INTRODUCTION TO THE MIDDLE SCHOOL YEAR 7 2022

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INTRODUCTION TO THE MIDDLE SCHOOL

YEAR 7 2022

Principal: Mr Glenn Morris Assistant Principal (Middle School): Ms Gina Carroll

Middle School Leader: Ms Lisa Chiuchiarelli

College Address: 123 Church Rd, Doncaster VIC 3108 Phone number: 03 9848 4677

Facsimile: 03 9840 1390 Email: [email protected]

Website: www.doncastersc.vic.edu.au

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CONTENTS

PURPOSE & VALUES ................................................................................................................................................ 3

PROFILE ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3

INTRODUCTION TO THE MIDDLE SCHOOL ..................................................................................................... 4

CURRICULUM GRID ................................................................................................................................................ 5

CURRICULUM PROFILE ......................................................................................................................................... 7

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS ............................................................................................. 8

MIDDLE SCHOOL-SPECIFIC CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & PROGRAMS ............................................. 9

CLUBS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 11

LIBRARY ................................................................................................................................................................... 11

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PROGRAM ................................................................................................................. 12

ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING ........................................................................................................................ 13

AWARDS ................................................................................................................................................................... 14

DISCOVERY PROGRAM ........................................................................................................................................ 15

SELECT ENTRY ACCELERATED LEARNING (SEAL)...................................................................................... 16

YEAR 7 CORE SUBJECTS ...................................................................................................................................... 17

ENGLISH .................................................................................................................................................................. 18

ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE (EAL) ......................................................................................... 19

MATHEMATICS ....................................................................................................................................................... 20

SCIENCE ................................................................................................................................................................... 21

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION ............................................................................................................. 22

HUMANITIES .......................................................................................................................................................... 23

LANGUAGES: FRENCH, ITALIAN & MANDARIN............................................................................................ 24

ART & TECHNOLOGY ............................................................................................................................................ 25

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PURPOSE & VALUES

At Doncaster Secondary College we are working together to enable all students to achieve their potential and become confident, effective learners who contribute productively to society. This core purpose is reflected in the College motto ‘Working Together, Learning Together’ and is underpinned by the following values:

Respect for ourselves, each other and the environment

Responsibility for our own actions

Resilience to embrace challenges with optimism and perseverance

Teamwork working co-operatively and constructively with others

PROFILE

Doncaster Secondary College regularly performs above state and ‘like schools’ in its academic outcomes. This is reflected by excellent VCE outcomes, which open a variety of pathways for students beyond school. Over 95% of students enroll in tertiary studies at the end of VCE, with over 70% attending university and around 25-30% moving on to TAFE. Regular participation of Doncaster Secondary College students in national and international academic competitions, as well as regular inclusion amongst the Premier’s Awards recipients, is another reflection of the high quality outcomes achieved.

At Doncaster Secondary College, there are two sub-schools:

Middle School: Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 Senior School: Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12

The sub-schools reinforce the College values and expectations. It forms the basis of a well-defined student management structure. Heads of School and Level Coordinators are also responsible for the general welfare and counselling of students. Should you have any questions about the College or Middle School, please do not hesitate to contact:

Year 7 Coordinator: Ms Anna Ditchburn

Year 7 Transition Coordinator: Mr Paul Annakis

Year 8 Coordinator: Ms Sousanna Katiforis

Year 9 Coordinator: Ms Courtney Taylor

Head of Middle School: Ms Lisa Chiuchiarelli

Head of Curriculum: Mr Kirk Dunn

Assistant Principal (Middle School): Ms Gina Carroll

Principal: Mr Glenn Morris

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INTRODUCTION TO THE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Middle School, in particular Year 7, is a transitional stage in schooling. Students move from the integrated approach of primary school to the more diverse, subject-oriented approach of secondary school. In Year 7 at Doncaster Secondary College, the focus is upon assisting students to make this transition smoothly and building upon consolidating and extending the basic skills acquired at primary school. Students learn to cope effectively with a greater number of fellow students, and their teachers, many more subjects, movement between classrooms and a much larger and more complex physical environment. All this occurs while the students are also undergoing a great deal of personal and physical development.

The College has a well-developed Transition Program to assist students in their adjustment to secondary school so that they can proceed to maximize their learning and take advantage of the many opportunities, which the College provides. Visits by Grade 5 and 6 students from the College's main feeder schools enable them to become familiar with the College environment.

• Prior to the arrival of our Year 7 students, members of our Middle School staff visit primary schools to speak with prospective students, discussing what to expect when starting secondary school, while allowing them to ask questions and familiarise themselves with life at their new school environment. Staff also meet with their primary school teachers to gather information about each student’s academic and social development.

