The Year 7 Mathematics Course is aligned with Victorian Curriculum content descriptions and achievement standards across the three strands Number and Algebra (NA), Measurement and Geometry (MG) and Statistics and Probability (SP). The course aims to expand each student’s mathematical skills and problem solving ability. The course is split into approximately 10 topics spread evenly across the two semesters. The course includes set exercises from a standard text book (found on the book list), weekly online tasks and physical hands on activities. It is assessed through topic tests, online tasks and class exercises. Students are regularly expected to complete class exercises at home as homework.

The study of English helps create confident communicators, imaginative thinkers and informed citizens. It is through the study of English that students will learn to analyse, understand, communicate and build relationships with others, with literature and with the world around them. Wonthaggi Secondary College’s English Program seeks to also develop the understanding, attitudes and capabilities of our students through the study of literature and literary elements.

Creative Writing
Students will learn about a variety of engaging creative writing techniques during this unit. Students will demonstrate their understanding by applying the writing techniques learned into their own short story.

Persuasive Language
Students will learn about a variety of persuasive techniques found within texts. Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding by analysing how particular devices influence an audience and by incorporating the persuasive devices learned both verbally and in writing.

Film Study
Students will explore how a selection of literary devices (plot, character, setting, theme and conflict) have been used within the film ‘Paper Planes’. Students will demonstrate their understanding of the selected literary devices both verbally and in writing in response to the film.

Novel Study
Students will study ‘Boy Overboard’ by Morris Gleitzman as a class and these novels will be provided by the English department. Students will build on their understanding of the different literary elements while starting to learn about author’s purpose. Students will complete a variety of creative tasks while reading the novel and will write a text response essay after finishing the text.

Figurative Language
Students will learn about a variety of figurative language techniques including similes, metaphors, alliteration, onomatopoeia and personification. Students will demonstrate their understanding of figurative language by compiling a portfolio of poetry.

Library Presentations
Students will have access to library presentations throughout the year that focus on different literary genres. Students will maintain a reading record and set goals to improve their reading skills.

Homework
Students will be required to complete at least one book report per semester. Students may also be required to complete Wordflyers assignments as part of their homework throughout the year.

The College Science Course emphasises scientific knowledge, the solution of practical problems, the cultural and human context of science and opportunities for personal development.

Introduction to Science
Introduction to division of science into broad areas. Awareness of safety procedures/precautions in science. Familiarise students with use of basic science equipment and reporting. Measurement ties in with length, volume, mass, time and temperature.

Matter and Water
A laboratory study of the behaviour of samples of solids, liquids and gases. The formulation of the particle model and its use in explaining and predicting behaviour of these states and changes of states. Students will examine the key role of water in sustaining life and the water cycle.

Mixing / Separating
A laboratory study of solubility, the separation of undissolved substances by filtration, sedimentation / decanting, sieving and the separation of dissolved substances by evaporation and distillation, miscible and immiscible liquids separation methods.

Earth and Space
An understanding of how interactions between the earth, moon and sun influence our seasons will be covered. Tides and eclipses will also be examined.

Classification
An introduction to the wide variety of living things. The dividing of animals into vertebrates and invertebrates. The difference between monotremes, marsupials and placentals, the main classes of invertebrates. Using keys to classify animals into main classes.

Forces and Motion
The notion of a force is introduced. The role of forces changing the motion of objects will be covered as will the different types of forces. The influence of gravity will be looked at also.

Assessment:
Assessment will be by topic tests together with other evidence such as assignment work, practical work, homework and book marks.

Humanities is a broad and diverse key learning area that brings together many traditional subject areas including Geography, History, Economics, Business Studies, and Careers. It provides a framework through which students understanding and knowledge is developed in relation to:

• The interaction between people and their environments.
• Australia and its place in the world.
• The societies of other countries.
• Local and global environments.

Humanities units of work are designed to:

• Extend student knowledge and understanding of society and environment and the interactions between the two.
• Enhance student understanding of concepts in the disciplines underpinning Humanities.
• Develop the skills needed to investigate and communicate information related to Humanities.
• Enable students to develop and justify views about local, national and global issues related to Humanities.
• Allow students to analyse the values of others and clarify their own.
• Develop an appreciation of cultures other than their own.

Humanities organises these subjects and perspectives into four strands:

• History
• Geography
• Economics and Business
• Civics and Citizenship

Course Content

At Year 7 level three strands of Humanities will be addressed throughout the year through the following areas of study:

Geography:

• Mapping Skills
• Water in the World – Examination of water as an example of a renewable resource using studies from Australia and from around the world.

History:

• The Ancient World – Investigation of the Ancient past through an examination of the cultural and societal systems of ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece or Rome and China or India.

Civics and Citizenship:

• Being a good citizen – Looking at what it means to be a citizen at Wonthaggi Secondary College, rights and responsibilities, bullying, the need for rules.

