MESC Senior School Handbooks

VCE Subjects (A-L)

VCE SUBJECTS

 

Art Making and Exhibiting 

(formerly Studio Arts)

 

Unit 1: Explore, Expand and Investigate 

In this unit students explore materials, techniques and processes in a range of art forms. They expand their knowledge and understanding of the characteristics, properties and application of materials used in art making. They explore selected materials to understand how they relate to specific art forms and how they can be used in the making of artworks. Students also explore the historical development of specific art forms and investigate how the characteristics, properties and use of materials and techniques have changed over time. Throughout their investigation students become aware of and understand the safe handling of materials they use. 

Students explore the different ways artists use materials, techniques and processes. The students’ exploration and experimentation with materials and techniques stimulates ideas, inspires different ways of working and enables a broad understanding of the specific art forms. Their exploration and experimentation is documented in both visual and written form in a Visual Arts journal.  

 

Unit 2: Understand, Develop and Resolve 

In Unit 2 students continue to research how artworks are made by investigating how artists use aesthetic qualities to represent ideas in artworks. They broaden their investigation to understand how artworks are displayed to audiences, and how ideas are represented to communicate meaning.  

Students respond to a set theme and progressively develop their own ideas. Students learn how to develop their ideas using materials, techniques and processes, and art elements and art principles. They consolidate these ideas to plan and make finished artworks, reflecting on their knowledge and understanding of the aesthetic qualities of artworks. The planning and development of at least one finished artwork are documented in their Visual Arts journal. 

Students investigate how artists use art elements and art principles to develop aesthetic qualities and style in an artwork. Working in their Visual Arts journal they begin to discover and understand how each of the art elements and art principles can be combined to convey different emotions and expression in their own and others’ artworks. They also explore how art elements and art principles create visual language in artworks.  

Students begin to understand how exhibitions are planned and designed and how spaces are organised for exhibitions. They also investigate the roles associated with the planning of exhibitions and how artworks are selected and displayed in specific spaces. This offers students the opportunity to engage with exhibitions, whether they are in galleries, museums, other exhibition spaces or site-specific spaces. 

 

Unit 3: Collect, Extend and Connect 

In this unit students are actively engaged in art making using materials, techniques and processes. They explore contexts, subject matter and ideas to develop artworks in imaginative and creative ways. They also investigate how artists use visual language to represent ideas and meaning in artworks. The materials, techniques and processes of the art form the students work with are fundamental to the artworks they make.  

Students use their Visual Arts journal to record their art making. They record their research of artists, artworks and collected ideas and also document the iterative and interrelated aspects of art making to connect the inspirations and influences they have researched. The Visual Arts journal demonstrates the students’ exploration of contexts, ideas and subject matter and their understanding of visual language. They also document their exploration of and experimentation with materials, techniques and processes. From the ideas documented in their Visual Arts journal, students plan and develop artworks. These artworks may be made at any stage during this unit, reflecting the students’ own ideas and their developing style.  

Students will visit an exhibition in either a gallery, museum, other exhibition space or site-specific space. They must visit or view a minimum of two exhibitions during the current year of study. Students research the exhibition of artworks in these exhibition spaces and the role a curator has in planning and writing information about an exhibition.  

 

Unit 4: Consolidate, Present and Conserve 

In Unit 4 students make connections to the artworks they have made in Unit 3, consolidating and extending their ideas and art making to further refine and resolve artworks in -specific art forms. The progressive resolution of these artworks is documented in the student’s Visual Arts journal, demonstrating their developing technical skills in a specific art form as well as their refinement and resolution of subject matter, ideas, visual language, aesthetic qualities and style. Students also reflect on their selected finished artworks and evaluate the materials, techniques and processes used to make them.  

The Visual Arts journal in Unit 4 includes: 

  • the continued development of the student’s own art making in a specific art form 
  • evaluation of art making in a specific art form 
  • the visual documentation of the processes used for finalising artworks 
  • annotations to support visual documentation 
  • research into the connections between specific artists and artworks and the student’s own artworks 
  • research about the presentation of artworks in exhibitions 
  • research undertaken for conservation and care of artworks 
  • research about the selection of artworks for display and the planning of exhibitions  
  • written and visual research to make connections with specific artists and artwork. 

The progress of individual student artworks is an important element of Unit 4, and throughout the unit students demonstrate their ability to communicate to others about their artworks. They articulate the development of subject matter, ideas, visual language, their choice of materials, their understanding of the inherent characteristics and properties of the material, their use of techniques and processes, and aesthetic qualities. Acting on their critique from Unit 3, students further develop their ideas and broaden their thinking to make new artworks. 

Students organise the presentation of their finished artworks. They make decisions on how their artworks will be displayed, the lighting they may use, and any other considerations they may need to present their artworks. Students also present a critique of their artworks and receive and reflect on feedback. 

Students continue to engage with galleries, museums, other exhibition spaces and site-specific spaces and examine a variety of exhibitions. They review the methods used and considerations involved in the presentation, conservation and care of artworks, including the conservation and care of their own artworks. Students must visit or view a minimum of two exhibitions during the current year of study. Students document the investigation and review of artworks and exhibitions in their Visual Arts journal. 

 

Proposed Subject Cost:         ART MAKING & EXHIBITING 1 & 2:  $130                                                          ART MAKING & EXHIBITING 3 & 4:  $180

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed

 

Biology

Biology (Units 1-4) explores the diversity of life as it has evolved and changed over time and considers how living organisms function and interact. It explores the processes of life, from the molecular world of the cell to that of the whole organism and examines how life forms maintain and ensure their continuity. 

