KOTARA HIGH
SCHOOL
ELECTIVE CHOICES
For
YEAR 8 – 2012
YEAR 8 2012
This handbook outlines the Technology (Mandatory) and Elective Program for Year 8 in 2012. It has
been prepared so that parents and students will be aware, not only of the variety of courses offered, but
of the choice that is possible within subject areas. Our program relies heavily on student choice and a
careful study of this handbook is needed.
If further advice is required ask any of the following people:
Year Adviser
Miss Scobie
Subject Choice Organisers
Mrs Shepherd
or
Teacher-in-Charge of Subject
Careers Adviser
Mr Blake
Please make any problems known to us.
1
Mr Stone
TECHNOLOGY (Mandatory) / ELECTIVE CHOICES
Students in Year 8 2012 will follow the pattern of studies indicated below:
1. English
2. Mathematics
3. Science
4. History/Geography
5. PD/Health/PE/Religious Education
6. Japanese
7. Three courses per semester chosen from Technology (Mandatory) / Elective options.
This booklet provides information regarding the available options to satisfy the students’
requirements in point 7 above.
Parents and students are advised that:
o Each student will be supplied with a username and a password so that they can make their selections via
the internet. Students will make their choices via the internet. When you are ready, go to
http://www.webpreferences.com.au
o Each student will be able to make five attempts (if they need them) to make their selections. However,
students can also have a practice by using the selection form on page 14 of this booklet if it helps. The
selection form DOES NOT need to be handed to Miss Scobie. She will know whether you have made
your selections when she checks the web site. All of the following rules and selection information are
also available on the web site.
o The Board of Studies requires that all Year 8 students will be enrolled in Technology (Mandatory).
However students have choices as to which options they choose within the Technology (Mandatory)
course. Descriptions of these options appear in this booklet on pages 6 and 7. A summary of the
options can also be found on the selection form (page 14). The options are listed in the table on the
selection form in Groups A and B. Students and parents are advised that the module
Communications Systems Design will be studied by all students.
o Kotara High School also offers Year 8 students a choice of elective courses. The options for elective
courses are listed in this booklet on pages 8 to 13. The options for elective courses are also listed in the
table on the selection form (page 14) in Group C.
2
o Students in Year 8 in 2012 will be enrolled in three (3) Technology (Mandatory) / Elective courses in
semester one AND three (3) Technology (Mandatory) / Elective courses in semester two. This means
that students who are currently in Year 7 must choose six (6) options from those on offer in this
booklet. The nature of the selection process is such that we cannot guarantee that all of the options will
run in 2012. So we also ask students to choose four (4) reserve options. (Please refer to the next six
dot points.)
o Students are advised to carefully choose their Technology (Mandatory) / elective courses. The number
of classes allocated to particular courses and their staffing result from these choices.
o While every attempt is made to give students their first choices, in some cases, this will not always be
possible. Some students may find that the pattern of choices results in a clash of courses, with two or
more of a student’s choices being allocated to the same line of the timetable. In other cases, if
insufficient students choose a course, this course may not run. The students involved will then be
allocated their reserve choices in order of the preference indicated when they make their selections.
o Students may only be able to apply to change course choices in the last two weeks of this school year or
after the first two weeks of next year. In applying to change courses, students should not assume that
the application will be granted. Any change will depend upon vacancies in the course to which the
student wishes to change, whether or not the change will result in a course clash and whether the
student’s course pattern still complies with Board of Studies requirements.
o Changes will only be considered if an application is made after completing a form available from Miss
Scobie and is supported with a note from the student’s parent/guardian.
o Parents and students are advised that some courses involve a cost for which a contribution from
students is required. Parents are requested to meet these costs as early as possible in the semester.
o If there is difficulty in meeting the contribution, assistance is available through the Student Assistance
Scheme. Application forms are available from the school office.
What Do Parents and Students Need To Do?
 Read your instructions carefully. Remember that this booklet and the web site contain the same
information.
 Consult with Miss Scobie (English), Mrs Shepherd (Maths) or Mr Stone (Science) if necessary.
 Use your username and password to access the web site.
Follow the instructions to make your
selections. Remember if you change your mind, you have a total of five (5) attempts.
 The web site address is http://www.webpreferences.com.au
3
TECHNOLOGY (Mandatory) : SUMMARY OF AVAILABLE OPTIONS

Technology (Mandatory) is a mandatory course.

