Year Nine

 Food Technology

Greetings to our school community and welcome back to Term Two. As we dive into Term Two of Food Technology, we're thrilled to share the exciting culinary journey our students are embarking on. This term, our focus is on exploring the rich tapestry of flavours from around the globe, as we bring the world to our plates one recipe at a time.

To kick off Term Two, students excitedly delved into the heart of Australian cuisine with an iconic dish loved by many across the nation: the classic Schnitzel served with a trio of vibrant vegetables. This Aussie favourite provided us with a perfect introduction to the art of tenderising, breading, and frying – essential techniques in the culinary world. From mastering the perfect golden-brown crust to balancing the flavours of our vegetable sides, our students demonstrated skill and creativity in the kitchen.

Building on the success of our Aussie-inspired feast, we jetted off to India to immerse ourselves in the aromatic spices and vibrant colours of Indian cuisine. Our culinary adventure led us to the iconic dish of Butter Chicken, where we learned the importance of patience and precision in creating the perfect balance of flavours in this beloved dish.

But our exploration of global cuisine is just beginning! Throughout the term, our students will continue to journey across continents, discovering new ingredients, techniques, and cultural traditions with each recipe. 

Stay tuned for more mouth-watering recipes, culinary tips, and stories from our Food Technology class as we embark on this delicious journey together. 

English

Welcome back to Term Two! As we embark on a new term, we are excited to delve into the rich and multifaceted world of cinema with our latest Unit of Inquiry. The Statement of Inquiry is 'Directors can utilise perspective in films to influence the audiences' point of view to explore relationships and interconnections'.  Our focus this term revolves around the intriguing concept that directors wield the power to shape audience perspectives through the lens of film, particularly in their exploration of relationships and interconnections. Throughout the semester, students will embark on a journey of cinematic exploration, beginning with a meticulous analysis of our designated focus film. Through close examination of cinematic elements such as camera angles, lighting, sound design, and character dynamics, students will uncover the nuanced ways in which directors craft narratives to evoke specific emotions and viewpoints. Beyond this initial exploration, students will have the opportunity to apply their newfound analytical skills to a movie of their choice, allowing for a personalised and immersive learning experience. Through this hands-on approach, students will not only deepen their understanding of film as an art form but also sharpen their critical thinking abilities as they interrogate the perspectives presented on screen and reflect on their own interpretations. As educators, we eagerly anticipate witnessing the diverse interpretations and insightful connections that students will uncover throughout this unit. By encouraging them to engage critically with cinematic narratives, we aim to cultivate a deeper appreciation for storytelling and a nuanced understanding of human relationships and societal dynamics. Here's to a semester filled with cinematic discoveries, enlightening revelations, and transformative learning experiences!

Visual Art

Welcome back to Term Two! This term, we're embarking on an exciting delving into the ways in which changes in aesthetics can influence the interpretation of beauty within specific eras and cultures. Our new Statement of Inquiry, "Change in aesthetics can impact the interpretation of beauty shared by people of a particular era and/or culture," serves as our guiding principle as we delve into the dynamic world of artistic expression. Throughout the semester, students will have the opportunity to engage in a hands-on exploration of this concept by focusing on the design of either a book, magazine, film, or album cover of their own choice.

Our journey begins with a deep dive into the evolving aesthetics of different historical periods and cultural contexts, examining how shifts in artistic styles and preferences reflect broader societal changes and values. 

With this foundation in place, students will then turn their attention to the creation of their own digital masterpiece, drawing inspiration from their subject matter. Whether it's the sleek lines of a minimalist book cover, the vibrant imagery of a magazine spread, the evocative visuals of a film poster, or the striking artwork of an album cover, students will have the freedom to unleash their creativity and express their unique perspectives on beauty and aesthetics.

Through this hands-on design process, students will not only hone their technical skills in areas such as composition, colour theory, and typography but also deepen their understanding of how artistic choices can shape the way beauty is perceived and appreciated within different cultural contexts. 

I look forward to witnessing the creative journey that unfolds as students explore the transformative power of Visual Art and its ability to challenge, inspire, and provoke thought.

Coding and Robotics

Last term, students coded a collection of web pages and web applications using the Anvil platform, including a digital portfolio showcasing their projects. This term, students will continue with project based learning, choosing their own project to work on for the rest of the semester. 

Some students are utilising Grok Academy courses to study an area of interest such as Network Security. Students who prefer project based learning have a variety of other options, including incorporating artificial intelligence into Python programs, using PyAngelo to create graphics, animations and games with Python, and using Lego EV3 robotics equipment to design, build and code a project. 

Project work allow students to apply their technical knowledge, whilst developing important skills such as planning, time management, inquiry skills and team work.

Science

Welcome back to Term Two! This term students will be delving into the fascinating world of Biology. This year we are focusing on the Human Body, starting by looking at the Nervous System, Immune System and Endocrine system.

Students have unpacked the essential learnings for this term and shared their wonderings. We have begun the unit by sharing the question 'How does the gut influence our mood?' Students discussed how they felt when they were hungry, nervous and how that felt like in the gut. They are currently undertaking a research task around 'The Gut, The Brain and Mental Health'. Some of the questions students have posed are interesting and up on display in the Laboratory at Coaching Parade. 

Health and Physical Education

This term students will be completing a unit on Ultimate Frisbee and Disc Golf in Physical Education. Students have begun work on the different skills needed within these sports, such as forehand, backhand and catching. These skills will be applied throughout the term in competitive games of both disciplines.

In Health, students will be continuing their work on mental health from last term. They will be analysing the effects of activities on mental health, both on individuals and the larger community. This will culminate in a research project in the coming weeks