Year 12 VCE VM

Unit 1
In unit 1 the student will be working towards the demonstration of two areas of study. The first area of study focuses on the structures and features of a range of texts – print, visual and film – and the personal reasons readers may have for engaging with these texts. Students will read or watch a variety of texts for a personal purpose, such as finding information. Additionally, students will read texts that serve a variety of purposes, from everyday content written to convey information, to texts written for specific workplaces or educational settings. They will extend their knowledge and understanding of the layout and format of a range of text types and use indexes, headings, subheadings, chapter titles and blurbs to locate and extract information pertaining to the purpose and key ideas within the written and spoken language.

In the second area of study students build on and work to consolidate their digital literacy skill by develop their capacity to critically assess digital texts, including webpages for vocational and workplace settings, podcasts and social media. They will continue to develop the analytic skills they used in Area of Study 1 to identify and discuss aspects of digital texts. As a part of their studies, students will discuss the reliability and effectiveness of websites in connecting with audiences and delivering factual messages and information. They will identify the ways a visitor encounters and experiences digital texts, considering their purpose and the social, cultural, vocational and workplace values associated with it. They will explore text through the prism of their own experience, knowledge, values and interests, and also those of others.

Unit 2

In Unit 2 students be studying two areas of study, building on skills learnt in unit 1.In area of study 1, students will engage in issues that are characterised by disagreement or discussion, developing and expanding upon students’ learning from Unit 1. Students will consider the values and beliefs that underpin different perspectives and how these values create different biases and opinions,including thinking about how these issues might arise in particular vocational or workplace settings. To do this students will read, view and listen to a range of texts and content that demonstrate diverse opinions on a range of local and global issues. Students will engage with a range of content from print, visual, aural and multimodal sources and will discuss and explain how personal and vested interests, including those of particular vocations or workplaces, affect their own responses to an issue. Students will practise note-taking and responding to short-answer questions as well as formulating their own oral and written opinions.

Unit 3
In Unit 3 of literacy Skills the students will explore two areas of study. In the first area of study students will become familiar with and develop confidence in understanding and accessing texts of an informational, organisational or procedural nature. Students will learn to recognise, analyse and evaluate the structures and semantic elements of informational, organisational and procedural texts as well as discuss and analyse their purpose and audience. Students will develop their confidence to deal with a range of technical content that they will encounter throughout adulthood, such as safety reports, public health initiatives, tax forms and advice, contracts, promotional videos and vocational and workplace texts. In the second area of study students focus on texts about an individual’s rights and responsibilities within organisations, workplaces and vocational groups. Students read and respond to a variety of technical content from a vocational, workplace or organisational setting of their choice, demonstrating understanding of how these texts inform and shape the organisations they interact with.

Unit 4
In this Unit students will explore two areas of study, the first area of study students will investigate, analyse and create content for the advocacy of self, a product or a community group of the student’s choice, in a vocational or recreational setting. Students will research the differences between texts used for more formal or traditional types of advocacy, influence or promotion, as well as some of the forms that are increasingly being used in the digital domain for publicity and exposure. Students will consider which elements are important for creating a ‘brand’ (including personal branding) and how different texts, images, products and multimedia platforms work together to produce one, central message to influence an audience. Students will compare and contrast the ways in which same message can be presented through different platforms and participate in discussions that consider the effectiveness of these messages, considering their purpose and the social and workplace values associated with them.

In the next area of study students will use their knowledge and understanding of language, context and audience to complete an oral presentation that showcases their learning. The presentation needs to be developed in consultation with the teacher and should focus on an area of student interest with a clearly stated vocational or personal focus. Students are encouraged to connect this area of study to their learning in Unit 4 of either Work Related Skills or Personal Development Skills. If students are not undertaking either of these studies, they may select an option from either of the two outlined below: Literacy for civic participation or Literacy for everyday contexts.

Unit 1

In Unit 1 of personal development students will focus on the development of personal identity and individual pathways to optimal health and wellbeing. It begins with concepts of personal identity and the range of factors that contribute to an individual’s perception of self and individual health and wellbeing. Students will use these findings to enhance an understanding of community cohesion, community engagement and how sense of identity may affect outcomes in different contexts. Students will investigate the elements of emotional intelligence and begin to develop an awareness of interrelationships between communities and the health and wellbeing of individuals.

Students will investigate local health-promoting organisations and resources and play an active, participatory role in designing and implementing activities or mechanisms to improve health and wellbeing. This unit highlights the importance of critical and creative thinking and clear communication as individuals explore personal identity and the role of community. Students will examine relationships between technologies and health and wellbeing, and develop tools for analysing the reliability, validity and accuracy of information and the efficacy of health messages.

Unit 2

Unit 2 focuses on the benefits of community participation and how people can work together effectively to achieve a shared goal. It begins with definitions of community and different types of communities at a local, national and global level. Students will look at the relationships between active citizenship, empathy and connection to culture, and individual health and wellbeing. They will investigate the barriers and enablers to problem solving within the community.

In the topic of community engagement, students will seek to understand different perspectives on issues affecting a community. They will reflect on relationships between community issues, social cohesion, and health and wellbeing, and the importance of clear information and communication. Students will investigate how communities may be called upon to support individual members and identify effective strategies for creating positive community change. They will plan, implement and evaluate an active response to an individual’s need for community support.

Unit 3

In Unit 3 students considers the role of interpersonal skills and social awareness in different settings and contexts. Students will examine leadership qualities and the characteristics of effective leaders and how these qualities can be applied to the achievement of goals within personal and community contexts. They will explore key components of effective teamwork and reflect on how to lead and contribute within a team context through a collaborative problem-solving activity. Students will evaluate individual contribution as well as the overall effectiveness of the team.

