Mandatory subjects
English
(Head of Learning Area: Mrs Amanda Reynolds, mreynolds@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
The study of English aims to guide students to grow as effective communicators and to foster a love of literature. Studying English develops students’ knowledge, understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of the English language as an essential skill. Through their study of different lives, contexts and perspectives, students will develop empathy, compassion, and integrity. Students will develop their skills to communicate for a range of purposes and audiences and in doing so will develop their personal voice and a greater understanding of themselves and their world.
Students explore a rich and diverse range of literature from past and contemporary societies, as well as a range of spoken, visual, media and multimedia texts. Students create their own content, learning how to communicate their message purposefully and to create an impact. Students will write imaginative, interpretive, and critical texts with clarity and accuracy for a range of purposes and audiences. Students learn to reflect on their own compositions and to analyse meaning, perspective and cultural assumptions. There is some variation in the texts studied in classes to accommodate the different abilities and interests of each group.
Mathematics
(Head of Learning Area: Mrs Catrina Kerr, ckerr@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
Mathematics is a reasoning and creative activity employing abstraction and generalisation to identify, describe and apply patterns and relationships. The symbolic nature of mathematics provides a powerful, precise, and concise means of communication. The study of mathematics provides opportunities for students to appreciate the elegance and power of mathematical reasoning and to apply mathematical understanding creatively and efficiently.
The study of the subject enables students to develop a positive self-concept as learners of mathematics, obtain enjoyment from mathematics and become self-motivated learners through inquiry and active participation in challenging and engaging experiences. Students follow the same syllabus in Mathematics but there are three pathways offered at Pymble: Core, Enrichment and Accelerated pathways. Girls are placed into the appropriate pathway according to their ability and performance.
Science
(Head of Learning Area: Mrs Kylie Cooley, kcooley@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
The study of Science enables students to develop knowledge, understanding of and skills in applying the processes of working scientifically. They will develop an appreciation of the contribution of science to finding solutions to personal, social, and global issues relevant to their lives now and in the future and develop a willingness to use evidence and reason to engage with and respond to scientific and technological ideas as informed, reflective citizens. They will develop knowledge of the physical world, Earth and space, living world and chemical world and understanding about the nature, development, use and influence of science
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Geography
(Head of Learning Area: Mr Trevor Lucas, tlucas@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
Geography is the study of places and the relationships between people and their environments. It is a rich and complex discipline that integrates knowledge from natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities to build a holistic understanding of the world. Students learn to question why the world is the way it is, reflect on their relationships with, and responsibilities for the world, and propose actions designed to shape a socially just and sustainable future. Geographic education prepares students for effective participation in society. They learn to develop informed opinions on local and global issues like changing environments, and issues faced in the future world.
History
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Caragh Warth, cwarth@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
History gives a sense of perspective and offers us an insight into the past and into the world in which we live. In our information-rich age, it teaches how to critically assess and evaluate sources of information. It aims to build a sense of social justice in our students and to teach them the responsibilities of global citizenship.
The Mandatory History Stage 4 course is based on the Australian Curriculum which has adopted the approach of World History; that is, it aims to give students an understanding of the broad sweep of world history with time allocated for study of certain periods in-depth. This course taught in Year 8 involves the study of the Ancient and Medieval World, with exploration into Investigating History through Australian History, human remains and archaeological tools. Ancient China and Ancient Rome or Egypt, the Khmer Empire and the Medieval Europe.
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education
(Head of Learning Area: Mrs Alison Cruz, acruz@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education (PDHPE) contributes significantly to the cognitive, social, emotional, physical and spiritual development of students. It provides opportunities for students to learn about, and practice ways of adopting and maintaining a healthy, safe and active life. It also involves students learning through movement experiences that are both challenging and enjoyable, and improving their capacity to move with skill and confidence in a variety of contexts. PDHPE promotes the value of physical activity in students’ lives.
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Religion and Ethics
(Head of Religion and Ethics, Mrs Edwina O’Brien eobrien@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
As a school of the Uniting Church in Australia, Pymble Ladies’ College provides for the religious education of its students. It does this through a study of Christianity focusing on the person of Jesus the Christ, the importance of the Bible and God’s message of love and reconciliation. In line with the inclusive nature of the Uniting Church and its commitment to interfaith dialogue, Religion and Ethics also provides for the study and comparison of other faith traditions.
Religion and Ethics at Pymble Ladies’ College aims to help students:
• Develop an understanding of the beliefs of Christianity and other religions.
• Reflect upon their own beliefs.
• Examine the impact of beliefs in the world.
• Develop tolerance, respect, understanding and compassion towards others.
