Whanganui Girls’ CollegeNCEA Level 1

Subject Choice booklet

For 2018Please read through the following subject information for Level 1 as you make your decisions for study in 2018.

It is compulsory to take English or Te Reo Māori and Mathematics. The decision as to whether you will be doing English or English Internal will be made by the Head of Department, Mrs Cox. The decision as to whether you will be doing Mathematics or Mathematics Numeracy will be made by the Head of Department, Mrs Sandra Friedel.

It is strongly recommended that you will choose a Science in your Level 1 programme and a valid reason will be required if a science is not taken.

By completing your subject choice form this is an INDICATION of the subjects you would like to take not a guarantee that you will be able to take them. It will be dependent on the final timetable which will be confirmed at your appointment on Wednesday 6th December with your Dean. Subject numbers also determine if a subject is viable to run.

It is very important that you consider a number of factors when deciding what subjects you wish to take such as:

What are your areas of interest when you leave school? What subjects will provide you with the correct entry into Level 2 subjects? Is your selection broad enough this year so you can become more specialised

next year?

Talk with your parents, your ASTRA teacher and your Dean if you need help to decide and make the subject choices that are right for YOU!

Overview of the National Certificate in Educational Achievement (NCEA) and University Entrance (UE)

To gain NCEA Level 1

All Year 11 students work towards this qualification. All Year 11 students are expected to take six subjects which must include

English or Te Reo Māori, Mathematics and preferably a Science subject. Students need to gain a total of 80 credits At least 10 credits in literacy and at least 10 credits in numeracy must be gained

from standards across a range of subjects.

To gain NCEA Level 2

All Year 12 students are expected to take five subjects and two modules. Students need to gain a total of 80 credits. A minimum of 60 credits must be at

level 2 and the other 20 credits at any level. At least 10 credits in literacy and at least 10 credits at Level 1 in numeracy must

be gained from standards across a range of subjects

To gain NCEA Level 3

All Year 13 students are expected to take five subjects and initially some module work.

Students need to gain a total of 80 credits. A minimum of 60 credits must be at level 3 and the other 20 credits at level 2 or above.

To gain University Entrance (UE)

Achievement of NCEA Level 3 14 credits in each of three subjects from the list of approved subjects The remaining credits to achieve NCEA Level 3 may come from either

achievement or unit standards UE numeracy – 10 credits at Level 1 or higher from specified achievement

standards or three specific numeracy unit standards UE literacy – 10 credits (five in reading and five in writing) from:

Specific Level 2 and higher achievement standards, or Specific Te Reo Māori and Te Reo Rangatira Level 2 standards, or Two specific Level 4 English for academic purposes unit standards

EnglishIt is compulsory to study English and you will be placed in either English Level 1 or English Internal Level 1 as decided by the Head of Department, Mrs Cox.

The study of English increases students’ abilities to understand English language and to use it effectively. Confident users of English will be effective readers and communicators. Skill and knowledge development in English is focused initially on learning to read and write correctly and appropriately. This leads to thinking critically, processing information and exploring language through a wide range of relevant texts.

English Level 1 (11ENG) This course is suitable for endorsementCourse Description: This course covers a wide variety of topics including various types of text

(novel, short story, poetry and film). The skill of writing in various styles is developed further, as are general reading skills. Practical components include speaking assignments and the creation of static images. Essay report writing is a significant part of the course.

Course Prerequisite: Success in Year 10 EnglishAssessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will

contribute up to 24 credits towards NCEA Level 1. The course has both internal and externally assessed components.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 English. All vocational pathwaysCosts: No subject related costsFurther Information: Mrs Cox

English Internal Level 1 (11ENI) This course may not be suitable for endorsementCourse Description: The units in this course focus on the development of communication, reading

and writing at Level 1.Course Prerequisite: Entry to this course is by selection made by the Head of Department and

Learning Centre staff in consultation with management, students and caregivers.

