In Year 9 Enriched English, you will explore a range of texts to develop your understanding of yourself as an individual and as a member of the global community. You will also explore current issues and gain insight into diverse perspectives and values.

You will develop your communication skills and learn to create compelling texts, to articulate your ideas effectively, and to engage in thoughtful discussions. The focus is on empowering you to articulate your thoughts and ideas with greater precision and impact. The course is designed to introduce concepts that students require to study the three available English pathways in VCE:

• English or English as an Additional Language (for eligible students only),
• Literature; and
• English Language

All students at Korowa in Year 9 will study English as a core subject.

Additional support is available for eligible EAL students to develop their language skills and confidence in English.

Mathematics courses support, challenge and provide the opportunity for you to be extended in your own way.

Students are allocated to a Mathematics class that best meets their learning needs based on a comprehensive review of external and Year 8 assessments.

The three levels of Mathematics are: Mainstream, Extension and Accelerated.

Mainstream and Extension will offer similar content, allowing for a different approach to the delivery for these two groups. Placement in Mainstream or Extension Mathematics will not influence the selection of subject at higher levels. This differentiated approach to learning will assist you to gain confidence and to establish a sound mastery of skills to ensure your readiness to start the final years of your secondary education with the strongest foundation.

Students in Accelerated complete Year 10A Mathematics from the National Curriculum. Those who have shown mastery in 10A Mathematics may undertake, by invitation, Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2 in Year 10. The Head of Department, with documented evidence and advice from appropriate staff, will make the selection of students for this class.

"A different language is a different vision of life." - Federico Fellini

How does learning languages open doors to other people and other cultures?

With the four languages, Chinese, French, German and Japanese, you continue to engage in a highly globalised world where travel, trade and international cooperation are key activities. Throughout the year, you have the opportunity to consolidate and build upon your previous knowledge of your one or two selected languages. You become more confident communicators in your other languages(s) and continue to develop an understanding for the language learning process, through the skills of reading, listening, speaking, writing and viewing.

Studying cultural differences and norms will enhance your intercultural understanding which is an important part of being a connected, globalised citizen. Interacting in another language opens your world literally and figuratively.

Developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital in today’s modern world. Crafting sustainable solutions with a low impact on the Earth is a priority in our program development. Creativity, collaboration, communication, problem finding and solving are all characteristics of subjects that sustain a healthy lifestyle. Programs establish healthy habits, routines, physical movement, nutrition and wellbeing strategies which last a lifetime while building resilience, comradery and collaboration.

As a core subject all students participate in Physical Education learning about what it means to be fit, how to improve personal fitness, how to test fitness, and how to design a fitness program for a selected activity. Students will practice skills for maintaining respectful relationships while evaluating behavioural expectations in a range of movement activities. Students will aim to improve their own performance in physical activities and sport as they explore tactics and strategies of play. Reflecting upon their participation in class, students will also consider their contribution and its impact on a variety of physical activities.

Health as a core subject offers students insight into the different dimensions that make up an individual’s overall health and wellbeing. They will investigate types of health promotion that can benefit these dimensions and compare the levels of health experienced by young people in low- and high-income countries around the world. Students will gain skills and knowledge to assist them in forming respectful relationships throughout their lives and use critical thinking skills to reflect on why young people take risks and the possible harms and benefits that can come from these behaviours.

Having explored the fundamental, underpinning ideas of the main science disciplines in years 7 and 8, science at year 9 introduces a more contextually applied approach to analysing the world that considers how systems operate within themselves and how they interact with the world by examining phenomena such as the stimulus response model when looking at how organisms respond to stimuli, making predictions of the products of chemical reactions when compounds interact with each other, and how interactions at an atomic level contribute to transformations of energy such as those that occur during nuclear decay, the transition of light between mediums and sound, through a mix of theoretical frameworks and practical investigations during which students develop their key science skills in experimental design and analysis, and data literacy.

History: The Making of the Modern World

How did new ideas and technological developments contribute to change during 1750 to 1918? What was the origin,

development, significance and long-term impact of imperialism in this period? What was the significance of World War I?