Technology (Mandatory) consists of three Areas of Study. For the purpose of the Kotara High School
curriculum for 2012 these three Areas of Study have been grouped as follows:
o Built Environment (Group A)
o Products (included in Group B)
o Information and Communication (included in Group B)

All students in Year 8 in 2012 will complete a minimum of three options from the Technology
(Mandatory) course. The selection rules are:
o Communication Systems Design (from Group B) will be studied by all students
o Students must choose at least one option from Group A.
o Students must have a total of at least three options from Groups A and B.
The following is a summary of the options being offered within Technology (Mandatory) at Kotara High
School in 2012. The page number refers to the page in this booklet where you will find a description of the
option.
Group A – Built Environment
1.
Interior Design
page 6
2.
Architectural Design
page 6
3.
Structural Design
page 6
Group B – Products and Information and Communication
4.
Communication Systems Design
page 7
5.
Food Design
page 7
6.
Fashion Design
page 7
7.
Accessory Design
page 7
8.
Industrial Design
page 7
9.
Software Design
page 7
4
ELECTIVE COURSES : SUMMARY OF AVAILABLE OPTIONS
Plus
ELECTIVE COURSE CONTRIBUTIONS 2012
FACULTY
COURSE
CONTRIBUTION PAGE
ART
Sculpture
Graphic Art
Visual Arts
Beginning Photography
$20
$20
$20
$20
8
8
8
8
ENGLISH
Drama
Film Making
Writers Workshop
Multi Media Course
$10
$5
Nil
Nil
8
9
9
9
HSIE
Commerce
Nil
10
MUSIC
Contemporary Music
Hands-On Music
$15
$15
10
10
PD/HEALTH/PE
Physical Activity and Sport Studies $10
11
TECHNOLOGY AND APPLIED STUDIES ( TAS)
Elective Subjects
Childcare
$10
Creative Computing
$10
Industrial Technology Electronics $25
Textiles Technology
$8
Food Technology
$20
Graphics Technology ( CAD )
$5
Hospitality Skills
$25
Industrial Technology Jewellery
$20
Industrial Technology Metal
$15
Create your own style ( Textiles)
$10
Toy Making in Wood
$10
Industrial Technology Timber
$10
11
11
11
12
12
12
12
12
13
13
14
14
TECHNOLOGY AND APPLIED STUDIES ( TAS)
Mandatory Subjects
( Fee $ 50 per year- Covers all subjects listed below)
Interior Design
Architectural Design
Structural Design
Communication and Systems design
Food Design
Fashion Design
Accessory Design
Industrial Design
Software Design
5
6
6
6
7
7
7
7
7
7
TECHNOLOGY (MANDATORY) – COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
GROUP A
INTERIOR DESIGN
Discover your creative side through designing with fibre, yarn and fabric to create a fabulous interior décor
piece to suit your room, or a colourful creation for any room in the house. Students will learn about the use
of colour in dyeing and printing fabrics and production techniques using both machine and hand techniques.
The work of interior designers in industry is examined and inspiration gained from looking at modern trends
in interior design.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
Architectural Design is a very important part of our lives. In this module students develop architectural
concepts and present drawings, scale models and verbal presentations in areas that may include the design
of holiday accommodation units, student bus shelters, and covered outdoor learning areas (COLAs).
STRUCTURAL DESIGN
Structural Design is an engineering based module of Technology (Mandatory), where students have the
opportunity to design and construct scale models of everyday structures. These may include towers, bridges
and hydraulic cranes. As part of the engineering design process the models will be tested to the point of
destruction. This will give the students an insight as to how structures work and fail.
6
TECHNOLOGY (MANDATORY) – COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
GROUP B
COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS DESIGN (all students must study this course)
The ‘digital revolution’ is upon us and we are increasingly being affected by the digital world. This course
addresses the essential programs used in schools to enable students to become capable and confident
computer users. The module Communication Systems Design is provided to equip students with the
necessary skills associated with the ‘digital revolution’ and assist in the Laptops for Learning program.
The software students will use after receiving laptops in Year 9 is to be incorporated into the course.
Microsoft Suite and Adobe Suite will be used to develop design solutions to a range of challenges for
students.
The design projects undertaken in this course will extend students’ knowledge of digital media. A range of
software and hardware will enable students to deliver high quality digital products. Motion, video and still
camera use, as well as sound recording and multimedia specialisations are included in this course.
FOOD DESIGN
Imagine you run a design company in the business of throwing parties! Design, plan, and produce your very
own Theme Party or get-together, including producing the invitations on the computer and all the food in
practical cookery. Your group work will include costing, food preparation, organisation and games and
entertainment for the party, culminating in presenting the party mock-up for evaluation by the client.
FASHION DESIGN
Have you ever wondered how those fashion designers work to create new clothing styles every season?