Assessment The English Internal course provides an opportunity for students to consolidate their reading and writing skills and to achieve NCEA literacy standards necessary for the award of Level 1 NCEA. The course is internally assessed only.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 English Internal. All vocational pathwaysCosts: No subject related costsFurther Information Mrs Cox

MathematicsIt is compulsory to study mathematics and you will be placed in either Mathematics Level 1 or Mathematics Numeracy Level 1 as decided by the Head of Department, Mrs Friedel.

It is important students retain their numeracy skills as part of being lifelong learners. This will contribute to their social and employment environments. Mathematics is needed for many careers in industry, business, commerce, science and education.

Mathematics Level 1 (11MAT) This course is suitable for endorsementCourse Description: This course covers a range of topics including numeric reasoning, algebraic

methods, linear algebra, trigonometry, statistics and probability.Course Prerequisite: At least 4 achievement grades obtained in the end of year examination in

Year 10 mathematicsAssessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will

contribute up to 22 credits towards the NCEA Level 1. The course has both internally and externally assessed components.

Pathways: Mathematics NCEA Level 2 and 3. All vocational pathwaysPossible Careers: Any career or job requiring a good understanding of mathematical ideas.Costs: Students are expected to provide their own scientific calculator

(approximately $20).Further Information: Mrs Friedel

Mathematics Numeracy Level 1 (11MTN) This course is not suitable for endorsementCourse Description: This course focuses on Levels 5 and 6 of the mathematics curriculum

revising the work at Years 9 and 10. Students will study topics in the three numeracy achievement standards on number, measurement and statistical information.

Course Prerequisite: Entry to this course is by selection made by the Head of Department and Learning Centre staff in consultation with management, students and caregivers.

Assessment: This course contributes to the 10 credits needed for numeracy at Level 1.Pathways: This course does not lead to Mathematics Internal Level 2. All vocational

pathwaysPossible Careers: Any career or job requiring a fundamental understanding of mathematical

ideas.Costs: No subject related costsFurther Information: Mrs Friedel

ScienceIt is strongly recommended that you will choose a science in your Level 1 programme otherwise a valid reason will be required if you have not selected one.

Science is about investigating, understanding and explaining the natural world. In science subjects, students learn about the natural world and how science can help to explain how it works. The study of science will assist students to make informed decisions about the application and implications of science in everyday life. At Level 1, two courses, Biological Science and Physical Sciences, prepare students for further study in Physics, Chemistry and Biology at Levels 2 and 3.

Biological Science Level 1 (11BSC) This course is suitable for endorsementCourse Description How come two blonde parents have a dark haired child? Why pickle onions in

vinegar or how come jam is so sweet? Why are most leaves green in colour? What is actually in your blood and how does it help you? What happens to that apple once you swallow it? These and many other questions will be answered. The aim of this course is to provide a good introduction for further study at Level 2 Biology in year 12.

Course Prerequisite: Successful completion of the coursework and achieve at least merit in the end of year examination in Year 10 science or at the discretion of the HOD

Assessment: The course has both internal and externally assessed components.Pathways Level 2 biology. Primary vocational pathwayPossible Careers: Nursing, veterinary science, veterinary nurse, medicine, physical education,

sports science, childcare and teachingCosts $20 for a course workbook.Further Information: Mr Grierson, Ms Gorton or Mrs Musa

Physical Science Level 1 (11PSC) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description Why is the centre of an ice block the last place to freeze? How does the centre of the earth always remain very hot? How do Quickeze actually reduce indigestion? Why is something that is pleasant to drink like Coke actually bad for you? Why can’t you walk on water and yet mosquitoes are actually good at it? Is toothpaste actually good for your teeth? All will be revealed when you study this course.

This course provides an introduction to Level 2 Chemistry and Physics.

Course Prerequisite: Successful completion of the coursework and achieve at least merit in the end of year examination in Year 10 science

Assessment: The course has both internally and externally assessed components.