Unit 4

Unit 4 focuses on student participation in an extended project relating to a community issue. Students will identify environmental, cultural, economic and social issues affecting the community and select one for an extended community project. They will look at past approaches to the selected issue in Australia and elsewhere, consider how they will research information, and formulate an objective to achieve. Students will reflect on how community awareness of a selected issue can be improved. Students will engage in a process of planning, implementing and evaluating a response to a selected community issue. They will conduct research, analyse findings and make decisions on how to present work. Students will consider the key elements (such as emotional intelligence and effective team practices) and considerations (such as safety and ethics) when implementing a community project. Students will present project to an appropriate audience of peers or community members and evaluate the effectiveness of chosen response to the issue

Unit 1

In unit 1 of Work Related Skills student will recognises the importance of sourcing reliable information relating to future education and employment prospects to engage in effective pathway planning and decision-making. Students will investigate information relating to future employment, including entry-level pathways, emerging industries, and growth industries and trends, and evaluate the impact of pursuing employment in different industries. Students will reflect on this research in the context of their individual skills, capabilities and education and/or employment goals. They will develop and apply strategies to communicate their findings.

Unit 2

In unit 2 of Work Related Skills Student will be considering how the nature of work changes over time, so do the skills and capabilities needed for success. Fundamental to achieving personal goals relating to future education and employment is the ability to recognise and develop individual skills and capabilities that are valued in a chosen pathway. In this unit, students will consider the distinction between essential employability skills, specialist and technical work skills and personal capabilities, and understand the importance of training and development to support the attainment and transferability of skills. Students will collect evidence and artefacts relating to their personal skills and capabilities and promote them through resumes, cover letters and interview preparation.

Unit 3

Unit 3 of Work Related Skills focuses on the core elements of a healthy, collaborative, inclusive and harmonious workplace and is separated into three main areas:

• wellbeing, culture and the employee-employer relationship
• workplace relations, and
• communication and collaboration.

Students will learn how to maintain positive working relationships with colleagues and employers, understanding the characteristics of a positive workplace culture and its relationship to business success. They will investigate key areas relating to workplace relations including methods for determining pay and conditions, workplace bullying, workplace discrimination, workplace harassment and dispute resolution. Students will discover how teamwork and communication skills contribute to healthy, collegiate and productive workplaces

Unit 4

In unit 4 of Work Related Skills student will be learning about and developing a Personal portfolio. Portfolios are a practical and tangible way for a person to communicate relevant skills, experiences and capabilities to education providers and future employers. In this unit students will develop and apply their knowledge and skills relating to portfolios, including the features and characteristics of a high-quality physical and/or digital portfolio. The unit culminates in the formal presentation of a completed portfolio in a panel style interview and an evaluation of the final portfolio, where students justify and speak to the choices they have made.

Unit 3
In this unit students read and respond to texts analytically and creatively. They analyse arguments and the use of persuasive language in texts.

Unit 4
In this unit students compare the presentation of ideas, issues and themes in texts. They create an oral presentation intended to position audiences about an issue currently debated in the media.

Unit 3
In this unit students read and respond to texts analytically and creatively. They analyse arguments and the use of persuasive language in texts.

Unit 4
In this unit students compare the presentation of ideas, issues and themes in texts. They create an oral presentation intended to position audiences about an issue currently debated in the media.

Unit 3: Language variation and social purpose
In this unit students investigate English language in contemporary Australian social settings, along a continuum of informal and formal registers. Students examine the stylistic features of formal and informal language in both spoken and written modes. Students learn how to describe the interrelationship between words, sentences and text as a means of exploring how texts construct message and meaning. Students consider how texts are influenced by the situational and cultural contexts in which they occur. They learn how language can be indicative of relationships, power structures and purpose through the choice of a particular variety of language, and through the ways in which language varieties are used in processes of inclusion and exclusion.

Unit 4: Language variation and identity
In this unit students focus on the role of language in establishing and challenging different identities. Students examine both print and digital texts to consider the ways different identities are constructed. Students explore how our sense of identity evolves in response to situations and experiences and is influenced by how we see ourselves and how others see us. Through our language we express ourselves as individuals and signal our membership of particular groups. Students explore how language can distinguish between ‘us’ and ‘them’, creating solidarity and reinforcing social distance.

It is highly recommended that students intending to undertake this subject in Unit 3 & 4, should have successfully completed and passed Accounting Unit 2 prior.

Unit 3: Recording and reporting for trading business

This unit focuses on financial accounting for a single activity trading business as operated by a sole trader and emphasises the role of accounting as an information system. Students use the double entry system of recording financial data and prepare reports using the accrual basis of accounting. The perpetual method of stock recording with the First In, First Out (FIFO) method is used.

Unit 4: Control and analysis of business performance

This unit provides an extension of the recording and reporting processes from Unit 3 and the use of financial and non-financial information in assisting management in the decision-making process. The unit I based on the double entry accounting system and the accrual method of reporting for a single activity trading business using the perpetual inventory recording system.

Unit 3: Studio practices and processes

In this unit students focus on the implementation of an individual studio process leading to the production of a range of potential directions. Students develop and use an exploration proposal to define an area of creative exploration. They plan and apply a studio process to explore and develop their individual ideas. For this study, the exploration proposal supports the student to identify a direction for their studio process. This process records trialling, experimenting, analysing and evaluating the extent to which art practices successfully communicate ideas presented in the exploration proposal. Students will select some of these potential directions from which to develop at least two artworks in Unit 4. The study of artists and their work practices and processes may provide inspiration for students’ own approaches to art making. Students investigate and analyse the response of artists to a wide range of source material and examine their use of materials and techniques.

