Year 10
- FOUR PERIOD: Italian | LOTE
- FOUR PERIOD: Game Development | Design and Technologies
- FOUR PERIOD: Health and Human Development | Health and PE
- FOUR PERIOD: Business and Economics – Risky Business: Making Money | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: Geography – Greener Lifestyles, Greater Happiness | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: History – Modern Oz | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: Legal Studies- Power Games: Law & Politics | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: The Original Influencers | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: Biology | Science
- FOUR PERIOD: Chemistry | Science
- FOUR PERIOD: Physics | Science
- FOUR PERIOD: Psychology | Science
- FOUR PERIOD: STEM | Science
- FOUR PERIOD: Getting ready for the workforce | Vocational
- SIX PERIOD: Dystopian Worlds | English
- SIX PERIOD: Myth and Meaning | English Literature
- SIX PERIOD: Power of Protest | English Language
- SIX PERIOD: Digital Technology | Design and Technologies
- SIX PERIOD: Fashion and Design | Design and Technologies
- SIX PERIOD: Fitness and Training | Health and PE
- 2D & 3D Art | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
- Art in History | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
- A Media Odyssey | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
- Creative Audio Production | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
- Dance Styles | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
- Food As Art | Broad Arts
- History of Musical Theatre (ODD YEARS)
- Industry Collab | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
- Music Performance | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
- Musical Theatre | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
- Screen Acting | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
- Short Film Production | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
- Theatrical Design | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
Rowville Institute of the Arts – Course Selection Guidelines Year 10
Students in Year 10 will complete four four period elective subjects for the year – two per semester.
Students will also undertake two six period electives per year – one per semester.
Broad Arts electives – two per year, one per semester.
PROCESS
Four Period Electives
- Students must select from LOTE (year long), vocational (year long), humanities, science, technology and Health & PE.
- Pick 4 electives, 2 per semester.
Six Period Electives
- Students must choose from technology, Health & PE and VCE accelerated subjects.
- Pick 2 electives, 1 per semester.
Broad Arts
- Broad Arts 9/10 electives are offered on a 2-year rotation.
- Choose two electives from 2D & 3D Art, Art in History, A Media Odyssey, Creative Audio Production, Dance Styles, Food as Art, History of Musical Theatre, Industry Collab, Musical Performance, Musical Theatre, Screen Acting, Short Film Production and Theatrical Design.
English Selection
Students will be required to select an English.
Students will make this choice based on their planned pathway and teacher recommendations (see subject descriptions in the handbook below for more information).
- English: Dystopian Worlds: suits students who plan to study VCE English.
- English Literature: Myth and Meaning: suits students who plan to study VCE English Literature.
- English Language: Power of Protest: suits students who plan to study VCE English Language.
Maths Selection
Students will be required to select a Mathematics.
Students should make this choice based on their planned pathway and teacher recommendation.
- Foundation: suits students who plan to study VCE Foundation Mathematics/VM or SBAT Numeracy or no Maths in Year 11 (Please note VM and SBAT students must select a Maths / Numeracy in Year 11)
- General: suits students who plan to study General Mathematics in VCE.
- Methods: suits students who plan to study VCE Mathematical Methods.
- Specialist Maths: suits students who plan to study VCE Specialist Mathematics. Students who choose Specialist Mathematics must also choose Methods.
If students or their parents have any questions about subject selections they should discuss these with their Learning Mentor.
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FOUR PERIOD: Italian | LOTE
In the context of increasing globalisation, being a world citizen and Australia’s multicultural diversity, Italian Language is for students who wish to continue developing their language skills. Students undertake more advanced conversation, writing, reading and listening activities. Italian language develops students’ vocabulary skills and cultural aspects are also explored in greater depth. Students continue with a thematic approach, but there is also more emphasis devoted to the teaching of grammatical concepts to prepare students for their senior years. At this level students are normally able to participate in various cultural activities.
Italian Language will take up two elective choices.
