Year 10
- FOUR PERIOD: EAL | English
- FOUR PERIOD: Launguage and Literature | English
- FOUR PERIOD: Italian | LOTE
- FOUR PERIOD: Art and Visual Communications & Design | Arts
- FOUR PERIOD: Drama: Page to Stage | Arts
- FOUR PERIOD: Game Development | Design and Technologies
- FOUR PERIOD: Fitness and Training | Health and PE
- FOUR PERIOD: Sports Science | Health and PE
- FOUR PERIOD: Business and Economics – Risky Business: Making Money | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: Geography – Exploring our World, Shaping our Future | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: History – Modern Oz | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: Legal Studies- Power Games: Law & Politics | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: Philosophy: Uncovering The Mysteries of the Universe | Humanities
- FOUR PERIOD: Psychology | Science
- FOUR PERIOD: Robotics | Technology
- FOUR PERIOD: Getting ready for the workforce | Vocational
- SIX PERIOD: Media: YouTube Heroes | Arts
- SIX PERIOD: Music: Stage and Beyond | Arts
- SIX PERIOD: Digital Technology | Design and Technologies
- SIX PERIOD: Fashion and Design | Design and Technologies
- SIX PERIOD: Product Design | Design and Technologies
- SIX PERIOD: Wide World of Food | Design and Technologies
- SIX PERIOD: Health and Human Development | Health and PE
- SIX PERIOD: Skills and Coaching | Health and PE
Maths & Science Academy – Course Selection Guidelines Year 10
If students or their parents have any questions about subject selections, they should discuss these with their Learning Mentor or the MSA Coordinator.
Students in Year 10 MSA will undertake two four period elective subjects throughout the year – one per semester.
Students will also undertake two six period electives – one per semester.
Students will undertake MSA VCE Acceleration subjects.
PROCESS
Four Period Electives
- Pick 2 electives, 1 per semester.
Six Period Electives
- Pick 2 electives, 1 per semester.
Students must choose at least one subject from each Learning Area – Humanities, Arts, Technology, Health & PE (4 and 6 period options available).
Students may choose from LOTE Italian (4 periods year-long), Vocational (4 periods year-long), English Language & Literature (4 periods semester-based).
Eligible students may select EAL (4 periods year-long).
ENGLISH SELECTION
All students will engage with a year-long “English Core” which focuses on essential skill development in preparation for senior years.
Language & Literature
This is a semester-based elective that students may choose to enrol in to get a taste of VCE English Language and VCE English Literature. To find out more, see the subject description provided on this page.
EAL
Students who are eligible for English as Additional Language (EAL) is offered the subject as a year-long four period elective in addition to “English Core”. This course is not available to non-EAL flagged students.
MSA MATHS
Students will choose:
• MSA Mathematics | 6 period year long
MSA VCE Acceleration Subject (Unit 1 & 2) Students choose from:
- A choice of 1 of the units 1 & 2 VCE subjects from either Biology, Psychology or General Maths.
Students should focus on their own individual interests and abilities when making their choices within the structure of a broad program of learning. Please ensure you read the descriptors listed below prior to making your selections.
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FOUR PERIOD: EAL | English
In the EAL elective students will be supported in a language rich environment to build their knowledge of academic and everyday language. This will build capacity and confidence in both English and mainstream classes. Intensive and explicit study of the English language will be offered across a range of contexts. Students will develop their language skills to communicate effectively and confidently. Students will build their skills and knowledge through a supported and structured learning cycle to build reading, writing and speaking and listening skills. Students will emerge as confident and capable users of the English language.
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FOUR PERIOD: Launguage and Literature | English
Language and Literature is a semester-based elective designed to complement the Year 10 English program and for students to get a taste of VCE English Language and VCE English Literature. This course offers students the opportunity to understand etymology and recognise, identify, use and analyse sentence and clause structure. Students also develop deeper analytical skills through the study of literary texts including poetry, short stories, and plays. Students will explore creative writing and investigate the evolution of language in Australia, gaining a broader understanding of how language shapes and reflects culture.
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FOUR PERIOD: Italian | LOTE
Want to discover the Ancient Sidewalks of Rome? How about cruising down the Canals of Venice? Want to shop to till you drop in Milan? Are you interested in learning about an ancient classic culture? Get prepared for a life rich in cultural adventure by learning Italian so you are ready for your post-school travels!