Unit 4: Studio practice and art industry contexts

In this unit students focus on the planning, production and evaluation required to develop, refine and present artworks that link cohesively according to the ideas resolved in Unit 3. To support the creation of artworks, students present visual and written evaluation that explains why they selected a range of potential directions from Unit 3 to produce at least two finished artworks in Unit 4. Once the artworks have been made, students provide an evaluation about the cohesive relationship between the artworks. This unit also investigates aspects of artists’ involvement in the art industry, focusing on a least two different exhibitions, that the student has visited in the current year of study with reference to specific artworks in those exhibitions. Students investigate the methods and considerations of the artist and/or curator involved in the preparation, presentation and conservation of artworks displayed in exhibitions in at least two different galleries or exhibitions.

It is highly recommended that students intending to undertake this subject in Unit 3 & 4, should have successfully completed and passed Biology Unit 1 and 2 prior.

Unit 3: How do cells maintain life?

In this unit students investigate the workings of the cell from several perspectives. These different perspectives enable consideration of both capabilities and the limitations of living organisms whether animal, plant, fungus or microorganism. Students examine the key molecules and biomechanical pathways involved in cellular processes both within the cell and between cells. At this molecular level students study the human immune system and the interactions between its components to provide immunity to specific antigen. A student investigation related to biological change and/or continuity is undertaken in either Unit 3 or Unit 4, or across both Unit 3 and Unit 4. The findings of the investigation are presented in a scientific poster format.

Unit 4: How does life change and respond to challenges over time?

In this unit students consider the continual change and the challenges to which life on Earth has been subjected. They examine change in life forms, investigate the relatedness between species and consider the impact of various change events on a population’s gene pool. Students explore the structural and cognitive trends in the human fossil record and the interrelationships between human biological and cultural evolution. The biological consequences, and social and ethical implications, of manipulating the DNA molecule and applying biotechnologies are explored for both the individual and the species.

Unit 3: Managing a business

In this unit students explore the key processes and issues concerned with managing a business efficiently and effectively to achieve business objectives. Students examine the different types of businesses and their respective objectives. They consider corporate culture, management styles, management skills and the relationship between each of these. Students investigate strategies to manage both staff and business operations to meet objectives. Students develop an understanding of the complexity and challenge of managing businesses and through the use of contemporary business case studies from the past four years have the opportunity to compare theoretical perspectives with current practice.

Unit 4: Transforming a business

Businesses are under constant pressure to adapt and change to meet their objectives. In this unit students consider the importance of reviewing key performance indicators to determine current performance and the strategic management necessary to position a business for the future. Students study a theoretical model to undertake change, and consider a variety of strategies to manage change in the most efficient and effective way to improve business performance. They investigate the importance of leadership in change management. Using a contemporary business case study from the past four years, students evaluate business practice against theory.

It is highly recommended that students intending to undertake this subject in Unit 3 & 4, should have successfully completed and passed Chemistry Unit 1 & 2 prior.

Unit 3: How can chemical processes be designed to optimise efficiency?

The global demand for energy and materials is increasing with the growth of world population. In this unit students explore energy options and the chemical production of materials with reference to efficiencies, renewability and the minimisation of their impact on the environment. Students compare and evaluate different chemical energy resources and investigate the combustion of fuels. They consider the purpose, design and operating of principles of galvanic cells, fuel cells and electrolytic cells and calculate quantities in electrolytic reactions. Students analyse manufacturing processes with reference to factors that influence their reaction rates and extent. They apply the equilibrium law and Le Chatelier’s principle to predict and explain the conditions that will improve the efficiency and percentage yield of chemical processes.

Unit 4: How are organic compounds categorised, analysed and used?

Carbon is the basis of the diverse compounds found in living tissues and in the fuels, foods, medicines and many of the materials we used in everyday life. In this unit students investigate the structural features, bonding, reactions and uses of the major families of organic compounds including those found in food.  Students process data from instrumental analyses to confirm or deduce organic structures, and perform volumetric analyses to determine the concentrations of organic chemicals in mixtures. They predict the products of reaction pathways and design pathways to produce particular compounds from given starting materials. Students investigate key food molecules including carbohydrates proteins, lipids and vitamins and use calorimetry to determine the energy released in the combustion of food.

Unit 3:

This unit focuses on choreography, rehearsal and performance of a solo dance work and involves the execution of a diverse range of body actions and use of performances skills. Students also learn a group dance work created by another choreographer. The dance-making and performance processes involved in choreographing, rehearsing and performing the solo dance work, and learning, rehearsing and performing the learnt group dance work are analysed. This analysis connects each student’s own work as a choreographer to the work of professional choreographers.

Students develop their understanding of choreographic skills through an analysis of ways that the expressive intentions chosen by choreographers of twentieth and/or twenty-first century solo dance works – these are selected from the prescribed list. Students analyse the dance design and use of movement vocabulary, as well as consider influences on the choreographers’ choice of expressive intention, and production aspects of the dance works.

Unit 4:

This unit focuses on choreography, rehearsal and performance of a unified solo dance work. When rehearsing and performing this work students focus on expressive and accurate execution of choreography variations of spatial organisation and demonstration of artistry in performance. Students also document and analyse the dance-making and performance processes involved in choreography, rehearsal and performance of the solo dance work. Students’ understanding of choreographic skills is also developed and refined through an analysis of ways in which the choreographers’ intention can be expressed through the manipulation of different types of group structures. These include unison, canon, contrast, symmetrical and asymmetrical groupings and formations. Students also analyse the use of the elements of spatial organisation- direction, level, eye/body focus and dimension- in a group dance work by twentieth and/or twenty-first century choreographer. Influences on choices made by choreographers in these works are also studied.

