Level 8

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in the Arts, they use a range of starting points including observation, experience and research to represent, generate, develop and communicate real, imaginary and abstract ideas. For example:

• in Drama, students work as an ensemble to explore cultural diversity by sharing experiences and observations through improvisation and role-play about a familiar situation, maintaining a diary of personal reflections throughout their performance making
• in Art, following several lessons exploring line, tonal rendering, perspective and foreshortening as ways to represent and define form, students work from direct observation of people/places/objects and create the illusion of space and form on a two-dimensional surface.

Students explore...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in the Arts, they use a range of starting points including observation, experience and research to represent, generate, develop and communicate real, imaginary and abstract ideas. For example:

• in Drama, students work as an ensemble to explore cultural diversity by sharing experiences and observations through improvisation and role-play about a familiar situation, maintaining a diary of personal reflections throughout their performance making
• in Art, following several lessons exploring line, tonal rendering, perspective and foreshortening as ways to represent and define form, students work from direct observation of people/places/objects and create the illusion of space and form on a two-dimensional surface.

Students explore different contemporary and traditional arts forms and styles to develop understanding of the concept of style. Students apply their arts knowledge and, with guidance, an understanding of style when experimenting with, selecting and using a range of contemporary and traditional media, materials, equipment and technologies to explore and expand their understanding and use of a range of skills, techniques and processes in the arts disciplines of Art (two-dimensional and three-dimensional), Dance, Drama, Media, Music, and Visual Communication. For example:

• in Dance, students learn and present dance sequences from different cultures and styles.

Students work both independently and collaboratively to develop creative and effective ways of combining and manipulating arts elements, principles and/or conventions when designing, making and presenting arts works for particular purposes and audiences. For example:

• in Media, students video or photograph two alternate interpretations of a short visual narrative, to present the story from the point of view of two characters, using variations in lighting, camera angle and shot types
• in Visual Communication, students explore the potential of symbols and cartoons and elements of shape, line and colour to fulfil a design brief.

Students use processes of rehearsal, reflection and evaluation to develop skills in refining and shaping their works to effectively communicate their intended aims, and experiment with imaginative ways of creating solutions to set tasks. They maintain a record of their exploration and development of ideas and problem solving processes; for example, in a visual diary, on video or in an electronic journal.

Students explore and respond to arts works from a range of styles, forms, times, traditions and cultures. They use research to inform their concept of style and apply their observation skills when describing, comparing and analysing arts works. Students use appropriate arts language when discussing their own and other artists’ intentions and expressive use of arts forms, elements, principles and/or conventions and when describing, analysing and interpreting the content and meaning of arts works. They develop skills in analysing, interpreting and evaluating specific expressive, technical and aesthetic qualities of their own and others’ works. For example:

• in Music, they listen to and discuss excerpts from music that explores the aural aesthetics of musical representations of air and earth.

Students develop their ability to listen to, reflect on and acknowledge others’ perspectives when discussing their own and others’ responses to arts works.

Creating and making

At Level 8, students, independently and collaboratively, plan, design, improvise, interpret, evaluate, refine, make and present arts works that represent and communicate ideas and purpose. They experiment with, select and use appropriate skills, techniques, processes, media, materials, equipment and technologies across a range of arts forms and styles. They generate and develop ideas that explore particular concepts, techniques and issues when making arts works. They combine and manipulate arts elements, principles and/or conventions to represent and communicate ideas and develop imaginative solutions to set tasks. They maintain a record of the creating and making of their arts works and explain their decisions about how they present arts works for specific purposes...

Creating and making

At Level 8, students, independently and collaboratively, plan, design, improvise, interpret, evaluate, refine, make and present arts works that represent and communicate ideas and purpose. They experiment with, select and use appropriate skills, techniques, processes, media, materials, equipment and technologies across a range of arts forms and styles. They generate and develop ideas that explore particular concepts, techniques and issues when making arts works. They combine and manipulate arts elements, principles and/or conventions to represent and communicate ideas and develop imaginative solutions to set tasks. They maintain a record of the creating and making of their arts works and explain their decisions about how they present arts works for specific purposes and audiences.