Students will also use key science skills to undertake investigations into these processes in a variety of contexts, including: 

  • Explain and compare cellular structure and function and analyse the cell cycle and cell growth, death and differentiation 
  •  How the body maintains a constant environment, how this can be disrupted due to illness and how by maintaining this constant environment, it assists animals and plants to survive in extreme conditions. 
  •  How genetic traits are passed from one generation to another, how DNA is organised and how it codes for proteins and how DNA can be manipulated in a laboratory to diagnose and treat different conditions. 
  •  Applications of DNA technology, including DNA profiling and the use of CRISPR Cas-9 technology and the ethical and social implications of using these technologies. 
  •  The different reproductive strategies used by different types of organisms and how the development of technologies intervenes in this process as well as the issues associated with these technologies 
  • The contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ knowledge and perspectives in understanding a wide variety of biological contexts 
  • The importance of particular biochemical pathways such as photosynthesis and cellular respiration and the role enzymes play in these pathways. 
  • How the process of evolution occurs and how evidence of evolution is constantly being discovered, including the discovery of new human ancestors. 
  •  How humans respond when infected with a pathogen and how humans have developed strategies to deal with pandemics and epidemics given how connected the modern world is. 

Entry:  

There are no prerequisites for entry to Units 1, 2 and 3. Students must undertake Unit 3 prior to undertaking Unit 4. 

 

Proposed Subject Cost:   BIOLOGY 1 & 2: $55      BIOLOGY 3 & 4: $65

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed.

 

Business Management

In contemporary Australian society, there is a wide variety of business organisations which vary in terms of size, ownership, objectives, resources and location. These organisations are managed by people who put in place systems and processes to achieve a range of objectives. Business Management examines the ways in which people at various levels within a business organisation manage resources to achieve the objectives of the organisation. Students develop an understanding of the challenges, complexity and rewards that come from business management and gain insight into the various ways resources can be managed in small, medium and large-scale organisations. The study recognises that there is a range of management theories rather than a single theory of management. Each unit examines some of these theories and, through exposure to real business scenarios and/or direct contact with business, tests them against management in practice. In studying Business Management, students develop knowledge and skills that enhance their confidence and ability to participate effectively, as socially responsible and ethical members of the business community, and as informed citizens, consumers and investors.  

 

Structure: The study is made up of four units: 

 

Unit 1 

Businesses of all sizes are major contributors to the economic and social wellbeing of a nation. The ability of entrepreneurs to establish a business and the fostering of conditions under which new business ideas can emerge are vital for a nation’s wellbeing. Taking a business idea and planning how to make it a reality are the cornerstones of economic and social development. In this unit students explore the factors affecting business ideas and the internal and external environments within which businesses operate, as well as the effect of these on planning a business. They also consider the importance of the business sector to the national economy and social wellbeing.  

 

Unit 2

This unit focuses on the establishment phase of a business. Establishing a business involves compliance with legal requirements as well as decisions about how best to establish a system of financial record keeping, staff the business and establish a customer base. In this unit students examine the legal requirements that must be met to establish a business. They investigate the essential features of effective marketing and consider the best way to meet the needs of the business in terms of staffing and financial record keeping. Students analyse management practices by applying key knowledge to contemporary business case studies from the past four years. 

 

 Unit 3

In this unit students explore the key processes and considerations for managing a business efficiently and effectively to achieve business objectives. Students examine different types of businesses and their respective objectives and stakeholders. They investigate strategies to manage both staff and business operations to meet objectives, and develop an understanding of the complexity and challenge of managing businesses. Students compare theoretical perspectives with current practice through the use of contemporary Australian and global business case studies from the past four years.

 

 Unit 4 

Businesses are under constant pressure to adapt and change to meet their objectives. In this unit students consider the importance of reviewing key performance indicators to determine current performance and the strategic management necessary to position a business for the future. Students study a theoretical model to undertake change and consider a variety of strategies to manage change in the most efficient and effective way to improve business performance. They investigate the importance of effective management and leadership in change management. Using one or more contemporary business case studies from the past four years, students evaluate business practice against theory. 

 

Entry:

 

Proposed Subject Cost:   BUSINESS MGT 1 & 2:  $30      BUSINESS MGT 3 & 4:   $85  

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed

 

 

Chemistry

Chemistry is at the core of every technology we enjoy today, including foods, fuels for homes and transport, medicines and drugs to fight diseases, and new materials such as fibre glass for surfboards and Kevlar for bulletproof vests. Chemical processes are also important in improving human health, preventing environmental problems and rehabilitating degraded environments. By studying Chemistry, students will be able to investigate, explore and solve qualitative and quantitative chemical problems and discuss chemical concepts and issues. Chemistry units have a significant experimental/laboratory component. 

 

Structure 

The study is made up of four units. Each contains three outcomes, including practical and research investigations. Please note that Unit 1 and 2 will run on a new study design in 2023, second-hand textbooks cannot be purchased. 

 

Unit 1: How can the diversity of materials be explained? 

  • Elements and periodic table 
  • Covalent substances  
  • Reactions of metals and ionic compounds 
  • Chromatography 
  • Qualifying atoms and compounds 
  • Organic chemistry and Polymers 

 Unit 2: How do chemical reactions shape the natural world? 

  • Water as a unique chemical 
  • Acid and base reactions 
  • Redox (electron transfer) reactions 
  • Solubility and concentration 
  • Analysis for acids and bases 
  • Measuring gases 
  • Analysis of salts 

 Unit 3: How can chemical processes be designed to optimise efficiency? 