The Year 9 curriculum provides a study of the history of the making of the modern world from 1750 to 1918. It was a period of industrialisation and rapid change in the ways people lived, worked and thought. It was an era of nationalism and imperialism, and the colonisation of Australia was part of the expansion of European power. The period culminated in World War I, 1914–1918, the ‘war to end all wars’. The content provides opportunities to develop historical understanding through key concepts, including evidence, continuity and change, cause and effect, perspectives, empathy, significance and contestability. These concepts may be investigated within a particular historical context to facilitate an understanding of the past and to provide a focus for historical inquiries.

Harvesting Change: Balancing Biomes and Food Security

How can we balance the demands of agriculture with the preservation of biomes to ensure global food security?

With the burgeoning global population, the balance between agriculture and preserving biomes becomes paramount. This course leads students through the fascinating world of biomes, their characteristics, and relationships with climate. Human impact on biomes, especially through agriculture, is critically analyzed.

Students will unravel the complex fabric of food security, understanding its importance, and the factors influencing it. A focus on the challenges to global food production and case studies, including Australia’s Murray-Darling Basin, will illuminate the delicate balance required. Engaging assessments will inspire thought on harmonizing agricultural demands with environmental stewardship for sustainable food security.

Refine your skills on and off the stage through an exploration of theatre and performance styles from Musical Theatre, Contemporary Australian theatre and Improvisation. Learn the stagecraft skills required to bring scripted theatre to life through the creative rehearsal process right through to live performance. Immerse yourself in movement, music, performers and production. Whether on the stage or behind the curtain, learn how every role comes together to make magic on stage.

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

In Dance, students build on their awareness and understanding of the body, and of how to create connections between technical movements, other performers, and production elements in space. Students build their technical skill by learning a variety of different dance styles including K-Pop, Commercial Jazz, Contemporary Dance and Musical Theatre, whilst also exploring their creativity and expression through composing choreographic dance pieces. Students will work with local industry professionals and view live dance performances to increase their understanding of the larger dance industry and the exciting possibilities a dance career could entail beyond the studio.

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

How can we understand cultural and historical contexts through music language exploration,and bring these to light in expressive musical performances?

Students will develop their aural skills and build on their understanding of the Elements of Music. Students will build skills to understand your role within an ensemble, and as a soloist, learning to control tone and volume in a range of styles. Students will extend their technical and expressive skills in performance, drawing on music from a range of cultures, times and locations. Students will reflect on the development of traditional and contemporary styles of music and how musicians can be identified through the style of their music. This will be explored through regular in-class performances, music analysis, musicianship and regular feedback on instrumental technique and skill.

This elective is semester long and must be undertaken in Semester 1 only.

How do you write, record and produce a song?

In this unit, students will develop the skills needed to write a popular song using both standard notation and DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) technologies. Learning will be brought to life in a final recording project where students will visit Empire Studios and record a final EP or Album, giving valuable insight into the professional music industry.

This elective is semester long and must be undertaken in Semester 2 only.

Contemporary Large Scale Self Portrait using Charcoal and Pastel 

Students will begin the semester by creating a large-scale charcoal self-portrait inspired by the contemporary portrait practice of Matthew Monaghan. Through observational drawing, students will develop an understanding of facial proportion, tone, texture, and expressive mark-making. Working with charcoal and other drawing media, they will explore how artists communicate identity and personal narratives through portraiture. Students document their progress through a visual diary, reflecting on their artistic choices. 

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

Small Scale Acrylic Vanitas Painting 

Students will then investigate the tradition of vanitas painting through the creation of a small-scale acrylic still life influenced by the dramatic chiaroscuro and symbolism of the Dutch Masters. Students will incorporate contemporary objects that hold personal significance, reinterpreting the vanitas concept for the present day. Through this project, they will develop painting techniques, explore light and shadow, and consider how objects can communicate ideas about identity, value, and the passage of time. Students document their progress through a visual diary, reflecting on their artistic choices. 

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

Print portfolio analogue images  

The analogue photography elective offers students a hands-on and immersive introduction to the art of traditional photography practices. Working with film cameras, students explore composition, lighting and exposure techniques to capture images inspired by iconic photographers. In a fully equipped darkroom, they develop their own black-and-white photographs, where they gain an appreciation for past practices and their influence on contemporary photography. Students learn to analyse and discuss images, tell meaningful stories, and experiment with other creative analogue techniques such as photograms and cyanotypes. The elective also emphasises presentation, guiding students to frame and curate their work for display in student exhibitions. 

