Course Selection: Subjects

Art

Elective Subjects

3D Art (Sculpture)

Through exploration of a variety of sculptural mediums, techniques and processes, students will develop an understanding of 3-dimensional form and construction. Students will explore creative sculptural activities that encourage personal fulfilment through designing, making and evaluating 3-dimensional artworks. They will use and apply Visual Art language and artistic conventions in their design and production process. Students will experience, adapt and manipulate materials, techniques, art styles/processes when producing artwork which communicates artistic intention. They will develop an appreciation of their own artwork and that of other artists and cultures.

Art

This is a practical course which promotes creativity, innovation and the development of skills through art making. Students will use and apply Visual Art language and artistic conventions in their design and production process. They will experience, adapt and manipulate materials, techniques, art styles and processes when producing 2D and/or 3D artwork which communicates artistic intention. Students will have opportunities to evaluate the contexts of culture, time and place within artwork. They will participate in a range of art activities in a variety of art forms which may include painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, graphics, drawing, photo and digital media and installations.

Art - Yearlong

The Year 9 Art course is offered as a Yearlong elective to provide students with an opportunity to further their art education and broaden and develop their knowledge and skills in the Visual Arts.

This practical course promotes creativity, innovation and the development of skills through art making. Students will use and apply Visual Art language and artistic conventions in their design and production process. They will experience, adapt and manipulate materials, techniques, art styles and processes when producing 2D and/or 3D artwork which communicates artistic intention. Students will have opportunities to evaluate the contexts of culture, time and place within artwork. They will participate in a range of art activities in a variety of art forms which may include painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, graphics, drawing, photo and digital media and installations.

Fine Art (Drawing & Painting)

Through exploration of a variety of drawing and painting mediums, techniques and processes, students will develop an understanding of 2-dimensional art. Students will explore creative drawing and painting activities that encourage personal fulfilment through designing, making and evaluating 2-dimensional artworks. They will use and apply Visual Art language and artistic conventions in their design and production process. Students will experience, adapt and manipulate materials, techniques, art styles/processes when producing artwork which communicates artistic intention. They will develop an appreciation of their own artwork and that of other artists and cultures.

Aviation

Aviation at Trinity College gives students the opportunity to learn the physics behind flight and to apply that knowledge using state of the art flight simulator equipment and virtual reality.

The different pathway options open to students is shown below.

What is it like to study aviation?

Elective Subjects

Aviation 1

Aviation - Introductory

If you’re the sort of person that looks up in the sky whenever you hear the sound of an aircraft overhead, or if you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a pilot yourself, look no further.

Using state of the art flight simulator equipment and virtual reality, Trinity’s introductory aviation courses are designed to propel you on your dream.

In the Introductory Aviation course, you will learn:

• The basics of how an aircraft flies.
• How to take off and control an aircraft in flight.
• Most importantly, how to land an aircraft!
• Procedures on how to stay safe while being the pilot in command.

Aviation 2

Aviation – Advanced

Prerequisites:

• 70% average score for theoretical knowledge in Aviation - Introductory
• 70% score for practical simulator test in Aviation – Introductory

Students wishing to apply but do not meet the prerequisites are required to speak with the Aviation Co-ordinator for alternate entry processes.

So, you’ve learnt some basic flying skills in the introductory course. What now?

Among other things, our Aviation – Advanced course will give you an opportunity to fly REAL aircraft with a certified flying instructor down at Jandakot Airport.*

Back in the classroom, you will use the simulators to learn more advanced flying procedures such as:

• Cross-country navigation and flight planning
• Emergency procedures such as stall recovery, flapless and forced landings
• Additional flying techniques useful for those considering ATAR Aviation

* Flying lessons will be conducted on afternoons throughout the semester in conjunction with the flight school. Additional costs for aircraft hire will apply and some after school attendance is required.

For more details, contact the Aviation Coordinator, Kenny Chan: chan.kenny@trinity.wa.edu.au

Design and Technology

Elective Subjects

Design

Design is an exciting course that develops and prompts creative thinking. It aims at exposing students to the latest technology and design processes. It is a project based course which develops both the imaginative and creative aspects of graphic design and architectural development. Software such as the industry standard Adobe graphic suite, Sketch-Up Pro and Layout will be used to take students conceptual ideas and produce final design products and presentations.