Take a look back to previous fashion and forward through the study of the latest fashion designers and
trends to learn the secrets of high fashion. Students will design and make a simple garment or apparel article
for themselves which has a distinctive high fashion edge.
ACCESSORY DESIGN
Get creative with accessories made from the latest fabric, glass and plastic beads in modern fashion colours
and designs. Students will explore the history of accessory design and discover the work of contemporary
designers in the field of accessories as they apply some of their own special design flair to making
jewellery, evening bags or hair accessories using fabric beads and mixed materials.
INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
In this specialisation students have an opportunity to design and make a product which may include a
simple wooden toy with at least two moving parts or an innovative product for the home.
SOFTWARE DESIGN
This module is electronics based. Students will design a Lego based robot to perform a series of basic
tasks. Students will gain experience in robotic software design and have the opportunity to participate in
the Hunter Regional Robo Cup Junior Competition.
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ELECTIVE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
FROM THE ART FACULTY
SCULPTURE
This course is for students who would like to develop their creative skills through a variety of sculpture
techniques. You will learn a range of sculpture techniques and explore a variety of materials through practical
experiences.
You will need a Visual Art Diary and the contribution of $20 helps to cover the cost of clay, glazes etc.
This course is a good basis for the Visual Design course in Years 9 and 10.
Contribution
$20
GRAPHIC ART
This course is for students who would like to use their creativity and imagination in a practical way. You will
learn a range of design techniques and explore a range of media through practical experiences. Topics that
might be covered in this course could include – poster design, illustration, cartooning, printmaking.
You will need a Visual Art Diary and the contribution of $20 helps to cover the cost of equipment and materials
used.
This course is a good basis for the Visual Design course in Year 9 and 10.
Contribution:
$20
VISUAL ARTS
This course is for students who would like to develop their creative skills through the production of a variety of
art forms – drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics and design. You will learn a range of artmaking
techniques and explore a variety of media and materials.
You will need a Visual Art Diary and the contribution of $20 helps to cover the cost of equipment and materials
used. This elective course provides a good basis for the Visual Art Course in Years 9 & 10.
Contribution:
$20
BEGINNING PHOTOGRAPHY
This course is for students who would like to learn about basic photographic techniques. You will learn how to
compose photographs through the camera, basic darkroom techniques, and develop skills in taking and
manipulating digital photographs.
You will need a Visual Art Diary and the contribution of $20 helps to cover the cost of equipment and materials
used.
Contribution
$20
FROM THE ENGLISH FACULTY
DRAMA
In this subject fun and games will combine to work out ways of exploiting your hidden talents. The course
involves participation in all aspects of theatrical skills (warm ups, improvisation, mime, playbuilding,
workshops with resource people of the area), leading to a performance.
The aim of the course is that students should acquire an understanding of the nature of dramatic arts and its
forms. To encourage the practical application of drama it is suggested that students be involved in workshops
where dramatic themes and forms are explored through active participation. This includes acting, directing,
stage management, designing, costuming, lighting, make-up, sound effects and auxiliary effects.
Contribution
$10
8
FILM MAKING
This is a practical course in which you will learn the terms used in making films and videos and find out about
the people involved.
You will use the video camera to practise various camera shots and techniques and then produce a short video
shot according to an acting script produced by the class.
The course is about being creative and developing your technical expertise and can provide the basis for
making your own film in senior years.
Stephen Spielbergs of Kotara this is for you!
Contribution
$5
WRITERS’ WORKSHOP
This course is designed for students who enjoy writing and wish to improve their skills. It provides students
with the chance to:
 Read and imitate famous openings
 Examine clever endings
 Go in writing competitions
 Develop fascinating characters
 Conquer different writing styles
 Improve your control while being creative
 Meet known writers
 Polish and publish using technology
Contribution
Nil
MULTIMEDIA COURSE
This course is for those who wish to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in relation to multimedia,
photographic and associated industries.
Students will use and become proficient at:
 Using cameras
 Conquering scanners
 Experimenting with printing techniques
 Storing and sorting media images
Students will encounter the elements of:
 Design
 Animation
 Interactive computer bases
 Cinema techniques
 Photographic images
 Desktop publishing
 Producing their own year magazine
Contribution
Nil
9
FROM THE HSIE FACULTY
COMMERCE: Be A Wise Consumer.
There is no escaping commerce – whether you study it or not, every day you are faced with decisions that
influence your standard of living. Each time we pass a billboard, buy our lunch or stop at a red traffic light we
are playing a part in the commercial environment, whether we know it or not.