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

Digital Portrait, moving images and zine 

This elective invites students to explore creative possibilities using digital based media in a variety of formats including digital photography. Using both DSLR cameras and phone cameras, they learn how to capture striking images while developing an understanding of composition, lighting, and visual storytelling. Students take their work further through digital editing, using industry-standard digital tools to enhance, manipulate, and transform their images.  They are also introduced to other digital processes including animation and short-form video creation. Students also explore self-publishing through creating digital zines, where they use images, layout, and text to share their personal perspectives. 

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

Branding and promotion design for products and services  

This elective introduces students to the exciting world of Messages and communication design through the creation of a brand identities and promotional material. In this elective student explore key design elements and principles as they develop a brand identity for a product or service, learning how to communicate ideas clearly and creatively through imagery, colour, and layout across a range of print and digital formats. They are also introduced to the art of typography, experimenting with type to enhance meaning and visual impact.  This elective encourages innovation, critical thinking, and purposeful design, empowering students to create meaningful and visually engaging messages for real-world contexts, including school events and projects. 

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

Architecture, packaging, furniture design  

Students step into the world of 3D design and explore how creativity shapes the spaces and objects we use every day. In this engaging elective, students investigate the exciting fields of architecture, interior design, furniture, and packaging, learning how thoughtful 3D design can be both functional and innovative. Drawing inspiration from leading Australian and international designers, students develop an understanding of key design elements and principles while exploring what makes good design . They experiment with both manual and digital drawing techniques to communicate their ideas clearly and effectively to an audience. Students respond to real-world design briefs, working both independently and collaboratively in design teams. Emphasis is placed on creating sustainable and purposeful solutions to design problems. 

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

Fabric design and shorts construction: 

Students explore the work of fashion designers to gain an appreciation of how pattern and colour are used within the fashion industry. They digitally create a repeat pattern suitable for fabric, experimenting with scale, colour and layout. Students learn how to use a sewing machine, read and interpret a commercial pattern and apply this knowledge to sew a pair of shorts. Using a digital folio, students record their research, progress and reflect on the processes used, evaluating design decisions, construction techniques and challenges encountered. Students end up with an original pair of wearable shorts. 

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

How do we turn lines of code into interactive games? How can programming help us solve problems in fun and creative ways?

Across these two subjects, students will develop the core skills needed to think algorithmically and create object-oriented programs using the Python scripting language, one of the most widely used coding languages in the world. They will apply their understanding through hands-on projects, designing a series of interactive games that combine user activity with algorithmic data processing to create engaging and immersive experiences. Students are actively building games, applying programming concepts, and seeing real-time results from their work, making learning both practical and rewarding.

Students will not only learn the language of code, they will learn to think like coders: logical, creative and ready to bring ideas to life.

Students can explore coding across two independently selectable semester long electives.

This subject introduces students to the fundamentals of Python and is ideal for students with no coding experience. Students explore the use of different data types and basic logic loops to introduce branching and iterative functionality. They explore game development which utilises keyboard user inputs to develop retro style games.

This subject further develops Python scripting skills, exploring multidimensional data types and classes to support the use of custom functions and further iterative functionality. Students introduce complexity to the games they develop through the use of mouse inputs and more complex mathematical calculations.

Note: Students with an understanding of integers, strings and lists, as well as if/else and for loops should commence their journey here.

How can technology be used to design and refine high-performance solutions? How can teams manage complex projects to achieve success?

In Applied Design and Technology, students undertake practical investigations using digital technologies such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, 3D printers and CNC automated routers. They apply this knowledge through a collaborative design project, working in teams to design, test and produce a miniature Formula 1 racing car.

Through this project, students develop their understanding of project management, with a focus not only on design and manufacturing processes, but also on key elements such as branding, marketing design, managing project timelines, and planning resource use. Students use data and testing to improve their designs, working iteratively to achieve the best possible performance.

Students may be selected to compete in the STEM Racing State Final based on the quality of their work.

This elective semester long and must be undertaken in Semester 1 only

How can electronic systems be designed and used to solve real-world challenges? How do engineers build and control devices that operate in complex environments?

