VCE COURSE OUTLINES 2015
The study summaries have been developed in accordance with VCAA requirements. A
'study' is broken up into four units. Each VCE study unit is numbered 1, 2, 3 or 4.
Further information about VCAA and VCE studies can be found at
www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
BIOLOGY
Biology is the study of living things from familiar, complex multicellular organisms that live in the many
different habitats of our biosphere to single celled microorganisms that live in seemingly inhospitable
conditions. It includes the study of the dynamic relationships that exist between living things and their
environment and the challenges of survival. All living things have many structural and functional
characteristics in common, which can be used to classify and group organisms. Modern biology draws on
biochemistry, neuroscience, genetics, evolutionary biology, behavioural science and cell and molecular
biology. It connects with physics, chemistry, earth and space sciences in exploring the nature of past and
present life, and the possibility of life forms beyond our planet. Students develop knowledge of bioscience,
skills of science enquiry and the values and attributes that will help them to consider issues and
implications associated with the application of biological techniques and technologies.
Areas of study
Unit 1 - Unity and Diversity
• Cells in action
• Functioning organisms
Unit 2 - Organisms and their
environment
• Adaptations of organisms
• Dynamic ecosystems
Assessment Tasks
Unit 1
1. Extended practical investigation related to cellular processes
2. Test related to cellular structure, organisation and processes
3. Report of practical activity based on the effect of exercise on
body systems
4. Test related to the requirements for life
5. Mid-year examination
Unit 2
1. Test related to adaptations and distribution of living things
2. Multimedia presentation relating to ecosystem interactions
3. Report of a practical field activity
4. Media response to an issue relating to ecosystem change
5. End of year examination
Unit 3
• Signatures of life
• Molecules of life – Chemical
structure of life
• Detecting and responding
Unit 3
1. Report of practical activity related to a biochemical process
2. Report of practical activity related to the movement of
substances across membranes
3. Summary report of a plant or animal response to stimuli
4. Presentation of one aspect of the immune response
Unit 4
• Continuity and Change
• Heredity
• Change over time
Unit 4
1. Summary report of a practical activity of a genetic cross
2. Summary report of a practical activity on a DNA
manipulation technique
3. Report demonstrating evolutionary relationships
4. Response to an issue to an application of gene technologies
5. End of year examination
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
In contemporary Australian society, there is a wide variety of business organisations in terms of size,
ownership, objectives, resources and location. These organisations are managed by people who establish
systems and processes to achieve a range of objectives. VCE 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 complexity, challenges and rewards that come
from business management and gain an 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.
In each unit students examine some of these theories and, through exposure to real business scenarios and
direct contact with business, compare them with management in practice. In studying VCE 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.
Areas of study
Unit 1
• Small business management
Unit 2
• Communication and
management
Unit 3
• Corporate management
Unit 4
•
Managing people and change
Assessment Tasks
Demonstrated achievement is based upon the student obtaining a
satisfactory performance from one or more of the following
assessment tasks:
• case study
• structured questions
• media analysis
• test
• essay
• report in written format
• report in multimedia format.
CHEMISTRY
Chemistry is a key science in explaining the workings of our universe through an understanding of the
properties and interaction of substances that make up matter. Most processes, from the formation of
molecules in outer space to the complex biological interactions occurring in cells, can be described by
chemical theories. Although there are no sharp boundaries between sciences such as chemistry, physics and
biology, chemistry is used to explain natural phenomena at the molecular level, as well as create new
materials such as medicines and polymers.
Areas of study
Unit 1: The Big Ideas in
Chemistry
• Foundations of Chemistry
• Atoms and their electrons.
• The Periodic Table; materials,
patterns and bonding.
• Understanding the mole.
• Compounds of carbon
Assessment Tasks
Unit 1
1. Collection of three practical investigations
Or
2.
Extended experimental investigation
3.
Research task - a written, oral or multimedia presentation
4.
Summary worksheets
5.
Topic test
6.