• The College also offers a Pre Orientation morning. This is for students who are the only one coming to Doncaster Secondary College from their Primary school, and gives them a chance to meet some of their peers before attending the official orientation day in December.

• Orientation Day, held early in December, allows Grade 6 students enrolled at our College to experience a day at secondary school. This includes meeting their teachers, learning about the timetable and where everything is located, and meeting the Year 9 Peer Leaders and their new classmates for the following year.

• Year 9 Peer Leaders work closely with the Year 7 students, particularly at the beginning of the year to help address any concerns they may have. Their lockers are located alongside their respective Year 7 classes to offer continual support wherever it is needed.

• A Year 7 Orientation camp, held early in the school year, is attended by the vast majority of students and is invaluable in establishing friendships, confidence and team spirit. Peer Leaders also attend this camp.

• Doncaster Secondary College values parent involvement in a very high regard, so to establish this relationship and to deliver important Transition information, a Year 7 Parent Orientation Evening is held early in Term 4 and an informal BBQ Evening takes place in February for Year 7 parents.

• Wherever possible, classroom teachers will teach their class for more than one subject. This enables classroom teachers to get to know their students as quickly as possible, cater programs better suited to each student’s individual learning styles and be aware of any transition issues that may arise with students.

Middle School students are placed in mixed ability form groups in which they remain for the majority of their classes. The exception is the Select Entry Accelerated Learning (SEAL) class, selection for which is based upon ability testing and recommendations by primary school teachers. Care is taken to ensure that each student is placed in a form group that supports the personal, emotional and social development of the child.

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CURRICULUM GRID

DOMAINS

(1)

Dis

cove

ry

ENGLISH MATHEMATICS SCIENCE HUMANITIES LANGUAGES HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION ART / TECHNOLOGY

YEAR 7

(3) English AC, or English as an Additional Language (EAL)

(3) Mathematics AC

(3) Science AC

(3) Geography AC* History AC*

(2) French, or Italian, or Mandarin

(2) PE / Sport

(1) Health Ed.

(2) Music, Food Technology

YEAR 8

(3) English AC, or English as an Additional Language

(3) Mathematics AC

(2) Science AC



(2) PE / Sport

(1) Health Ed.

(3) Art: Art, Drama, Music, Visual Comm., Ceramics Tech: Food technology, Digital technology, Electronics, Metalwork, Woodwork, Textiles

YEAR 9

(3) English AC, or English as an Additional Language

(3) Mathematics AC

(2) Science AC



(2) PE / Sport / Health Ed.

(2)# Art, Ceramics, Drama, Visual Comm., Music, Photography

(2)# Electronics, Metalwork, Textiles, Food Technology, Woodwork

(3) MYSELF Program

YEAR 10

(3) English AC, or English as an Additional Language, or Intensive Language

(3) Mathematics (Further) AC, or Mathematics (Methods) AC, or Advanced Maths

(3) Science AC

(3) Geography AC* History AC* Commerce*


(3) PE / Sport / Health Ed.

(3) Art, Ceramics, Drama, Visual Comm. & Design, Music, Photography

(3) Multimedia, Electronics, Metalwork, Textiles, Woodwork, Wood Tech, Food by Design, Fashion

VCE

(1-4) English, or English as an Additional Language English Lang. Literature

(1-2): General Maths (Specialists) (1-4): Math. Methods (3-4): Further Math (3-4): Specialist Math (1-2): General Math. (Further) (1-2): Foundation Math

(1 – 4) Biology Chemistry Environmental Science Physics Psychology

(1-2): History 20th century (3-4): Revolutions (1-4) Accounting Business Mgmt. Economics Legal Studies Geography

(1-4) French Italian Chinese 1st, 2nd & 2nd Language Advanced

(1-4) Health / Human Physical Ed.

(1-4) Art Visual Comm. Music Solo Drama

(3-4) Studio Art

(1-4) Food Technology Vet Hospitality Information Tech.

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The number shown in ( ) indicates the number of 75 minute periods per week. Subjects marked * are studied on a semester basis.

Year7 Students undertake 1 art and technology subject per semester for 2 x 75 min periods per week.

Year 8 Students undertake 2 art subjects per semester and 1 technology subject per term for 3 x 75 min periods per week– four subjects in the arts and technology area.

It is on a rotation basis ensuring students have breadth of study in this area and no repetition.

Year 9 Students undertake 1 of the subjects marked # for 2 x 75 min periods per week for half the year – elective choice.

All Year 9 students undertake 4 units (term length) of MYSELF for 3 x 75 min periods per week (Wednesday). MYSELF focuses on authentic and integrated learning.

Year 10 Students in Year 10 may also be recommended to undertake a Year 11 VCE unit. Year 10 English and Mathematics are compulsory for all students. Four other studies must then be selected

VCE Studies are allocated 3 x 75 min periods per week. Year 11 students may also be recommended to undertake a Year 12 VCE unit. Selected Year 12 students may undertake a university level study. VCE units may also be undertaken outside of the timetable day.