Assessment:

• Assessment will be made against the Achievement Standards of each subject area as set by the Victorian Curriculum. Grading will be based on a combination of set classroom tasks, research, bookwork, homework and tests.

Health Education

Health Education aims to:

• Promote attitudes and behaviours which contribute to personal and community well-being.
• Develop the ability to make decisions about personal and community health matters and to encourage students to take responsibility for such decisions.
• Provide accurate information about health and health-related matters.
• Develop an understanding of factors which influence the quality of life enjoyed by an individual or a community.
• Promote good health, fitness and a quality lifestyle.

Topics include the following:

• Protective Behaviours / Resilience.
• Harassment / Bullying : strategies to deal with it.
• Being myself: personal values, peer pressure, individual rights and responsibilities, resolving conflict.
• Developing essential social skills and improving social interaction.
• Health issues related to basic hygiene.
• Skin care and skin cancer.
• Puberty and basic introduction to reproductive systems.
• Fitness: fitness components, healthy active lifestyles.
• Personal Health Reflection.

Assessment is based upon student co-operation, contribution and responsibility within the group, as well as written work, topic tests, posters, research assignments and ICT based assignments. In addition to assessing set tasks, individual achievement will be reported in relation to the Victorian Curriculum.

Physical Education

The Physical Education Program is designed to help each student to become a well-adjusted and coordinated person. This is achieved through a varied and challenging program, whereby individual potential is developed in a physical, mental, emotional and social capacity.
The practical activities will include: Fitness Testing, Fundamental Motor Skills, Invasion Games, Striking and Fielding, Gymnastics, Athletics, Badminton, Softball, Basketball, Cricket, Hockey, Netball, Table Tennis, Volleyball and Soccer.

• Each student will be assessed according to organisation, attitude, performance, knowledge of rules and strategies, teamwork and progress in practical sessions; and the completion of theory tasks where it may apply.

Information Technology

This Information Technology course aims to develop general computing knowledge as well as encouraging the development of problem solving skills to solve common computer related issues. Students will undertake units in word processing, spreadsheeting, the history of computing and the Internet, as well as a unit in basic web page creation using HTML coding.

Assessment will be based on:

• Accuracy of information used in projects.
• Planning tools used in the creation of project work.
• Correct and appropriate use of program functions and tools.
• The efficient use of time in completing projects.

Students will achieve these outcomes through:

• Investigation of tools used in various programs.
• Design of projects using planning tools to achieve final product.
• Production using instruction/processes to achieve a set outcome.
• Evaluation of project to determine all set requirements are met.

Woodwork

This course aims to encourage students’ interest and enjoyment in using wood and to introduce them to basic techniques and tools with an emphasis on safe workshop practices.
Students will be required to design and produce various projects with original decorative features.

Assessment will be based on:

• The quality of construction and finish.
• The efficient use of time.
• Satisfactory completion of written work (eg. design, evaluation).

Students will achieve these outcomes through:

• Investigation into tools, techniques and materials
• Design of model
• Production of projects
• Evaluation of their projects including strengths and difficulties.

Metals and Plastic

This subject aims to develop an appreciation for a range of materials including Tin, copper, brass and acrylic and to introduce basic techniques and tools with an emphasis on safe workshop practices. Students will be required to design and produce various projects with original decorative features

Assessment will be based on:

• The quality of construction and finish.
• The efficient use of time.
• Satisfactory completion of written work (eg. design, evaluation).

Students will achieve these outcomes through:

• Investigation into tools, equipment and designs for products.
• Design of model before manufacturing.
• Production – set and self-designed products.
• Evaluation of the product and skill used in the classroom.

Mechanisms

The course in Mechanisms introduces students to a basic understanding in engineering and mechanics. Students gain an understanding in engineering structures and mechanical components. In this introductory course students build basic mechanisms and structures using Lego and projects involving a range of materials from which models will be made. Students develop an understanding of a design brief and will use investigation, design, construction, and evaluation skills developing a range of solutions to set problems. These components will include levers, pulleys, gears and engineering structures.

Assessment will be based on:

• Practical results
• Written evaluations on design and construction problems and solutions.

Students will achieve these outcomes through:

• Investigation into structures and mechanical components.
• Design of various structures.
• Production of models and structures form the design briefs.
• Evaluation of solutions to the design briefs.

Textile

Students will be expected to generate design ideas, make high quality products and evaluate their finished product. They will be expected to complete a minimum of two practical projects for the semester: one hand-sewing project using felt and one machine-sewn project using a cotton fabric. Students will be expected to complete all tasks in the textiles booklet provided by the textiles department. They will also be exposed to the impact of the textiles industry on the environment and possible solutions for sustainability.

Assessment will be based on:

• Design work.
• Safe work place practices. 
• Sewing techniques, production tasks and time management skills.
• Evaluation work.

Students will achieve these outcomes through:

• Investigating, generating, developing & testing design ideas.
• Practising and implementing various sewing techniques and production procedures.
• Evaluating design ideas, processes, solutions and sustainability.