Mid-year examination
Unit 2: Environmental
Chemistry
• Water: essential for life
• Introducing acids and bases
• Stoichiometry and Redox
• Atmosphere and
environmental Chemistry
• Physical properties of gases
Unit 2
1. Collection of three practical investigations
Or
2.
Extended experimental investigation
3. Summary worksheets
4. Topic test
5. End of year examination
Unit 3
Unit 3
1.
Extended experimental investigation
2.
Written report of one practical activity
3.
An analysis of first- or second-hand data using structured
questions
4.
Topic tests
•
Unit 4
•
Chemical Analysis and
Organic Chemical Pathways
Industrial chemistry and
supplying and using energy
Unit 4
1. Written report on the uses, equilibrium and rate
considerations, and safety issues involved in the industrial
production of a selected chemical and its associated wastes.
2. Practical tasks and activities
3. Topic tests
4. End of year examination
ENGLISH/EAL (ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE)
The English language is central to the way in which students understand critique and appreciate their world
and to the ways in which they participate socially, economically and culturally in Australian society. The
study of English encourages the development of literate individuals capable of critical and imaginative
thinking. The mastery of the key knowledge and skills dealt with in this subject underpins effective
functioning in the contexts of study and work as well as productive participation in a democratic society in
the twenty-first century.
Areas of study: English/EAL
Units 1 and 2
• Reading and Responding.
• Creating and Presenting
• Using Language to Persuade
Assessment Tasks : English
Assessment Tasks: EAL
Unit 1
Unit 1
1. Expository essay based on the text I’m Not Scared
1. Expository essay based on the text I’m
2. Context: A written response: creative, imaginative
Not Scared.
or expository, drawing on issues prompted by the
2. Context: A written response: creative,
viewing of the film Gattaca.
imaginative or expository, drawing on
3. Written analysis and an oral presentation based on a
issues of Conflict prompted by the
viewing of the film Gran Torino.
selected issue debated in the Australian media.
4. Mid-year examination
3. Written analysis and an oral presentation
based on a selected issue debated in the
Australian media.
4. Mid-year examination
Unit 2
1. Expository essay based on the text The Things
They Carried
2. Context: A written response: creative,
imaginative or expository, drawing on issues of
Identity and Belonging prompted by the Bruce
Dawe’s poetry in the collection Sometimes
Gladness.
3. Written analysis based on a selected issue
debated in the Australian media.
4. End of year examination
Unit 2
1. Expository essay based on the text I’m
not Scared,
2. A written response: creative, imaginative
or expository, drawing on issues of
Conflict prompted by Beverley Famer’s
Collected Stories.
3. Written analysis based on a selected
issue debated in the Australian media.
4. End of year examination.
Areas of study: English/EAL
Units 3
• Reading and Responding.
• Creating and Presenting
• Using Language to Persuade
Unit 4
•
•
Reading and Responding
Creating and Presenting
Assessment Tasks: English
Unit 3
1. Expository essay based on the text Ransom
2. A written response: creative, imaginative or
expository, drawing on ideas and issues of the
context and prompted by the text Growing Up
Asian in Australia.
3. Written analysis and an oral presentation
based on a selected issue debated in the
Australian media.
Assessment Tasks: EAL
Unit 3
1. Expository essay based on the text Dear
America…Letters Home from Vietnam.
2. A written response: creative, imaginative or
expository, drawing on ideas and issues of the
context and prompted by the text Growing Up
Asian in Australia.
3. Written analysis and an oral presentation
based on a selected issue debated in the
Australian media.
Unit 4
1. Expository essay based on the text Dear
America…Letters Home from Vietnam.
2. A written response: creative, imaginative or
expository, drawing on ideas and issues of the
chosen context and prompted by the film text
Skin.
3. End of year examination
Unit 4
1. Expository essay based on the text Dear
America…Letters Home from Vietnam.
2. A written response: creative, imaginative or
expository, drawing on ideas and issues of the
chosen context and prompted by the film text
Skin.
3. End of year examination
FOOD TECHNOLOGY
VCE Food Technology focuses on the importance of food in our daily lives from both a theoretical and
practical point of view. Students should be able to apply their theoretical understanding of the relationship
between food and technology as they develop skills in food preparation.