Year 11 A minimum of 12 units in the first year, that is, 6 units per semester.

Year 12 A minimum of 10 units in the second year, that is, 5 units per semester.

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CURRICULUM PROFILE

Year Se m 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

7 1

DiSCovery

English / English as an

additional language (EAL)

Mathematics Science History Languages PE, Health & Sport Art/Tech 2 Geography Art/Tech

8 1 English / EAL Mathematics Science History Languages PE, Health & Sport Art/Tech 2 Geography Art/Tech

9 1 English / EAL Mathematics Science History Languages PE/Health Art/Tech MYSELF 2 Geography Art/Tech MYSELF

10 1 English / EAL Mathematics Science Humanities Languages PE/Health ISP 2 Humanities

English / EAL & Maths compulsory in Year 10

Four other studies must then be selected Students in Year 10 may be recommended to select a VCE subject in their program

Victorian Certificate of Education - VCE 11 VCE English VCE Subject VCE Subject VCE Subject VCE Subject VCE Subject ISP 12 VCE English VCE Subject VCE Subject VCE Subject VCE Subject ISP

Combined Senior Certificate: School Based Apprentice/Trainee & VCAL Certificate - SBAT 11 Inter Literacy PDS Numeracy WRS VET Certificate Studies Apprenticeship/Traineeship 12 Senior Literacy PDS Numeracy WRS VET Certificate Studies Apprenticeship/Traineeship

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS

Educational Enhancement Australasian Schools English Competition Mathematical Olympiad Australian Schools Writing Competition National Chemistry Quiz ALPINE program (Year 9) Rotary Public Speaking Competition AMEB Music Examinations Science Talent Search Biology, Chemistry & Physics Olympiad Subject specific weeks e.g. Geography awareness Classroom Leaders Sustainability Action Program Hospitality catering UNSW Science Competition Interschool Debating Competition Westpac Mathematics Competition Language Competition e.g. Italian Poetry Competition

Year 7 – 10 Maths Games Day

Camps & Excursions Clubs Instrumental Music camp Art club My Advanced & My Outdoor camp Breakfast club Subject-based excursions (eg. Royal Melb. Zoo) Chess club Year 7 Orientation camp Debating/Public Speaking club Year 9 Outdoor Recreation camp Games room Year 10 Work Experience Homework club Year 10, 11 & 12 University visits Student Focus (Yr 7 – 8) Year 11 Central Australia tour VCE Lounge Vocal Ensemble

Sports Inter-School Sports: Badmington, Baseball, Basketball, Cricket, Football, Hockey, Netball, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Volleyball Whole-School Sporting Carnivals:

Athletics Day, Cross-Country, Swimming Carnival

Visual & Performing Arts College Magazine – ‘Cornucopia’ Musical soirees College Production Senior School Presentation Ball House Drama Festival Student Art Gallery Instrumental music VCE Drama and Theatre Performance Musical Bands & Ensembles (Rock Band) Student Sound & Lighting Technicians

Leadership Captains: Arts Potential Leaders (Year 8) Captains: College Council Student-led Level Assemblies Captains: Events Student Representative Council Captains: Social Justice Social events (eg. Valentine’s Day) Captains: Sports Teams Talent Quest Captains: Student Representative Council Year 7 Peer Support Program (Year 9) Captains: Sub-School Year 12 Sport, Drama, Magazine committees Fund Raising Activities (eg. World Vision) MYSELF Showcase events

MIDDLE SCHOOL-SPECIFIC CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & PROGRAMS

Doncaster Secondary College Programs aim to enhance the academic, artistic, cultural, sporting and personal pursuits of all students and cater for their talents, interests and natural abilities. Therefore, students are encouraged to take part in various extra and co-curricular activities offered by the College. Student participation in such activities is listed in a special report at the end of the year; this acknowledges the efforts and contributions of the student.

Some of the activities that are offered to DSC students include:

Interschool Sport:

Inter-college sport is a particularly strong feature of the College with many students achieving outstanding success at local, Zone and State levels of competition. The sports offered include Swimming, Athletics, Cross Country, Softball, Hockey, Cricket, Tennis, Football (AFL), Soccer, Baseball, Table Tennis, Badminton, Volleyball, Basketball, Netball, Ultimate Frisbee and Lawn Bowls.

House Sport – Swimming and Athletics Carnival:

All students are assigned to one of four Houses: Kiewa, Murray, Ovens or Yarra to compete in house carnivals and sports offered throughout the year.