Foods

Foods aims to:

• Encourage an awareness of safety issues that can affect individuals or others.
• Identify major nutritional needs for growth and development.
• Analyse a range of influences on personal and family food selection.
• Develop practical skills to satisfy individual and family needs.

Topics includes:

• Personal and food related safety.
• Reasons for eating food.
• Major nutrients.
• 5 food groups.
• Healthy diet pyramid.
• Basic dietary analysis.

Assessment:

• Observation of skills and approach to practical work.
• Test.
• Individual design brief assignments focused on basic nutrition.
• Theory journal.

Students in Year 7 study a foreign language. At Wonthaggi Secondary College we offer either Japanese or Indonesian. One of these languages will be allocated to each Home Group to study for two lessons per week in Year 7.
It is important to realise that it takes more than a year or two to become fluent in a foreign language and a very important part of learning a foreign language is MEMORISING new words and expressions, or in the case of Japanese, a new written script. Students are expected to do 20-30 minutes three times a week covering memory work and possibly completing set tasks. This memorising is vital if the student is to progress.

Indonesian

Learning a foreign language can be an exciting and challenging activity. Students will soon learn the expression “Selamat Datang”, which means “Welcome”. The students will learn to conduct simple conversations in Indonesian, read and act out role-plays, write short conversations, learn songs and much more. This subject also includes a brief study of the Indonesian people, their culture and country.
Topics covered include: greetings, introductions, numbers, describing people, talking about what you are doing, where you are going, birthdays, families, ages, pets, transport, buying things, talking about food, school subjects, classroom objects, leisure time activities and everyday conversation.

Assessment:

• In addition to assessing set tasks, individual achievement will be reported in relation to the Victorian Curriculum.

Japanese

While learning a foreign language is a demanding exercise it can also be very rewarding and quite enjoyable if undertaken seriously. Some students will come to the school with some prior knowledge of the language both spoken and written.
This knowledge will be revised and built upon. Students will continue to learn and conduct simple conversations on a limited range of topics. Written work will be focused on learning to read and write the hiragana script, although a small number of kanji (Chinese characters) are also included.

Topics studied are: Japanese writing systems, greetings, self introduction, friends, family, town, after school activities, food and culture. The subject also includes learning some songs, games and a general study of the Japanese people, their customs, lifestyle and country.

Assessment:

• In addition to assessing set tasks, individual achievement will be reported in relation to the Victorian Curriculum.

Visual Arts

Students will develop their own ideas from set themes and will be encouraged to be original and imaginative. They will have the opportunity to use a range of materials and techniques. They will complete major artworks. Students will also produce a series of developmental drawings in preparation for each major work. Student will also be required to complete theory components based on each learning task. Assessment will be based on their ability to generate original, imaginative ideas, quality of finished work and presentation.

Drama

Year 7 Drama students are working towards the Victorian Curriculum Level 7 Standards, two units per week for one semester. They work together to represent, create, develop and communicate familiar and abstract ideas in short performance pieces. Students develop an understanding of the traditional style of mime and explore cultural diversity through Indigenous storytelling and movement.
Units include: Working Together, Movement, Sound & Voice, Improvisation, Role Play, Creating Characters, and Working with a Script.
Assessment is based on:

• Workshop, performance and drama journal tasks.
• The ability to work individually and cooperatively in groups.
• The quality of dramatic ideas and finished work.

Music

The course aims to introduce students to the basic concepts of music and develop their capabilities as both musical listeners and performers. Areas covered include:

• Music reading – graphic notation.
• Student composition.
• Student performance in small and large ensembles.
• Informal singing.
• Analytical listening.

Assessment will be based on:

• Practical and written tests.
• Group and individual performances.
• Group participation.
• Student composition.

Instrumental Music

Instrumental Music Tuition is offered to students of the College at all year levels. The course includes practical and written work. The practical work includes solo, ensemble and band repertoire. Each student follows an individual work program with opportunities for public performances and examinations. The College has a Senior, Intermediate and Junior Concert Band, Stage Band, Choir and Guitar Ensemble. Tuition is offered in Woodwind, Brass, Percussion, Guitar and Voice – with some instruments available for hire. Highlights of Instrumental Music include the annual visiting Guest Artist program, the Talented Students concert and large combined band performances with other local schools.
COST: Fees for 2021 have not been set. In 2020 the charges were: Hire of instrument $150 for the year.
Tuition $308 for the year.
Students are assessed in the following ways: – observation of, and approach to work, attendance at Concert Band and lessons, rate of progress and written and practical tests, both informal and formal.

Visual Communication (Graphics)

Students will be introduced to basic fundamentals of Visual Communication Design and will explore a range of design element and principals.
Students will explore a range of design elements whilst learning how to draw in one and two point perspective and isometric projections. They will learn the basic fundamentals of laying out page design including image and text, formulating cover pages, posters and visual communication documents. Students will also have the opportunity to compare different advertisements and show understanding of the way visual communications are made within particular cultural and historical contexts.