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FOUR PERIOD: Game Development | Design and Technologies
Curriculum Contribution: $25
Minimum requirements: Device must a minimum of 8Gb of RAM and 256Gb hard drive, 512 Gb hard drive recommended. Software is free for educational purposes.
Students use the Unreal Engine software, a commercial level program developed by Epic Games, to create their own 1st or 3rd person computer game. Students will be introduced to human user design concepts and the design cycle, advanced block coding, and geometric and Physics concepts that are applied in virtual worlds.
Stage one involves students building their own environment in the theme of their game, creating landscapes and buildings that their avatar can move through referred to as White Boxing. In the second phase, students learn how to create objects to place in the game that the avatar can interact with such as health pickups, bombs, moving platforms and opening and closing doors.
Students are given checkpoints along the way for completion of certain tasks and will have a timeline that they have to keep to, to ensure completion of the project within the semester. At the end of the subject students should have produced a fully interactive game with a playable level and start and finish screen.
This course is for:
- Students who enjoy creating their own world
- Students who are imaginative
- Students who enjoy gaming
- Student who are interested in higher order digital skills
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FOUR PERIOD: Health and Human Development | Health and PE
Curriculum Contribution tbc
Are you thinking of studying Health and Human Development as a VCE subject? Are you keen to get a head-start so you are well prepared? If so, then this year 10 prequal to senior Health and Human Development is the subject that will give you the best chance possible of achieving your goals. Explore engaging topics including the amazing human lifespan, learn about child development and how humans transition from youth to adulthood. Investigate how religion, gender, culture and socio-economic status affect health, and identify major health inequalities among Australia’s youth. Perhaps you’re interested to know more about the health care systems in Australia. There are so many interesting and engaging lessons to be learnt in Health and Human Development at year 10.
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FOUR PERIOD: Business and Economics – Risky Business: Making Money | Humanities
Ever wonder how the rich get richer? Do you know the background of successful entrepreneurs such as Steve Jobs and Elon Musk? Join us as we investigate the secrets of success of famous entrepreneurs and reflect on how their success can inspire our success through exploration of entrepreneurial skills, effective advertising strategies, and technological advancements. Have you been mining bitcoin? Have you been curious about the share market? Investing is the way of the future! Join us as we play a game of high-risk and high reward.
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FOUR PERIOD: Geography – Greener Lifestyles, Greater Happiness | Humanities
What are the real consequences of environmental change? Does it really matter if we cut down the rainforests? How do melting icesheets affect you? Go on a journey of environmental exploration and find out the true impacts of environmental management. Evaluate different responses to environmental change and predict the consequences of our environmental plans. Discover how much your environment influences human wellbeing. What life would be like if you grew up in the USA? Does where you live really influence your happiness? Unearth how our government Is responsible for human wellbeing and how your wellbeing is influenced by our environment and natural resources.
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FOUR PERIOD: History – Modern Oz | Humanities
Students will travel back to the turn of the twentieth century and see Australia’s perspective and experience in one of the richest and disastrous periods of our time. Investigating the causes and events of both World War I and II from an Australian perspective, students will determine the lasting effects these battles had on our country and our people. As the twentieth century progresses, we will research the movement of people as a result of world events, seeing what brought people to the land down under. Students will ponder the experiences of Indigenous Australians across the 1900s as they fought for rights to be counted and heard in the modern landscape.
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FOUR PERIOD: Legal Studies- Power Games: Law & Politics | Humanities
Do you wonder why Putin was able to invade the Ukraine? Have you ever wondered what is in the United Nations’ “Declaration of Human Rights”, or questioned Australia’s treatment of asylum seekers or Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Peoples? You will explore the wide world of international laws and global politics. You will use analysing and evaluation skills to determine who has power and who is powerless and why. You will investigate Australia’s political system and look at case studies involving the rights of asylum seekers and Indigenous Australians, as well as the international treaties and declarations that Australia is obligated to follow.