Unit 3: Devised non-naturalistic ensemble performance

This unit focuses on non-naturalistic devised ensemble drama. Students explore non-naturalistic performance styles and associated conventions from a diverse range of contemporary and cultural performance traditions and work collaboratively to devise, develop and present an ensemble performance. Students use and manipulate dramatic elements, conventions, performance and expressive skills, performance styles and stagecraft in non-naturalistic ways to shape and enhance the performance. Students also document and evaluate stages involved in the creation, development and presentation of the ensemble performance.

Unit 4: Non-naturalistic solo performance

Students explore non-naturalistic performance styles and associated conventions from a diverse range of contemporary and cultural performance traditions. They develop skill in extracting dramatic potential from a stimulus material and use dramatic elements, conventions, performance styles and expressive skills to develop and present a short solo performance. These skills are further developed as students create a devised solo performance in response to a prescribed structure.

Unit 3: Food in a daily life

This unit investigates the many roles and everyday influences of food. Students explore the science of food – they consider the physiology of eating, the microbiology of digestion and appreciating food. They also investigate the functional properties of food and the changes that occur during food preparation and cooking. Students analyse the scientific rationale behind the Australian Dietary Guidelines and the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating and develop their understanding of diverse nutrient requirements.

Students also investigate how communities, families and individuals change their eating patterns over time and how our food values and behaviours develop within social environments. Students inquire into the role of food in shaping and expressing identity and connectedness and the ways in which food information can be filtered and manipulated. They investigate behavioural principles that assist in the establishment of lifelong, healthy dietary patterns. The practical component of this unit enables students to understand food science terminology and to apply specific techniques to the production of everyday food that facilitates the establishment of nutritious and sustainable meal patterns.

 Unit 4: Food issues, challenges and futures

In this unit students examine debates about global and Australian food systems. Students focus on issues related to the environment, ecology, ethics, farming practices, the development and application of technologies, and the challenges of food security, food safety, food wastage, and the use and management of water and land. Students also investigate individual responses to food information and misinformation and the development of food knowledge, skills and habits to empower consumers to make discerning food choices. Students consider how to assess information and draw evidence-based conclusions, and apply this methodology to navigate contemporary food fads, trends and diets. Students’ food production repertoire reflects the Australian Dietary Guidelines and the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating.

In Foundation Mathematics there is a strong emphasis on the application of mathematics to practical situations encountered in everyday life, the workplace and further study. The topics of study for Units 3 and 4 are ‘Measurement and Algebra’, ‘Financial numeracy’,  ‘Data and Statistics’. These topics develop students’ ability to solve real-world problems, interpret data, make informed decisions and communicate mathematical ideas using appropriate mathematical language and technology.

All areas of study are completed over the two units. The content is developed through practical contexts that are relevant to students’ personal lives, work, community and future pathways. Students apply mathematical techniques, routines and processes involving number, measurement, algebra, data, graphs and financial applications, with and without the use of technology. The use of numerical, graphical, geometric, symbolic, statistical and financial functionality of technology is incorporated throughout the course to support mathematical investigation, problem-solving and communication.

It is highly recommended that students intending to undertake this subject in Unit 3 & 4, should have successfully completed and passed General Maths Unit 1 & 2 prior.

Unit 3 & 4

General Mathematics consists of two areas of study, a compulsory Core area of study to be completed in Unit 3 and an Applications area of study to be completed in Unit 4. The Core comprises ‘Data analysis’ and ‘Recursion and financial modelling’. The Applications comprises two modules to be completed in their entirety, from a selection of four possible modules: ‘Matrices’, ‘Networks and decision mathematics’, ‘Geometry and measurement’ and ‘Graphs and relations’. ‘Data analysis’ comprises 40 per cent of the content to be covered, ‘Recursion and financial modelling’ comprises 20 per cent of the content to be covered, and each selected module comprises 20 per cent of the content to be covered. Assumed knowledge and skills for the Core are contained in the General Mathematics Units 1 and 2 topics: ‘Computation and practical arithmetic’, ‘Investigating and comparing data distributions’, ‘Investigating relationships between two numerical variables’, ‘Linear graphs and modelling’, ‘Linear relations and equations’, and ‘Number patterns and recursion’. For each module there are related topics in General Mathematics Units 1 and 2. In undertaking these units, students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes involving rational and real arithmetic, sets, lists and tables, diagrams and geometric constructions, algebraic manipulation, equations, and graphs. They should have facility with relevant mental and by-hand approaches to estimation and computation. The use of numerical, graphical, geometric, symbolic, financial and statistical functionality of technology for teaching and learning mathematics, for working mathematically, and in related assessment, is to be incorporated throughout each unit as applicable.

Unit 3: Changing the land

This unit focuses on two investigations of geographical change: change to land cover and change to land use. Students investigate three major processes that are changing land cover in many regions of the world. Students investigate the distribution and causes of these three processes. At a local scale students investigate land use change using appropriate fieldwork techniques and secondary sources. They investigate the scale of change, the reasons for change and the impacts of change. Students undertake fieldwork and produce a fieldwork report using the structure provided.

Unit 4: Human population – trends and issues

In this unit students investigate the geography of human populations. They explore the patterns of population change, movement and distribution, and how governments, organisations and individuals have responded to those changes in different parts of the world. Population movements such as voluntary and forced movements over long or short terms add further complexity to population structures and to economic, social, political and environmental conditions.