Students will be able to express their ideas through a variety of design projects including packaging design, personal graphic design branding and a community based architectural project. From this, students will experience the Design Process, through analysing projects briefs, researching and producing development sketches and drawings. These hand drawing and rendering skills are still important in today’s digital world and so will also be developed throughout the duration of the course. Finally, students will learn the basic techniques for communicating ideas, values and information to specific audiences for specific purposes and with specific intentions.

Engineering Studies

Engineering Studies helps students to develop an understanding of technology as it is applied in industry and commerce. The course uses a problem-solving approach, covering a variety of practical projects and includes electronic mechanisms, manufacturing, and robotics with reallife situations being emphasised throughout.

The popularity of Engineering at a tertiary level means that gaining exposure to this content is vital to consolidate skills and gain an understanding about the core theory used at higher levels.

Materials Technology

This project-based course allows students to design, make and evaluate items using a range of different resistant materials including wood, metal and plastic. Students will be taken through the design process, allowing them the flexibility and creativity in personally designing projects. They will also be introduced to the many pieces of equipment available in our state of the art Design and Technology workshop including the latest laser cutting technology and 3D printing devices.

Materials Technology – Yearlong

The Materials ‘Year-Long’ course is designed for students wishing to gain more experience in the area of Design and Technology than the semester course offers. It allows students to study in this area for the entire year rather than a single semester. The aim is to expose students to a broader range of skills and techniques used in the modern technological world and deepen their understanding about designing products and problem solving. It is a practical subject aimed at developing a deeper understanding about the nature and properties of materials and how they influence design as they create products and safely operate machinery and equipment in a workshop situation.

Wood, metals and plastics are still the primary focus, however the projects will be more
challenging and give students an opportunity to demonstrate their natural aptitude in this
area

Product Design

During this semester long course students will learn a range of graphic techniques which will aid in the technology process of designing a CO2 race car. All work will be project-based and will include designing and modelling in both 2D and 3D mediums. This project is a highly competitive, functional model that competes on a 20 metre track and is capable of reaching
speeds close to 90KPH. Proven race cars are able to represent the school in a National competition.

To produce the model, students work practically with various materials and the final model is constructed using balsa wood. The latest software available is used to program our laser and 3D printing devices. As a result, students experience the Design Process through prototyping products, testing the solution and evaluating the outcomes, while experiencing the excitement of the CO2 car racing series.

English

Core Subjects

Within the English subject there are three English courses offered in Year 9. The National Curriculum has been fully implemented for these English courses.

English (Extension)

The extension course will target high performers and provide them with differentiated teaching and learning opportunities aimed at challenging and extending their content knowledge and analytical skills. Students will study a range of texts including short stories, novels, films, feature articles and multimodal texts. They will write fiction, essays and nonfiction texts and will also create visual and multimodal texts alongside oral presentations and tasks. All students will take part in a reading programme run in conjunction with the College Teacher-Librarian, and will also undertake a number of spelling and grammatical exercises designed to strengthen their functional literacy.

Students will be identified for this class based on their performance in Year 8 and teacher recommendation. Their performance will be regularly monitored to ensure ongoing suitability to this course.

English (Mainstream)

Throughout the year, students will study a range of texts including short stories, novels, films, feature articles and multimodal texts. They will write fiction, essays, non-fiction texts, create visual texts and other comprehension responses. They will also complete a number of oral presentations and tasks. Emphasis will also be given to the study of documentary film. All students will take part in a reading programme run in conjunction with the College Teacher-Librarian, and will also undertake a number of spelling and grammatical exercises designed to strengthen their functional literacy.

The subject is a diverse and challenging one that gives all boys an opportunity to develop their English skills and knowledge in a supportive and stimulating environment.

English Course 3

This course is specially designed for boys identified as needing extra assistance in English.

This supportive and stimulating classroom environment fashions a differentiated programme that still incorporates units from the Mainstream programme. In any one lesson, students will complete activities that focus on their individual point of need, their independence and motivation and skill level throughout the year. A student in this class will gain extra one on one attention to ensure that their development is assured.