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FOUR PERIOD: The Original Influencers | Humanities
Before Tik Tok and the Kardashians, there were people who influenced the world, both infamous and famous. Take a look at both historical and modern figures who have brought change to society through terror, politics and trendsetting. Join us as we explore how and why Vlad the Impaler became a such a figure of fear that he inspired the legend of Dracula. Let’s look at the power ploys of Cleopatra and popularity of Marylin Monroe. How did Doug Nicholls rise from AFL legend to Governor of South Australia? Let’s investigate the changes LGBTQI+ activist Harvey Milk created. How can one person create so much change and effect so many people? Join the journey to find out about the original influencers.
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FOUR PERIOD: Biology | Science
Curriculum Contribution: $20
This semester based elective course is designed to give students a taste of the topics covered in VCE Biology. Students will explore topics such as cellular structure and function, including a focus on biomacromolecules and their importance in supporting life. They will investigate how DNA and genes transfer information from one generation to another, focusing in on patterns of inheritance and how traits can be passed on from parents to offspring. They will examine the theory of evolution by natural selection and how this explains the diversity of living things found on our planet. Students conduct scientific studies and formulate hypotheses, collect and analyse data. As well as an increased understanding of scientific processes, students develop capacities that enable them to critically assess the strengths and limitations of science, respect evidence-based conclusions and gain an awareness of the ethical, social and political contexts of scientific endeavours.
This subject is highly recommended for any students wanting to continue with VCE Biology.
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FOUR PERIOD: Chemistry | Science
Curriculum Contribution: $20
This semester based elective course is designed to give students a taste of the topics covered in VCE Chemistry. Students will be exploring topics that include; subatomic particles and structures, trends in the periodic table, models of chemical bonding, qualitative and quantitative chemical reactions, redox reactions and organic chemistry. Students will develop their understanding of experimentation and application of chemical concepts through completing and modifying practical activities. Students will develop capacities that enable them to critically assess the strengths and limitations of science, respect evidence-based conclusions and gain an awareness of the ethical, social and political contexts of scientific endeavours.
This subject is highly recommended for any students wanting to continue with VCE Chemistry.
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FOUR PERIOD: Physics | Science
Curriculum Contribution: $20
This semester based elective course is designed to give students a taste of the topics covered in VCE Physics. Students will explore topics such as how heat transfers from hot to cold objects. They will investigate the wave nature of light and sound, and learn about the basics of electric circuits. Students will explore the concepts behind Newton’s laws of motion and how energy, forces and motion all interact. Students will conduct scientific investigations and formulate hypotheses, collect, and analyse data. They will develop critical scientific communication skills and think deeply about the ethical considerations of experiments. Students will incorporate their mathematical skills when solving equations relating to the physical world.
This subject is highly recommended for any students wanting to continue with VCE Physics.
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FOUR PERIOD: Psychology | Science
This semester based elective course is designed to give students a taste of the topics covered in VCE Psychology. Students will explore topics such as how information transfers from sensory to our long-term memory. They will describe different ways to learn, such as through Classical and Operant conditioning, and Observational Learning. Students will describe mental health, mental health problems and specific mental health disorders and their characteristics. Lastly, they will explain how people experience different stages of NREM/ REM sleep throughout the night. Students conduct scientific studies and formulate hypotheses, collect and analyse data. Students develop capacities that enable them to critically assess the strengths and limitations of science, respect evidence-based conclusions and gain an awareness of the ethical considerations when performing research on human/living subjects.
This subject is highly recommended for any students wanting to continue with VCE Psychology.
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FOUR PERIOD: STEM | Science
Curriculum Contribution $25.00
This semester based elective course in STEM gives students exposure to the importance of Design Thinking through designing collaborative and individual projects that solve real world problems. Students will use and advance their skills in the four key areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in the first term and then use these skills to further their own Personal Interest Project in the second term. Students will be exposed to various technologies such as 3D printing, Scratch coding, VR/AR, robotics, and Apps with the aim of incorporating these into projects and assessments. Students will also be exposed to various elements of the Scientific Method such as variables, controls, data representation and analysis and supported to use this in experiments and experimental design.