Unit 3: Australia’s health in a globalised world

This unit looks at health, wellbeing and illness as multidimensional, dynamic and subject to different interpretations and contexts. Students begin to explore health and wellbeing as a global concept and to take a broader approach to inquiry. Students look at the fundamental conditions required for health improvement, as stated by the World Health Organization (WHO). They use this knowledge as a background to their analysis and evaluation of variations in the health status of Australians. Area of Study 2 focuses on health promotion and improvements in population health over time. Students look at various public health approaches and the interdependence of different models as they research health improvements and evaluate successful programs. While the emphasis is on the Australian health system, the progression of change in public health approaches should be seen within a global context.

Unit 4: Health and Human development in a global context

This unit examines health and wellbeing, and human development in a global context. Students use data to investigate health status and burden of disease in different countries, exploring factors that contribute to health inequalities between and within countries, including the physical, social and economic conditions in which people live. Students build their understanding of health in a global context through examining changes in burden of disease over time and studying the key concepts of sustainability and human development. They consider the health implications of increased globalisation and worldwide trends relating to climate change, digital technologies, world trade and the mass movement of people. Area of Study 2 looks at global action to improve health and wellbeing and human development, focusing on the United Nations’ (UN’s) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the work of the World Health Organization (WHO). Students also investigate the role of non-government organisations and Australia’s overseas aid program. Students evaluate the effectiveness of health initiatives and programs in a global context and reflect on their capacity to take action.

Unit 3 & 4:

In Units 3 and 4 Revolutions students investigate the significant historical causes and consequences of political revolution. Revolutions represent great ruptures in time and are a major turning point which brings about the collapse and destruction of an existing political order resulting in a pervasive change to society. Revolutions are caused by the interplay of ideas, events, individuals and popular movements. Their consequences have a profound effect on the political and social structures of the post-revolutionary society. Revolution is a dramatically accelerated process whereby the new order attempts to create political and social change and transformation based on a new ideology. Progress in a post-revolutionary society is not guaranteed or inevitable. Post-revolutionary regimes are often threatened internally by civil war and externally by foreign threats. These challenges can result in a compromise of revolutionary ideals and extreme measures of violence, oppression and terror. In these units students develop an understanding of the complexity and multiplicity of causes and consequences in the revolutionary narrative. They construct an argument about the past using primary sources as evidence and evaluate the extent to which the revolution brought change to the lives of people. They consider how perspectives of the revolution give an insight into the continuity and change experienced by those who lived through dramatic revolutionary moments. Students evaluate historical interpretations about the causes and consequences of revolution and the effects of change instigated by the new order. In developing a course, teachers select two revolutions to be studied from the following, one for Unit 3 and one for Unit 4:

• The American Revolution of 1776.
• The French Revolution of 1789.
• The Russian Revolution of October 1917.
• The Chinese Revolution of 1949.

For the two selected revolutions, both areas of study must be undertaken. Students are expected to demonstrate a progression from Unit 3 to Unit 4 in historical understanding and skills.

Unit 3: Law- making

In this unit students develop an understanding of the institutions that determine our laws, and their law-making powers and processes. They undertake an informed evaluation of the effectiveness of law-making bodies and examine the need for the law to keep up to date with changes in society. Students develop an appreciation of the complex nature of law-making by investigating the key features and operation of parliament, and influences on law-making, with a focus on the role of the individual. Central to the investigation of law-making is the role played by the Commonwealth Constitution. Students develop an understanding of the importance of the Constitution in their lives and on society as a whole, and undertake a comparative analysis with another country. They learn of the importance of the role played by the High Court of Australia in interpreting and enforcing the Constitution, and ensuring that parliaments do not act outside their areas of power nor infringe protected rights. Students investigate the nature and importance of courts as law-makers and undertake an evaluation of their effectiveness as law-making bodies. They also investigate the relationships that exist between parliaments and courts. Throughout this unit, students examine relevant cases to support their learning and apply legal principles to these cases.

Unit 4: Resolution and justice

Students examine the institutions that adjudicate criminal cases and civil disputes. They also investigate methods of dispute resolution that can be used as an alternative to civil litigation. Students investigate the processes and procedures followed in courtrooms and develop an understanding of the adversary system of trial and the jury system, as well as pre-trial and post-trial procedures that operate in the Victorian legal system. Using the elements of an effective legal system, students consider the extent to which court processes and procedures contribute to the effective operation of the legal system. They also consider reforms or changes that could further improve its effective operation. Throughout this unit, students examine current or recent cases to support their learning, and apply legal principles to these illustrative cases.

Unit 3: Form and transformation

In this unit students consider how the form of a text affects meaning, and how writers construct their texts. They investigate ways writers adapt and transform texts and how meaning is affected as texts are adapted and transformed. They consider how the perspectives of those adapting texts may inform or influence the adaptations. Students develop creative responses to texts and their skills in communicating ideas in both written and oral forms.

Unit 4: Interpreting texts

In this unit students develop critical and analytic responses to texts. They investigate literary criticism informing both the reading and writing of texts. Students develop an informed and sustained interpretation supported by close textual analysis.

It is highly recommended that students intending to undertake this subject in Unit 3 & 4, should have successfully completed Mathematical Methods Unit 1 & 2 prior.

Units 3 & 4

Units 3 and 4 consist of the areas of study ‘Functions and graphs’, ‘Calculus’, ‘Algebra’ and ‘Probability and statistics’, which must be covered in progression from Unit 3 to Unit 4, with an appropriate selection of content for each of Unit 3 and Unit 4. Assumed knowledge and skills for Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4 are contained in Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2, and will be drawn on, as applicable, in the development of related content from the areas of study, and key knowledge and skills for the outcomes of Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4.