Italian Language is for students who wish to expand their range and control of linguistic systems and to further develop their language use. Students will experiment with a range of communication modes. They further develop their competency in the language by working on speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. In developing their communication skills, students are able to demonstrate comprehension of written and spoken material and communicate ideas through conversation and writing.
Italian Language will take up two elective choices.
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FOUR PERIOD: Art and Visual Communications & Design | Arts
Curriculum Contribution: $45
This subject focuses on creating a range of visual art works and designs by exploring a variety of themes, issues and ideas through the elements and principles of art and design. Students will experiment with and apply skills relevant to various materials, techniques and processes, such as technical and freehand drawing, painting, and printmaking. In their responses to various design briefs and research of selected artists and their works, students learn to analyse visual art works by understanding the characteristics and role of art and design within different cultures and history.
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FOUR PERIOD: Drama: Page to Stage | Arts
Curriculum Contribution: $20
In Page to Stage: Scripting Drama, students will learn the structures and conventions behind scripting drama, as well as develop their dramaturgical perspectives. They will devise solo and group pieces in an array of theatrical styles, and transform these from concept to script to performance.
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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: 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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FOUR PERIOD: Sports Science | Health and PE
Curriculum Contribution $20
How can you create the most force when hitting or throwing a ball? What is the most effective way to train for an event? Do sports drinks really work? All these questions and more will be explored in this brand-new PE elective. Every year, all over the world, billions of dollars are spent on developing the latest and best equipment and techniques to improve sporting performance. In this practical based subject you will explore the science behind sporting performance with a look at biomechanics, sports nutrition, training principles, fitness assessment, sports psychology, technological advancements in equipment, plus many more. The theory content with be explored in practical PE classes where you will get to see the theories in action. This is also a great pathway for students wanting to do VCE Physical Education. To compliment this engaging new PE program, you’ll build on your health knowledge with a deeper look at improving healthy lifestyle behaviours of a teenager.
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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 – Exploring our World, Shaping our Future | Humanities
Get ready to think like a geographer! In Year 10 Geography, you’ll dive into the big issues shaping our planet — from climate change and global inequality to the way cities grow and people connect. You’ll use real-world data, digital maps, and fieldwork skills to explore how human and natural systems interact. Through hands-on investigations and critical thinking, you’ll uncover how our choices affect the world around us — and what we can do to create a more sustainable future. Whether it’s analysing urban trends or tackling environmental challenges, this course gives you the tools to ask big questions, find meaningful answers, and make a difference.
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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: Philosophy: Uncovering The Mysteries of the Universe | Humanities
How do we know what’s actually real? In this mind-bending Year 10 philosophy elective, we’ll crack open Plato’s Cave, dive into Descartes’ doubt, and put different ways of knowing—like the scientific method—to the test. We’ll watch The Matrix (because, of course), explore wild theories about free will, and debate whether a God exists. If you love questioning everything, this course will leave you thinking about reality, truth, and existence in ways you never imagined. Buckle up—your brain is about to go on an existential rollercoaster.
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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: Robotics | Technology
Curriculum Contribution: $90
The Robotics elective will combine elements for both technology streams: digital and design. Students will be given a drive base design and a specific challenge that the robot will need to achieve. Students will need to design, build, and code the robot, then demonstrate that the robot can successfully complete the set challenge based on the FIRST Robotics Competition.
Students will receive opportunities to learn about the design cycle, using 3D design programs, programming and logic skills, engineering concepts, electronics, project management, and safety awareness. Students will complete projects and assessments from using digital CAD programs to safe handling of tools in the workshop.
This is a year-long elective. First semester is focus on building the robot in time to participate in the two available competitions, the Southern Cross Reginal (Sydney) in mid-March and the Melbourne Robotics tournament in early July. These competitions are an external commitment to class and not compulsory but are an amazing opportunity to develop teamwork and project management skills. Costs for competitions are separate to the class.
Second semester focuses on the surrounding skills in this industry. Students will develop life skills through approaching companies for sponsorship for the Robotics program and creating STEM models to share with peers and other audiences.