By combining elements of Design Think to engineering and the Scientific Method to projects and/or research students will be challenged to investigate, design, and build their Interest Projects and then to present them and refine them for their final assessment.
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FOUR PERIOD: Getting ready for the workforce | Vocational
Do you want the opportunity to undertake work experience? Do you want to be better prepared for part time work or a vocational pathway in your future?
This year long elective will give you the work related skills to make your resume stand out. You will be able to get a taste for the industries and careers that interest you and to begin the journey to toward the skills, knowledge and certifications to get you there. Students undertaking this course have exclusive access to opportunities such as:- Work experience
- White Card Training
- TAFE Taster experiences
- Professional Portfolio/Resume Development
- *This elective is creditable for units 1 and 2 of WRS in VCE (Vocational Major). Please students interested in an SBAT pathway are highly recommended to undertake this program.
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SIX PERIOD: Dystopian Worlds | English
Students will explore the genre of dystopian fiction, what it offers readers and how it connects to the contemporary world. They will analyse texts in order to develop a greater understanding of the conventions of the genre in terms of characters, themes, ideas and narrative structure. Connections between dystopian writing and other fiction genres will progress student knowledge of the writing process. This elective will offer students the ability to develop their literacy, analytical and verbal skills further, preparing themselves to enter VCE English the following year.
*This is a Year 10 Semester Two English Elective.
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SIX PERIOD: Myth and Meaning | English Literature
Students will explore a range of classic and contemporary forms of literature with a focus on mythology and the origins of storytelling. They will develop an understanding of the way a range of literary texts have been constructed and how each connects to the world today. Students will read and respond to the texts through close analysis and creative responses, they will also collaborate with in depth discussions and passage focused analysis. This elective is designed as an introduction to VCE Literature as a future pathway.
*This is a Year 10 Semester Two English Elective.
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SIX PERIOD: Power of Protest | English Language
The Power of Protest unit will allow students to look closely at the power of language to reshape the future. Students will engage in a variety of protest texts across written, verbal and multimodal forms and examine how words and sentences can evoke emotional responses and actions. They will develop an understanding of how language can create connections and unite people and apply this knowledge to their own protest piece. This elective is designed as an introduction to VCE English Language as a future pathway.
*This is a Year 10 Semester Two English Elective.
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SIX PERIOD: Digital Technology | Design and Technologies
In this elective student investigate why so many companies want so many details about us. They will look at the collection of data, such as social media, and what companies do with. They will also look at how it is process, the so called “Big Data”. What does it mean? How big is “Big Data”?
Student will also examine privacy laws. Has the law kept up with the technology? Is it specific enough? What happens if a company breaks a law in another country? Whose laws do they follow? Who prosecutes global companies?
Finally, students will learn about networks. Students will consider the different hardware involved in setting up a network. What is the difference between local and global networks? What is the Internet really and who owns it? What is travelling along the miles of cable and through the ether? What’s the big deal about fibre optic cable really? How do we keep our data safe?
This elective will prepare students who are considering pursuing a digital career or simply looking to understand the expanding digital world that we now live in. The demand for workers with digital skills will only increase in the future and regardless of your choice career pathway, increasing your digital skills and understanding will prepare your well for what is to come.
This elective is for:
- The Computer Scientist!
- The Data Analyst!
- The Media Analyst!
- The IT Specialist!
- The Web Designer!
- The Networks Specialist!
- The Cyber Security Analyst!
- The Cryptographer!
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SIX PERIOD: Fashion and Design | Design and Technologies
Curriculum Contribution: $65
Would you like to design your own clothes or know how to make or alter clothes? Are you interested in Fashion and understanding how designers work? Are you interested in knowing what colours and clothing styles suit you?
If you are, then Fashion and Design is for you.
