Year 7-12 Curriculum Acceleration & VCE Programs (Melbourne)

Year 8 English Achievement Standard

Receptive modes (listening, reading and viewing) By the end of Year 8, students understand how the selection of text structures is influenced by the selection of language mode and how this varies for different purposes and audiences. Students explain how language features, images and vocabulary are used to represent different ideas and issues in texts.

Students interpret texts, questioning the reliability of sources of ideas and information. They select evidence from the text to show how events, situations and people can be represented from different viewpoints. They listen for and identify different emphases in texts, using that understanding to elaborate on discussions.

Productive modes (speaking, writing and creating) Students understand how the selection of language features can be used for particular purposes and effects. They explain the effectiveness of language choices they make to influence the audience. Through combining ideas, images and language features from other texts, students show how ideas can be expressed in new ways.

Students create texts for different purposes, selecting language to influence audience response. They make presentations and contribute actively to class and group discussions, using language patterns for effect. When creating and editing texts to create specific effects, they take into account intended purposes and the needs and interests of audiences. They demonstrate understanding of grammar, select vocabulary for effect and use accurate spelling and punctuation.

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Year 9 English Achievement Standard

Receptive modes (listening, reading and viewing) By the end of Year 9, students analyse the ways that text structures can be manipulated for effect. They analyse and explain how images, vocabulary choices and language features distinguish the work of individual authors. They evaluate and integrate ideas and information from texts to form their own interpretations. They select evidence from texts to analyse and explain how language choices and conventions are used to influence an audience. They listen for ways texts position an audience.

Productive modes (speaking, writing and creating) Students understand how to use a variety of language features to create different levels of meaning. They understand how interpretations can vary by comparing their responses to texts to the responses of others. In creating texts, students demonstrate how manipulating language features and images can create innovative texts.

Students create texts that respond to issues, interpreting and integrating ideas from other texts. They make presentations and contribute actively to class and group discussions, comparing and evaluating responses to ideas and issues. They edit for effect, selecting vocabulary and grammar that contribute to the precision and persuasiveness of texts and using accurate spelling and punctuation.

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Year 10 English Achievement Standard

Receptive modes (listening, reading and viewing) By the end of Year 10, students evaluate how text structures can be used in innovative ways by different authors. They explain how the choice of language features, images and vocabulary contributes to the development of individual style.

They develop and justify their own interpretations of texts. They evaluate other interpretations, analysing the evidence used to support them. They listen for ways features within texts can be manipulated to achieve particular effects. Productive modes (speaking, writing and creating) Students show how the selection of language features can achieve precision and stylistic effect. They explain different viewpoints, attitudes and perspectives through the development of cohesive and logical arguments. They develop their own style by experimenting with language features, stylistic devices, text structures and images.

Students create a wide range of texts to articulate complex ideas. They make presentations and contribute actively to class and group discussions, building on others' ideas, solving problems, justifying opinions and developing and expanding arguments. They demonstrate understanding of grammar, vary vocabulary choices for impact, and accurately use spelling and punctuation when creating and editing texts.

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Year 11 English study / Literature

English study
Description
VCE English focuses on how English language is used to create meaning in written, spoken and multimodal texts of varying complexity.
Literary texts selected for study are drawn from the past and present, from Australia and from other cultures. Other texts are selected for analysis and presentation of argument.
The study is intended to meet the needs of students with a wide range of expectations and aspirations, including those for whom English is an additional language.

Unit Description
Unit 1
In this unit, students read and respond to texts analytically and creatively. They analyse arguments and the use of persuasive language in texts and create their own texts intended to position audiences.
Students develop their skills in creating written, spoken and multimodal texts.

Unit 2
In this unit students compare the presentation of ideas, issues and themes in texts. They analyse arguments presented and the use of persuasive language in texts and create their own texts intended to position audiences.
Students develop their skills in creating written, spoken and multimodal texts.

Literature
Description
In VCE Literature students undertake close reading of texts and analyse how language and literary elements and techniques function within a text. Emphasis is placed on recognition of a text’s complexity and meaning, and on consideration of how that meaning is embodied in its literary form. The study provides opportunities for reading deeply, widely and critically, responding analytically and creatively, and appreciating the aesthetic merit of texts.
VCE Literature enables students to examine the historical and cultural contexts within which both readers and texts are situated. It investigates the assumptions, views and values which both writer and reader bring to the texts and it encourages students to contemplate how we read as well as what we read. It considers how literary criticism informs the readings of texts and the ways texts relate to their contexts and to each other.

Unit Description
Unit 1
In this unit students focus on the ways the interaction between text and reader creates meaning. Students’ analyses of the features and conventions of texts help them develop responses to a range of literary forms and styles. They develop an awareness of how the views and values that readers hold may influence the reading of a text.