Each student’s progress is monitored throughout their enrolment in this course and their potential in rejoining mainstream English will be reviewed at the end of each term. Overall, it will seek to provide all of its students with the skills necessary to eventually move into a senior school course appropriate to the abilities of the student. 

Elective Subjects

Creative Writing

This course is for anyone who loves a good story and has an affinity with the written word in all its forms. Over the course of the semester, students will engage in a variety of modes of creative writing, including prose fiction, drama, poetry, and screenwriting. Students will explore the generic features of such texts and develop their own skills in writing in a variety of forms before working on an extended writing project. They will explore texts that challenge readers’ expectations of genre and that use language in surprising ways. Students will experiment with language to develop their own unique writing style, a skill that will stand them in good stead for their further studies.

Debating & Public Speaking

Students in this course will develop their skills in both debating and public speaking. Learning the tricks to effective Manner, Matter and Method, students will be given the opportunity to develop their skills in a real world context through participating in debating competitions as well as other public speaking opportunities. This course is not just for students with a passion for debating; it will prove useful for anyone who wants to learn how to work effectively in a team, develop critical thinking skills, learn the power of persuasion, improve their confidence or will one day need to give a ‘best man’ speech!

Health and Physical Education

Core Subjects

In Year 9, the content provides for students to broaden their knowledge of the factors that shape their personal identity and the health and wellbeing of others. They further develop their ability to make informed decisions, taking into consideration the influence of external factors on their behaviour and their capacity to achieve a healthy lifestyle. They continue to develop knowledge, skills and understandings in relation to respectful relationships. With a focus on relationship skills that promote positive interactions, and manage conflict.

Students focus on elements of speed and accuracy in different movement environments, while continuing to develop the efficiency of specialised movement skills. They explore ways to evaluate their own and others' performances through analysis of skills and movement patterns using basic biomechanical concepts. They transfer previous knowledge of outcomes in movement situations to inform and refine skills, strategies and tactics to maximise success.

Opportunities are provided for students to refine and consolidate skills and strategies for effective leadership and teamwork, and consistently apply ethical behaviour across a range of movement contexts.

The Health and Physical Education curriculum provides opportunities for students to develop, enhance and exhibit attitudes and values that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Elective Subjects

Aquatics

The Year 9 Aquatics course will help students develop a variety of skills that they will be able to use in a recreational environment. The use of the aquatic facility will enable a very wide range of activities to be pursued that will help make the course both educationally rewarding and enjoyable.

The students learn the skills required for their Bronze Medallion qualification through Royal Life Saving Western Australia. These are valuable life skills, and the qualification may also assist the students in gaining meaningful part time or casual employment.

Fitness and Health

The aim of the elective is to extend students interested in improving their sport performance and physical fitness. Students will be introduced to a variety of training methods, fitness activities, and skills for physical activity beyond those covered in the normal Physical Education programme. These include: resistance (weight) training; cross training; and, speed and agility conditioning. Although there will be a theory component, the course will be predominantly practical and complement the other activities offered within the Physical and Health Education programme at the College.

High Performance Pathways

This elective is designed for students who are motivated to reach their sporting potential, with the ambition of playing First Team Sport at Trinity College and at a high level upon graduation. The course will provide holistic support for the athletic development of students based on the Four-Coactive Model of Player Preparation (physical, mental, technical and tactical). This unit will comprise theory lessons, video analysis, self-reflection and practical sessions to enhance the student’s sporting performance. 

In addition to class participation, students are required to complete two additional weights room sessions per week in the Trinity Gym, unless they are already part of a national or state sporting pathway program.

Outdoor Education

The Year 9 Outdoor Education programme is designed to develop the students’ preparedness for wilderness activities. The course focuses on navigation, cycling, camp cooking and canoeing. In view of the practical nature of the course it is essential all participants are prepared to be actively involved in all activities in varying and sometimes challenging conditions. Due to the emphasis on water-based activities, students are required to swim 200m in open water as a pre-requisite. The course will culminate in a 3 day/overnight camp at Camp Kelly, using the skills learnt in class for students who receive a satisfactory level of achievement. The course provides a firm grounding for the College’s ongoing Outdoor Education programme.

This course has an additional resource fee.