Performing Arts Festival:

The festival is held biennially in which each House prepares and performs a ‘One Act Play’ before guest judges. Students can take on roles such as musicians, dancers, actors, theatre technicians, set builders, make-up artists and costume makers.

Arts Week:

Arts Week is a celebration of the visual and performing Arts and Technology at the College. The week is filled with Arts based activities and events including exhibitions, lunchtime craft, visiting artist’s workshops and large group artworks. There is an opportunity for all year levels to get involved in a week of embracing the richness of the Arts.

College Production:

The College has produced musicals such as ‘Wedding Singer’, ‘Grease’ and ‘Bye Bye Birdie’. Students can take on roles such as those mentioned for performing arts festival.

Leadership:

• Student Representative Council (SRC): Students are involved in whole school planning and policy.

Roles available are Middle and Senior School Captains as well as a mix of representatives from all year levels.

• Student Leadership Team (SLT): Students are involved in school activities such as sports days, clubs, fund raising, talent shows, social events and student engagement.

• Year 7 Peer Support Program (Year 9 leaders) • Interact club • Green Team: Students involved in environmental action. • College Council Student representatives • School improvement team representatives

Students could also get involved in Student led level assemblies, house meetings and drama activities.

Technicians:

Depending on the interest of the student, they have an opportunity to become a ‘Performance & Presentation Centre’ technicians and/or a computer technician

Music Program:

Concert Bands/String Orchestras/Jazz Bands/Guitar Ensembles/Rock Bands

Students who learn an instrument at school are expected to be involved in one of the above groups and any other students who play an instrument are welcome to join in the fun. These groups perform regularly at school for events such as assemblies and our Winter and Spring Concerts. We also hold regular lunchtime concerts on our Music Centre outdoor stage. In term two we run a Music Camp for all Music students and our Senior Ensembles have the opportunity to travel interstate or overseas.

Camps:

• Year 7 participate in a 3-day orientation and pastoral care camp, held during Term 1.

International Study Tours:

In 2022, International study tours will not occur. Once international air travel has stabilized then the school will continue with this program.

Students studying an additional Language have the wonderful opportunity to participate in an overseas study tour. The Language teachers at Doncaster Secondary College have run successful tours to France, Italy, China and the United States of America.

Year 9 students also have the opportunity to travel and study for 6 weeks through the Department of Education Victorian Young Leaders Program.

CLUBS

In addition to extra and co-curricular activities mentioned, students have an opportunity to get involved in the various clubs where they can develop skills and mix with students with similar interests.

Clubs meet weekly and are supervised by staff members and/or older student volunteers.

• Art club • Music clubs • ASX club • Soundworks (Year 7 concert band) • Badmington club • Concert band • Breakfast club • Wind symphony (Senior concert band) • Chess club • Junior jazz band • D&D club • Senior jazz band • Debating • Stringworks (Junior string orchestra) • Games club • String orchestra • Homework club • Rockband program • Interact • STEAM club • LGBTIQA+ or Rainbow club • VCAL Homework club • Life skills • Weights club • Movie club

LIBRARY

The Library has a wide range of resources to support student’s study needs. An extensive book stock (non fiction & fiction) is supplemented by library computers all having internet, USB and network facilities. A colour photocopier/printer supplement the computer facilities.

All students are required to sign in when visiting the library during class time and have a signed planner by their teacher to verify this.

As part of an on-going co-operative program with subject learning areas, students are provided with assistance to access Jacaranda e books and ClickView digital library. Library staff can assist with accessing these applications by providing students with set-ups, training and forgotten passwords. Payments to these programs can also be verified by the staff if students are unsure. Students can seek assistance with Compass regarding their passwords & timetable.

A Welfare library has been established for disadvantaged students and enquiries should be directed to Ms Hayward, the Curriculum Resource Manager. Short term laptop loans are on offered provided your teacher has confirmed this with a signed planner, but headphones must be provided by the students themselves.

The library also provides Wheelers eBooks and audio book in fiction for all students. Students are also encouraged to use the library for study and recreational reading as a life long resource for learning. Unlimited borrowing on books and one month loan. No book fines. But if you cannot return the library book, a payment plan will be set up to replace the item.

The library also offers access to Echo Database on newspaper articles, and access to the Digital AGE newspaper.

A great range of AV equipment is available to students who require cameras for their subjects.

Monday & Thursday 9.00 4.00pm

Tues, Wednesday and Friday 8.30 am – 4.pm

Open lunchtime and recess

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PROGRAM

Music is a big part of life at Doncaster Secondary College. We have a wide range of music ensembles from large Concert Bands and String Orchestras, to Jazz Bands, Guitar Ensembles and Rock Bands. Students can choose to learn, or continue to learn, a musical instrument at the College. Learning an instrument teaches you skills that no other activity can and these skills benefit many other aspects of life.

