YEAR 9 COMPULSORY SUBJECTS

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION LEARNING AREA

HEALTH EDUCATION

In Year 9 Health, students broaden their knowledge of the factors that shape their personal identity and the health and wellbeing of others. They develop their ability to make informed decisions, taking into consideration the influence of external factors on their behaviour and their capacity to achieve a healthy lifestyle. They continue to develop knowledge, skills and understandings in relation to respectful relationships. With a focus on relationship skills that promote positive interactions and manage conflict. The dominant themes of the Year 9 Health Education program are assertiveness and decision making and encourages students to make well-informed decisions and exhibit assertive skills in order to avoid risky, unhealthy and dangerous behaviours.

The curriculum is grouped into 4 interrelated sub strands: Personal identity and change, staying safe, healthy and active communities, and interacting with others. Learning is undertaken through projects and involved the development of a wellbeing project and an ‘all about me’ identity investigation.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

In Year 9 Physical Education students focus on elements of speed and accuracy in different movement environments, while continuing to develop the efficiency of specialised movement skills. They explore ways to evaluate their own and others' performances through analysis of skills and movement patterns using basic biomechanical concepts. They transfer previous knowledge of outcomes in movement situations to inform and refine skills, strategies and tactics to maximise success. Opportunities are provided for students to refine and consolidate skills and strategies for effective leadership and teamwork, and to consistently apply ethical behaviour across a range of movement contexts.

Alongside Health, the Physical Education program provides opportunities for students to develop, enhance and exhibit attitudes and values that promote a healthy lifestyle. 

Learning through the three distinct areas of movement skills, understanding movement, and interpersonal skills, students will partake in a range of Invasion Games, Net Games, Striking and Fielding Games, Aquatics, Fitness, Athletics and other activities that promote lifelong participation. Student will also learn about basic anatomical and biomechanical principles relating to physical performance.

In Health and Physical Education students identify attitudes and values for a healthy, active lifestyle and demonstrate values consistent with the prevention of ill-health; the acceptance of personal responsibility for their health and physical activity levels; respect for social justice principles; and a commitment to personal achievement. The Western Australian Curriculum: Health and Physical Education provides opportunities for students to develop, enhance and exhibit attitudes and values that promote a healthy lifestyle.

LIFE SKILLS

All students in Year 9 study Life Skills for one period per week. This is a course designed specifically for our students' particular needs and provides an opportunity for discussion without the pressure of assessment. Issues relating to the students' lives and development are overtly explored, providing another dimension in their holistic education. 

Overlaying all topics, students are encouraged to examine the values which influence their thoughts, feelings and actions. Covering topics such as kindness, tolerance and forgiveness, they will develop clarity about their own values, learn to recognise shared values, and develop understanding and respect for those with a different perspective.  

A 'Futures' unit helps the students explore work options and prepare for future subject choices. Looking beyond their own needs and wants the concept of Service is discussed in preparation for the specific opportunities in Year 10. The 'Rights of a Child' are examined in a global concept and used to reflect on the development of Protective Behaviours.

RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY

All students in Year 9 study Religion and Philosophy for one period per week. Each lesson has a period of time dedicated to 'Stillness and Silence' which allows the students to experience and develop relaxation and mindfulness skills.  While exploring the beliefs and practices of the six major world religions − Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism, the students will be encouraged to reflect on the logic and reason behind each of these faiths. A number of societal actions such as Altruism are also examined, allowing the students to develop an understanding of religious responses to the world we live in.

Students are encouraged to reflect on their own response to faith and develop critical thinking skills in relation to religion.