  • Fuels and energy 
  • Gas laws 
  • Redox reactions 
  • Fuel and galvanic cells 
  • Reaction rates and equilibrium 
  • Electrolysis 

Unit 4: How are organic compounds categorised, analysed and used? 

  • Organic compounds and reaction pathways 
  • Chemical analysis of organic compounds 
  • Volumetric analysis 
  • Structure and bonding of food molecules 
  • Metabolism of food in the body 
  • Energy content of food 

Entry: 

There are no prerequisites for entry to Units 1, 2 and 3. Students who enter the study at Unit 2 or 3 may need to undertake preparatory work. Students must undertake Unit 3 prior to undertaking Unit 4 and in view of the sequenced nature of the study it is advisable that students undertake Units 1 to 4.

 

Proposed Subject Cost:    CHEMISTRY 1 & 2:  $50      CHEMISTRY 3 & 4:  $55

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed

 

 

Dance

VCE Dance provides opportunities for students to explore the potential of movement as a means of creative expression andcommunication. In VCE Dance students create and perform their own dance works as well as studying the dance works of others, including professionals, through performance and analysis. In each unit, students undertake regular and systematic dance training to develop their physical skills and advance their ability to execute a diverse range of expressive movements. Students also develop and refine their choreographic skills by exploring personal and learnt movement vocabularies. They study ways other choreographers have created and arranged movement to communicate an intention and create their own dance works. Students perform learnt solo and group dance works and their own works. They also analyse ways that ideas are communicated through dance and how dance styles, traditions and works can influence dance practice, the arts, artistsand society more generally.

 

Structure: The study is made up of four units:

 

Unit 1 

In this unit students explore the potential of the body as an instrument of expression. They learn about and develop physical skills. Students discover the diversity of expressive movement by exploring movement categories and commence the process of developing a personal movement vocabulary. They also begin to develop skills in documenting and analysing movement and develop understanding of how choreographers use these processes. Knowledge of physiology, including care and maintenance of the body, is applied to the execution of body actions through the safe application of physical skills. Students develop and perform movement studies and dances with unified compositions created through a range of movement creation processes. They discuss influences on their own dance backgrounds and on the expressive intentions and movement vocabulary in their own dances.

 

Unit 2 

This unit focuses on expanding students’ personal movement vocabulary and choreographic skills through the exploration of the elements of movement: time, space and energy and the study of form. Students apply their understanding of form and the expressive capacity of the elements of movement to the dance-making and performing processes involved in choreographing and performing their own dance works and dance works created by others. Students are also introduced to dance traditions, styles and works. Students also analyse and discuss the communication of their own and other choreographers’ intentions, through the structuring of form, and the choreographic and expressive use of the elements of movement. This analysis supports students’ understanding of the link between theoretical and practical aspectsof each area of study.

 

Unit 3 

This unit focuses on choreography, rehearsal and performance of a solo dance work and involves the execution of a diverse range of movement categories and use of performance skills. Students also learn a group dance work created by another choreographer. The dance-making and performance processes involved in choreographing, rehearsing and performing the solo dance work, and learning, rehearsing and performing the learnt group dance work are analysed. This analysis connects each student's own work as a choreographer to the work of professional choreographers. Students further develop their understanding of choreographic skills through an analysis of ways that the expressive intentions chosen by choreographers of twentieth and/or twenty-first century solo dance works.  Students analyse the dance design and use of movement vocabulary of selected works, as well as consider influences on the choreographers' choice of expressive intention, and production aspects of the dance works. 

 

Unit 4 

This unit focuses on choreography, rehearsal and performance of a unified solo dance work. When rehearsing and performing this work students focus on expressive and accurate execution of choreographic variations of spatial organisation and demonstration of artistry in performance. Students also document and analyse the dance-making and performance processes involved in the choreography, rehearsal and performance of the solo dance work. Students’ understanding of choreographic skills is also developed and refined through an analysis of ways in which the choreographers’ intention can be expressed through the manipulation of different types of group structures. These include unison, canon, contrast, symmetrical and asymmetrical groupings and formations. Students also analyse the use of the elements of spatial organization– direction, level,  eye/body focus and dimension – in a group dance work by a twentieth and/or twenty-first century choreographer. Influences on choices made by choreographers in these works are also studied.

 

Entry:

It is recommended that students have at least two years of dance and/or movement experience prior to the commencement of VCE Dance.  This experience might focus on a specific dance style or could involve development of a personal movement vocabulary.

 

Proposed Subject Cost:    DANCE 1 & 2:  $150          DANCE 3 & 4:  $150

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed

 

Drama 

 

Unit 1: Introducing performance styles.

This unit focuses on creating, presenting and analysing a devised solo and/or ensemble performance that includes real or imagined characters and is based on stimulus material that reflects personal, cultural and/or community experiences and stories. This unit also involves analysis of a student’s own performance work and a work by professional drama performers. Students study three or more performance styles from a range of social, historical and cultural contexts. They manipulate expressive and performance skills in the creation and presentation of characters and develop awarenessand understanding of how characters are portrayed in a rangeof performance styles.They document the processes they use as they explore a range of stimulus material, and experiment with production areas, dramatic elements, conventions and performance styles. 

 

Unit 2: Australian identity

In this unit students study aspects of Australian identity evident in contemporary drama practice. This may also involve exploring the work of selected drama practitioners and associatedperformance styles. Students create, present and analyse a performance based on a person, an event, an issue, a place, an artwork, a text and/or an icon from a contemporary or historical Australian context. In creating the performance, students use stimulus material that allows them to explore an aspect or aspects of Australian identity. They examine selected performance styles and explore the associated conventions. Students analyse their own performance work as well as undertaking an analysis of a performance of an Australian work, where possible, by professional actors.