To learn an instrument at Doncaster, no prior experience is necessary. In fact, most students who join our program in Year 7 have never played before.

Which instruments do we offer?

The College offers professional tuition in Brass (trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium, tuba), Woodwind (flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe and bassoon), Strings (violin, viola, cello, and double bass) and Percussion. We also offer Classical Guitar and Electric Bass Guitar.

• Lessons take place in small groups on a withdrawal basis with students coming out of a different class each week, for approximately 35 minutes.

• Students will have the opportunity to perform to their peers and to the wider community, at assemblies, school events, the Victorian Schools Music Festival and our Winter and Spring Concerts.

Students are expected to join one of the College’s many instrumental ensembles, such as Soundworks (Junior Concert Band) or Stringworks (Junior Orchestra). These ensembles rehearse before and after school and students will play in one appropriate to their standard. A Rock Program is also offered at the College.

The DSC Music Information Evening:

This is an opportunity for all 2022 Year 7s and their parents, to see and hear all the instruments we offer in person. They can also try the instruments and gain professional assistance and advice from the Music staff when deciding upon becoming part of the program and on purchasing an instrument. Even if you have no intention of learning an instrument, come along and try an instrument and hear all about what we do. You may be surprised at how easy and fun it can be. Save the Date: Tuesday 23rd November 2021 at 7pm.

ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING Student assessment seeks to promote a positive attitude towards learning and to encourage the pursuit of personal excellence. As such, assessment practices at DSC focuses upon the positive aspects of student learning and provides the basis for further learning. Subject teachers, Level Coordinators and Heads of School, continually monitor student performance and progress within the classroom.

A variety of assessment practices are embedded into the Middle School curriculum. Assessment can be based on:

• formal testing;

• individual written work e.g. exercises, essays, reports, assignments, research, book work, folios;

• individual and group projects;

• oral presentations, dramatic or musical performances;

• creative works e.g. models, painting, constructions; and

• participation and skill demonstrated.

Self- and peer-assessment, reflection and goal setting are also employed at various stages within a unit of work; these practices, plus timely and relevant feedback, ensure for a personalised approach to student learning.

All the assessment practices mentioned above, plus observations, provide the basis in which teachers report on student progress. Parents/Guardians receive regular information regarding their child, using the following formats distributed during the year.

1. Continuous Feedback

Continuous Feedback is provided in Flagged Learning Tasks approximately every six weeks via the Compass Learning management System. The feedback pertains to specific assessment tasks and will usually include a percentage, letter grade, effort indicator and comment about the task.

2. Semester Reports

Reports completed at the end of each semester provide a summary of key results for each subject. Profiles include the student’s achievement in relation to the Australian Curriculum.

Student Led Conferences

Student Led Conferences are held in late Term 1 and Term 3. Together with the child, parents/guardians are encouraged to attend these interviews to discuss student progress with their classroom teachers. Parents are also invited to contact the College, via their child’s Discovery teacher, at any time should they have concerns about their child’s progress.

AWARDS

Each year the College holds a Presentation Evening to celebrate student achievement. Awards are presented to students for:

• Academic Excellence • Excellence in the Performing Arts

• Sporting Achievement • Personal Achievement

• Service • Academic Growth

Throughout the year, Form Level and General Assemblies are held at which certificates recognising specific student achievement and contributions are presented.

DISCOVERY PROGRAM Overview:

The DiSCovery program focuses on enhancing student learning, monitoring student progress through personalised learning and promoting student connectedness with the College community. The program explores the relationship between students as learners, their interpersonal (social) and personal (emotional) development with the aim of preparing them to become productive members of society.

Learning Goals:

As part of the DiSCovery Program, each student will be required to develop an Individual Learning Plan which consists of the following learning goals and plan:

Short term learning goals

Long term learning goals

Career action plan

The DiSCovery program and classroom teachers will provide strategies to support students in their achievement of these goals. Students will also be encouraged to showcase their learning and growth.

Year Level Focus:

Each year level has a particular focus. The key ideas for Year 9 students include:

Enhanced Learning Education Services (ELES) Online Study Skills Handbook:

A levy for DiSCovery provides for DiSCovery folders, guest speakers and resources to support the program. The College has purchased an excellent online study program (Enhanced Learning Educational Service) that can be accessed at home and all students are encouraged to further their learning by completing study modules that are relevant to their learning.

Through the DiSCovery program all students have access to the Enhanced Learning Education Services (ELES) Online Study Skills Handbook (www.studyskillshandbook.com.au ).