Pathways: Level 2 chemistry and/or physics. (Successful completion of this course will be a required prerequisite for Level 2 chemistry and physics.) Primary, construction and infrastructure, manufacturing and technology and the creative vocational pathways

Possible Careers: Science, medicine, veterinary science, technician, engineer, chemist

Costs $15 for a revision book in term 3.

Further Information: Mr Grierson

General Science Level 1 (11GSC) This course is not suitable for endorsementCourse Description The General Science course is for students who are not yet ready for either the

Biological Science or Physical Science courses but are still interested in furthering their knowledge of science possibly to Year 12 level. The content covers the following four areas: Making Sense of the Living World; the Physical World; the Material World and of Planet Earth and Beyond.

Course Prerequisite: Completion of Year 10 Science and reach the achieved level in the year 10 science examination or in consultation with the HOD

Assessment: The course is internally assessed.Pathways: Students not gaining the prerequisite for 11 BSC and 11 PSC would be able to

progress to these courses in Year 12 upon successful completion of 11GSC. They would then be able to study Year 12 sciences in year 13 if this was necessary for their career paths. All of the vocational pathways.

Possible Careers: Any science-based career: Hairdressing, food technology, vet nurseCosts: $10 for workbooks to be used throughout the yearFurther Information: Mr Grierson

Social Sciences

Social Sciences arise out of Social Studies in the junior school. Social Sciences provide students with an understanding of the society they live in its past, present and future. Students can study Accounting, Geography, History and/or Economics.

Accounting Level 1 (11ACC) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description: Promotes knowledge and understanding of accounting as a financial language for individuals, community organisations and businesses. The course includes the application of financial knowledge and skills to practical situations and assists in the development of skills in communication, numeracy, problem-solving and self-management.

Course Prerequisite: None, although a reasonable understanding of mathematics and English is an advantage

Assessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will contribute up to 24 credits towards NCEA Level 1. The course has both internal and externally assessed components.

Pathways: Level 2 accounting, university and polytechnic courses. Primary, service and creative vocational pathways.

Possible Careers: Accountancy, business management and/or administration, finance.Costs: Approximately $25 for write-on workbooks and stationery.Further Information: Mr Mokha.

Geography Level 1 (11GEO) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description: A study of common topics - this includes Natural hazards - the importance of a hazard such as tsunami or

earthquakes on people and landscapes around the world. A study of sustainable resource use including a case study of farming in

New Zealand. A global study of the distribution of wealth in the world or spread of a

major disease. School selected studies including an individual research assignment.

Course Prerequisite: NoneAssessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will

contribute between 19 to 24 credits towards NCEA Level 1. The course has both internal and externally assessed components.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 geography. Primary, construction and infrastructure, service and creative vocational pathways.

Possible Careers: Planner, demographer, teacher, surveyor, geologist, weather forecasterCosts: Mandatory field trips are planned to Taranaki and Napier or Wellington, and

will cost approximately $40Further Information: Mr O’Hara

History Level 1 (11HIS) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description: This course is based on a study of three possible topics and associated case studies:

Maori Protest 1970s and the Springbok Tour 1981 The White Face Racism – South Africa, USA and New Zealand Terrorism – history, ideology, groups ((PLO. IRA, ETA, politics,

consequence.Course Prerequisite: None. Home internet access highly desirableAssessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will

contribute up to 24 credits toward NCEA Level One. The course has both internal and externally assessed components.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 history. Social and community, service and creative vocational pathways.

Possible Careers: Any career that requires research, organisation of information and communication (written, visual and verbal) e.g. Law, journalism, researcher, Teacher, P.A, public relations, media, business, museum curator, etc.

Further Information: Mr Davis

Health and Physical Education

Health and Physical Education is a new course being offered in 2018 and extends upon the knowledge and concepts covered in the junior courses. This is a varied course, offering a wide range of achievement standards, which will include a mixture of practical and theory lessons. The physical education assessments will focus largely on participation, as well as allow students to develop physical skills and enhance their relationships with others. The health assessments will focus on topical issues faced by young people today, and allow students to develop their critical thinking skills as well as literacy skills.