Unit 2
In this unit students explore the ways literary texts connect with each other and with the world. They deepen their examination of the ways their own culture and the cultures represented in texts can influence their interpretations and shape different meanings. Students consider the relationships between authors, audiences and contexts and analyse the similarities and differences across texts and establish connections between them. They engage in close reading of texts and create analytical responses that are evidence-based.

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Year 8 Achievement Mathematics Standard

By the end of Year 8, students solve everyday problems involving rates, ratios and percentages. They describe index laws and apply them to whole numbers. They describe rational and irrational numbers. Students solve problems involving profit and loss. They make connections between expanding and factorising algebraic expressions. Students solve problems relating to the volume of prisms. They make sense of time duration in real applications. They identify conditions for the congruence of triangles and deduce the properties of quadrilaterals. Students model authentic situations with two-way tables and Venn diagrams. They choose appropriate language to describe events and experiments. They explain issues related to the collection of data and the effect of outliers on means and medians in that data.

Students use efficient mental and written strategies to carry out the four operations with integers. They simplify a variety of algebraic expressions. They solve linear equations and graph linear relationships on the Cartesian plane. Students convert between units of measurement for area and volume. They perform calculations to determine perimeter and area of parallelograms, rhombuses and kites. They name the features of circles and calculate the areas and circumferences of circles. Students determine the probabilities of complementary events and calculate the sum of probabilities.

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Year 9 Mathematics Achievement Standard

By the end of Year 9, students solve problems involving simple interest. They interpret ratio and scale factors in similar figures. Students explain similarity of triangles. They recognise the connections between similarity and the trigonometric ratios. Students compare techniques for collecting data from primary and secondary sources. They make sense of the position of the mean and median in skewed, symmetric and bi-modal displays to describe and interpret data.

Students apply the index laws to numbers and express numbers in scientific notation. They expand binomial expressions. They find the distance between two points on the Cartesian plane and the gradient and midpoint of a line segment. They sketch linear and non-linear relations. Students calculate areas of shapes and the volume and surface area of right prisms and cylinders. They use Pythagoras’ Theorem and trigonometry to find unknown sides of right-angled triangles. Students calculate relative frequencies to estimate probabilities, list outcomes for two-step experiments and assign probabilities for those outcomes. They construct histograms and back-to-back stem-and-leaf plots.

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Year 10/10A Mathematics Achievement Standard

By the end of Year 10, students recognise the connection between simple and compound interest. They solve problems involving linear equations and inequalities. They make the connections between algebraic and graphical representations of relations. Students solve surface area and volume problems relating to composite solids. They recognise the relationships between parallel and perpendicular lines. Students apply deductive reasoning to proofs and numerical exercises involving plane shapes. They compare data sets by referring to the shapes of the various data displays. They describe bivariate data where the independent variable is time. Students describe statistical relationships between two continuous variables. They evaluate statistical reports.

Students expand binomial expressions and factorise monic quadratic expressions. They find unknown values after substitution into formulas. They perform the four operations with simple algebraic fractions. Students solve simple quadratic equations and pairs of simultaneous equations. They use triangle and angle properties to prove congruence and similarity. Students use trigonometry to calculate unknown angles in right-angled triangles. Students list outcomes for multi-step chance experiments and assign probabilities for these experiments. They calculate quartiles and inter-quartile ranges.

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Year 11 General Mathematics

Description
Mathematics is a study of function and pattern in number, logic, space and structure, and of randomness, chance, variability and uncertainty in data and events.
Essential mathematical activities include: conjecturing, hypothesizing and problem posing; estimating, calculating and computing; abstracting, proving, refuting and inferring; applying, investigating, modeling and problem solving.
The aims of this study are for students to:
• develop mathematical concepts, knowledge and skills.
• apply mathematics to analyse, investigate and model a variety of contexts and solve practical and theoretical problems in situations that range from well-defined and familiar to open-ended and unfamiliar.
• use technology effectively as a tool for working mathematically.

Unit Description
Units 1 and 2
General Mathematics Units 1 and 2 provide for a range of courses of study involving non-calculus based topics for a broad range of students and may be implemented in various ways to reflect student interests in, and applications of, mathematics. They incorporate topics that provide preparation for various combinations of studies at Units 3 and 4 and cover assumed knowledge and skills for those units.

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Year 11 Mathematical Methods

Description
Mathematics is the study of function and pattern in number, logic, space and structure, and of randomness, chance, variability and uncertainty in data and events.
Essential mathematical activities include: conjecturing, hypothesising and problem posing; estimating, calculating and computing; abstracting, proving, refuting and inferring; applying, investigating, modelling and problem solving.
The aims of this study are for students to:
• develop mathematical concepts, knowledge and skills.
• apply mathematics to analyse, investigate and model a variety of contexts and solve practical and theoretical problems in situations that range from well-defined and familiar to open-ended and unfamiliar.
• use technology effectively as a tool for working mathematically.