Username: doncastersc Password: 168results

YEAR 7

YEAR 8

YEAR 9

Social Skills My Community

Help Seeking Problem Solving

CONNECT

Personal Strengths

Understanding Values

Coping Strategies

Career Pathways

BUILD

Career Planning Mindfulness

Study Habits Leadership Skills

EXPLORE

Personal Development (Emotional)

Students as

Learners

Interpersonal Development

(Social)

http://www.studyskillshandbook.com.au/

The study skills program provides a comprehensive and interactive online guide for the school community (students, parents and teachers) to enable our students to develop the necessary study skills for success in their schooling. The handbook has a huge amount of information as well as a large range of interactive activities. We strongly encourage all parents and students to take advantage of this opportunity to further develop their students’ study skills abilities through this online resource.

SELECT ENTRY ACCELERATED LEARNING (SEAL)

The SEAL (Select Entry Accelerated Learning) program at Doncaster Secondary College is designed to meet the needs of gifted and high-ability learners and to challenge them to achieve their potential. SEAL students undertake an enhanced curriculum which contains a range of extended tasks, activities and content aimed at providing students the opportunity to explore material in considerable depth. Each subject’s curriculum is generally covered at a faster rate than in the mainstream classes, with adaptions to the pace and content of a course being made to suit the aptitude and ability levels of each particular cohort. In English, SEAL students study a different range of texts to their mainstream counterparts.

In both Year 7 and Year 8, SEAL students are placed in a class of approximately 25 students. This class stays together throughout Years 7 and 8 for all of their subjects (English, Math, Science, Humanities, Health and Physical Education, Arts and Technology), except for their Languages (French, Italian or Mandarin) classes.

In Year 9, SEAL students stay in the same class for English, Math, Science, Humanities and Health and Physical Education. Year 9 SEAL students are placed in classes with a mix of other Year 9 students to attend their Languages (French, Italian or Mandarin) classes and, to undertake the elective subjects that they have selected from the Arts/Technology and Myself programs.

For entry into the Year 7 SEAL class at Doncaster Secondary College students will need to undertake an assessment completed by Edutest. The test is scheduled to be conducted after families have received their ‘High School Placement Notification’ (through their primary school). Information about the testing process can be found on the College website. Students may also be offered a place within the Year 8 or Year 9 SEAL class based on achievement data, test results and academic recommendations.

YEAR 7 CORE SUBJECTS

DISCovery

English / English as an Additional Language

Mathematics / Mathematics (Advanced)

Science

Health and Physical Education

Humanities

Languages – Mandarin, French or Italian

Art / Technology

ENGLISH

Overview:

English provides students with knowledge and skills to read, view, listen to, write, create, compare, research and talk about a range of text types. Students learn to appreciate, enjoy and use language and develop a sense of its richness and its power to evoke feelings, to form and convey ideas, to inform, to discuss, to persuade, to entertain and to argue. They also learn terminology to describe and discuss particular structures and features of language produced in a variety of contexts.

Key Concepts & Skills:

In Year 7 English, the students will:

• develop competent use of grammatical structures; development of vocabulary, spelling and sentence construction

• be encouraged to read widely

• study a range of texts and respond to them both in writing and orally

• develop their ability to speak articulately and with confidence

• participate in writing programs to enhance their fluency and encourage them to write with creativity

Assessment:

• Oral Presentation

• Text Study

• Debate

• Essay Writing

• Creative Writing

ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE (EAL)

Overview:

The Year 7 and 8 English as an Additional Language (EAL) program caters for non-English speaking background and for whom English is a second language and are eligible for EAL assistance. Students are taught in relatively small classes to allow for individual differences in English language acquisition. ESL classes run parallel to the mainstream English classes.


In Year 7 & 8 English as an Additional Language (EAL), the students will:

• develop the four major language skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing

• explore correct, grammatical structures in both oral and written communication

• improve oral communication skills such as pronunciation and fluency through discussions and group activities

• build confidence in communicating clearly in formal and informal situations

• build vocabulary and investigate language conventions including spelling, punctuation, vocabulary and grammar through reading and studying of a selection of written and visual texts.

Assessment:

• Oral Presentations

• Writing Folio

• Text Study

MATHEMATICS

Overview:

Mathematics provides students with essential skills and knowledge across a number of areas such as number, space, structure, measurement, chance and data. Students are required to practice and apply skills in exercises and undertake tasks that develop skills needed for logical reasoning, analytical thought and problem-solving. It is aimed to develop the numeracy capabilities that all students need in their personal, work and civic life, and provides the fundamentals on which mathematical specialties and professional applications of mathematics are built.