Technology
(Head of Learning Area: Mr Peter Ellis, pellis@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
This is a practical course designed to develop an understanding of a range of technological activities and their applications to the personal, commercial, industrial, and global domains. A problem-solving approach will be undertaken so that students will learn how to use various forms of technology to address design briefs. This will involve processes of researching, analysis of data and information, designing, making, evaluating, communicating, marketing, and managing a range of projects. Throughout the mandatory program students will gain valuable transferable skills in communicating, collaborating, critical thinking, problem solving, digital literacy, project management, creativity, and innovation.
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Elective subjects in Year 8
Agriculture
(Head of Learning Area: Mrs Kylie Cooley, kcooley@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
The Year 8 course will incorporate elements of several subject areas such as geography, science, data analysis, biology, soil chemistry, engineering, climatology, technology, and nutrition. Agriculture will equip our students with knowledge and understanding of issues relating to food and fibre production, both within Australia and globally. The course will cover topics such as:
1. Urban Farming
2. Poultry or Vegan?
3. 21st Century Agricultural Technology
4. Renewable energy
Students will have the opportunity to perform practical activities at the Ag plot, engage in research opportunities and work collaboratively in team situations. The course will equip students with an understanding of the complexities of food and fibre production in the current global context and develop balanced attitudes toward clean, green food/fibre production, the natural environment and sustainability in the Australian agricultural industry. Agriculture offers students a student-centred learning environment with teamwork and problem-solving opportunities. Assessment will be based on both practical competencies (including some skills-based assessment) and a number of hand-in research assignments.
Art and Enterprise
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Brigiat Maltese, bmaltese@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
Aimed at students with a high level of artmaking skills, Art and Enterprise is geared towards those who have an interest in the field of graphic design. Students will work as creatives, generating a series of graphic designs that are printed, reproduced, and distributed through our own “Pymble Press”. Students will extend their graphic design skills into the area of printmaking, using the professional quality presses available in the Visual Arts department. From design concept to the creation of multiple printed images, students will be using relief print and intaglio techniques. These graphic designs will form part of a business model – distributed through events such as the Garden Party, entered in national prizes and even form the basis of an Esty store. With a focus on specialist techniques, use of professional equipment and a high degree of creativity – this course is suited to students who excelled in the making components of Visual Arts in Year 7.
Components of the course include:
Art making 75%
• Working within a theme and brief
• Graphic design and visual qualities
• Connecting text (words) and Image
• Developing a portfolio of designs and prints
• Lino Relief Printing – Semester 1
• Specialist Printing Techniques: Intaglio and Collagraph – Semester 2
Art Study 25%
• Investigation of Designers and Printmakers
• Graphic communication through signs and symbols
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Chinese
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Salina Bussien, sbussien@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
Chinese is the language of communication of approximately one-quarter of the world’s population. It is one of the official languages of the United Nations. Among the many spoken varieties of the language, Mandarin is pre-eminent. Chinese is also recognised as one of the fastest-growing languages in New South Wales and has one of the largest groups of non-English background speakers in Australia.
In Year 8, the main aim is to continue to use Chinese as a method of communication with growing confidence in everyday situations within and beyond the classroom. Students find the lively approach of their textbook Easy Steps to Chinese 2 particularly enjoyable. Topics studied in Year 8 include school life, hobbies, food and drinks, Chinese cuisine and restaurants, house, and neighbourhood Chinese culture plays an important role and is integrated with language learning. Students participate in activities and group projects aimed at consolidating and extending their language skills and intercultural capability.
(*A student choosing Chinese should have studied this language in Year 7)
EAL/D (English as an additional language)
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Lora Lim, llim@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
This course is designed to provide additional assistance in the development and consolidation of English language skills for students who study English as a second or third language. The underpinning goal of this program is to provide instruction and opportunities for each student to practice, and gain confidence and capability in reading and writing skills, as well as to develop an increased awareness of how to apply learning strategies effectively. The EAL/D elective also provides opportunities for academic support across a range of learning areas and provides students with cultural knowledge to assist them in their future studies in an Australian academic environment. This course requires a flexible approach to enable individual learners to reach personal targets.
(By invitation only)
Financial Literacy
(Head of Learning Area: Mr Trevor Lucas, tlucas@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
This course introduces the knowledge, understanding, skills, and values, which are essential for a young person to successfully participate in the commercial world. It provides a unique opportunity to gain the financial skills and competencies that will be required of an educated and responsible individual in modern society, no matter what career path they follow.
Students complete much of the course through engagement with digital technology, state and nationwide competitions and learning activities. Students also have the opportunity to showcase their IT skills and cross-curricular learning.
Topics:
• Money management (including goal setting, entrepreneurship)
• Budgeting (saving and managing credit)
• Investing (including ASX Share Market Game) for future wealth
• Diversified investing (property, shares, $20 Boss)
• Global links (trade, aid, investment, employment)
• Travel (insurance, security, planning, budgeting)
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French
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Salina Bussien, sbussien@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
French is one of the major languages in the world. It is spoken in parts of Europe, Canada, North America, the Middle East, the West Indies, the Indian Ocean and South Pacific regions. It is a language of international affairs, trade, and diplomacy.