The study of commerce is about preparing people to make the best decisions they can, about knowing how our
society is structured and the choices that are available to us. It enables us to understand our rights and
responsibilities, and how we can manage our personal and financial resources to everyone’s benefit.
Year 8 Commerce students will study the following core areas from the Stage 4 section of the 7-10 Commerce
Syllabus
 Consumer Choice
 Consumer Finance
and from the Option Topics:
 Promoting (Advertising) and Selling
 Investing
 E-Commerce
 Travel
Contribution
Nil
FROM THE MUSIC FACULTY
CONTEMPORARY MUSIC
Music in Year 8 is based on Popular, Rock and Film Music and gives you the opportunity to further your skills
on a musical instrument as well as listening to the modern musical styles. You can continue performing on
keyboard or guitar or you might decide to take up a new instrument and see if you like it. The course aims to
improve your performance, listening and composition skills and all you need is a desire to participate and
develop your music skills and knowledge.
Contribution
$15
HANDS-ON MUSIC
This course is based on practical music making and learning how to improve and develop your skills on your
chosen instrument. There will be opportunities to learn solo and group pieces and you will be able to
participate in an encouraging atmosphere. There will be opportunities to continue to learn how to read and
compose music on your instrument and you will listen to and watch famous performers and bands in popular
and rock music styles. If you love playing and listening to music, this is the course for you.
Contribution
$15
10
FROM THE PD/H/PE FACULTY
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND SPORT STUDIES – Competition Aerobics
This course is an extension of the Personal Development, Health and Physical Education course. It is a
movement based course and uses Competition Aerobics as the focus for practical and theory units. Pupils are
given the opportunity to increase their awareness of issues relating to physical activity and health, movement
skill development, participating with safety, fitness, skills and techniques, event management and career
opportunities. Students may get the opportunity to represent the school at State competitions if they are
interested and show commitment. Students need no prior experience in competition aerobics but do need a
willingness to participate enthusiastically in practical lessons and an organised approach to theory lessons.
Contribution
$10 for Choreography Resource
FROM THE TAS FACULTY
CHILDCARE
This is an introductory course to child care studies which is followed by the very popular “Personal
Development: Child Studies ” course in Year 9 and 10.
The aim of this course is to introduce students to child care and develop a responsible attitude to, and an
understanding of, children’s needs.
Topics will include:
Responsibilities and liabilities of child care
Infant and child care
Child centred activities
Nutritious food for young children
Health and safety
Contribution
$10
CREATIVE COMPUTING
The Year 8 course is an introduction to using Multimedia in computing. Students will learn how to take and
manipulate images using digital hardware (cameras and video imaging), sort, store, use and transmit images
using Movie Maker, Photostory and Photoshop, and publish their work. Students may require a USB flash drive
to store data in this course.
This course is designed for students who would like to use Computer Technology in creative pursuits like art
and photography, and in their printed work presentations in the future.
Contribution
$10
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY ELECTRONICS
This course is based on learning through building practical electronic circuits. As a student of Electronics you
will work in a specially equipped room using state-of-the-art technology to produce interesting and functional
projects. Projects include an electronic game, a multi-purpose timer, a light activated alarm and an FM bug.
Students who find this course interesting will enjoy the study of Electronics in Years 9 and 10.
Contribution
$25
11
TEXTILES TECHNOLOGY
This course is an introductory course to the “Textile and Design” course in Years 9 and 10. Pupils will study
current fashion trends in clothing - e.g. sportswear, leisure and nightwear, personal and household accessories e.g. hats, belts, cushions, makeup and hairstyles. Students will make simple garments or accessories to
complement this study.
This course is designed for students with an interest in fashion and in designing and making individual clothing
for themselves.
Contribution
$8 plus fabric for garments.
FOOD TECHNOLOGY
The study of Food Technology provides students with an opportunity to gain an understanding of food and
principles of nutrition. It will enable them to make creative and effective decisions about food. Skills
developed through the study of Food Technology include the ability to design, communicate, manage and use
resources.
Hands on experience is encouraged at all times and food demonstrations are carried out throughout the course.
This course leads on to Food Technology elective in Year 9 and 10.
Contribution
$20
GRAPHICS TECHNOLOGY (CAD) Computer Aided Design
Graphical communication techniques are an essential part of life. This course will give students the opportunity
to develop skill in drawing and communication techniques thus having the ability to convert ideas from paper to
the effective making of a project.
The course will use a wide variety of techniques including computer graphics, rendering techniques, freehand
design and basic technical drawing and presentation skills. Introduction to Graphics and Design is a very useful
subject for any student who wishes to study Technology in Years 9 and 10.