Level 1 Health and Physical Education (11HPE) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description This course will be made up of various health standards from Level 6 of the New Zealand Curriculum. It will include up to 6 Achievement Standards from the Health and Physical Education subjects. Some of which will be taught in combination, others will be stand-alone standards. Topics such as well-being, participation, goal-setting, sexuality, relationships, communication, influences, drugs, co-operation in teams, engaging in a variety of activities, ultimate frisbee, and leadership. Students will have the opportunity to progress into level 2 sports science as well as both yr12 modules (if offered), health and sport future.

Course Prerequisite: This is an open course; however, students must have an interest in health at year 9 and 10. Students must also have competent literacy skills.

Assessment: This course will offer five or six achievement standards that contribute up to 24 credits towards NCEA Level 1. The course will have one externally assessed health standard.

Pathways: NCEA level 2 sports science course or the level 2 health, or sport future Modules. Social and community service and creative vocational pathways.

Possible Careers: Employment in health and fitness and nutrition industries. Employment in health and fitness and nutrition industries. Health organisations and promotional work, health sciences, nursing and education. Sports management, coaching, exercise science, physiology, massage therapy, exercise prescription, nursing, personal trainer, gym manager/owner, education.

Costs: $25 for activities. It is highly recommended if students have a smartphone or apple device to download useful apps and to reflect, research, etc.Opportunity to attend - Annual Senior PE ski trip - approx. $100 (snowboard/ski equipment, lesson and mountain pass – September)

Further Information: Miss Fairhurst

Technology

Technology includes four subjects; Digital Technologies, Fashion and Design, Food and Hospitality and Design and Visual Communication. Students are encouraged to take no more than two technology subjects.

Digital Technologies Level 1 (11DGT) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description: This course focuses on the process of electronic publishing. Students will learn electronic design and layout skills and will develop those skills in the creation of a range of print, screen and web-based publications.

Course Prerequisite: An interest in computing.Assessment: Successful completion of standards associated with this course will

contribute up to 20 credits towards NCEA Level 1. The course has both internally and externally assessed components.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 Digital Technologies. Manufacturing and technology, construction and infrastructure and creative vocational pathways.

Possible Careers: Desktop publishing, advertising, graphic design.Costs: You will be required to pay for all your own printing.Further Information: Ms Conley

Fashion and Design Level 1 (11FAD) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description: Student assignments focus on developing and making innovative fashion garments and/or textile products. This course will develop skills in research, planning, design, fashion drawing, pattern drafting and construction.

Course Prerequisite: An interest in fashion and making textile products.Assessment: Successful completion of standards associated with this course will

contribute up to 20 credits towards NCEA Level 1. The course has both internally and externally assessed components.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 fashion and design. Manufacturing and technology, construction and infrastructure, service and creative vocational pathways.

Possible Career: Opportunities exist within the fashion industry, textiles industry and in interior design.

Costs: $15 consumables plus student material costs which vary with design choice.Further Information: Mrs Evans.

Food And Hospitality Level 1 (11FAH) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description: Students will study nutrition and food preparation. Topics assessed by achievement standards include safe food handling issues, principles of

nutrition focusing on the needs of a teenager, meal planning, and packaging as well as the impacts of food choices on health and well-being/hauora. Unit standards from Service IQ will prepare students for a career in the hospitality industry and are used to assess knowledge and skills in the areas of food safety and hygiene, knife care and storage, fruit and vegetable cookery, finger foods and the fundamentals of baking.

Course Prerequisite: An interest in food preparation, health and nutrition.

Assessment: Successful completion of standards associated with this course will contribute up to 14 credits towards NCEA Level 1 plus 16 Service IQ credits which will also contribute to NCEA Level 1. The course has both internally and externally assessed components

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 food and hospitality. Social and community, primary and service vocational pathways.