Areas of study:
Unit 1
Food Safety and Properties of
Food
Assessment Tasks:
Unit 1
1. Short answer test on food hygiene, food safety, tools and
equipment.
2. Report on food safety OR Collaborative development computer
based presentation on keeping food safe
Outcomes
1. Keeping food safe
2. Food properties and
preparation
3. Demonstrated ability to apply safe, hygienic work practices in
practical situations.
4. Production of a range of foods with folio evaluations and responses
5. Unit Examination
Unit 2
Planning and Preparation of
Foods
Outcomes
1. Tools, equipment,
preparation and processing
2.Planning and preparing food
Unit 2
n Brief – Presenting food to optimise properties
Preparation of foods using a range of skills and processes
Special Needs or Culture based Investigation and Meal Planning
4.
Unit Examination
HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
Through this study, students will develop the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions about their
own health and to recognise the importance of health in society. They will be able to actively participate in
making appropriate choices that allow for good health.
The course content enables students to understand the current concepts of health and human development
in today’s world across the lifespan, in the context of both Australia’s and global health and human
development.
This course offers a range of pathways including the option to pursue further formal study in areas such as
health promotion, community health research and policy development, humanitarian aid work, allied
health practices, education, and the health profession.
Areas of study:
Unit 1
• Understanding youth
health and human
development
•
1. Text Activities/Summary Questions/Written Responses
2. Oral Presentation
Y outh issues
Unit 2
• Prenatal health and
individual development
•
Child health and individual
development
•
Adult health and individual
development
Unit 3
Assessment Tasks:
Unit 2
3. Mid-year and end of year examination
Unit 1
1. Oral Presentation
2.
Text Activities/Summary Questions/Written Responses
3.
Mid-year and end of year examination
Unit 3
• Understanding Australia’s Demonstrated understanding of the relative health status of Australians
Health
and analysis of health measures and variations in population groups
Knowledge of National Health Priority Areas and analysis of health
promotion programs to improve health status
• Promoting health in
Understanding and analysis of models of health, roles and
Australia
responsibilities of government and non-government organisations in
Australia’s health system
Unit 4
Unit 4
• Introducing Global Health Analysis of variations in health status between developing countries
and Human Development and Australia
• Promoting Global Health
Evaluation of the contribution of the Millennium Development Goals to
and Human Development global health and sustainable human development
Demonstrated understanding of a range of international organisations
and the roles they play at a global level. Ability to evaluate health
projects and programs to address and promote key issues relating to
health and human development
LEGAL STUDIES
Legal Studies provides students with an analytical evaluation of the processes of law-making and the
methods of dispute resolution. Students are able to develop an understanding of the impact our legal system
has upon the lives of citizens and the implications of legal decisions on the Australian society.
Areas of study
Unit 1
• Law in Society
•
•
Unit 2
•
•
•
•
Criminal Law
The Criminal Courtroom
Civil law
The Civil Law in Action
The Law in Focus
A Question of Rights
Assessment Tasks
Unit 1
1. Structured assignment
2. Folio and report
3. Test
4. Report (written, visual, oral or multimedia).
5. Mid-year examination
Unit 2:
1. Structured assignment
2. Mock court or role-play
3. Folio and report
4. Case study
5. End of year examination
MATHEMATICS
General Mathematics
These units examine the mathematical areas of Statistics and Probability, Arithmetic, Algebra, Functions
and Graphs, Geometry and Trigonometry. The appropriate use of technology to support and develop the
learning of mathematics is incorporated through both units. The use of graphical and scientific calculators
incorporating spread sheets and statistical software is also inherent in this study.
Areas of study
Units 1 and 2
• Arithmetic
• Data analysis and simulation
• Algebra
• Graphs of linear and non-linear relations
• Decision and business mathematics
• Geometry and trigonometry
Assessment Tasks
Units 1 and 2
1. Application Task
2. Analysis task
3. Topic tests
4. Semester exam
Maths Methods
This unit examines the mathematical areas of Functions, Graphs, Algebra, Calculus, and Probability. The
appropriate use of technology to support and develop the learning of Mathematics is incorporated through
both units. The use of graphical and scientific calculators incorporating spread sheets and statistical
software is also inherent in this study.