 

Unit 3: Devised ensemble performance

In this unit students explore the work of drama practitioners and draw on contemporary practice as they devise ensemble performance work. Students explore performance styles and associated conventions from a diverse range of contemporary and/or traditional contexts. They work collaboratively to devise, develop and present an ensemble performance. Students devise and shape their work to communicate meaning or to have a specific impact on their audience. In addition, students document and evaluate stages involved in the creation, development and presentation of the ensemble performance. Students analyse and evaluate a professional drama performance selected from the prescribed VCE Drama Unit 3 Playlist published annually on the VCAA website.

 

Unit 4: Devised solo performance

This unit focuses on the development and the presentation of devised solo performances. Students develop skills in extracting dramatic potential from stimulus material and use play-making techniques to develop and present a short solo performance. They experiment with transformation of character, time and place. They apply conventions, dramatic elements, expressive skills, performance skills and performance styles to shape and give meaning to their work. They consider the use of production areas to enhance their performance and the application of symbol and transformations. Students document and evaluate the stages involved in the creation, development and presentation of their solo performance.

 

Proposed Subject Cost:         DRAMA 1 & 2:  $90           DRAMA 3 & 4:  $100

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed

 

 

English

Outline

The study of English empowers students to read, write, speak and listen in different contexts. VCE English prepares students to think and act critically and creatively, and to encounter the beauty and challenge of their contemporary world with compassion and understanding. Students work to collaborate and communicate widely, and to connect with our complex and plural society with confidence. 

Through engagement with texts drawn from a range of times, cultures, forms and genres, and including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge and voices, students develop insight into a varied range of ideas. They extend their skills in responding to the texts they read and view, and their abilities in creating original texts, further expanding their language to reflect accurately the purpose, audience and context of their responses. 

By developing broad skills in communication and reflection, the study of English enables students to participate in their diverse, dynamic and multicultural world productively and positively. 

 

Unit 1 

In this area of study, students engage in reading and viewing texts with a focus on personal connections with the story. They discuss and clarify the ideas and values presented by authors through their evocations of character, setting and plot, and through investigations of the point of view and/or the voice of the text. They develop and strengthen inferential reading and viewing skills, and consider the ways a text’s vocabulary, text structures and language features can create meaning on several levels and in different ways. 

 

Unit 2 

In this area of study, students develop their reading and viewing skills, including deepening their capacity for inferential reading and viewing, to further open possible meanings in a text, and to extend their writing in response to text.  

 

Unit 3 

In this unit students read and respond to texts analytically and creatively. They analyse arguments and the use of persuasive language in texts. 

  • In identifying and analysing explicit and implied ideas and values in texts, students examine the ways in which readers are invited to respond to texts. They develop and justify their own detailed interpretations of texts. Students prepare sustained analytical interpretations of selected texts, discussing how features of the texts create meaning and using textual evidence to support their responses. 
  • Students present sustained creative responses to selected texts, demonstrating their understanding of the world of the texts and how texts construct meaning.
  • Students develop written and spoken critical analyses of the use of argument and language in written, spoken, and/or multimodal texts, including analysis of the quality of the reasoning presented and the use of features intended to position audiences.

Unit 4 

In this unit students compare the presentation of ideas, issues and themes in texts. They create an oral presentation intended to position audiences about an issue currently debated in the media.

  • In this area of study students explore the meaningful connections between two texts. They analyse texts, including the interplay between character and setting, voice and structure, and how ideas, issues and themes are conveyed. By comparing the texts, they gain a deeper understanding of the ideas, issues and themes that reflect the world and human experiences. Students produce a written analysis comparing selected texts, discussing important similarities and differences and exploring how the texts deal with similar or related ideas, issues or themes from different perspectives to reflect particular values.
  • Students use their understanding of argument and language as the basis for the development of an oral presentation of their points of view. Students draw on their knowledge to express their viewpoints through arguments and persuasive language selected specifically to position an audience. 

Entry:

There are no prerequisites for entry to Units 1, 2 and 3.  Students must undertake Unit 3 prior to undertaking Unit 4.  Units 1 to 4 are designed to a standard equivalent to the final two years of secondary education. All VCE studies are benchmarked against comparable national and international curriculum.

 

Proposed Subject Cost:   ENGLISH 1 & 2:   $60     ENGLISH  3 & 4:   $70

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed

 

 

Food Studies 

Unit 1: Food origins

In this unit students focus on food from historical and cultural perspectives, and investigate the origins and roles of food through time and across the world. In Area of Study 1 students explore how humans have historically sourced their food, examining the general progression from hunter-gatherer to rural-based agriculture, to today’s urban living and global trade in food. Students consider the origins and significance of food through inquiry into one particular food-producing region of the world.

In Area of Study 2 students focus on Australia. They look at Australian indigenous food prior to European settlement and how food patterns have changed since, particularly through the influence of food production, processing and manufacturing industries and immigration. Students investigate cuisines that are part of Australia’s culinary identity today and reflect on the concept of an Australian cuisine.

Students consider the influence of innovations, technologies and globalisation on food patterns. Throughout this unit they complete topical and contemporary practical activities to enhance, demonstrate and share their learning with others.

 

Unit 2: Food makers

In this unit students investigate food systems in contemporary Australia. Area of Study 1 focuses on commercial food production industries, while Area of Study 2 looks at food production in domestic and small-scale settings, as both a comparison and complement to commercial production. Students gain insight into the significance of food industries to the Australian economy and investigate the capacity of industry to provide safe, high-quality food that meets the needs of consumers.

