Year 8 Program - Semester Two
English
Students complete an in-depth textual study of ‘Njunjul the Sun’. Through research, class discussion, questioning and detailed written responses, students develop their analytical skills. Through rich discussion and annotation students learn to gather and organise their evidence and then to manipulate language features to express complex ideas. When writing they edit for effect, selecting vocabulary and grammar that contributes to the precision of their written and verbal output, using accurate spelling and punctuation.
Students follow this up with a study of the film ‘Freedom Writers’ as text, comparing the way writers explore important ideas with the way film makers do it. They apply a specific analytical method to scenes of their own choice and explain their interpretations with a formal oral presentation to their peers. This task builds their analytical skills which they then apply to a formal analytical essay that tests their ability to justify their opinions using their knowledge of film. Throughout the semester there is a concurrent focus on improving grammar, spelling and punctuation which is designed to give students a strong base for all their thinking and expression, in any genre or form of communication.
Mathematics
In Year 8 Mathematics, students will be using an online learning environment to support their individualised development. This online learning environment is called Maths Pathways. Maths lessons will be tailored precisely to what each individual student is ready to learn. Students will be filling in gaps in prior learning or working on extension activities. As part of the curriculum, students will be involved in a learning cycle which lasts for a fortnight. In each learning cycle, students work on their own program along with engaging in Rich Tasks, which have a focus on problem solving and real world applications. Rich Tasks will either be individual tasks or activities that require students to work in small groups. They will focus on building a growth mindset towards their maths learning. Towards the end of each term, students will also participate in a Rich Project Task.
Inquiry
Students will explore the key question ‘How would an entrepreneur meet the supply and demand needs of The Lakes community?’
Initially students will participate in the ‘$20 Boss’ program. Students use $20 of start-up capital to create, launch and operate their venture over the course of Term 1. During Term 2 students will build on this knowledge to use primary data to develop a business proposal and financial plan that is submitted for approval. Interest free loans are provided, budgets established, goods and services arranged, and stalls set up with the learning being shared through the operation of The Lakes Market Day.
Humanities
In Semester Two Humanities, students explore the key question, ‘How Would an Entrepreneur Target the Needs and Wants of the Lakes School Community?’ Students develop their knowledge of economic theory by looking at how supply and demand impacts consumers and producers and in turn, the greater economic system. By exploring and observing the characteristics of entrepreneurs and successful businesses, they will be able to discuss how to operate within economic systems. Students will apply their understanding of economics in a number of practical assessments
Students will then switch to a focus on Civics and Citizenship where they will explore what the roles and responsibilities of an Australian Citizen are, including the right to vote and the notion of a ‘fair go’ for all. They will then analyse what it means to be an Australian in the 21st century by researching different diverse groups including migrants from different eras and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, explaining the impact they have had on the broader Australian identity.
Science
Students explore biological phenomena at the cellular level by comparing plant and animal cell structure and use this knowledge to explain their specialised functions. They then apply their understanding of cells to further their knowledge of multi-cellular organisms, including tissues, organs and systems. Students explore the specialised functions of the circulatory, digestive and excretory systems. Students explore aspects of the relationship between the Earth, the Sun and the Moon with a particular focus on the predictable phenomena on Earth, including seasons, solar and lunar eclipses and climate variation. Students investigate the formation of rock types over a variety of timescales. They explore how ancient knowledge has helped to inform our understanding of our place in the universe.
Health
Students explore the issues and concepts that all adolescents are faced with during these challenging years. Students investigate various health related issues, including sex, sexuality, respectful relationships, drugs and alcohol, in order to assist and develop their understanding so that they are able to make informed, healthy choices now and in the future. Case studies are implemented within this program to allow students to align the concepts with potential real-life situations.
Physical Education
Students participate in a variety of team sports within practical sessions including touch rugby and lacrosse. There is a focus on skill development, game awareness, game design and modification. Students focus on the benefits of regular participation in moderate to vigorous physical activity throughout and engage in non-invasive sports, such as table tennis. They also explore fitness components and complete various tests focusing on these areas to develop an understanding of data and how to interpret it. Theoretically, students focus on teamwork, tactical development and explore the value of active transport and consolidate this learning through practical sessions.
Electives
Over the course of Year 8, students complete two electives selected from the two areas of Performing Arts and Technology.
For subject details see the electives listed on the Electives pages..