Areas of study
Assessment Tasks
Units 1 and 2
Units 1 and 2
• Functions and graphs
1. Application task
2. Analysis task
• Algebra
• Rates of change and calculus
3. Topic tests
4. Semester exam
• Probability
Units 3 & 4
• Functions and graphs
• Algebra
• Calculus
• Probability
Units 3 and 4
1. Application task
2. Analysis task
3. Topic tests
4. End of year exams
General Mathematics Specialist
This course covers functions, relations and graphs, algebra including complex numbers, calculus, vectors
and mechanics, linear and non-linear relations and equations, descriptive statistics, data analysis,
measurement, trigonometry, sequences and series, kinematics and dynamics. Graphic calculator technology
is used to support and develop teaching and learning.
Areas of Study
Units 1 and 2
• Arithmetic
• Data analysis and simulation
• Algebra
• Graphs of linear and non-linear relations
• Geometry and trigonometry
Assessment Tasks
Units 1 and 2
1. Application Task
2. Analysis task
3. Topic tests
4. Semester exam
Specialist Maths
Specialist Mathematics contains prescribed material from the following areas of Mathematics: Coordinate
Geometry, Trigonometric functions, Calculus, Algebra, Vectors in 2 & 3 dimensions, and Mechanics.
Students will learn mathematical concepts and acquire and develop skills in carrying out Mathematical
algorithms, routines and techniques and applying these skills to a range of worded problems. Students will
be expected to carry out extended and independent investigations of problems, situations or issues.
Findings in both problem solving and project activities will be communicated through reports.
Areas of Study
Units 3 and 4
• Functions, relations and
graphs
• Algebra
• Calculus
• Vectors
• Mechanics
Assessment Tasks
Units 3 and 4
1. Two analysis tasks, with the three outcomes assessed across the
tasks.
2. A single problem-solving, modelling application task.
3. Two tests that consist of a combination of multiple-choice,
short-answer and extended-response items.
4. Two end of year exams
PHILOSOPHY
The word philosophy means love of wisdom. This study introduces the critical methods of argument and
analysis that have been developed by philosophers in response to such central questions as what is wisdom?
It will encourage use of these methods in the development of answers to the questions of philosophy, as they
are relevant to life and participation in contemporary society.
Areas of Study
Unit 1
• Existence, knowledge and
reasoning
Unit 2
• Questions of Value
Unit 3:
• The Good Life
Unit 4:
• Mind, science and knowledge
School Assessed Coursework
Demonstrated achievement is based upon the student obtaining a
performance in the following assessment tasks:
• Short written exercises
• Written reflection and analysis
• Oral reflection and analysis
• An essay
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical Education examines the biological, physiological, psychological, social and cultural influences on
performance and participation in physical activity. Physical Education focuses on the complex
interrelationship between motor learning and psychological, biomechanical, physiological and sociological
factors that influence physical performances, together with the wider social attitudes to and understanding
of physical activity.
Areas of study
Unit 1
• Body systems and human movement
• Biomechanical movement principles
• Injury prevention and rehabilitation
Assessment Tasks
Unit 1
1. Laboratory Reports - Body Systems and Human
Movement
2. Test - Biomechanical Movement Principles
3. Case Study - Injury prevention and
Rehabilitation
4. Text Activities/Summary Questions/Written
Responses/Practical activities
5. Mid-year examination
Unit 2
Unit 2
1. Practical Presentation and Evaluation - Effective
Coaching Practices
2. Case Study - Physically Active Lifestyles
3. Multimedia Presentation - Promoting Active
Living
4. Text Activities/Summary Questions/Written
Responses/Practical activities
5. End of year examination
•
•
•
Unit 3
•
•
Unit 4
•
•
Effective Coaching Practices
Physically Active Lifestyles
Promoting Active Living
Monitoring and promotion of physical
activity
Physiological responses to physical
activity
Unit 3
1. Case Study- Monitoring and promoting Physical
Activity
2. Laboratory Report- Energy systems and fatigue
mechanisms
3. Unit Test- Acute adaptions
Planning, implementing and evaluating a
training program
Performance enhancement and recovery
practices
Unit 4
1. Written report- plan and evaluation of a six week
training program
2. Unit Test- Chronic Adaptions
3. Case Study- Enhancing Performance and
Recovery
PHYSICS
Physics is a theoretical and empirical science, which contributes to our understanding of the physical
universe from then minute building blocks of matter to the unimaginably broad expanses of the Universe.