In Engineering and Electronics, students undertake practical investigations into electronic systems and technologies. They develop skills in circuit construction, component use and soldering, gaining confidence in working with a range of tools, materials and processes.

Students apply this knowledge through a series of hands-on design challenges, culminating in a small group project to design and construct a model remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV). This project involves assembling electronic systems and integrating them into a functioning device that can operate underwater.

Through these activities, students develop their understanding of the engineering design process, including planning, testing and refining solutions, as well as managing time and resources effectively.

Students may also be eligible to apply for a position on Korowa’s ROV Team, which competes in the MATE ROV World Championship.

This elective semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

This unit delves into the often overlooked contributions and experiences of women throughout history. From ancient civilizations to modern times, students will uncover the pivotal roles women have played in shaping societies, politics, arts, and culture. Through lectures, primary source analysis, and discussions, this course examines the challenges women faced, the strides they made, and the impact of their actions on the course of history. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of gender dynamics and the ongoing fight for equality. Cleopatra, Hypatia, Boudica, Queen Elizabeth I, Queen Victoria, Emmeline Pankhurst, Ada Lovelace, Rosalind Franklin, Mary Wollstonecraft and Sacagawe are some of the notable individuals whose work, influence and impact will be explored over the course of this unit.

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

How do I set myself up to become financially successful?

Imagine it’s 10 years into the future. Some people may be finishing a degree, backpacking through Europe or even starting a business. The future may seem far away, but we all can reap the rewards of the financial decisions made today, years from now. This elective introduces you to a range of basic personal financial skills to empower you to live a happy and secure life, including saving and spending, investing, personal financial decision-making, and how to be a smart consumer. As a key learning experience, you will also have an opportunity to apply your knowledge of investments with a virtual $50,000 in the national ASX Sharemarket Game.

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

This elective provides you with an opportunity to explore psychology concepts through the broad range of contexts in which they are encountered in everyday life. This subject will develop your critical thinking and analytical skills through a variety of practical and theoretical activities as you explore topics such as personality, interpersonal attraction, positive psychology, and other factors that influence human behaviour across different situations.

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

Delve into the intricacies of the skeletal, articular and muscular systems, along with injury management techniques and performance enhancing psychology. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the skeletal structure, the joints that enable movement, and the incredible muscular system that powers our every action. Examine how food, hydration and recovery strategies influence energy levels, performance and wellbeing. Explore injury prevention and management strategies, first aid techniques and rehabilitation approaches to handle common sports-related injuries. Develop the skills to assess, treat, and support the recovery process, empowering you to promote a safe and active lifestyle.

This subject offers students a chance to understand and appreciate the incredible mechanisms that enable our bodies to move and thrive.

This elective a semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

This unique course offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of entrepreneurship. Throughout the course, students engage in a comprehensive exploration of various topics such as the development of a diverse menu that caters to different tastes and dietary restrictions, cost and time management, and the promotion of nutrition and sustainability.

They will experience hands-on practical activities where they are required to collaborate with their peers to produce dishes of high quality. As a culmination of their learning journey, students will have the opportunity to apply their acquired expertise by taking on the responsibility of running a café for a day. Overall, this course provides a foundation of practical skills, critical thinking abilities, and ethical values that can benefit students in a wide range of professional endeavours and industries. Whether pursuing careers in the culinary arts, dietetics, event planning, hospitality management, marketing, social entrepreneurship, or any field that values teamwork, creativity, and responsible decision-making, students will be equipped with the essential tools to thrive and make a positive impact.

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.

Learn to become a master chef at Korowa by participating in a range of practical learning activities that revolve around food. Participate in master classes to acquire key knowledge and skills about yeast baking, pasta making, preparing batters to make crepes, making frozen desserts such as gelati and working with a range of meat and meat alternatives to explore the ethical and nutritional aspects of our food choices. Learn from celebrity chefs who will offer you specialised techniques to apply to your own cooking. Invent your own creative dishes from mystery boxes. Work co-operatively in teams during group challenges and develop your appreciation of food. New food trends, sustainability and healthy eating are explored in each unit.

This elective is semester long and can be undertaken in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.