Humanities

Core Subjects

Humanities is a broad-range subject that studies human behaviour and interaction in social, cultural, environmental, economic and political contexts. Humanities and Social Sciences has a historical and contemporary focus, from personal to global contexts, and considers opportunities and challenges for the future. By studying Humanities and Social Sciences, students will develop the ability to question; think critically; make decisions based on evidence; devise proposals for actions; and communicate effectively. Humanities subjects provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to develop a broad understanding of the world in which we live and how people can participate as active and informed citizens in the 21st century.

Throughout Year 9, students develop increasing independence in critical thinking and skill application, which includes questioning, researching, analysing, evaluating, communicating and reflecting. They apply these skills to investigate events, developments, issues and phenomena, both historical and contemporary.

The Humanities course in Year 9 follows the Western Australian Curriculum and is divided into two key areas – knowledge and understanding and skills. Students will focus on the four main subject areas of History, Economics, Geography and Civics and Citizenship. The focus for Year 9 is as follows:

• History – The Making of the Modern World
• Geography – Biomes and Food Security & Geographies of Interconnection
• Economics – Australia and the Global Economy
• Civics and Citizenship – Our Democratic Rights

There are three courses offered in Year 9:

• Humanities (Extension)
• Humanities (Mainstream)
• Humanities (Course 3)

Humanities (Extension)

The extension course will target high performers and provide them with differentiated teaching and learning opportunities aimed at challenging and extending their content knowledge and skills beyond the Western Australian Curriculum. Students will be identified for this class based on their performance in Year 8 and teacher recommendation. Their performance will be regularly monitored to ensure ongoing suitability to this course.

Humanities (Mainstream)

This course follows the Western Australian Curriculum and students will focus on developing their knowledge and understanding of key content areas. Students will engage in a variety of teaching and learning activities designed to support the delivery of the curriculum and their progress in this course will be regularly monitored to ensure suitability.

Humanities (Course 3)

This course has been specifically designed to support students who require a differentiated curriculum. While the content covered reflects the Western Australian Curriculum, it is delivered in a supportive and stimulating environment which supports individual learning needs. Each student’s progress is monitored throughout their enrolment in this course and their potential in rejoining mainstream Humanities will be revised on a regular basis.

Information Technology

Elective Subjects

Applied Information Technology

Students develop their computing skills using a variety of software. They acquire skills in the areas of programming, web publishing, multimedia and animation. Students continue to develop their Photoshop skills by creating a range of images and graphics. They are introduced to programming and the “internet of things”. Students complete practical projects using many forms of technology and media. The terminology they acquire is at a level which will permit them to have an informed view of the present state of computer technology and the likely developments in the future.

Computer Science - Yearlong (INVITATION ONLY)

Explore the exciting world of cyber security through this introductory course. Students will be introduced to the growth industry of network security and learn the highly sought-after tools and knowledge required to conduct network security audits. Students will learn about network technologies, data encryption, Python coding, Linux operating system and command line tools.

This course is suited for those with a keen interest in information technology and is a necessary prerequisite for students who may wish to be considered for the accelerated ATAR Computer Science course allowing students to complete a Year 11 and 12 ATAR course over Years 10 and 11.

For more information, please contact the Head of Learning.​​​​​​

Digital Photography

This subject is a highly practical course that introduces advanced digital photography and Photoshop to students. Students will be required to plan and design creative works by using skills in capturing, editing and publishing digital photographs to a photo gallery in an electronic portfolio themed by the student. Students will utilise iPad’s along with Digital SLR cameras to capture and create their works. Photoshop will be used to apply advanced filters and techniques to enhance the visual impact of their images for a target audience.

Game Design

In this computer-based Game Design course students will be exploring a $70bn a year industry. Through investigation students will learn what makes a challenging game and how simple ideas can be transformed into an innovative and thought-provoking game.

Students will develop skills in 2D static and animated graphics, team work, problem solving and the design process to create challenging and entertaining games.

The course will focus on project based activities which will cover storyboarding and planning a game through to creating graphics and finally incorporating movement, collisions, scoring, life and health, levels and strategies to their original games.