Students use practical skills and knowledge to produce foods and consider a range of evaluation measures to compare their foods to commercial products. They consider the effective provision and preparation of food in the home, and analyse the benefits and challenges of developing and using practical food skills in daily life. In demonstrating their practical skills, students design new food products and adapt recipes to suit particular needs and circumstances. They consider the possible extension of their role as small-scale food producers by exploring potential entrepreneurial opportunities.

 

Unit 3: Food in daily life

In this unit students investigate the many roles and everyday influences of food. Area of Study 1 explores the science of food: our physical need for it and how it nourishes and sometimes harms our bodies. Students investigate the science of food appreciation, the physiology of eating and digestion, and the role of diet on gut health. They analyse the scientific evidence, including nutritional rationale, behind the healthy eating recommendations of the Australian Dietary Guidelines and the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating (see www.eatforhealth.gov.au), and develop their understanding of diverse nutrient requirements.  

Area of Study 2 focuses on influences on food choices: how communities, families and individuals change their eating patterns over time and how our food values and behaviours develop within social environments. Students inquire into the role of food in shaping and expressing identity and connectedness, and the ways in which food information can be filtered and manipulated. They investigate behavioural principles that assist in the establishment of lifelong, healthy dietary patterns.

Practical activities enable students to understand how to plan and prepare food to cater for various dietary needs through the production of everyday food that facilitates the establishment of nutritious and sustainable meal patterns.

 

Unit 4: Food issues, challenges and futures

In this unit students examinedebates about Australia’s food systems as part of the global food systems and describe key issues relating to the challenge of adequately feeding a rising world population. 

In Area of Study 1 students focus on individual responses to food information and misinformation and the development of food knowledge, skills and habits to empower consumers to make discerning food choices. They also consider the relationship between food security, food sovereignty and food citizenship. Students consider how to assess information and draw evidence-based conclusions, and apply this methodology to navigate contemporary food fads, trends and diets. They practise and improve their food selection skills by interpreting food labels and analysing the marketing terms used on food packaging. 

In Area of Study 2 students focus on issues about the environment, climate, ecology, ethics, farming practices, including the use and management of water and land, the development and application of innovations and technologies, and the challenges of food security, food sovereignty, food safety and food wastage. They research a selected topic, seeking clarity on current situations and points of view, considering solutions and analysing work undertaken to solve problems and support sustainable futures. The focus of this unit is on food issues, challenges and futures in Australia.

Practical activities provide students with opportunities to apply their responses to environmental and ethical food issues, reflect on healthy eating recommendations of the Australian Dietary Guidelines and the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating, and consider how food selections and food choices can optimise human and planetary health.

 

Proposed Subject Cost:         Food Studies1 & 2:  $350      Food Studies3 & 4:  $300

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed

 

 

Health and Human Development 

 

Unit 1: Understanding Health and Wellbeing 

In this unit students identify personal perspectives and priorities relating to health and wellbeing, and enquire into factors that influence health attitudes, beliefs and practices, including among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Students look at multiple dimensions of health and wellbeing, the complex interplay of influences on health and wellbeing and the indicators used to measure and evaluate health status. With a focus on youth, students consider their own health as individuals and as a cohort. They build health literacy through interpreting and using data, through investigating the role of food, and through extended inquiry into one youth health focus area.

 

Unit 2: Managing Health and Development 

This unit investigates transitions in health and wellbeing, and development, from lifespan and societal perspectives. Students look at changes and expectations that are part of the progression from youth to adulthood. This unit promotes the application of health literacy skills through an examination of adulthood as a time of increasing independence and responsibility, involving the establishment of long-term relationships,possible considerations of parenthood and management of health-related milestones and changes.  Students enquire into the Australian healthcare system and extend their capacity to access and analyse health information. They investigate the challenges and opportunities presented by digital media and health technologies, and consider issues surrounding the use of health data and access to quality health care

 

Both of these Units can be studied without having had completed Unit 1 and 2 Health and Human Development.

 

Unit 3: Australia’s Health in a Globalised World

Area of Study 1 looks at health, wellbeing and illness and identifies the reasons why people are falling ill and which ages and population groups are suffering. Students learn about the impact of a range of factors on the physical, social, emotional, mental and spiritual health. These include the impact of poor nutrition, lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption and other behavioural considerations. Population groups including the low socio-economic and Indigenous are studied and an understanding of their health issues and the factors responsible are explored in detail. There is a focus on how diseases affect the functioning of the body including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Area of Study 2 then focuses on how to improve Australia’s health. We look at the different approaches to healthcare across the last century and then focus on the important role health promotion now plays. Students learn how Medicare, the PBS, NDIS and Private Health Insurance work and how they contribute to improvements in population health. They then look at the role of nutrition promotion strategies and other programs such as Nutrition Australia and the Cancer Council’s QUIT program and evaluate the impact of these strategies.

 

Unit 4: Health and Human Development in a Globalised Context

This unit examines health and wellbeing, and human development in a global context. Students use data to investigate health status and burden of disease in different countries, and now explore factors that contribute to health inequalities between and within countries, including the physical, social and economic conditions in which people live. They consider the health implications of increased globalisation and worldwide trends relating to climate change, digital technologies, world trade and the mass movement of people. Area of Study 2 looks at global action to improve health and wellbeing and human development, focusing on the United Nations’ (UN’s) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) and the work of the World Health Organization (WHO). Students also investigate the role of non-government organisations and Australia’s overseas aid program. Finally they learn to evaluate the effectiveness of health initiatives and programs in a global context and reflect on their own capacity to take action.

