The middle school program is designed to meet the requirements of adolescents, offering a variety of enrichment programs and the ability to select electives of areas of interest to increase engagement and interest in their studies. Students enhance their knowledge and skills, preparing them for a successful transition to the senior school.
Year 9 & 10 Curriculum Outline
At Year 9, a study of languages becomes an elective choice and students have the option to continue studying either Greek or Japanese for the academic year.
Students in Year 9 are also offered a variety of semester-based electives across all learning areas, this is designed to help students to start to make informed choices for their senior school pathways.
The Year 10 curriculum is designed to equip students for their future senior school pathways. Throughout the year, students engage in a study of core subjects; English, Mathematics and HPE. Additionally, they are provided with the opportunity to select a Humanities and Science subject of their choice aligned with the specialised strands offered in VCE.
Core Subjects
Core subjects offered for Year 9 and 10 students are as follows:
We understand that a sound knowledge of English is essential for all learning, across all subject areas of the Victorian Curriculum. We also understand that our students are members of the wider community and as such, it is important that our teaching addresses the aspirations of the lives of our young people beyond secondary school and prepares them for the ever-changing world around them.
In Years 9 and 10, students continue developing well-rounded communication skills. They are encouraged to become critical readers, capable of comprehending complex texts and analysing a range of competing perspectives. Targeted writing tasks allow students to articulate their thoughts with clarity and coherence through the completion of detailed essays, formal and informal reports and text response papers. Oral communication skills are supported to help students express themselves confidently and engagingly while actively listening to their peers.
EAL
Teaching of English as a Second Language (EAL), requires a sequential and detailed approach to cater to the diverse needs of students. The teacher plays a key role in ensuring that these learners, who may come from varied linguistic backgrounds, are effectively supported. In EAL classes, the teachers encourage participation and generate a safe, inclusive learning environment. By integrating engaging learning materials, teachers create opportunities for students to practise listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Ultimately, the aim is to provide EAL students the skills to become confident communicators and successful learners, equipped to navigate both academic and social situations while consolidating their knowledge and using English.
The primary aim of our mathematics program is to instil confidence and creativity in students to apply mathematical reasoning effectively. By bridging the gap between mathematical concepts and real-world situations, the program nurtures students' ability to make informed decisions and solve challenges.
Year 9 & 10
In Years 9 and 10, the curriculum builds upon the foundation laid in earlier years and delves deeper into more complex mathematical concepts:
- Number and Algebra: Extending algebraic skills to include linear and non-linear relationships, equations, and functions. Exploring indices, surds, and algebraic techniques.
- Measurement and Geometry: Developing a deeper understanding of geometric properties, angles, similarity, and congruence. Introduction to trigonometry, including applications in right-angled triangles.
- Statistics and Probability: Expanding statistical analysis, including probability distributions, sampling, and more advanced data representation. Exploring more complex probability concepts.
- Year 10 Electives: General Mathematics, Mathematical Methods Preliminary
Enrichment Program & Competition
Accelerated Mathematics Classes – Year 7 -10
Accelerated Math Classes - Years 7 to 10 - At South Oakleigh College, we provide opportunities to students who have been identified as working consistently and significantly above the mainstream expectations. Students work collegiately with their peers and are challenged and extended by their teachers in all areas of the curriculum.
Other Enrichment programs and Competitions
South Oakleigh College integrates a range of enrichment initiatives into the mathematics program to provide students with unique opportunities for growth and engagement. These initiatives include the Victorian High-Ability Program (VHAP), the ICAS UNSW Mathematics Competition, and a Coding Program. These programs empower students to further develop their mathematical abilities, apply creative problem-solving strategies, and explore the intersection of mathematics and technology.
Year 9
History
The Year 9 curriculum provides a study of the history of the making of the modern world from 1750 to 1918. In this unit students explore the Industrial Revolution and Australia’s experiences during World War I. It was a period of industrialisation and rapid change in the ways people lived and worked. It was an era of nationalism and imperialism, these trends ultimately culminated in the devastation of World War One.
Geography
The Year 9 geography curriculum teaches students to respond to questions in a geographically distinctive way. In this unit students explore biomes and food security. Students examine the biomes of the world, their alteration and significance as a source of food and fibre, and the environmental challenges and constraints on expanding food production in the future.
Business & Economics
The Year 9 Business and Economics curriculum explores knowledge and skills that will enable students to participate actively and ethically in the local, national, regional and global economy as economically, financially and business-literate citizens. In this unit students investigate consumer and financial literacy. Students will investigate the different strategies for managing financial risks and maximising rewards across an ever-changing financial landscape.
Civics & Citizenship
The Year 9 curriculum builds students’ understanding of Australia’s political system and how it enables change. Students examine the ways political parties, interest groups, media and individuals influence government and decision-making processes. Students investigate the features and principles of Australia’s court system, including its role in applying and interpreting Australian law.