For Unit 3 a selection of content would typically include the areas of study ‘Functions and graphs’ and ‘Algebra’, and applications of derivatives and differentiation, and identifying and analysing key features of the functions and their graphs from the ‘Calculus’ area of study. For Unit 4, this selection would typically consist of remaining content from the areas of study: ‘Functions and graphs’, ‘Calculus’ and ‘Algebra’, and the study of random variables and discrete and continuous probability distributions and the distribution of sample proportions. For Unit 4, the content from the ‘Calculus’ area of study would be likely to include the treatment of anti-differentiation, integration, the relation between integration and the area of regions specified by lines or curves described by the rules of functions, and simple applications of this content. The selection of content from the areas of study should be constructed so that there is a development in the complexity and sophistication of problem types and mathematical processes used (modelling, transformations, graph sketching and equation solving) in application to contexts related to these areas of study. There should be a clear progression of skills and knowledge from Unit 3 to Unit 4 in each area of study.

In undertaking these units, students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes involving rational and real arithmetic, sets, lists and tables, diagrams and geometric constructions, algebraic manipulation, equations, graphs, differentiation, anti-differentiation, integration and inference with and without the use of technology. They should have facility with relevant mental and by-hand approaches to estimation and computation. The use of numerical, graphical, geometric, symbolic and statistical functionality of technology for teaching and learning mathematics, for working mathematically, and in related assessment, is to be incorporated throughout each unit as applicable.

Unit 3: Media narratives and pre-production

In this unit students explore stories that circulate in society through media narratives. They consider the use of media codes and conventions to structure meaning, and how this construction is influenced by the social, cultural, ideological and institutional contexts of production, distribution, consumption and reception. Students assess how audiences from different periods of time and contexts are engaged by, consume and read narratives using appropriate media language. Narratives are defined as the depiction of a chain of events in a cause and effect relationship occurring in physical and/or virtual space and time in non-fictional and fictional media products.

Students use the pre-production stage of the media production process to design the production of a media product for a specified audience. They investigate a media form that aligns with their interests and intent, developing an understanding of the media codes and conventions appropriate to audience engagement, consumption and reception within the selected media form. They explore and experiment with media technologies to develop skills in their selected media form, reflecting on and documenting their progress. Students undertake pre-production processes appropriate to their selected media form and develop written and visual documentation to support the production and post-production of a media product in Unit 4.

 Unit 4: Media production and issues in media

In this unit students focus on the production and post-production stages of the media production process, bringing the media production design created in Unit 3 to its realisation. They refine their media production in response to feedback and through personal reflection, documenting the iterations of their production as they work towards completion. Students explore the relationship between the media and audiences, focusing on the opportunities and challenges afforded by current developments in the media industry. They consider the nature of communication between the media and audiences, explore the capacity of the media to be used by governments, institutions and audiences, and analyse the role of the Australian government in regulating the media.

It is highly recommended that students intending to undertake this subject in Unit 3 & 4, should have successfully completed Music Performance Unit 1 & 2 prior.

Music Inquiry rotates with Music Performance Unit 3 & 4

This study offers pathways for students whose main interest is a combination of performing, composing/arranging and investigating music through music making, analysing and responding in relation to their particular interests. It recognises that music is frequently a collaborative art where students work with others, and at other times individually.

Music making is a collective and integrated experience. It involves composing, arranging, interpreting, reimagining, improvising, recreating, performing and critiquing music in an informed manner. All these activities involve active engagement in imaginative music making, responding and remaking. Students perform and compose/arrange music to demonstrate musical influences of an existing style and/or performer in relation to their own works and the works of others.

Students develop aural skills by responding to music from a range of sources across time and place, comparing their music characteristics. They analyse music works and/or styles and explore how they have influenced subsequent music makers, including students’ own works. They develop an understanding of how the treatment of music elements, concepts and compositional devices in one work and/or style can be identified and explained in the works of others, leading to a reflection on their own music making.

The Certificate III is a two year course, therefore students should have undertaken this subject prior to Year 12.

Certificate III:

Music Performance rotates with Music Inquiry Unit 3 &

The unit codes studied in the Certificate III in Music Industry (CUA30915) are as listed:

• Develop technical skills in performance
• Develop improvisation skills
• Prepare for performances
• Develop and maintain stage craft skills
• Perform music as part of a group.

Philosophy VCE Unit 3

This unit considers the crucial question of what it is for a human to live well. It explores questions of relevance to our own good lives – what is happiness? What role should pleasure and self-discipline, friendship and love play in the good life? – as well questions regarding the good life as it may be understood within the context of our relationships with others beyond our immediate communities.

Students consider the implications of adopting particular perspectives, viewpoints and arguments for questions of relevance to contemporary living, such as our relationship with those beyond our immediate communities, non-human animals and the broader natural world.

Students engage with the set texts to develop perspectives on questions relating to the good life, including questions of relevance to contemporary living. Through critical reflection on ideas, perspectives, viewpoints and arguments, students develop and defend their own philosophical positions.

Philosophy VCE Unit 4

In recent decades, developments in information and communication technologies have changed the way we share beliefs and acquire and justify knowledge. More than ever, we rely on the testimony of others, in particular, those we judge to be experts. But what is an expert? What qualities must testimony have to be trusted? And, in a world filled with multiple and often contradictory sources, how do we separate good beliefs from poor beliefs?

This unit focuses on interpersonal aspects of belief and belief formation, considering what it means to believe well by examining the nature of belief and the grounds for accepting or rejecting beliefs. Across 2 areas of study, students explore what our obligations are in relation to belief; when we should adjust or change our beliefs; and to what extent we should take responsibility for fostering the good beliefs of others and the conditions that make them possible. Through so doing, students are invited to consider the interrelationship between believing well and living well. Students use concepts, arguments and viewpoints from the set texts to develop perspectives and justified philosophical positions on belief formation and justification in relation to a range of general questions. Students also apply their learning to identify and engage with epistemological issues that arise from case studies suggested by selected contexts.