Unit Description
Units 1 and 2
Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2 are completely prescribed and provide an introductory study of simple elementary functions, algebra, calculus, probability and statistics and their applications in a variety of practical and theoretical contexts. They are designed as preparation for Mathematical Methods Units 3 and 4 and cover assumed knowledge and skills for those units.

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Year 11 Specialist Mathematics

Description
Mathematics is the study of function and pattern in number, logic, space and structure, and of randomness, chance, variability and uncertainty in data and events.
Essential mathematical activities include: conjecturing, hypothesising and problem posing; estimating, calculating and computing; abstracting, proving, refuting and inferring; applying, investigating, modelling and problem solving.
The aims of this study are for students to:
• develop mathematical concepts, knowledge and skills.
• apply mathematics to analyse, investigate and model a variety of contexts and solve practical and theoretical problems in situations that range from well-defined and familiar to open-ended and unfamiliar.
• use technology effectively as a tool for working mathematically.

Unit Description
Units 1 and 2
Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2 provide a course of study for students who wish to undertake an in-depth study of mathematics, with an emphasis on concepts, skills and processes related to mathematical structure, modelling, problem solving and reasoning. This study has a focus on interest in the discipline of mathematics in its own right and investigation of a broad range of applications, as well as development of a sound background for further studies in mathematics and mathematics related fields. Students preparing for subsequent study of Specialist Mathematics Units 3 and 4 would undertake Mathematical Methods Units 1 and 2 concurrently with Specialist Mathematics Units 1 and 2.

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Year 8 Science Achievement Standard

By the end of Year 8, students compare physical and chemical changes and use the particle model to explain and predict the properties and behaviours of substances. They identify different forms of energy and describe how energy transfers and transformations cause change in simple systems. They compare processes of rock formation, including the timescales involved. They analyse the relationship between structure and function at cell, organ and body system levels. Students examine the different science knowledge used in occupations. They explain how evidence has led to an improved understanding of a scientific idea and describe situations in which scientists collaborated to generate solutions to contemporary problems. They reflect on implications of these solutions for different groups in society.

Students identify and construct questions and problems that they can investigate scientifically. They consider safety and ethics when planning investigations, including designing field or experimental methods. They identify variables to be changed, measured and controlled. Students construct representations of their data to reveal and analyse patterns and trends, and use these when justifying their conclusions. They explain how modifications to methods could improve the quality of their data and apply their own scientific knowledge and investigation findings to evaluate claims made by others. They use appropriate language and representations to communicate science ideas, methods and findings in a range of text types.

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Year 9 Science Achievement Standard

By the end of Year 9, students explain chemical processes and natural radioactivity in terms of atoms and energy transfers and describe examples of important chemical reactions. They describe models of energy transfer and apply these to explain phenomena. They explain global features and events in terms of geological processes and timescales. They analyse how biological systems function and respond to external changes with reference to interdependencies, energy transfers and flows of matter. They describe social and technological factors that have influenced scientific developments and predict how future applications of science and technology may affect people’s lives.

Students design questions that can be investigated using a range of inquiry skills. They design methods that include the control and accurate measurement of variables and systematic collection of data and describe how they considered ethics and safety. They analyse trends in data, identify relationships between variables and reveal inconsistencies in results. They analyse their methods and the quality of their data, and explain specific actions to improve the quality of their evidence. They evaluate others’ methods and explanations from a scientific perspective and use appropriate language and representations when communicating their findings and ideas to specific audiences.

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Year 10 Science Achievement Standard

By the end of Year 10, students analyse how the periodic table organises elements and use it to make predictions about the properties of elements. They explain how chemical reactions are used to produce particular products and how different factors influence the rate of reactions. They explain the concept of energy conservation and represent energy transfer and transformation within systems. They apply relationships between force, mass and acceleration to predict changes in the motion of objects. Students describe and analyse interactions and cycles within and between Earth’s spheres. They evaluate the evidence for scientific theories that explain the origin of the universe and the diversity of life on Earth. They explain the processes that underpin heredity and evolution. Students analyse how the models and theories they use have developed over time and discuss the factors that prompted their review.

Students develop questions and hypotheses and independently design and improve appropriate methods of investigation, including field work and laboratory experimentation. They explain how they have considered reliability, safety, fairness and ethical actions in their methods and identify where digital technologies can be used to enhance the quality of data. When analysing data, selecting evidence and developing and justifying conclusions, they identify alternative explanations for findings and explain any sources of uncertainty. Students evaluate the validity and reliability of claims made in secondary sources with reference to currently held scientific views, the quality of the methodology and the evidence cited. They construct evidence-based arguments and select appropriate representations and text types to communicate science ideas for specific purposes.