Possible Careers: Opportunities exist in the areas of food service, catering and hospitality and in the areas of dietetics, food technology and food manufacturing.

Costs: $75 subject fee to cover ingredients used and $15 to cover workbooks provided, total $90

Further Information: Miss Barbezat

Design and Visual Communication Level 1 (11DVC) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course: Design and Visual Communication is a way of communicating information. This course provides a variety of design and drawing experiences. Students will learn how to draw, how to use a range of graphic equipment, colours and techniques and how to best use a computer to support their project work.

Course Prerequisite: An interest in drawing and neat presentation.Assessment: Successful completion of standards associated with this course will

contribute up to 24 credits towards NCEA Level 1. The course has both internally and externally assessed components.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 and 3 design and visual communication. Construction and infrastructure, manufacturing and technology and creative vocational pathways

Possible Careers: Opportunities exist within the areas of architecture, interior design, landscape design, product design, computer graphics and advertising.

Costs: $20 paper feeFurther Information: Mrs Drakefield

Visual and Performing Arts

Arts Education can help to develop a sense of achievement and personal worth. It provides students with knowledge that the Arts meet their needs and enables them to develop their creativity and participate effectively in the cultural and artistic life of their community.

Art Level 1 (11ART) This course is suitable for endorsement.Course Description: E rere kau mai te Awanui Mai i te Kahui Maunga ki Tangaroa Ko au te

Awa, ko te Awa ko au The Great River flows From the Mountains to the Sea I am the River, and the River is me.Students will research art and artworks from Maori, Pasifika and European traditions and contexts to inform the theme of our local environment and the student’s whakapapa. Students will have to generate and develop ideas with control, using a range of media and techniques. Art work is developed into a two panel portfolio, the disciplines of drawing, painting, printmaking, photography and design will be covered. Students who have a special interest in film will have the opportunity to create a moving image portfolio.

Course Prerequisite: Year 10 Art or by negotiation with HODAssessment: This course has components involving selected folios which are sent for

external moderation. Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will contribute up to 22 credits towards NCEA Level 1.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 art. Creative vocational pathwaysPossible Careers: Teacher, fashion designer, illustrator, architect, cartoonist, graphic design,

painter, printmaker, film maker, film schoolCosts: $40 materials fee, payable at the start of the courseFurther Information: Miss Pottinger

Dance Level 1 (11DAN) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description: This course is mainly practical focusing on dance performance, dance choreography and dance knowledge. Students will participate in various dance genres and styles throughout the year and as a result will develop skills in; co-ordination, rhythm, problem solving, communication, team work and self-confidence. They will get the opportunity to share dance through a formal dance presentation evening. Students will also study different dance works and genres throughout the year and then apply knowledge to their own performances and compositions.

Course Prerequisite: None, although completion of Year 10 Dance would be an advantage.

Assessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will contribute up to 20 credits towards NCEA Level 1. The course has both internal and externally assessed components.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 dance. Creative vocational pathways

Possible careers: Teaching, fitness instructor, performing arts, dancer, entertainer, critic, reporter, children’s entertainer, event manager, choreographer

Costs: No related subject fees though students will be required to pay $30 to take part in the Dance NZ Made Workshops and competition. There will also be an opportunity to see a professional dance company perform which is optional. Approximately $30

Further Information: Ms Pond or Mrs Rhodes

Drama Level 1 (11DRA) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description: Drama is about performing and performance techniques. The course will explore the techniques, elements, conventions and technologies of drama. This will include scripted drama, devising drama, demonstrating knowledge of a drama/theatre for a period (through a practical presentation), and performing a substantial acting role to an audience. Participation in cultural activities outside of the classroom would be of value. Students will need to perform to audiences. Student workbooks are essential to the completion of the course.

