Technologies

Contact:       Mrs Teresa McAllister, Head of Technologies

 

Computer Science: ATAR

Computer Science: General

Materials Design & Technology - Wood: General

Computer Science: ATAR

Contact:       Mr Kieran Bailey, Head of Information Technology

 

Prerequisites:   C grade average or better in previous studies of Digital Technologies

 

Computer Science courses allow students to explore fundamental principles, concepts, and skills within the field of computing. Key to students learning is how to diagnose and solve problems, through the creation of computer and information systems. Software development plays a key part in the project work throughout these courses, as does exploring the management and development of databases, connectivity between information systems, and the moral and ethical considerations in the use of computer systems.

 

Studying Computer Science will prepare students for further tertiary or technical study in the fields of Information and Communication Technology or software engineering. Computer Science can contribute to developing high-level digital literacy and problem-solving skills which are vital in navigating the changing world of work and study.

 

Note: Students are expected to participate in Digital Technologies and ICT activities throughout the year, including the annual GovHack hackathon – a two-day event in mid-August which stretches students’ creativity, data analysis, software development, and critical thinking skills. Other opportunities to participate in practical ICT events including the Melbourne Digital Industries and Game Development tour are also available.

 

Year Eleven Course Outline

 

Unit 1

The focus for this unit is developing computer-based systems and producing spreadsheet and database solutions. Students are introduced to the internal, interrelating components of computer-based systems in an industry context. They examine a variety of systems, build on spreadsheet and database skills and gain an appreciation of how these concepts and technologies are used in industry.

 

Unit 2

The focus for this unit is developing computer-based systems solutions and communications. Students are introduced to networking concepts, as applied to industry. Through the use of algorithms, students develop programming skills. They create solutions exploring the ethical, legal and societal implications of industry-based applications.

 

Assessment for the Computer Science: ATAR course in Year Eleven

Assessment  TypeEstimated Weighting
  
Project40%
Theory Test20%
Practical Test10%
Examination30%

Year Twelve Course Outline

 

Unit 3

In this unit, students understand the design concepts and tools used to develop relational database systems. They consider the complex interactions between users, developers, the law, ethics and society when computer systems are used and developed.

 

Unit 4

In this unit, students gain the knowledge and skills to create software. They use algorithms and structured programming to design and implement software solutions for a range of problems using the Software Development Cycle. Students examine attitudes and values that lead to the creation and use of computer-based systems and their effect on society. Students consider networks, communication systems, including security and protocols.

 

Assessment Computer Science: ATAR course in Year Twelve 

Assessment  TypeEstimated Weighting
  
Project30%
Theory Test20%
Practical Test10%
Examination40%

Computer Science: General

Contact:       Mr Kieran Bailey, Head of Information Technology

 

Year Eleven Course Outline

 

In the Computer Science General Course students are introduced to the fundamental principles, concepts and skills within the field of computing. They learn how to diagnose and solve problems while exploring the building blocks of computing. Students explore the principles related to the creation of computer and information systems; software development; the connectivity between computers; the management of data; the development of database systems; and the moral and ethical considerations for the use of computer systems.

 

Unit 1

This unit provides students with the knowledge and skills required to use and maintain a personal computer. It introduces a formal method for developing simple information systems and databases. While considering personal needs, students examine the social, ethical and legal implications of personal computer use.

 

Unit 2

This unit introduces a formal method for developing networks and internet technologies and writing a sequence of simple instructions. Students examine the social, ethical and legal implications associated with software development.

 

Year Eleven Computer Science General Assessment:

Assessment  TypeEstimated Weighting
  
Project60%
Theory Test20%
Practical Test20%

Year Twelve Course Outline

 

Unit 3

The focus for this unit is on developing computer-based systems and producing spreadsheet and database solutions. Students are introduced to the internal, interrelating components of computer-based systems in an industry context. They examine a variety of systems, build on their spreadsheet and database skills and gain an appreciation of how these concepts and technologies are used in industry.

 

Unit 4

The focus for this unit is on developing computer-based systems solutions and communications. Students are introduced to networking concepts, as applied to industry. Through the use of algorithms, students develop programming skills. Students create solutions exploring the ethical, legal and societal implications of industry-based applications.

 

Year Twelve Computer Science General Assessment:

Assessment  TypeEstimated Weighting
  
Project50%
Theory Test20%
Practical Test15%
Externally set task 15%

Materials Design & Technology – Wood: General

Contact:       Mr Brodie Sarre, Subject Coordinator

 

Students who successfully complete the Materials, Design and Technology – Wood: General course will be well prepared for a range of post-school destinations such as TAFE and employment.  For students who are interested in the building trades, these units give an idea of many of the processes and technologies they will need to master in such careers.

 

Year Eleven Course Outline 

 

Prerequisites: Year Nine or Ten Woodwork units preferred, although not essential.

 

Unit 1:

Materials Design & Technology Unit 1 is an introductory unit for those students who have limited experiences in the manufacturing of products. The focus in this unit is production fundamentals. Students are introduced to the principles and practices of design fundamentals to design and manufacture products for themselves.  They learn to communicate various aspects of the design process in the making of their product.  Throughout the process students learn about materials, including their origins, classifications, properties and suitability.  They work in a defined environment and learn to use a variety of relevant technologies safely and effectively. 

 

Unit 2:

The focus for Materials Design & Technology Unit 2 is design fundamentals.  It is designed for students who have some informal experiences interacting with a variety of items designed to meet certain needs.  Students apply the fundamentals of design and the concepts related to designing for self, considering beliefs and values.  They learn to communicate various aspects of the design process by making what they design.  Throughout this unit, students learn the origins, classifications and suitability for purpose of materials.  They are introduced to a range of technology skills, generate ideas and realise these ideas through their design projects.

 

Assessment for the Material Design & Technology – Wood: General course in Year Eleven

Assessment  TypeEstimated Weighting
  
Design – investigation of existing or new products or projects  25%
Production - manufacturing of project(s)  60%
Response – written, visual, oral    15%

Year Twelve Course Outline 

 

Prerequisites: C grade or better in Material Design & Technologies – Wood: General in Year Eleven.

 

Unit 3:

The focus for Materials Design & Technology Unit 3 is design techniques.  Students are introduced to the elements and fundamentals of design and the factors affecting design.  They learn the origins of materials, their classifications, properties and suitability. Students also learn about equipment, production techniques and management strategies while designing and completing their own projects. 

 

Unit 4:

The focus of Materials Design & Technology Unit 4 is design for the consumer.  Students use a range of techniques to gather information regarding existing consumer products and apply the elements and fundamentals of design to design and produce products suitable for a client/consumer. They learn to conceptualise and communicate their own ideas and aspects of the design process by making what they design.

 

Assessment for the Material Design & Technology – Wood: General course in Year Twelve

Assessment  TypeEstimated Weighting
  
Design –investigation of existing or new products or projects  25%
Production - manufacturing of project(s)  50%
Response – written, visual, oral    10%
Externally set task    15%