 

Entry:

There are no prerequisites for Units1, 2 and 3. Students must undertake Unit 3 prior to 4.

 

Proposed Subject Cost:         HEALTH & HD 1 & 2:  $45         HEALTH & HD 3 & 4:  $50

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed

 

 

History 

The study of VCE History assists students to understand themselves, others and their world, and broadens their perspective by examining people, groups, events, ideas and movements. Through studying VCE History, students develop social, political, economic and cultural understanding. They also explore continuity and change: the world is not as it has always been, and it will be subject to change in the future. In this sense, history is relevant to contemporary issues. It fosters an understanding of human agency and informs decision making in the present. The study of history fosters the ability to ask searching questions, to engage in independent research, and to construct arguments about the past based on evidence. Historical comprehension enables a source to be understood in relation to its context; that is, students make links between the source and the world in which it was produced. We can never know the whole past. Historical knowledge rests on the interpretation of sources that are used as evidence. Furthermore, judgments of historical significance made by historians are central to the discipline. Historians do not always agree about the meaning that is taken from the past: historical interpretations are often subject to academic and public debate. The study of history equips students to take an informed position on such matters, helping them develop as individuals and citizens.

 

Structure: The study is made up of four units:

 

Unit 1: Twentieth Century History (1918-1939) 

In Unit 1 students explore the nature of political, social and cultural change in the period between the world wars. World War One is regarded by many as marking the beginning of twentieth century history since it represented such a complete departure from the past and heralded changes that were to have an impact for decades to come. The post-war treaties ushered in a period where the world was, to a large degree, reshaped with new borders, movements, ideologies and power structures. These changes affected developments in Europe, the USA, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Economic instability caused by the Great Depression also contributed to the development of political movements. Despite ideals about future peace, reflected in the establishment of the League of Nations, the world was again overtaken by war in 1939. The period after World War One was characterised by significant social and cultural change in the contrasting decades of the 1920s and 1930s. New fascist governments used the military, education and propaganda to impose controls on the way people lived, to exclude particular groups of people and to silence criticism. In Germany, the persecution of the Jewish people became intensified. In the USSR, millions of people were forced to work in state-owned factories and farms and had limited personal freedom. Japan became increasingly militarised and anti-western. In the USA, the consumerism and material progress of the 1920s was tempered by the Great Crash of 1929. Writers, artists, musicians, choreographers and filmmakers reflected, promoted or resisted political, economic and social changes.

   

Unit 2: Twentieth Century History (1945-2000) 

In Unit 2 students explore the nature and impact of the Cold War and challenges and changes to existing political, economic and social arrangements in the second half of the twentieth century. The establishment of the United Nations in 1945 was intended to take an internationalist 64 approach to avoiding warfare, resolving political tensions and addressing threats to human life and safety. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted in 1948 was the first global expression of human rights. Despite internationalist moves, the second half of the twentieth century was dominated by the competing ideologies of democracy and communism, setting the backdrop for the Cold War. The period also saw challenge and change to the established order in many countries. The continuation of moves towards decolonisation led to independence movements in former colonies in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific. New countries were created and independence was achieved through both military and diplomatic means. Old conflicts also continued and terrorism became increasingly global. The second half of the twentieth century also saw the rise of social movements that challenged existing values and traditions, such as the civil rights movement, feminism and environmental movements.

 

Units 3 & 4: Revolutions 

In Units 3 and 4 Revolutions students investigate the significant historical causes and consequences of political revolution. Revolutions represent great ruptures in time and are a major turning point which brings about the collapse and destruction of an existing political order resulting in a pervasive change to society. Revolutions are caused by the interplay of ideas, events, individuals and popular movements. Their consequences have a profound effect on the political and social structures of the post-revolutionary society. Revolution is a dramatically accelerated process whereby the new order attempts to create political and social change and transformation based on a new ideology. Progress in a post-revolutionary society is not guaranteed or inevitable. Post-revolutionary regimes are often threatened internally by civil war and externally by foreign threats. These challenges can result in a compromise of revolutionary ideals and extreme measures of violence, oppression and terror. In these units students develop an understanding of the complexity and multiplicity of causes and consequences in the revolutionary narrative. They construct an argument about the past using primary sources as evidence and evaluate the extent to which the revolution brought change to the lives of people. They consider how perspectives of the revolution give an insight into the continuity and change experienced by those who lived through dramatic revolutionary moments. Students evaluate historical interpretations about the causes and consequences of revolution and the effects of change instigated by the new order. 

In developing a course, teachers select two revolutions to be studied from the following, one for Unit 3 and one for Unit 4: 

  • The American Revolution of 1776. 
  • The French Revolution of 1789. 
  • The Russian Revolution of October 1917. 
  • The Chinese Revolution of 1949. 

For the two selected revolutions, both areas of study must be undertaken. Students are expected to demonstrate a progression from Unit 3 to Unit 4 in historical understanding and skills.  

 

Entry:

There are no prerequisites for Units 1, 2 and 3. Students must undertake Unit 3 prior to Unit 4.

 

Proposed Subject Cost:     TWENTIETH CENTURY HISTORY 1 & 2:  $30  

                                                     HISTORY-REVOLUTIONS 3 & 4:  $50  

 

 

Indonesian (Second Language)

VCE Indonesian Second Language focuses on student participation in interpersonal communication, interpreting the language of other speakers,and presenting information 

and ideas in Indonesian on a range of themes and topics. Studentsdevelop and extend skills in listening, speaking reading, writing and viewing in Indonesian in a range of contexts and develop cultural understanding in interpreting and creating language. 