The Year 8 course offers a variety of learner-centered tasks and projects that provide the opportunity for development and consolidation of the skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. It also equips learners with intercultural capability, allowing them to reflect on and understand their own and others’ languages, cultures and identity. Topic areas studied in Year 8 deal principally with the everyday life of young people in French-speaking countries such as hobbies, home life, food, sport, entertainment, health, weather, clothes, and shopping. Lessons encourage learners to use French as a means of communication in class, group and pair activities. Students subscribe to a language learning website to extend their vocabulary and comprehension skills. The visit of French exchange students in Term 2 presents opportunity for further enrichment.
(*A student choosing French should have studied this language in Year 7)
German
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Salina Bussien, sbussien@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
With Germany’s prominence as a major world industrial nation, the study of German has relevance in the pursuit of many future careers. German and English are based on the same linguistic roots and principles, sharing a common core of concepts and vocabulary. The focus is on similarity rather than difference.
The German course gives students the opportunity to learn how to access and respond to information, compose texts, and interact in the target language, enabling them by the end of Year 8 to communicate with German speakers in familiar situations.
Students find the lively approach of the learner-centered course, Ganz Klasse, enjoyable. Topics are selected for their relevance to the experiences of teenagers. Beginning with a cartoon story, each chapter successfully integrates the communicative approach with a thoroughly planned program for the teaching of German grammar. Through familiar characters, the learning experience is enhanced, while giving information on the culture and lifestyle of the German people. Lessons make regular use of video clips, online content and tools for extension work and communicative activities Students subscribe to a language learning website to expand their vocabulary and comprehension skills. The visit of the German exchange students in Term 2 provides extra enrichment in the classroom
(*A student choosing German should have studied this language in Year 7)
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Introduction to Dance and Choreography
(Head of Learning Area: Mr Marcus Stafford, Mstafford@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
In 2024, Pymble Ladies’ College will introduce Year 8 Dance for the first time, offering students a unique opportunity to dip their toes into the world of dance. This inclusive course is designed to engage both experienced dancers and those interested in exploring various aspects of dance, a taste of what it is like to study academic dance.
The course aims to build a technical foundation in dance performance, allowing students to experience different major dance styles. Through training in fundamental body skills applicable to a range of styles, students can gain insight into the world of dance. Additionally, students will have the chance to develop their choreography skills by studying dance composition. This involves contributing to both whole class/cohort performances and creating smaller pieces in pairs, trios, or small groups for classwork.
Throughout the course, students will explore a diverse range of dance styles. These range from traditional forms worldwide to classical ballet and contemporary commercial dance. Alongside these explorations, students will also be introduced to physical, mental, and technological tools that benefit performers and choreographers, enhancing their skills.
The course will cover the following topics:
• Foundations: Dip your toes into developing Dance Technique, Performance Quality, and Dance for Wellbeing.
• Dance Throughout the Ages: An Introduction to Traditional and Cultural Dance Forms as a trial experience.
• Dance Styles: Exploring Classical Ballet, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Acro Dance, Virtual Dance, and Lyrical in a taste tester format.
• Introduction to the Elements of Dance and Choreography: Understanding Space, Time, Dynamics, and Relationships as a preliminary trial.
All levels of dance will be catered for and students are not required to have prior dance training. Year 8 Dance is not a prerequisite for Years 10 - 12 Curriculum Dance but it may assist with building some foundational knowledge and interest.
Introduction to First Nations Studies
(Head of Learning Area: Mrs Caragh Warth, cwarth@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
This exciting and important course for Year 8 places emphasis on the significance of Dreaming, Country/Place, kinship and language in First Nations communities, cultures and histories. Students have an opportunity to learn about First Nations spirituality, art, sport, language and the histories of peoples and Country. This course also delves into the impact that colonisation has had upon First Nations peoples across the continent. Students will engage with First Nations local communities and organisations through excursions throughout the year. Students will focus on the development of research skills, oral and written communication skills, ethical practices when working with First Nations communities, developing an understanding of Country and Place and the analysis of sources of information.
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Introduction to Philosophy
(Head of Learning Area: Mrs Caragh Warth, cwarth@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
Introduction to Philosophy is a course which teaches students the essential skills of logic, reason, and critical thinking through a critical engagement with the deepest questions about their world and themselves. Although Philosophy has been described as “as the discipline of disciplines, [and] as the science of the sciences”, NSW school students often do not have the opportunity to study it. In this course, students connect with the great minds of the past through the study of seminal philosophical texts, such as Plato’s Dialogues, and ponder fundamental questions, such as “What is the nature of reality?”, “What is right and wrong?” and “Where does knowledge come from?” In doing so, they are provided with a deeper foundation of understanding for all other academic subjects and for the complexity of the workplace, life, and the contemporary world. They will cultivate their communication skills and ability to rigorously formulate, articulate, and defend their views.