Unit 3: Movement skills and energy for physical activity

This unit introduces students to the biomechanical and skill acquisition principles used to analyse human movement skills and energy production from a physiological perspective. Students use a variety of tools and techniques to analyse movement skills and apply biomechanical and skill acquisition principles to improve and refine movement in physical activity, sport and exercise. They use practical activities to demonstrate how correct application of these principles can lead to improved performance in physical activity and sport. Students investigate the relative contribution and interplay of the three energy systems to performance in physical activity, sport and exercise. In particular, they investigate the characteristics of each system and the interplay of the systems during physical activity. Students explore the causes of fatigue and consider different strategies used to postpone fatigue and promote recovery.

Unit 4: Training to improve performance

In this unit students analyse movement skills from a physiological, psychological and sociocultural perspective, and apply relevant training principles and methods to improve performance within physical activity at an individual, club and elite level. Improvements in performance, in particular fitness, depend on the ability of the individual and/ or coach to gain, apply and evaluate knowledge and understanding of training. Students analyse skill frequencies, movement patterns, heart rates and work to rest ratios to determine the requirements of an activity. Students consider the physiological, psychological and sociological requirements of training to design and evaluate an effective training program. Students participate in a variety of training sessions designed to improve or maintain fitness and evaluate the effectiveness of different training methods. Students critique the effectiveness of the implementation of training principles and methods to meet the needs of the individual, and evaluate the chronic adaptations to training from a theoretical perspective.

It is highly recommended that students intending to undertake this subject in Unit 3 & 4, should have successfully completed and passed Physics Unit 1 & 2 prior.

Unit 3: How do fields explain motion and electricity?

In this unit, students explore the importance of energy in explaining and describing the physical world. They examine the production of electricity and its delivery to homes. Students consider the field model as a construct that has enabled an understanding of why objects move when they are not apparently in contact with other objects. They explore the interactions, effects and applications of gravitational, electric and magnetic fields including the design and operation of particle accelerators. Students use Newton’s laws and Einstein’s theories to investigate and describe motion.

 Unit 4: How can two contradictory models explain both light and matter?

In this unit, students explore the use of wave and particle theories to model the properties of light and matter. They examine how the concept of the wave is used to explain the nature of light and analyse its limitations in describing light behaviour. Students further investigate light by using a particle model to explain its behaviour. A wave model is also used to explain the behaviour of matter which enables students to consider the relationship between light and matter. Students are challenged to think beyond the concepts experienced in everyday life to study the physical world from a new perspective.

Unit 3: How does experience affect behaviour and mental processes?

The nervous system influences behaviour and the way people experience the world. In this unit students examine the functioning of the nervous system to explain how a person can interact with the world around them. They explore how stress may affect a person’s psychological functioning and consider the causes and management of stress. Students investigate how mechanisms of memory and learning lead to the acquisition of knowledge, the development of new capacities and changed behaviours. They consider the limitations and fallibility of memory and how memory can be improved.

Unit 4: How is wellbeing developed and maintained?

Consciousness and mental health are two of many psychological constructs that can be explored by studying the relationship between the mind, brain and behaviour. In this unit, students examine the nature of consciousness and how changes in levels of consciousness can affect mental processes and behaviour. They consider the role of sleep and the impact that sleep disturbances may have on a person’s functioning. Students explore the concept of a mental health continuum and apply a biopsychosocial approach to analyse mental health and disorder. They use specific phobia to illustrate how the development and management of a mental disorder can be considered as an interaction between biological, psychological and social factors.

Unit 3

In this unit students apply the problem-solving methodology to develop working software modules using a programming language. Students develop an understanding of the analysis, design and development stages of the problem-solving methodology.

In Area of Study 1 students respond to teacher-provided solution requirements and designs and develop a set of working modules through the use of a programming language. Students examine a simple software requirements specification and a range of software design tools in order to apply specific processing features of a programming language to create working modules. In Area of Study 2 students analyse a need or opportunity, select an appropriate development model, prepare a project plan, develop a software requirements specification and design a software solution. Area of Study 2 forms the first part of the School-assessed Task (SAT) that is completed in Unit 4, Area of Study 1.

Unit 4

In this unit students focus on how the information needs of individuals and organisations are met through the creation of software solutions. They consider the risks to software and data during the software development process, as well as throughout the use of the software solution by an organisation.

In Area of Study 1 students apply the problem-solving stages of development and evaluation to develop their preferred design prepared in Unit 3, Area of Study 2, into a software solution and evaluate the solution, chosen development model and project plan. Area of Study 1 forms the second part of the School-assessed Task (SAT). In Area of Study 2 students examine the security practices of an organisation and the risks to software and data during the development and use of the software solutions. Students evaluate the current security practices and develop a risk management plan.

It is highly recommended that students intending to undertake this subject in Unit 3 & 4, should have successfully completed Mathematical Methods Unit 1 & 2 and Specialist Maths Unit 1 & 2 prior.