 

Students develop their understanding of the relationships between language and culture in new contexts and consider how these relationships shape communities. Throughout the study students are given opportunities to make connections and comparisons based on personal reflections about the role of language and culture in communication and in personal identity.

 

Rationale

The study of Indonesian contributes to student personal development in a range of areas including communication skills, intercultural understanding, cognitive development, literacy and general knowledge.  Learning and using an additional language encourages students to examine the influences on their perspectives and society, and to consider issues important for effective personal, social and international communication.  It enables students to examine the nature of language, including their own, and the role of culture in language, communication and identity. By understanding the process of language learning, students can apply skills and knowledge to other contexts and languages. Learning a language engages analytical and reflective capabilities and enhances critical and creative thinking. The study of a specific language exposes students to different experiences and perspectives at a personal level. It encourages students to be open to different ways of thinking, acting and interacting in the world, even beyond the language being studied and their own language. A broad range of social, economic and vocational opportunities result from study in a second language. Students are able to engage with Indonesian-speaking communities in Australia and internationally in a variety of endeavours, including business, tourism and education.

 

Aims

This study enables students to:

  • communicate with others in Indonesian in interpersonal, interpretive and presentational contexts
  • understand the relationship between language and culture
  • compare cultures and languages and enhance intercultural awareness
  • understand and appreciate the cultural contexts in which Indonesian is spoken
  • learn about language as a system and themselves as language learners
  • make connections between different languages, knowledge and ways of thinking
  • become part of multilingual communities by applying language learning to social and leisure activities, life-long learning and the world of work.

Structure

 

Unit 1 

In this unit students develop an understanding of the language and culture/s of Indonesian-speaking communities through the study of three or more topics from the prescribed themes listed. Each area of study in the unit must focus on a different subtopic. Students access and share useful information on the topics and subtopics through Indonesian and consolidate and extend vocabulary and grammar knowledge and language skills. They focus on analysing cultural products or practices including visual, spoken or written texts. Cultural products or practices can be drawn from a diverse range of texts, activities and creations. These may include the following: stories, poems, plays, novels, songs, films, photographs, artworks, architecture, technology, food, clothing, sports and festivals. Students apply acquired knowledge of Indonesian culture and language to new contexts.

Students reflect on the interplay between language and culture, and its impact on the individual’s language use in specific contexts and for specific audiences.

 

Unit 2:

In this unit students develop an understanding of aspects of language and culture through the study of three or more topics from the prescribed themes listed. Each area of study must focus on a different subtopic. Students analyse visual, spoken and written texts. They access and share useful information on the topics and subtopics through Indonesian and consolidate and extend vocabulary, grammar knowledge and language skills. Cultural products or practices can be used to demonstrate how culture and perspectives may vary between communities. Students reflect on the interplay between language and culture, and its impact on meaning, understanding and the  individuals language use in specific contexts and for specific audiences.

 

Unit 3 

In this unit students investigate the way Indonesian speakers interpret and express ideas, and negotiate and persuade in Indonesian through the study of three or more subtopics from the prescribed themes and topics. Each area of study must cover a different subtopic, though teachers may choose to teach more than one subtopic in an area of study. Students interpret information, inform others, and reflect upon and develop persuasive arguments. They access and share useful information on the subtopics through Indonesian, and consolidate and extend vocabulary and grammar knowledge and language skills. Students consider the influence of language and culture in shaping meaning and reflect on the practices, products and perspectives of the cultures of Indonesian-speaking communities. They reflect on how knowledge of Indonesian and Indonesian- speaking communities can be applied in a range of contexts and endeavours, such as further study, travel, business or community involvement.

 

Unit 4

In this unit students investigate aspects of culture through the study of two or more subtopics from the prescribed themes and topics. Area of Study 1 and Area of Study 2 may focus on the same subtopic. Area of Study 3 should cover a different subtopic to the subtopic/s chosen for Areas of Study 1 and 2. Students build on their knowledge of Indonesian-speaking communities, considering cultural perspectives and language and explaining personal observations. Students consolidate and extend vocabulary, grammar knowledge and language skills to investigate the topics through Indonesian. Students identify and reflect on cultural products or practices that provide insights into Indonesian-speaking communities. Cultural products or practices can be drawn from a diverse range of texts, activities and creations. Students reflect on the ways culture, place and time influence values, attitudes and behaviours. They consider how knowledge of more than one culture can influence the ways individuals realte to each other and function in the world.

 

Entry:

There are no prerequisites for entry to Units 1, 2 and 3. Students must undertake Unit 3 and Unit 4 as a sequence. Units 1 to 4 are designed to a standard equivalent to the final two years of secondary education.  All VCE studies are benchmarked against comparable national and international curricula. 

VCE Indonesian (Second Language) is designed for students who have typically studied the language for at least 200 hours prior to the commencement of Unit 1.