Visual Arts - Media Arts

In studying media concepts such as the crime genre, Reality TV and real-world industry skills, Year 9 Media students learn about how the media influences our day to day lives in a number of ways, therefore effecting what we watch and listen to. In learning how media works are constructed, students will see the differing nature of films and audio texts, as well as how these works are promoted in popular culture. In order to demonstrate what they have learnt, students will also create their own examples of these works, all while learning about industry-based media skills. This will include safely & responsibly using media equipment, working as part of a production team, and editing their work using industry-standard Abode software. They will also engage in peer review and be able to share their ideas and final productions with their classmates.

Italian

Elective Subjects

Italian - Yearlong

In Year 9 Italian students will learn to use the language to exchange information on topics of interests such as relationships, friendships, celebrations, traditions, food and shopping. They will be able to do this by: engaging in short dialogues, corresponding through simple letters, short cards, notes for different occasions, invitations and social media posts giving information on likes and dislikes (foods/places to go), making arrangements, choices and decisions with others on what to eat and places to eat, giving and responding to simple invitations via telephone or in writing and ordering and paying for goods purchased. Students will also be able to understand information from a variety of short, simply spoken and written texts. The cultural aspect will focus on the Regions of Italy, Italian fashion and eating out in Italy.

Learning Support

Elective Subjects

Gifted Innovators For Tomorrow - GIFT (INVITATION ONLY)

Gifted Innovators For Tomorrow (GIFT) provides an exciting opportunity for selected students in Year 9 to further enhance their critical, creative and independent thinking skills and develop personal goals to pursue their own learning aspirations. The students will continue to engage in philosophical discussions based on topical ethical and moral issues, however, they will begin looking closely at arguments to look for flaws and fallacies. This skill will help them to make informed decisions when reviewing research for assessment tasks, and to critically analyse political speeches, advertisements and information in general. The students have the opportunity to create humorous presentations demonstrating the use of fallacies and engage in an Amazing Race activity where they roam around the school, looking for and following clues, to find and identify various fallacies. The students will engage in competitive problem solving activities and have the opportunity to be selected for the Philosothon Team, Da Vinci Decathon and Ethics Olympiad.

For more information, please contact the Head of Learning.​​​​​​

Literacy Enrichment and Assessment Programme (LEAP)

The program aims to ensure that students develop literacy skills essential for success across the curriculum in Year 9. A focus will be on the management of workloads, as well as developing organisational skills to ensure effective study habits are established. A foundation of the program will be to remain with small class numbers so that individualised support can be tailored to every student.

LEAP will replace one elective and run twice a week for the remainder of the year.

No homework or assessment tasks will be given as one of the aims of the program is to assist students in dealing with their current workload.

Library

Elective Subjects

Indoor Education

Welcome to Indoor Education, where the adventure of outdoor education meets the cozy, imaginative realm of literature. This course invites students to embark on a journey through the pages of beloved books, exploring diverse narratives, and cultivating a deep appreciation for the written word. Based in the Library, students in this course are invited to read their choice of fiction to share insights, discuss stories, and consider personal interpretations of a wide range of literary genres. Indoor Education is for the readers and relaxers who love to immerse themselves in bookish experiences.

Mathematics

Core Subjects

The Year 9 Mathematics course is designed to extend student development and understanding in mathematical concepts. We will cover topics specified in the Western Australian Curriculum, namely: Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, Statistics and Probability.

All Mathematics classes are streamed in Year 9 so that each boy has an opportunity to work at a standard to suit his individual ability and performance. The progress of all boys will be continually monitored and re-streaming will occur where performance warrants it. In Year 9 Mathematics there are four courses, Course 1a, Course 1b, Course 2 and Course 3. Course 1a is designed for the most capable students including those who require extension work while Course 1b focuses on the same curriculum without the extension material. Course 2 is designed to focus content similar to Course 1a and Course 1b at a lower level and Course 3 is provided to cater for students who need more intensive assistance in a supportive and stimulating classroom.

Elective Subjects

Mathematics Mindstorm

This subject is designed for students who enjoy Mathematics and want to experience mathematical concepts outside of the normal syllabus. It is not just extra lessons to improve your level in your regular Mathematics programme.

Students who have above average Mathematics ability are strongly encouraged to participate in this most rewarding elective. This Mathematics elective is separate from the Year 9 mainstream Mathematics course and has very little common content. The course provides interesting and enjoyable activities and applications. Activities draw upon a wide range of familiar and unfamiliar contexts to develop Mathematical ideas.