In this unit you will transfer theoretical knowledge to practical activities across a range of projects. You will be introduced to traditional and technical sewing skills as you make a hoodie/jumper. You will use your creativity to generate designs for these projects and transfer these designs to the production stage by following a Commercial pattern and sewing instructions. You will also be introduced to different forms of creative textiles, such as fabric painting, tie- dying, embroidery, etc. You will also look at body shapes and colours to determine what styles and colours suit individuals.
This subject will lead to VCE Product Design and Technology and VCE Art Making and Exhibiting.
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SIX PERIOD: Fitness and Training | Health and PE
Curriculum Contribution: $30
Who wants to get fit and have fun at the same time whilst training with friends? Learn about how to use a whole range of fitness equipment such as free weights, resistance bands, machine weights and cardio equipment. Understand how to train specific fitness components to be better in your chosen sport. Write your own fitness program and take part in fitness sessions to improve your fitness. If you are serious about fitness and want to train at school, Fitness and Training is the subject for you. Whether it’s speed, strength or endurance, the great thing about this subject is that you get to tailor your fitness program to meet your specific needs. It is also a great subject to complete if you are thinking about doing VCE Physical Education.
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2D & 3D Art | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 2 (even years).
In this elective students focus on creating a range of 2D & 3D visual art works by exploring a variety of themes, issues and ideas. Students will experiment with and apply skills relevant to various materials, techniques and processes studied in two and three dimensional art forms, such as drawing, painting, collage, installation and multi-media creations.
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Art in History | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 1 (even years).
This course asks students to see the world through the eyes of artists. The Arts reflect society. They are the first area consulted when learning the history of cultures and peoples because they present through context, the great events and ideas of the times in tandem with all areas of the human experience. These works transcend language barriers and broaden our understanding of the people of different times and cultures. We will be looking at historical events of the 20th century that have impacted the social and political times, and discuss how these have been presented in the visual and performing arts.
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A Media Odyssey | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 2 (odd years).
Students will gain an understanding of new technologies that are at the forefront of media productions such as green screen, 6K mirror-less cameras, sensor technology, 3D, animation, 3D modelling, and game-based technologies. Students will experiment with technology in interactive and online media. This subject will expose students to industry standard production. Students will get the chance to connect with industry partners to create media works for an authentic audience. Students with interests across the entire field of Arts will be able to bring their passions and strengths into the subject. They will develop skills in software and hardware that will embolden their creativity. Students will be able to refine their speciality while working alongside others in a team-based collaboration, connecting to the real-world industry process.
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Creative Audio Production | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 1 (even years).
In Creative Audio Production students get hands-on experience learning the process of creating, recording, producing and mixing original music. Students will develop their understanding of recording studio processes such as microphone types, recording techniques, the stereo field, and general studio decorum. In the production phase students will focus on writing and editing with digital audio workstations (Ableton Live and/or Garageband), using plugins for world-class sound production, and mixing recordings for public release. This course is designed to give students an opportunity to learn practical skills in how music can be written, recorded and produced for a range of media including film, podcasts, Youtube, and traditional popular music. No prior musical instrument skill is required, but a passion for sound and music is a must.
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Dance Styles | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 1 (even years).
In this elective students will explore a range of dance styles from different times and cultures. They will learn a range of technical skills and movements as well as developing a basic understanding of the history and context of each style. Students will apply their understanding and knowledge and build their own choreographic skills as they produce a range of different dance works in various dance styles. The students will also develop a strong kinaesthetic awareness and muscle memory as they learn different dance works in their exploration of dance styles
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Food As Art | Broad Arts
*This subject runs Semester 1 & 2 every year.
Students will explore and extend their creativity as they learn the art of cookery. In this elective, students will learn the safety and hygiene as they prepare themselves to be creative in the kitchen. Students will explore decorations and develop their own cover for a Food magazine. They will follow the ‘Design Process’ to investigate, design, generate ideas and produce their delicious dish and then become the production managers as they photograph and shoot their cover.
