Curriculum Matters
Year 12
In conversation with Year 12 this week, I pointed out that even though it is just over 18 weeks until their first written HSC examination, students have only 12 weeks of class time dedicated to their HSC courses.
This came as a shock to some, as they have, as yet, not effectively utilised term planners or calendars.
REMEMBER; in addition to texts, and staff expertise, the College provides access to the following resources; Atomi, Elevate, Study Skills Handbook, and links via the HSC Curriculum Matters Google Classroom.
The College Library will also be open Monday to Wednesday 9am – 12pm for Year 12 students during both weeks of the Winter school break. A letter will be emailed home closer to the break outlining the necessary details for families.
These resources support Year 12 in their preparation for the HSC and in class assessments. However, students are ultimately responsible for their study regime and learning!
The Trial HSC examination timetable was released in Week 4 to enable students to plan their study regime well in advance. All students should be focussing on what they want to achieve and be putting into place strategies to succeed. This may mean speaking with employers regarding changes to work hours to enable more time to implement their study plan.
As Pope Francis recently said, “students must learn to identify and use their personal talents and the resources available to promote models of personal and social life marked by justice and mercy, in order to give everyone an acceptable and dignified existence.” (May 10, 2024)
Year 11
Students received their Preliminary end of course examination timetable on the 21 May enabling them to plan their study regime well in advance. All students are now half way through their Year 11 courses and are practising the skills required in Year 12. The focus, literacy and metacognitive skills required in these courses highlights the need for all Year 11 students to implement a comprehensive study regime at home and a proactive approach to learning.
Students are reminded that they are on the HSC pathway. This is the highest academic qualification that a secondary school student can acquire in NSW. Such a qualification not only requires commitment, hard work and an organised approach, but a supportive environment in which to grow. We at SJPC are committed to supporting students and are experienced in helping students take on this responsibility as learners. Use the resources we provide and ask for help when needed!
Year 10
As you know this is a term of contemplation and planning for Year 10 students. They have already begun thinking about their future whilst attending the Careers Expo in Week 3 with the Year 10 Homeroom team and Mr Corsalini.
In Week 8 they will be asked to complete a Personal Profile Reflection Booklet, with their homeroom team, which will require them to think about what they want to do with their life, what they want to study next year and where they see themselves in 2, 3 and 4 years’ time. This is an opportunity for them to assess where they are, and then to set new goals. As part of this process parents are also asked to share their thoughts regarding their child’s future.
In Week 10 this term students will be presented with their Curriculum Guide to Stage 6, with access to a website that has been designed to support families learn more about Stage 6 course options and the different pathways of study available. Information regarding this process will continue to be forwarded via emails and the College Newsletter. Stay tuned!
Years 7 – 9
Students in Years 7 – 9 have been receiving feedback and having conversations with their teachers about their learning and level of achievement. These conversations are vital in order to help them recognise their strengths, as well as identify areas that need further development.
This will enable new goals to be set and strategies for improvement to be implemented.
I encourage parents to also ask these questions of their children;
- What are you learning? Why?
- How are you doing?
- How do you know?
- How can you improve?
- Where can you go for help?
A Wonderful Opportunity at Yarrila Arts and Museum
ARTEXPRESS 2024 features a selection of outstanding artworks created by NSW Visual Arts students for the 2023 Higher School Certificate practical examination.