The Robotics elective incorporates all areas of STEM. Students will have a significant amount of autonomy in choosing the areas they want to focus on and building a skill set that will be applicable in a large variety of future careers as well as the independence and confidence to pursue them.
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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: Media: YouTube Heroes | Arts
Curriculum Contribution: $30
Want to get ready for a life behind the lens? This subject will teach you the DIY (do-it-your-self) tool set needed to make your own video and get it ready for YouTube. Students construct sets, props and costumes to roll camera of a zero budget a scene remake of a famous media text (tv show, anime, movie etc.). Students will also learn how to review and critique a TV show/video game in creating their own “hot take” review analysis ready for the internet. Like, share and subscribe!
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SIX PERIOD: Music: Stage and Beyond | Arts
Curriculum Contribution: $30
Considering music subjects for Year 11 and 12? “Music: Stage and Beyond” is the pathway to prepare you for the challenge and fun of music in senior years. You will be studying topics like performance, music theory, aural training, music analysis and composition. You will develop your confidence in ensemble and solo performance through songs and works in styles that interest you and are ideal for your instrument. By the end of this course, you’ll know if you’ve got what it takes to take on VCE Music or VET Music Performance.
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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
Discover Your Fashion Potential! Are you drawn to designing your own unique wardrobe? Curious about tailoring and altering clothes to fit perfectly? Fascinated by the world of fashion design and how creative professionals bring their visions to life? Want to uncover which colours and styles truly enhance your natural features? Fashion and Design is your gateway to this exciting creative world! In this immersive course, you’ll bridge theory and practice through engaging hands-on projects: Master both traditional and modern sewing techniques Design and create your own garment from initial concept to finished piece Learn to interpret commercial patterns and professional sewing instructions Explore diverse textile arts including embroidery, knitting, crochet, tie-dying, and fabric painting Analyse body shapes and colour theory to identify the most flattering styles for different individuals This course offers the perfect blend of practical skills and creative expression—empowering you to understand not just how clothes are made, but how to create garments that truly celebrate individuality and personal style!
This subject will lead to VCE Product Design and Technology and VCE Art Making and Exhibiting.
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SIX PERIOD: Product Design | Design and Technologies
Curriculum Contribution $100
“The best way to predict the future is to create it”, 16th President of the United States, President Abraham Lincoln.
Product design has taken care of many of life’s menial tasks for us. We have chairs to sit on, and hinges so doors can open and close.
Product design can make our lives easier. It can make us reconsider the world around us and how we interact with it.
Are you the sort of person that looks at the design of a product and thinks ‘I could have done a better job than that’? Is there a more sustainable design solution to protect our planet and precious resources?
In product design technology students will learn creative thinking skills, how to visualise design ideas in three-dimensions and produce high-quality hand-crafted products. The development of skills with basic and more complex hand tools will help prepare students for VCE Product Design and Technology.
Students explore how product design is affected by and can influence issues related to sustainability, as well as other product design factors such as function, quality, ergonomics and aesthetics.
Students will experience a sense of accomplishment from designing and fabricating a range of functional three-dimensional products, with a focus on finishing techniques to achieve high-quality outcomes.
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SIX PERIOD: Wide World of Food | Design and Technologies
Curriculum Contribution: $135
Do you want to: Know where your food originated from? Why we cook food? Be able to cater for different dietary requirements?
The aim of this unit is to develop your knowledge about how the Australian cuisine has evolved over time. You will further fine tune your independence and confidence preparing healthy meals in the kitchen. You will learn about the scientific changes that take place in foods through different food preparation methods. You will investigate the importance of safety and hygiene in the kitchen to prevent food poisoning. You will continue to use the design process to problem solve and find solutions to a design brief.
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SIX PERIOD: Health and Human Development | Health and PE
Curriculum Contribution $20
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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SIX PERIOD: Skills and Coaching | Health and PE
Curriculum Contribution: $30
Do you have what it takes to be a coach? Are you a leader who wants to help others? Learn all about being a sports coach in this PE subject. You’ll develop the knowledge of how to break down a complex skill, how to create effective coaching activities and be able to deliver fun and exciting sessions. You’ll gain an insight into the different styles of coaching by analysing some of your coaching heroes. While this is mainly a practical based subject, the theory content learned will be ideal for those who are planning to do VCE Physical Education.