This elective is designed for students who wish to extend their knowledge of cooking, whilst exploring their creative flair.
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History of Musical Theatre (ODD YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 2 (odd years).
Step into the spotlight and journey through the captivating history of musical theatre in our immersive elective. Travel from the enchanting world of English Operettas and the wit of Gilbert and Sullivan to the groundbreaking works of Sondheim, the grand spectacles of Andrew Lloyd Webber, and the revolutionary brilliance of Jonathan Larson and Lin Manuel Miranda. Discover how historical movements have shaped and transformed this dynamic art form. You will showcase your knowledge and passion in a musical theatre performance. Step into the past and bring the magic of musical theatre to life!
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Industry Collab | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 2 (even years).
In Industry Collab students are required to work beyond the classroom to engage with the arts community, industry and issues (community and /or industry). Students will develop their understanding of real-world community and/or industry arts practices as well as developing the soft skills required to be a practicing artist in any field. This course is designed to give students an opportunity to engage with the broader community, to seek and document industry engagement or to bring demanding extra-curricular activities into the classroom.
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Music Performance | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 1 (odd years).
This is an elective designed for students who learn an instrument and are interested in developing their ensemble, performance and musicianship skills. Students selecting this subject will be studying topics including: basic music theory, aural training, music analysis, technical works/exercises as well as performance practice. Students develop their ensemble performance skills through the development of repertoire, and look at the essential requirements of how to become a professional musician. Classwork will focus on specific techniques relating to their chosen instrument, playing in an ensemble as well as working on music theory skills. Assessments will require students to perform on their instrument in a small group and sit music theory exams. The aim of completing this elective is to prepare and give insight to students looking into doing VCE Music Performance unit 1 and 2.
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Musical Theatre | Broad Arts (EVEN YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 2 (even years).
In Musical Theatre students will learn the basics of dance and in a Broadway style and explore how to create characters for the stage. Students will develop their technical dance skills through practically engaging in a variety of technique classes and learning choreographed routines. They will develop acting techniques and understand how to manipulate their expressive skills to create a range of characters. They will learn Musical Theatre history and discover a variety of musicals from the golden oldies to this year’s Tony Award winners. This course is designed for all ability levels and to cater for those performers who want to hone their acting and movement skills.
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Screen Acting | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 1 (odd years).
In this elective, students will develop their skills and understanding in screen acting in front of and behind the camera. They will explore and study a range of films and actors that use a range of different acting techniques to create and realise multiple roles. Students will learn the art of understated acting and how this contrasts to stage acting. This subject provides students with the opportunity to rehearse, memorise and present a range of scripts in front of a camera. These performances will be recorded for students to watch their work back for self critique and to use this to further develop their screen acting skills. As well as performing in front of the camera, students will learn the basics of how to operate a camera to film one another. While this elective does not require any prior acting experience, it does require hard work and dedication to get the best out of this class.
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Short Film Production | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 1 (odd years).
Lights, camera, action! Short-film production is a hands-on class that will teach you the basics of creating your own original short films. You’ll learn about scriptwriting, storyboarding, directing, and editing. Collaborate with classmates to bring your stories to life and showcase your creativity. By the end of the elective, you’ll have produced your own short film and gained valuable skills in teamwork, communication, and media production. Whether you dream of being behind the camera or in front of it, this class is your first step into the exciting world of film.
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Theatrical Design | Broad Arts (ODD YEARS)
*This subject runs Semester 2 (odd years).
Dive into the world where imagination meets craftsmanship in the Theatrical Design elective. Explore the intricate art of set, costume, and hair/makeup design as you uncover the some of the secrets behind a variety of stage productions. Through engaging research and hands-on practice, you’ll develop the skills to create designs and concepts that are bring your vision to life. The elective culminates in a presentation where you’ll display your unique artistic vision for a chosen show. Unleash your creativity, innovate with bold designs, and bring your theatrical dreams to life!