In Year 7 Mathematics, the students will:

• explore various branches of mathematics including number, space (geometry and shape) algebra, chance and data, measurement and mathematical tools / procedures

o problems involving the comparison, addition and subtraction of integers

o make the connections between whole numbers and index notation and the relationship between perfect squares and square roots

o problems involving percentages and all four operations with fractions and decimals

o interpret simple linear representations and model information

o use formulas for the area and perimeter of rectangles and calculate volumes of rectangular prisms

o describe the relationship between the median and mean in data displays

• develop skills in choosing appropriate procedures, carrying out procedures accurately and appropriately, and recalling factual knowledge and concepts

• make choices, interpret, formulate, model and investigate problem situations, and communicate solutions

• complete a STEAM project in which they explore the links between mathematics and other subject areas.

Assessment:

In addition to maintaining an organised exercise book with all skill exercises and homework tasks, students may be given the following tasks:

• Topic Tests

• Application Tasks and Investigations, incorporating the use of ICT

• Problem solving

SCIENCE

Overview:

Science provides opportunities for students to develop an understanding of important science concepts and processes, the practices used to develop scientific knowledge, of science’s contribution to our culture and society, and its applications in our lives. The curriculum supports students to develop the scientific knowledge, understandings and skills to make informed decisions about local, national and global issues.


In Year 7 Science, the students will:

• safely handle scientific equipment and chemicals

• learn to make qualitative and quantitative observations, gather and record data, present data in tables and graphs, and draw valid conclusions based on the data collected.

• pose different types of questions that can be investigated using a range of inquiry skills

• develop their understanding of the role of classification in ordering and organising information

• construct and interpret food chains and food webs to show the relationships between organisms in the environment

• develop an understanding of how simple machines can magnify a force, change a force’s direction, or make things go faster

• investigate relationships in the Earth, sun, moon system and use models to predict and explain events

• explore the properties of different materials and use this knowledge to separate mixtures

Assessment:

In addition to maintaining an organised exercise book with all questions, activities and homework, students may be given the following tasks:

• Topic Tests

• Practical Investigations and Scientific Reports

• Research Assignments, including the Science Talent Search project and an extended experimental investigation

• Inquiry based projects

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Overview:

The Year 7 Health and Physical Education (HPE) program aims to develop the students’ understanding of physical, mental and social health. The program will cover important health topics including nutrition, bullying, drug education, water safety and sexual education as well as the basic concepts of health and wellbeing. In addition to these health topics, the HPE program utilises a practical setting to encourage the development of fundamental motor skills and game sense knowledge. The purpose of such practical lessons also extends to developing leadership qualities, resilience and social awareness all while increasing participation rates in lifelong physical activities. Throughout a typical school week, students will participate in two practical lessons and one theoretical lesson.

Key Concepts & Skills

Throughout Year 7 Health and Physical Education, students will:

• Explain the impact bullying can have on others as well as discuss possible strategies to appropriately deal with such behaviour.

• Discuss the various forms of drugs as well as the dangers of recreational drug use.

• Identify the physical, social and emotional changes that occur throughout adolescence.

• Outline the key components of a well-balanced diet.

• Maintain regular participation in moderate to vigorous physical activity while developing their proficiency of the various fundamental motor skills.

Assessment:

Throughout Year 7 Health and Physical Education, the following assessment strategies will be used:

• Bullying Research Task

• Australian Health Issues Analysis Task

• Smoking Research Task

• Fundamental Motor Skill Assessments

• Drugs and Alcohol Topic Test

• Puberty Topic Test

HUMANITIES

Overview:

Humanities provides students with the opportunity to learn about Geography and History, while covering the concepts Civics and Citizenship and Business and Economics.

In Geography students will explore how our planet functions, the geographical processes that drive it and how humans are changing our planet by the way we live. We will investigate the earth’s resources and how these resources influence the way people live in different places around the world.

In History students will delve into the past to discover how people lived in different historical times. Students will link this new knowledge to the present day to learn how actions and events of the past have created the world in which we live today.


In Year 7 Humanities, the students will:

• Learn key geographical and historical skills that will empower students to be critical thinkers about the world we live in.

Examples of these skills are:

o How to create and interpret maps and graphs.

o collect geographical information from a variety of data and analyse, evaluate and present it using a range of forms.

o use a range of evidence to describe features of the past societies.

o How to investigate historical evidence to determine significance and a person’s view.

o Frame and report on research questions; the difference between primary and secondary sources.

• Students will undertake topics:

o how environmental resources like water are used and managed.

o explore how humans perceive places and how places can be made more livable.

o Investigate ancient cultures and civilisations such as Ancient Australia, Ancient Egypt and another ancient civilisation of the student’s choice.

Assessment:

Various mapping tasks such as:

• GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

• Fieldwork

• Inquiry Based Tasks

• Research Assignments

• Independent learning project

• Topic tests

LANGUAGES: FRENCH, ITALIAN & MANDARIN

Overview:

Language (French, Italian & Chinese provides students with communication skills and knowledge to come to understand social, historical, familial relationships and other aspects of the language and culture of the speakers of the language. Students are provided with the tools, through comparison and reflection, to understand language, culture and humanity in a broad sense. In this way, language learning contributes to the development of interculturally aware citizens.