Year 10
Commerce
This branch of the humanities involves a combination of business and economic subjects. This study focuses on developing transferable skills that help students identify and investigate contemporary economic and business issues or events. Students develop consumer and financial literacy skills in personal finance to enable them to become active participates in the economy. They also cover the business environment, including the nature of innovation and how businesses seek to create and maintain a competitive advantage in the market. Accounting skills are also introduced as a precursor to senior study, where students collect, record, analyse and interpret financial data. The foundations of the legal system are also studied, in which students interpret different types of laws and the hierarchy of the courts.
History
This subject focuses on Australia and the legacy remaining from the First World War. Students then explore the role of Australia during World War II, including the causes, major events and the significance of our involvement. It includes a focus on the cultural, economic, and political impacts of the Holocaust and the way in which the events of the Cold War contributed to shaping Australian migration. The history unit also covers the rights and freedoms that came after the war and how the world has globalised to the present day. There is a specific focus in rights and freedoms to the contributions seen in developing and improving Indigenous Australian’s civil rights. This unit is designed to include a social approach to the major changes that occurred in the history of the 20th century.
Students in Year 9 have access to Accelerated and Mainstream Science classes as well as a semester-based elective - Forensic Science. Students from Accelerated Year 9 Science have options for year 10, they can select ‘BioChem’ (a VCE preparation elective) or opt into a Unit 1 science subject with consultation from the careers team.
Mainstream 9 & 10 science subjects continue with the process of building foundational skills to support students to meet the demands of future VCE science-based subjects.
Year 10 Electives:
- Year 10 General Science
- Year 10 Biochemistry
- Year 10 Physics & Systems Engineering
The year 9 and 10 Health and Physical Education curriculum is a combination of Theory and Physical Education classes. Students can choose from additional electives in both year 9 and year 10, based on Health, Psychology, Human movement, High performance sport and Duke of Edinburgh. As students’ progress through their school years, they examine the promotion of health of individuals and the community using specific strategies and the provision of health resources, services, and products. The curriculum also provides opportunities for students to refine and consolidate personal and social skills in demonstrating leadership, teamwork and collaboration in a range of physical activities.
Year 10 Electives:
- Year 10 Human Movement
- Year 10 Health & Psychology
Electives Subjects
Elective subjects offered for Year 9 and 10 students are as follows:
In year 9 students choose from a range of different electives. Each subject offers unique skills and knowledge, contributing to students' holistic development.
Materials Textiles
Students use commercial patterns to create garments and textile products, exploring advanced sewing techniques and decorative methods. They also delve into sustainable fashion, upcycling of garments, and research sustainable clothing production through recycling.
Music Performance
Designed to boost self-confidence, this course offers multiple performance opportunities. Students actively participate in group rehearsals, performances, and analysis. It extends their music theory knowledge and develops their creative voice and presentation style.
Art
In Year 9 Art, students continue to explore art elements and principles to create artwork. They also analyse and respond to artworks from various times, styles, forms, traditions, and cultures, enhancing their understanding of the visual world.
Drama
Students explore different theatrical styles and arrange their drama performances. They study theatrical ideologies through script analysis and develop stagecraft skills through involvement in the production process.
Visual Communication and Design
Students design various visual communications in environmental, industrial, and communication design fields. They follow a design process, utilize digital equipment, and prototype their designs using tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC mills.
In year 10, students choose year-long specialized courses that prepare them for senior school subjects by enhancing skills, vocabulary, and critical thinking. These courses provide a solid foundation for senior school studies.
Art
In this year-long course, students develop critical and creative thinking skills while working on artistic projects and responding to design and art challenges using a variety of materials. By the end of the course, they gain a strong understanding of creative industry practices and a deeper insight into their own artistic journey. Students also research and discuss artworks and designs from diverse sources, acquiring the ability to analyse and apply fundamental elements and principles of art and design across different media, along with skills relevant to VCE-level creative arts, design, and technology subjects.
Drama
Year 10 Drama is a preparatory course for VCE Drama, focusing on critical and creative thinking, analysis, and evaluation skills applied to performance works. Students work through challenges using diverse stimulus materials, gaining an understanding of conventions and production in various performance styles. They also study theatre works from different sources, learn to apply dramatic elements to different media, and develop folio skills crucial for VCE-level creative arts, design, and technology subjects.
Media
In Year 10 Media, students focus on media production across various platforms, including TV, animation, photography, and journalism. The course emphasizes ICT skills and encourages creative and critical thinking for effective communication. Students explore and create multiple media projects, including regular school community programming. They also have the opportunity to experiment with animation and motion-capture technologies. This course prepares students for advanced studies in VCE Media and related folio subjects.
Music
This subject is centred on enhancing students' grasp of music theory in written, aural, and analytical formats. It fosters the development of musicianship skills for both group and solo performances. Students analyse the works of other performers, seeking ways to improve their own approach to performance. They tackle technical, expressive, and stylistic challenges related to the pieces they are preparing. This knowledge is applied when preparing for both theory presentations and performances.
In year 9 students choose from a range of different electives. Each subject offers unique skills and knowledge, contributing to students' holistic development.
2D Game Development
Students delve into computer data storage, focusing on digital images, videos, audio, and video games. They design interactive video game prototypes that incorporate various digital media, including digital images, videos, audio, and text. They also learn about drawing basic shapes, images, and pixel art.