 

Proposed Subject Cost:        INDONESIAN AS A SECOND LANGUAGE 1 & 2:  $65

                                                        INDONESIAN AS A SECOND LANGUAGE 3 & 4:  $70

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed

 

 

Legal Studies 

VCE Legal Studies investigates the ways in which the law and the legal system relate to and serve individuals and the community. This knowledge is central to understanding the workings of contemporary Australian society. Legal Studies examines the processes of law-making, dispute resolution and the administration of justice in Australia. Students develop an understanding of the impact of the legal system on the lives of citizens, and the implications of legal decisions and outcomes on Australian society. The study provides students with an appreciation of how individuals can be involved in decision-making within the legal system, encouraging civic engagement and helping them to become more informed and active citizens. Students develop an understanding of the complexity of the law and the legal system, and the challenges faced by our lawmakers and dispute resolution bodies. They investigate the workings of the Australian legal system and undertake comparisons with international structures and procedures. Students are encouraged to question these systems and develop informed judgments about their effectiveness, as well as consider reforms to the law and the legal system. Legal Studies also focuses on the development of skills. Students develop an ability to identify, collect and process information from a range of sources and engage in its interpretation and analysis. Skills for independent inquiry, critical thinking and legal reasoning to solve legal problems are also fostered. Students are required to apply legal reasoning and decision-making to contemporary cases and issues. They engage in analysis and evaluation of existing legal processes and form opinions about the operation of the legal system. 

 

Structure: The structure is made-up of four units.

 

Unit 1: Guilt and Liability 

Criminal law and civil law aim to achieve social cohesion and protect the rights of individuals. Criminal law is aimed at maintaining social order and infringing criminal law can result in charges. Civil law deals with the infringement of a person’s or group’s rights and breaching civil law can result in litigation. In this unit students develop an understanding of legal foundations, such as the different types and sources of law and the existence of a court hierarchy in Victoria. Students investigate key concepts of criminal law and civil law and apply these to actual and/or hypothetical scenarios to determine whether an accused may be found guilty of a crime, or liable in a civil dispute. In doing so, students develop an appreciation of the way in which legal principles and information are used in making reasoned judgments and conclusions about the culpability of an accused, and the liability of a party in a civil dispute.

 

Unit 2: Sanctions, Remedies and Rights 

Criminal law and civil law aim to protect the rights of individuals. When rights are infringed, a case or dispute may arise which needs to be determined or resolved, and sanctions or remedies may be imposed. This unit focuses on the enforcement of criminal law and civil law, the methods and institutions that may be used to determine a criminal case or resolve a civil dispute, and the purposes and types of sanctions and remedies and their effectiveness. Students undertake a detailed investigation of two criminal cases and two civil cases from the past four years to form a judgment about the ability of sanctions and remedies to achieve the principles of justice. Students develop their understanding of the way rights are protected in Australia and in another country, and possible reforms to the protection of rights. They examine a significant case in relation to the protection of rights in Australia.  

 

Unit 3: Rights and Justice 

The Victorian justice system, which includes the criminal and civil justice systems, aims to protect the rights of individuals and uphold the principles of justice: fairness, equality and access. In this unit students examine the methods and institutions in the justice system and consider their appropriateness in determining criminal cases and resolving civil disputes. Students consider the Magistrates’ Court, County Court and Supreme Court within the Victorian court hierarchy, as well as other Victorian legal institutions and bodies available to assist with cases. Students explore matters such as the rights available to an accused and to victims in the criminal justice system, the roles of the judge, jury, legal practitioners and the parties, and the ability of sanctions and remedies to achieve their purposes. Students investigate the extent to which the principles of justice are upheld in the justice system. They discuss recent reforms from the past four years and recommended reforms to enhance the ability of the justice system to achieve the principles of justice. Throughout this unit, students apply legal reasoning and information to actual and/or hypothetical scenarios.  

 

Unit 4: The People and the Law 

The study of Australia’s laws and legal system involves an understanding of institutions that make and reform our laws, and the relationship between the Australian people, the Australian Constitution and law-making bodies. In this unit, students explore how the Australian Constitution establishes the law-making powers of the Commonwealth and state parliaments, and protects the Australian people through structures that act as a check on parliament in law-making. Students develop an understanding of the significance of the High Court in protecting and interpreting the Australian Constitution. They investigate parliament and the courts, and the relationship between the two in law-making, and consider the roles of the individual, the media and law reform bodies in influencing law reform. Throughout this unit, students apply legal reasoning and information to actual scenarios

 

Entry:

There are no prerequisites for Units 1, 2 and 3. Students must undertake Unit 3 prior to Unit 4.  

 

Proposed Subject Cost:       LEGAL STUDIES 1 & 2:  $30       LEGAL STUDIES 3 & 4:  $85  As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interestis sought and confirmed

 

 

Literature

Students present sustained creative responses to selected texts, demonstrating their understanding of the world of the texts and how texts construct meaning.

 

Unit 1

In this unit students focus on the ways in which the interaction between text and reader creates meaning. Students’ analyses of the features and conventions of texts help them develop increasingly discriminating responses to a range of literary forms and styles. Students respond critically, creatively and reflectively to the ideas and concerns of texts and gain insights into how texts function as representations of human experience. They develop familiarity with key terms, concepts and practices that equip them for further studies in literature. They develop an awareness of how the views and values that readers hold may influence the reading of a text.

 

Unit 2

In this unit students explore the ways literary texts connect with each other and with the world. They deepen their examination of the ways their own culture and the cultures represented in texts can influence their interpretations and shape different meanings. Drawing on a range of literary texts, students consider the relationships between authors, audiences and contexts. Ideas, language and structures of different texts from past and present eras and/or cultures are compared and contrasted. Students analyse the similarities and differences across texts and establish connections between them. They engage in close reading of texts and create analytical responses that are evidence-based. By experimenting with textual structures and language features, students understand how imaginative texts are informed by close analysis.

 

Entry:

There are no prerequisites for entry to Units 1 and 2.

 

Proposed Subject Cost:         LITERATURE 1 & 2:  $50        

As an elective, this subject will only proceed if enough interest is sought and confirmed