Course Prerequisite: None, although completion of Year 10 Drama would be an advantage.Assessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will

contribute to 18 internal credits and up to eight external credits. These are spread over six assessed components.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 drama. Service and creative vocational pathways.Possible careers: Drama is about developing skills and communication. It is a creative

activity and as such has value outside of identified careers. TV and radio broadcasting; acting in film or stage; youth or community worker; personnel manager; marketing manager; performing arts management; teacher, law, director, designer, critic, writer, entertainer, reporter.

Costs $5 paper printing feeStudents have to see a live theatre performance for the external examinations. There will be a cost depending upon the performance but can range in price from $10 to $40.

Further Information: Mrs Rhodes

Music Level 1 (11MUS) This course is not suitable for endorsement

Course Description: Music has a practical focus alongside developing knowledge and skills in technology. Students will develop performance skills on their chosen instrument/s as a soloist and a member of a group. Through extended study and analysis of elements and features, students will explore and develop knowledge of music works. There is an opportunity for students to learn and apply skills in basic sound and music technology. Participation in cultural activities outside of the classroom would be of value. Students will need to perform to audiences. Student will need to have their own instrument on which to practice at home.

Course Prerequisite: 2 years of learning an instrument is a necessityCompletion of Year 10 Music would be an advantage.

Assessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will contribute up to 24 internal credits. Students may choose to sit one or two external assessments relating to music conventions and or aural perception.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 music. Service and creative vocational pathways.Possible careers: Music is about developing skills in communicating. It is a creative activity

and as such has value outside of identified careers. Musician, instrumental or classroom music teacher, TV and radio broadcasting, audio engineer, composer, stage management, performing arts management, critic, entertainer, reporter.

Costs No related subject fees, though students may need to purchase equipment to do with their own instrument (e.g.: guitar strings) or sheet music. There may be an opportunity to see a music performance. This would mean an optional cost of $10 - $40.

Further Information: Mrs James

Languages

French Level 1 (11FRE) This course is suitable for endorsementCourse Description: This course builds on the base created in the Year 10 French course and

aims to give students good communication skills in written, aural and spoken French.

Assessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will contribute up to 20 credits towards NCEA Level One. The course is internally and externally assessed. Written, comprehension, aural and oral skills are assessed.

Course Prerequisite: Year 10 FrenchPathways: NCEA Level Two French. Service and creative arts.Further Information: Mrs Cox

Maori Level 1 (11MAO) This course is suitable for endorsement

Course Description: The emphasis in this course is on developing writing skills using the modes of descriptive, mihi, review, notices, directions, dialogue and narrative writing. Emphasis is also on developing oral skills. History, traditions and customs are explored within the context of each unit covered.

Course Prerequisite: This course is open to any student who has a commitment to learning Te Reo although completion of the Year 10 programme would be an advantage.

Assessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will contribute up to 24 credits towards the NCEA Level 1. The course has both internal and externally assessed components.

Pathways: NCEA Level 2 Maori. Primary, social and community, service and creative vocational pathways

Further Information: Mrs Cox or Whaea Erana

Learning Centre

Gateway Level 1 (11GAT) This course is not suitable for endorsementCourse Description: This is a directed option and students who qualify will have been through an

interview process with Ms Pond and their dean before starting on the course. It will require work placement for a minimum of 20 days over the year. The course is designed to provide an employment skill base so that students are able to undertake some vocational training with confidence. This will include Health and Safety, Personal Management and Skills for work. There may be additional workplace standards offered.

Assessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will contribute approximately 20 credits towards NCEA Level 1. Gateway is internally assessed. Additional credits towards NCEA Level 1 may be available through some work placements and/or courses.

Course Prerequisite: Students will be selected for this course based on individual needs. Students must be committed to a one day work placement per week. It is the student’s responsibility to catch up on work missed due to their placement. It is a directed option due to limited placements available.

Pathways: Year 12 Gateway. All vocational pathways.Possible Careers. Wide and varied as this course offers experience in a variety of different

occupations.Costs: No related subject fees

Further Information: Mrs Jacobs and HoD of the learning centre.