This understanding has significance for the way we understand our place in the Universe. This study is
designed to enhance the scientific literacy of students in the specialised area of physics. Scientifically literate
physics students demonstrate interest in and understanding of the Universe, they engage in debates about
the nature of evidence, theories and models and the value of physics in society. They can describe and use
theories and models, propose and investigate hypotheses, collect data, analyse the limitations of that data,
draw conclusions, make recommendations and select and use a range of appropriate technologies and
mathematical techniques. The knowledge gained through physics will enhance students' ability to be
innovative and contribute to the intelligent and careful use of resources. This knowledge can be used, for
example, in industrial, medical and technical applications.
Areas of study
Unit 1
• Nuclear physics and Radioactivity
•
Electricity
•
Energy from the nucleus
Unit 2
•
•
•
Motion
Wave-like properties of light
Astrophysics
Units 3
• Motion in one and two
dimensions
• Electronics and photonics
Unit 4
•
•
•
Assessment Tasks
Unit 1
1. Extended practical investigation
2. Summary report involving a selection of problems
3. Unit test
4. Mid-year examination
Unit 2
1. Extended practical investigation
2. Summary report involving a selection of problems
3. Unit test
4. End of year exam
Unit 3
1. A student designed extended practical investigation
2. A test - short answer and extended response t - short and
extended responses
3. Mid-year examination
Unit 4
Electric power
1. A summary report of selected practical activities
Interactions of light and matter 2. A test - short answer and extended response
3. A data analysis
Einstein’s special relativity
4. End of year examination
PSYCHOLOGY
In the VCE study of Psychology, students explore complex human behaviours and thought processes. They
develop an understanding of mental health issues in society. Students are given the opportunity to apply
psychological principles to everyday situations such as workplace and social relations. Psychology provides
students with a sophisticated framework for understanding the complex interactions between biological,
behavioural, cognitive and socio-cultural factors that influence thoughts, emotions and behaviours.
Areas of study
Unit 1
Introduction
Psychology
Assessment Tasks
Unit 1
to Three tasks:
1.
Media response
2.
Visual presentation
3.
Research investigation
And a mid-year exam
Unit 2
Self and Others
Unit 2
Three tasks:
1.
Oral/visual presentation
2.
Evaluation of research
3.
Annotated folio of practical activities
And an end of year exam
Unit 3
The Conscious Self
Unit 3
Three tasks:
1.
Visual presentation
2.
Test
3. Report of a research investigation related to memory
Unit 4
Unit 4
Brain, Behaviour and Three tasks:
1. Annotated folio of practical activities, illustrating selected aspects of
Experience
learning
2. A visual presentation of a biopsychosocial framework to explain the causes
and management of a selected mental disorder
3. Test
STUDIO ARTS
Studio Arts
Studio Arts provides a framework for the establishment of effective art practices through the application of a
design process and the production of a cohesive folio of artworks. It enables students to specialise in a
particular form of studio production. Students generate, explore and communicate ideas through specific
studio forms and develop and use specialised skills in a range of media and techniques. The theoretical
component of the study informs students’ practice through an investigation of how selected studio forms
have been used by artists from different times and locations to produce identifiable styles. The study of
professional practices in the context of industry issues are also studied.