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Year 11 Physics

Description
Physics seeks to understand and explain the physical world, both natural and constructed. It examines models and ideas used to make sense of the world and which are sometimes challenged as new knowledge develops.
VCE Physics provides students with opportunities to investigate questions related to selected areas within the discipline including atomic physics, electricity, fields, mechanics, thermodynamics, quantum physics and waves. Students also have options for study related to astrobiology, astrophysics, bioelectricity, biomechanics, electronics, flight, medical physics, nuclear energy, nuclear physics, optics, sound and sports science.

Unit Description
Unit 1: What ideas explain the physical world?
In this unit students explore some of the fundamental ideas and models used by physicists in an attempt to understand and explain the world. They consider thermal concepts by investigating heat and assessing the impact of human use of energy on the environment. Students evaluate common analogies used to explain electricity and investigate how electricity can be manipulated and utilised. They examine current scientifically accepted theories that explain how matter and energy have changed since the origins of the Universe.
Students undertake quantitative investigations involving at least one independent, continuous variable.

Unit 2: What do experiments reveal about the physical world?
This unit requires that students undertake a core study related to motion, one option from a choice of twelve options, and a student-designed investigation related to motion and/or one of the twelve options.
In this unit, students explore the power of experiments in developing models and theories. They make direct observations of physics phenomena and examine the ways in which phenomena that may not be directly observable can be explored including through indirect observations. Students investigate the ways in which forces are involved both in moving objects and in keeping objects stationary. They choose one of twelve options related to astrobiology, astrophysics, bioelectricity, biomechanics, electronics, flight, medical physics, nuclear energy, nuclear physics, optics, sound and sports science.
Students design and undertake investigations involving at least one independent, continuous variable. A student-designed practical investigation related to content drawn from Area of Study 1 and/or Area of Study 2 is undertaken in Area of Study 3.

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Year 11 Chemistry

Description
VCE Chemistry enables students to explore the relationship between materials and energy through four themes: the design and composition of useful materials, the reactions and analysis of chemicals in water, the efficient production and use of energy and materials, and the investigation of carbon-based compounds as important components of body tissues and the materials used in society.

Unit Description
Unit 1: How can the diversity of materials be explained?
The development and use of materials for specific purposes is an important human endeavour. In this unit students investigate the chemical properties and practical applications of a range of materials including metals, crystals, polymers, nanomaterials and giant lattices. They explore and explain the relationships between properties, structure and bonding forces within and between particles that vary in size from the visible through to nanoparticles, molecules and atoms. Students are introduced to quantitative concepts in chemistry.

Unit 2: What makes water such a unique chemical?
Water is the most widely used solvent on Earth. In this unit students explore the physical and chemical properties of water, the reactions that occur in water and various methods of water analysis.
Students examine the structure and bonding within and between water molecules in order to investigate solubility, concentration, pH and reactions in water including precipitation, acid-base and redox. They are introduced to stoichiometry and to analytical techniques and instrumental procedures analysis, and apply these to determine concentrations of different species in water samples, including chemical contaminants. Students explore the solvent properties of water in a variety of contexts and analyse selected issues associated with substances dissolved in water.

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Year 11 Biology

Description
Biology seeks to understand and explore the nature of life, past and present.
VCE Biology enables students to investigate the dynamic relationships between organisms, their interactions with the non-living environment, and the processes of life, from the molecular world of the cell to that of the whole organism, that maintain life and ensure its continuity.

Unit Description
Unit 1: How do living things stay alive?
In this unit students explain what is needed by an organism to stay alive. They are introduced to some of the challenges for organisms in sustaining life. Students examine the cell as the structural and functional unit of life and the requirements for sustaining cellular processes in terms of inputs and outputs. Types of adaptations that enhance the organism’s survival in a particular environment are analysed, and the role that homeostatic mechanisms play in maintaining the internal environment is studied. Students consider how the planet’s biodiversity is classified and investigate the factors that affect population growth.
A student investigation related to the survival of an organism or species is undertaken in Area of Study 3. The investigation draws on content from Area of Study 1 and/or Area of Study 2.

Unit 2: How is continuity of life maintained?
In this unit students focus on asexual and sexual cell reproduction and the transmission of biological information from generation to generation. The role of stem cells in the differentiation, growth, repair and replacement of cells in humans is examined, and their potential use in medical therapies is considered. Students explain the inheritance of characteristics, analyse patterns of inheritance, interpret pedigree charts and predict outcomes of genetic crosses. They consider the role of genetic knowledge in decision-making about the inheritance of various genetic conditions. In this context the uses of genetic screening and its social and ethical issues are examined.
A student investigation into, and communication of, an issue related to genetics and/or reproductive science is undertaken in Area of Study 3. The investigation draws on content from Area of Study 1 and/or Area of Study 2.

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