The language selected must be studied for a minimum of three years. Students require no previous knowledge of their chosen language.


In Year 7 Languages, the students will:

• develop the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing

• explore humorous cartoon / script / situations to assist them to communicate effectively in similar situations

• use ICT, including audio and visual stimuli, to assist with oral proficiency.

• identify key words and phrases in passages of text

• comprehend factual information drawn from themes studied by comparing, analyzing and select correct information in order to respond appropriately when answering questions, completing close exercises or following instructions

Assessment:

Work covered in the prescribed Textbook, student Workbook and other relevant supplementary linguistic tasks set for each language.

• Class Work

• Work Requirements

• Topic Tests

• Learning Technology Tasks

• Cultural Projects

• Language Perfect tasks

• Role-plays

ART & TECHNOLOGY

Art & Technology at Doncaster Secondary College is both a voyage of practical discovery and a consolidation of previously acquired artistic knowledge and technical experiences from their primary school education. Over a two-year cycle from Year 7 to 8, students will undertake six different subjects, varying in length from a term to a semester, within the Arts and Technology program.

All Year 7 students will complete one compulsory Art and Technology semester-based subject (Food = Technology, Music = The Arts).

FOOD TECHNOLOGY

Food Technology provides experience for students to utilize and learn the steps of the Design Process for the first time in high school. They will become familiar with the stages of investigation, design, production and evaluation of food solutions. In addition, students develop practical skills in food handling and preparation techniques as well as learning to work in a hygienic and safe manner.

Students explore what constitutes as a healthy diet and lifestyle and identify how the Australian Dietary Guidelines support with establishing healthy eating habits. In practical cooking lessons (one lesson per week) students will cover many aspects of food preparation techniques and the preparation of healthy meals. Students will learn to develop co-operation and communication skills through group work.

Key Concepts & Skills (Technology):

In Year 7 Food Tech students will:

• Be able to demonstrate correct personal hygiene and safety in the kitchen

• Understand the importance of food safety and hygiene.

• Demonstrate how dry and wet ingredients are measured accurately

• Demonstrate skills in reading and understanding a recipe

• Demonstrate safety in using kitchen equipment

• Understand and utilise the design process in developing concepts and ideas

• Use problem-solving thinking strategies to create effective design solutions

• Collaborate and work in teams

Assessment (Technology):

• Practical Hygiene & Safety Assessment (Ed. Perfect)

• Design Brief Task – written and practical

• STEAM ‘Healthy Eating’ Project

MUSIC (CLASSROOM)

Music enables students to express, communicate and understand musical ideas. The emphasis is on involvement in practical music-making whilst developing an understanding of basic music theory.

In Year 8, students have the opportunity to broaden their experiences within the spectrum of Arts and Technology subjects that are offered in Year 9 and beyond. Students take part in the Performing Arts (Drama), as well as one of Visual Arts, Ceramics or Visual Communication Design (form groups allocated at random). From a Technology perspective, students implement the design process in both Design Technology (STEAM) and Digital Technology. Each of these subjects run for one term during the course of Year 8.

ART

Students identify, analyse and evaluate how other artists use materials, techniques, technologies, processes and visual conventions to express their ideas and convey meaning. Students identify and describe artworks from different cultures, times and places and how ideas are interpreted by audiences. They plan and make their Art works in response to the exploration of techniques, technologies and processes used in the work of other artists. They demonstrate the use of materials, techniques, processes, visual conventions and technologies to express ideas and convey meaning in their artworks.

Students will:

• Explore visual arts practices as inspiration to explore and develop themes, concepts or ideas in artworks

• Explore how artists use materials, techniques, technologies and processes to realise their intentions in art works

• Experiment with materials, techniques, technologies and processes in a range of art forms to express ideas, concepts and themes in artworks

• Develop skills in planning and designing art works and documenting artistic practice

• Create artworks, describing how ideas are expressed to an audience

• Analyse how ideas and viewpoints are expressed in art works and how they are viewed by audiences

• Identify and connect specific features of visual artworks from different cultures, historical and contemporary times

CERAMICS

Hands on manipulation of a tactile material with an emphasis on design skills and techniques.

DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

Students learn skills in metal work, wood work and visual communication skills.

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

Students learn how to write and test code, with an emphasis on design and creativity.

DRAMA

Students take part in storytelling, improvisation and mime. They study character and the importance of sound and props. Students also write and perform their own plays.

VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN

Students learn to think in flowing line, shape, form, measurement and colour. How do we learn to draw and produce such difficult pieces of finished design?

Documents

INTRODUCTION TO THE MIDDLE SCHOOL YEAR 7 2022