Contribution
$5
HOSPITALITY SKILLS
This is a basic introduction to food production for the hospitality industry. Students will produce meals suitable
to serve to a customer for different times of the day - i.e. breakfast, dinner.
Many basic food preparation skills are developed and correct, attractive presentation is emphasised. Skills in
basics like table setting, table layout and decoration and restaurant etiquette are included.
The basic skills learned can be continued into the Technology elective in Year 9 and 10 and Hospitality (VET
course) in senior years.
Contribution
$25
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY JEWELLERY
Industrial Technology Jewellery is a “hands-on” Technology subject developed as an introductory course for
the School Certificate subject - Industrial Technology Jewellery. In Industrial Technology Jewellery students
will be given the opportunity to design and make many small articles such as silver rings, bead earrings,
bracelets, necklaces, chain pendants and ornamental works.
This course involves the development and appreciation of practical skills and the majority of class time will be
devoted to the manufacture of quality projects. As with any technology based subject there is a component of
associated theory work, but this is directly related to the practical work at hand and is intended for the student
to gain full appreciation of the world of jewellery making.
Contribution
$20
12
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY METAL
Industrial Technology Metal is an introductory subject for the School Certificate course Industrial Technology
– Metal. This subject will provides students with opportunities in designing and making small projects which
include wind chimes, weather vanes, book ends, tool racks, spiral candle holders and decorative pendants.
This “hands-on” elective will enable students to develop and appreciate a variety of practical skills used to
create quality projects. There is a component of associated theory directly related to the practical work
covered.
Contribution $15
CREATE YOUR OWN STYLE (TEXTILES)
This is a non-traditional course using textile methods to create art pieces. Students will experience hands-on
activities in use of textiles through techniques such as silk painting, photographic screen printing, hand painting
and marbling fabrics and modern machine quilting and embroidery.
The course is for students who like working creatively with colours and fabrics but don’t necessarily want to
make clothing. Studies continue in fabric design with the Year 9 and 10 Textile and Design course.
Contribution
$10
TOY MAKING IN WOOD
This elective provides an excellent opportunity for students to experience a variety of production techniques
and develop valuable wood working skills. The subject is practically based with a strong emphasis on the safe
use of tools and equipment. Interesting and functional children’s toys will be constructed during the semester.
Contribution:
$10
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY TIMBER
This is an introductory subject for the School Certificate course Industrial Technology – Timber. It is a course
which provides practical and theoretical components which relate directly to timber.
Students electing this course will develop a wide range of valuable skills. Workshop safety, care and
maintenance of equipment, appreciating and economically using a natural and renewable resource are all
important features of this course.
Contribution:
$10
13
Year 8 2012
Technology (Mandatory) / Electives Choice Form
Student’s Name: ………………………………………
Instructions for Making Your Choices
o You are choosing three options to run in semester one and three options to run in semester two.
o At least three (3) options must be chosen from the Technology (Mandatory) area (Groups A and B)
with at least one (1) being from Group A and one being Communication Systems Design
o You will use the numbers 1 to 10 to indicate your choices.
o Numbers 1 to 6 will be for your first choices.
o Numbers 7 to 10 will be for your reserve choices.
o You will be making choices for the whole year so think carefully and choose wisely.
Filling in the Table





A 1 has already been placed next to Communication Systems Design
Put 2 next to any option you wish to do from Group A.
Put a 3 next to any other option you wish to do from Groups A or B.
Put 4, then 5, then 6 next to any other options you wish to do from groups A, B or C.
Put 7, 8, 9 and 10 next to your reserve options in any group.
GROUP A
GROUP C
GROUP C
1. Interior Design
10. Ceramics /Sculpture
22. Ind tech Timber
2. Architectural Design
11. Graphic Art
23. Ind Tech Jewellery
3. Structural Design
12. Visual Arts
24. Graphics ( CAD )
GROUP B
13. Beginning
Photography
14. Drama
25. Contemporary
Music
26. Hands-On Music
15. Film Making
27. Childcare
16. Writers Workshop
28. Textiles Technology
6. Fashion Design
17. Multi Media Course
29. Food Technology
7. Accessories Design
18. Commerce
30. Hospitality Skills
8. Industrial Design
19. Ind Tech Electronics
9. Software Design
20. Ind Tech Metal
31. Creating your own
style ( Textiles)
32. Creative Computing
4. Communication
Systems Design
5. Food Design
1
21. Toy Making in Wood
33 Physical Activity and
Sport Studies
Checking

Have you used the numbers 1 to 10?

Have you chosen at least one option from Group A? Have you numbered this option as number 2?
14