Food Studies
This subject covers the principles of food safety, preservation, preparation, presentation, and sensory perceptions that influence food creation. Students explore nutrition and dietary issues, enabling them to make informed food choices. They investigate, design, prepare, cook, and evaluate various foods to enhance their practical kitchen skills.
Electro Technology
Students expand their electro-technology knowledge by developing an electromechanical system and enclosure unit. This includes learning about basic mechanical systems, creating gear systems, and integrating them into electronic circuits that are user-programmable.
Design Mechanics and Robotics
Students learn the basics of robotics, investigating fundamental elements and coding. They program robots to follow instructions and complete tasks, promoting problem-solving through collaboration.
Wood Technology
Students gain an understanding of basic woodworking techniques, design thinking, and safe workshop practices. They learn different joins, techniques, and finishes, applying creative flair during the design stages.
In year 10, students choose year-long specialized courses that prepare them for senior school subjects by enhancing skills, vocabulary, and critical thinking. These courses provide a solid foundation for senior school studies.
Coding (Information Technology)
Year 10 Coding is a specialized program designed to prepare students for VCE Applied Computing courses. In this course, students delve into the intricacies of programming languages and embark on the journey of crafting software solutions to address real-world opportunities or needs. By the course's conclusion, students will have gained a solid grasp of software development programming practices, equipping them with valuable skills for the world of technology.
Café Catering
This course equips students to continue into Food Studies in VCE. Students will develop the skills to plan, prepare, present, and evaluate food solutions for specific purposes, primarily within the hospitality industry. It covers a wide range of topics, including menu planning, special occasion foods, dietary considerations, nutrition, kitchen technology, and food wastage. Students will design, justify, and prepare dishes, gain proficiency in kitchen equipment usage, and prioritize hygiene and safety. The course involves practical activities, research, peer and sensory evaluations, and a visit to the William Angliss Institute
Year 10 STEM Project
This subject focuses on STEM skills, which are vital for future employment. It offers students a project-based learning experience where they tackle real-life problems using real data. Students develop critical thinking skills by designing solutions to various challenges, incorporating scientific, mathematical, and engineering principles. Emerging technologies are also utilized in their projects to demonstrate their learning.
Benefits of Learning a Language
The study of a language other than English contributes to the overall education of students, most particularly in the area of communication, but also in the areas of cross-cultural understanding, intercultural learning, cognitive development, literacy and general knowledge. It provides access to the culture of communities which use the language of study and promotes the understanding of different attitudes and values within the wider Australian community, as well as global citizenship.
The ability to communicate in another language, in conjunction with other skills, may provide opportunities for employment in the fields of interpreting, social services, ethnic affairs, the tourism and hospitality industries, international relations and politics, the arts, commerce, technology, science and entrepreneurship.
Languages share similarities with other subjects in that they enhance students’ capabilities with their other learning areas. It is well known in the realm of academic research that students who study additional languages achieve higher performance in other subjects, improved concentration, more powerful long-term memory, stronger communication skills and improved empathy for others.
Japanese
In Year 9, students elect to continue their learning of the Japanese language. They will be revising their developing literacy skills with Hiragana and Kanji characters and will commence acquiring the ability to read and write using Katakana. Students will be engaged in interactive lessons and conversation practice, learning to share information about their routines and personal interests. Students who have demonstrated previous levels of proficiency with the language will also explore verb conjugation and will explore more deeply the connections between Japanese culture and cultural values. During this stage of students’ learning, students may can attend a Q and A incursion, featuring a guest speaker who uses Japanese in their field of work.
In Year 10, high-performing students are given the opportunity to accelerate their Japanese language studies into VCE Unit 1 and 2 Japanese Second Language. Students who commence the Year 10 course further expand their existing language proficiency, experimenting with additional verb and adjective conjugations and vocabulary words. These students will learn to apply grammar and vocabulary that will allow them to investigate social issues and express their gratitude to significant individuals in their lives, including family members, friends and role models.
At the end of Year 9 and 10, teachers will be contacting families of high-achieving students to recommend their continuation of the language into the next year level.
Greek
Students at South Oakleigh College electing to study Greek as a second language are provided with opportunities to use written and spoken Greek to initiate, sustain and extend formal and informal interactions with teachers, peers, and others in a range of settings. They use language spontaneously to respond to others, seek and give advice, contribute ideas and opinions, describe relationships, discuss aspirations, compare experiences, and express opinions on issues of interest. They interact with others to act, make decisions, negotiate, plan, and organise events and complete transactions. They sustain and extend conversations by elaborating on opinions and ideas.
At South Oakleigh College most students follow the Sequence F7-10 which is for second language learners. Students who are first language learners are extended with tutoring classes supported by language aides. They are provided with Greek texts from Greece to extend their levels of competence. All students participate in extra-Curricular activities which include incursion guest speakers, excursions to the Hellenic and Immigration Museums. Participation in cultural school events and external community participation. All students are given opportunities to participate in language and cultural competitions.