Areas of study
Unit 1
•
•
•
Unit 2
•
•
Developing art ideas
Materials and techniques
Interpretation of art ideas and
use of materials and techniques
Design exploration
Ideas and styles in artworks
Assessment Tasks
Unit 1
1. Exploratory work
2. Folio finished artworks
3. Written presentations
4. Mid-year examination
Unit 2:
1. Written presentations
2. Exploratory work
3. Folio of finished artworks
4. End of year examination
Unit 3: Studio production and
professional art practices
• Exploration proposal
• Design process
• Professional art practices and
styles
Assessment Tasks: Unit 3
1. An exploration proposal and a developmental folio
2. Evidence of: a collection of annotated research materials;
responses to structured questions; an annotated visual
report; an essay and; an oral presentation.
Unit 4: Studio production and art
industry contexts
• Folio of artworks
• Focus, reflection and evaluation
• Art industry contexts
Unit 4
1. A cohesive folio of finished artworks and an evaluation of
the finished folio.
2. Evidence of: a collection of annotated research materials;
responses to structured questions; an annotated visual
report; an essay and; an oral presentation.
VCE Information Technology
VCE Information Technology focuses on the processing of data and the management of information and
information systems. VCE Information Technology equips students with appropriate knowledge and skills
to use ICT responsibly and to make informed personal and workplace choices about developments in this
exciting field. Students are encouraged to orient themselves towards the future, with an awareness of the
technical and societal implications of ICT.
VCE Information Technology provides pathways to further studies in IT and to careers in ICT-based
areas. It also prepares students for programs that require an IT-related subject or for a range of careers
that require efficient and effective use of ICT.
Areas of study
Units 1
• From data to information
• Networks
• ICT in a global society
Unit 2
•
•
•
Unit 3
•
•
Assessment Tasks
Units 1
1. using ICT tools and techniques, produce a solution in
response to an identified need
2. visual presentations such as multimedia presentations
3. a written report using ICT
4. Mid Y ear Exam
Unit 2
1. using ICT tools and techniques, produce a solution in
response to an identified need
2. visual presentations such as multimedia presentations
3. a written report using ICT
4. End of Y ear Exam
Unit 3
1. In response to a design brief and given data:
data
• create a prototype website capable of supporting the
information needs of an online community.
And
One of the following that justifies the selected
website and explains the technical requirements
of the host network:
• a written report
• a short-answer test.
Data
analysis
and
visualisation
Programming and pathways
Tools,
techniques
and
procedures
Online communities
Organisations
and
management
2. In response to a design brief that includes an analysis
of an information problem:
• the design and development of a solution.
And
One of the following that discusses why and how
data is acquired via websites:
• a written report
• a test.
Unit 4
Unit 4
• Organisations
and 1. A solution in response to a design brief, including
user documentation.
information needs
• Information management
And
A report that evaluates the extent to which the
solution meets the needs of the organisation, in one
of the following:
• a written report
• an annotated visual report.
2.One of the following:
• a written report
• a test
• an annotated visual report.
VISUAL COMMUNICATION AND DESIGN
The study and use of visual language is the focus of Visual Communication Design. Students will have the
opportunity to develop an informed, critical and discriminating approach to understanding and using visual
communications, and to think creatively about design solutions. Visual Communication Design relies on
developing a range of drawing skills as the main component of visual language and leads to skill
development in areas beyond design, including science, business, marketing and management.
Areas of study
Unit 1
Drawing as a means of communication
Design elements and design principles
Visual communication design in context
Assessment
Unit 1
1. Design process
2. Written responses
3. Folio presentations
4. Mid-year and end of year examination
Unit 2
Technical drawing in context
Type and imagery
Applying the design process
Unit 2
1. Design process
2. Written responses
3. Folio presentations
4. Mid-year and end of year examination
Unit 3
Unit 3
•
•
•
Unit 4
•
•
•
Analysis and practice in context
Design Industry Practice
Developing a brief and generating ideas
Development of design concepts
Final presentation
Evaluation and explanation
•
•
•
Unit 4
•
•
•
•
A brief
Folio investigation
written responses
A folio of conceptual developments
Two distinct presentations
Written responses
end-of-year-exam