Students will have opportunities to enter National and State-wide competitions, use computers, use Mathematical games and learn problem solving strategies. This is an enriching and extension elective not a supportive elective.

Music and Performing Arts

Elective Subjects

Dance

Dance students are given further opportunities to choreograph using the elements of dance (BEST), choreographic devices and structures to develop choreographic intent. Building their technical competence, students are given an opportunity to perform in front of an audience in order to show clarity of movement, projection, focus, expression and musicality. They will look closely at a choreographers use of the elements of dance (devices & structures, design concepts) and investigate the evolution of popular dance styles. Dance genres or styles that may be taught, but are not limited to, include contemporary, ballet, jazz, hip hop, street dance, tap and cultural dance (e.g. Spanish, Indian, Bollywood)

Drama

In Year 9, students will be given the opportunity in this elective to present drama as an event by safely using processes, techniques and conventions of drama; further developing their voice and movement skills. The course has been designed to develop confidence and communication skills through the inclusion of tasks that are creative and improvisational, using selected drama forms and styles including melodrama and multi-formed theatre. In addition to this, students will be studying Australian Drama and producing reflective responses using drama terminology and language. In Year 9 students will have the opportunity to present their work in public performances such as our annual Dance and Drama Showcase and Catholic Performing Arts Festival.

Music - Yearlong (MU1/MU2)

The Year 9 Music elective builds on the foundation skills established in Year 8. Students who are learning an instrument either within or outside the College are strongly encouraged to take this elective. The Year 9 course puts emphasis on composing for instruments, developing the 'musical ear', keyboard skills, performing in small groups and the study of styles of music from different musical eras. To facilitate learning, students have access to the MIDI keyboard and computer facilities featuring Sibelius and other music related software. Theoretical musical concepts are learnt through practical application. Students who participate in one or more of the College's performing ensembles would benefit significantly from doing classroom Music.

This elective is also important grounding in music reading and writing for those who may wish to choose a Music Course of Study in Year 11 and 12.

Prerequisites for this course includes the successful completion of either the Year 8 Yearlong course, or the Year 8 Semester course (with an overall B grade or higher).

Music Advanced - Yearlong (INVITATION ONLY)

Students who completed the Year 8 Yearlong Advanced Course will continue in the Year 9 Yearlong Advanced Course. Suitably capable and recommended students may also apply to join this course (please see Dr Braham).

All music scholarship students are required to select Music (MU1/MU2) or Music Advanced (MUA1/MUA2) Course. This elective is also important grounding in music reading and writing for those who may wish to choose a Music Course of Study in Year 11 and 12.

Year 9 Music Photos

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Science

Core Subjects

Students in Year 9 continue to develop their ability to think scientifically through conceptual areas of Physics; highlighting energy in wave and particle models, Chemistry; with emphasis on the properties and interactions between materials; Biology, studying homeostasis and ecosystems, and finally Earth and Space Science; with a focus on geology through the structure
of the Earth and plate tectonics.

In addition, students undertake investigations that reinforce the scientific methods and skills that have already been introduced. By the end of Year 9 students should be competent in the required inquiry skills of Questioning and Predicting, Planning and Conducting, Processing and Analysing Data and Information, Evaluating and Communicating of their finding.

In Year 9 Science there are three courses, two of which follow the same program and complete common content and assessments. The extension course which consists of more capable and like-minded students will cover the same fundamental content as the general course, but they will have the opportunity to investigate more challenging and conceptually difficult concepts. In Course 3, students are exposed to the same content as the other courses, however, the
pace of delivery is slower, and more time is allowed for learning of key concepts. Furthermore, the curriculum is adjusted to allow more practice for literacy skills.

Elective Subjects

Astronomy and Space Science

Astronomy and Space Science in Year 9 is designed to spark curiosity and develop an understanding of the universe. Students enrolled in this course will explore the history and future of astronomy, learning about key milestones and advancements in technology that will shape the future of society.  Students will use the College’s robotic telescope to capture and process images of deep sky objects and benefit from the extensive resources provided by the Perth Observatory and their staff. This elective offers a unique opportunity to deepen students' interest in astronomy and space science. In addition to exploring the cosmos, students will delve into space sciences such as the physics of building rockets and then utilising those skills for a launch.