mindset towards Mathematics. They become good mathematicians by observing, representing and investigating patterns and relationships in social and physical phenomena. All students are required to learn, practise and apply mathematical routines and techniques and use them to find solutions to standard problems, to solve problems creatively in unfamiliar situations, and to communicate mathematics and mathematical findings in an effective manner.
Year 7
Key topics covered include index notation, geometry, measurement including area, volume and capacity, statistics, probability and algebra.
Year 8
Year 8 Mathematics classes are designed to cater for the different mathematical needs of students, with the ability for appropriate enrichment and support. Key topics covered include percentages, indices, integers and ratio, geometry, measurement covering the area of composite shapes, the circle and the volume of common prisms, statistics, probability and algebra.
Science
The Science course enhances the development of the three interrelated strands of scientific inquiry skills, science as a human endeavour, and science understanding. Students are encouraged to work scientifically by developing investigable questions, reasoned predictions and hypotheses to explore scientific models, collecting data accurately, manipulating and presenting data in appropriate ways, identify patterns and test relationships, drawing conclusions and relating them to the aim of the investigation being undertaken.
Year 7
Key topics areas include: Biological sciences unit (classification of the diversity of life and ecosystems), Chemical sciences unit (Particle model and the properties of substances), Physical science unit (forces, gravity and simple machines) and Earth and Space science unit (effects of Earth – Moon – Sun interactions).
Year 8
Key topics areas include: Biological sciences unit (cells and living systems), Chemical sciences unit (elements, compounds and mixtures; chemical reactions), Physical science unit (types and transformation of energy) and Earth and Space science unit (plate tectonics and rocks).
Health and Physical Education
Year 7
This course is aimed at providing knowledge and skills which develop self-confidence and enjoyment from participating in physical activity. Activities covered include aquatics, athletics, movement, ball-handling skills and game strategies. Health issues covered include nutrition, growth and development, decision making, self-esteem and the benefits of an active lifestyle, changes in relationships and sexuality.
Year 8
Physical Education is aimed at providing students with the knowledge and skills required to participate in a wide variety of physical activities. A high emphasis is placed on promoting self-efficacy and the enjoyment of participating in physical activity. Activities include lifesaving, traditional and non-traditional games, orienteering and athletics. Health issues covered include human behaviour and wellbeing, self-concept, self-esteem and developing relationships, effects of drug use, nutrition, sexuality and the relationship between lifestyle and wellbeing.
Music Performance
Year 7 and 8
Students study the elements of music through listening, composing, improvising, music technology and consolidating skills in music literacy. Students participate in ensemble music making (for those who are already learning an instrument) or learn another instrument in a group situation. Ensemble classes offer students an opportunity to extend their skills on an instrument that they are already learning and also to build on group music making skills. Students who have no knowledge of an instrument will have group tuition on an instrument that is available. This varies from year to year depending on staffing and also availability of instruments. Students learn the basics of handling and making sounds on these instruments and progress at their own rate as competence is developed.
Navigate Programme
Years 7 and 8
The Navigate programme aims to support students as they traverse the middle years; focusing on learning skills, personal wellbeing and what it means to belong to a community. In Year 7 Navigate, there is an emphasis on belonging – with ourselves, with each other and with the wider world. In Year 8 Navigate, there is an emphasis on developing the strengths and capabilities which will assist a successful transition to Timbertop.
Students are supported by a Learning Coach who facilitates self-directed learning experiences, as well as the identification and pursuit of goals for learning, wellbeing and growth. Each term, students will complete Student Action Plans to identify these goals and the pathways towards achieving them.