Unit 3 & 4

Specialist Mathematics Units 3 and 4 consist of the areas of study: ‘Functions and graphs’, ‘Algebra’, ‘Calculus’, ‘Vectors’, ‘Mechanics’ and ‘Probability and statistics’. The development of course content should highlight mathematical structure, reasoning and applications across a range of modelling contexts with an appropriate selection of content for each of Unit 3 and Unit 4. The selection of content for Unit 3 and Unit 4 should be constructed so that there is a balanced and progressive development of knowledge and skills with connections among the areas of study being developed as appropriate across Unit 3 and Unit 4. Specialist Mathematics Units 3 and 4 assumes familiarity with the key knowledge and skills from Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2, the key knowledge and skills from Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2 topics ‘Number systems and recursion’ and ‘Geometry in the plane and proof’, and concurrent or previous study of Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4. Together these cover the assumed knowledge and skills for Specialist Mathematics, which are drawn on as applicable in the development of content from the areas of study and key knowledge and skills for the outcomes. In Unit 3 a study of Specialist Mathematics would typically include content from ‘Functions and graphs’ and a selection of material from the ‘Algebra’, ‘Calculus’ and ‘Vectors’ areas of study. In Unit 4 this selection would typically consist of the remaining content from the ‘Algebra’, ‘Calculus’, and ‘Vectors’ areas of study and the content from the ‘Mechanics’ and ‘Probability and statistics’ areas of study. In undertaking these units, students are expected to be able to apply techniques, routines and processes involving rational, real and complex arithmetic, sets, lists and tables, diagrams and geometric constructions, algebraic manipulation, equations, graphs, differentiation, anti-differentiation and integration and inference with and without the use of technology. They should have facility with relevant mental and by-hand approaches to estimation and computation. The use of numerical, graphical, geometric, symbolic and statistical functionality of technology for teaching and learning mathematics, for working mathematically, and in related assessment, is to be incorporated throughout each unit as applicable.

Unit 3: Visual communication design practices

In this unit students gain an understanding of the process designers employ to structure their thinking and communicate ideas with clients, target audiences, other designers and specialists. Through practical investigation and analysis of existing visual communications, students gain insight into how the selection of methods, media and materials, and the application of design elements and design principles, can create effective visual communications for specific audiences and purposes. They investigate and experiment with the use of manual and digital methods, media and materials to make informed decisions when selecting suitable approaches for the development of their own design ideas and concepts. Students use their research and analysis of the process of visual communication designers to support the development of their own designs. They establish a brief for a client and apply design thinking through the design process. They identify and describe a client, two distinctly different needs of that client, and the purpose, target audience, context and constraints relevant to each need.

Unit 4: Visual communication design development, evaluation and presentation

The focus of this unit is on the development of design concepts and two final presentations of visual communications to meet the requirements of the brief. This involves applying the design process twice to meet each of the stated communication needs. Having completed their brief and generated ideas in Unit 3, students continue the design process by developing and refining concepts for each communication need stated in the brief. They utilise a range of digital and manual two- and three-dimensional methods, media and materials. They investigate how the application of design elements and design principles creates different communication messages and conveys ideas to the target audience. As students revisit stages to undertake further research or idea generation when developing and presenting their design solutions, they develop an understanding of the iterative nature of the design process. Ongoing reflection and evaluation of design solutions against the brief assists students with keeping their endeavours focused.

This is a 2 year course.

Units 1 and 2 – Year 11
Units 3 and 4 – Year 12

VCE VET Dance provides students with the opportunity to develop practical dance skills while gaining nationally recognised vocational training in the performing arts industry. Students explore a range of dance styles and techniques, improve their performance and choreography skills, and develop the physical, creative, and collaborative skills required for live performance.

Throughout the course, students participate in practical classes, rehearsals, and performances while building knowledge of safe dance practices, the creative process, and the expectations of the performing arts industry. They also develop valuable employability skills, including teamwork, communication, self-management, problem-solving, and professionalism.

VCE VET Dance is ideal for students who are passionate about dance and are interested in pathways to further training, tertiary study, or careers in the performing arts, entertainment, education, fitness, or community arts sectors.

Units 1 & 2

• Prepare for live performances
• Follow safe dance practices
• Develop basic dance techniques
• Develop a basic level of physical fitness for dance performance
• Perform basic jazz dance techniques
• Perform basic lyrical dance techniques
• Work effectively with others.

Units 3 & 4

• Develop/apply creative arts industry knowledge
• Incorporate artistic expression – dance
• Develop audition techniques
• Develop performance techniques
• Increase depth of jazz dance techniques (Release 1)
• Increase depth of lyrical dance techniques (Release 1)

Certificate III

The unit codes studied in the Certificate III in Music Industry (CUA30915) are as listed:

• Contribute to health and safety of self and others
• Implement copyright arrangements
• Work effectively in the music industry
• Apply knowledge of style and genre to music industry practice
• Play or sing simple musical pieces
• Develop ensemble skills for playing or singing music.

VCE VET Small Business (Operations/Innovation) provides students with the key knowledge and skills required in small business workplaces. Students learn to work effectively within small business contexts across a range of industry sectors, developing the skills, knowledge and attributes to support safe and sustainable small business operations, support the daily financial management of small business operations, apply effective communication, creative thinking and problem-solving techniques to underpin cooperative relationships, and support the implementation and review of innovation and change within a small business context.

After successful completion of the course, students also receive the nationally recognised qualification 22480VIC Certificate II in Small Business (Operations/Innovation). This is a non-scored subject. For students completing VCE Standard: students who receive a VCE VET Unit 3–4 sequence for the VCE VET Small Business qualification will be eligible for an increment towards their ATAR (10% of the lowest study score of the primary four studies).

The Certificate III is a two year course, therefore students should have undertaken this subject prior to Year 12.

Certificate III

The unit codes studied in the Certificate III in Sport and Recreation (SIS305513) are as listed:

Year 1

• Organise personal work priorities and development
• Participate in workplace health and safety
• Conduct non-instructional sport, fitness and recreation sessions
• Respond to emergency situations
• Provide first aid
• Use social media tools for collaboration and engagement
  Provide quality service
• Conduct sport, fitness or recreation events
• Book athlete travel and accommodation

Year 2

• Participate in WHS hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control
• Facilitate groups
• Plan and conduct programs
• Conduct sport coaching sessions with foundation level participants
• Educate user groups.