Students who have a strong work ethic, enjoy reading and writing and demonstrate self-autonomy will enjoy the opportunity Introduction to Philosophy provides for intellectual challenge, discussion, independent research, and student choice.
Japanese
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Salina Bussien, sbussien@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
Japanese is a culturally interesting and practical language relevant to Australia’s developing role in South-East Asia. It is the language of one of our largest trading partners, spoken by about 123 million people.
The coursebook called ii Tomo focuses on intercultural awareness and offers interesting activities to support and reinforce the structures to be learned. A variety of role-play situations provides the opportunity for developing the skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing to a high degree.
Students begin immediately to learn the Japanese writing system, having started with Hiragana in Year 7, Katakana is added in Year 8 Kanji, a script comprised of the Chinese characters used in Japan, is introduced gradually throughout the course. Japanese culture plays an important role and is integrated with language learning. Students have opportunities to participate in cultural activities such as kimono dressing and obento making, calligraphy, etc. Cultural assignments are prepared on laptops enabling the students to write in Japanese on their computer and students are aware when seasons and festivals are taking place in Japan. The visit of Japanese exchange students in Term 3 provides further enrichment in the classroom.
(*A student choosing Japanese should have studied this language in Year 7)
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Latin
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Salina Bussien, sbussien@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
The principal aim in studying Latin is to acquire a first-hand acquaintance with some of the greatest literature ever written. There are other practical benefits to be gained as well.
As more than half the words in the English language are derived from Latin, students will gain a greater insight into the meaning, spelling and origin of English words, and will readily understand the specialist terminology of science, law and medicine. Latin also provides an excellent basis for the study of those modern languages descended from it, such as French, Italian and Spanish. In learning a Classical language, students will develop skills in analytical thinking, attention to detail, systematic memorisation and clarity of expression - skills which can be applied in many different Fields.
In Year 8, students will learn the basic grammar and structures of the language and at the same time will explore various aspects of Roman history, culture and mythology. Various activities are offered to enrich the study of Latin, such as the Year 8 Latin camp and inter-school competitions.
Literacy and Learning
(by invitation only)
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Lora Lim, llim@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
This course is designed to provide additional assistance in the development and consolidation of literacy and learning skills for students with identified learning needs. The underpinning goal of this program is to provide instruction and opportunities for each student to practice, and gain confidence and capability in reading and writing skills, as well as to develop an increased awareness of how to apply learning strategies effectively. This course requires a flexible approach to enable individual learners to reach personal targets. Literacy and Learning also provides opportunities for academic support across a range of learning areas.
Music
(Head of Learning Area: Mr Marcus Stafford, mstafford@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
The study of Music in Year 8 continues to explore the six musical concepts through development of the three core disciplines of performance, composition and listening. It is expected that Elective Music students participate in at least one College ensemble where possible. This can be instrumental or choral. All students are encouraged to join the College choir as this will help develop their aural awareness and ensemble skills.
Each unit of work is an engaging exploration into a variety of musical genres ranging from the medieval period through to contemporary popular music. Activities in the course include:
• Singing or playing their chosen instruments as a class ensemble: these group performances will comprise the bulk of performance activities; there will also be ample opportunity to experience playing other instruments and to use various technological resources as performance tools; plus students will also be given the chance to perform as a soloist
• Composing in various styles for different combinations of performing media using the latest software and equipment
• Developing listening skills that promote aural awareness, musical appreciation, and analytical techniques.
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Visual Arts
(Head of Learning Area: Ms Brigiat Maltese, bmaltese@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au)
Visual Arts encompasses in depth experiences in both artmaking and the study of artists and artworks. In this way, students develop critical and creative thinking skills. The emphasis is on artmaking experiences with a 70% assessment weighting. Critical and Historical studies form 30% of this course. Students also use a visual arts diary to record their artmaking processes, and the study of artists and their work.
Artmaking is focused on the development skills with direct instruction using a range of approaches. A diversity of art forms is explored; painting, digital media, printmaking, drawing, ceramics and/or sculpture. Students develop confidence in the use of specific art materials and develop both traditional and innovative ways of expressing their ideas. They also develop an understanding of the process of making artworks through exploring various themes including portraiture, still life, landscape and interiors.
Critical and Historical Studies develops the capacity to write about artists and artworks in an informed and articulate manner. Students learn to critically analyse artworks and examine works within a context of time and place. They also study artists and artworks to inform their own artmaking, using artists as ‘mentors’. Artists studied are from a range of cultures and include both contemporary and historical examples.
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