Exploring and responding

At Level 8, students research, observe and reflect on their explorations to develop, discuss, express and support opinions about their own and others’ use of arts elements, principles and/or conventions, skills, techniques, processes, media, materials, equipment and technologies. They compare, analyse, evaluate, and interpret the content, meaning and qualities in arts works created in different social, cultural and historical contexts, offering informed responses and opinions and using appropriate arts language. They describe aspects and requirements of different forms, audiences and traditions, and identify ways that contemporary arts works, including their own, are influenced by cultural and historical contexts. They use appropriate arts language.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Civics and Citizenship, they study the origins of democracy and various other types of government in an historical context. They learn about how past societies such as Ancient Greece and Rome have influenced modern democracies. They learn how Australian democracy developed from an autocracy to a modern democracy and the British foundations of Australian democracy.

Students learn about significant milestones in the development of Australian law, governance and rights. They explore the historical origins of some political rights, such as universal suffrage, secret ballot and payment of parliamentarians. They consider examples of the fight for political rights such as the Eureka movement, the eight-hour day and fair working...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Civics and Citizenship, they study the origins of democracy and various other types of government in an historical context. They learn about how past societies such as Ancient Greece and Rome have influenced modern democracies. They learn how Australian democracy developed from an autocracy to a modern democracy and the British foundations of Australian democracy.

Students learn about significant milestones in the development of Australian law, governance and rights. They explore the historical origins of some political rights, such as universal suffrage, secret ballot and payment of parliamentarians. They consider examples of the fight for political rights such as the Eureka movement, the eight-hour day and fair working conditions, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights and the vote for women. They look at the origins of Australian citizenship and how it can be acquired.

Students learn about key features of Australian democracy. They learn about the two houses of the Australian parliament and the ways that citizens are represented in the Senate and the House of Representatives. They compare the roles of federal and state parliaments. They learn about the general processes of elections in Australia. They consider the separate responsibilities of the three levels of government and the impact of each level on the daily lives of citizens. They develop understanding of aspects of political parties and their leaders, the role of the Australian Constitution, and the courts. They discuss examples in the media of people, laws, and issues concerning these features of democracy.

Students consider the English origins of Australia’s legal system and the origins of common and statute law. They learn about the purposes of laws and consider examples of the process of making and changing them. They evaluate the merits and successes of the principles in Australia’s legal system such as justice, the presumption of innocence and equality before the law. They identify the requisite conditions for a fair trial.

Through historical and contemporary examples, including those from Australia, students are introduced to the values and qualities of leadership. Students are provided with opportunities to take on a variety of leadership roles. They develop skills required for active and informed citizenship and use these in class and community contexts. For example, they use cooperative decision making to design and evaluate a group project, seek a variety of opinions and use a voting method to determine the majority view about an issue.

Students examine the ways in which Australians are connected to other people in the Asia–Pacific region and around the world. They explore the responsibilities of global citizenship for individuals, organisations and governments and the roles and responsibilities of companies, producers and consumers in relation to sustainability. They explore ways in which countries work together to protect the environment.

Students interact with a variety of groups and organisations in civic and community events. With assistance, they seek opportunities to actively engage in school, local and community events. They research issues and events of importance to the community, recognise a range of perspectives, and propose possible solutions and actions. These issues may be related to matters such as environmental sustainability, social justice and human rights and may have local, national and global significance.

Civic knowledge and understanding

At Level 8, students explain the origins and features of representative government. They identify significant developments in the governance and achievement of political rights in Australia. They explain key features of Australian Government including the responsibilities of the levels of government, the houses of parliament, political parties and the ways that citizens are represented, using some contemporary examples in their explanations. They describe the purposes of laws and the processes of creating and changing them. They identify and question the features and values of Australia’s political and legal systems. They identify and discuss the qualities of leadership through historical and contemporary examples.

Community engagement

At Level...

Civic knowledge and understanding

At Level 8, students explain the origins and features of representative government. They identify significant developments in the governance and achievement of political rights in Australia. They explain key features of Australian Government including the responsibilities of the levels of government, the houses of parliament, political parties and the ways that citizens are represented, using some contemporary examples in their explanations. They describe the purposes of laws and the processes of creating and changing them. They identify and question the features and values of Australia’s political and legal systems. They identify and discuss the qualities of leadership through historical and contemporary examples.

Community engagement

At Level 8, students present points of view on contemporary issues and events using appropriate supporting evidence. They explain the different perspectives on some contemporary issues and propose possible solutions to problems. They use democratic processes when working in groups on class and community projects. They participate in school and community events and participate in activities to contribute to environmental sustainability or action on other community issues.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Communication, they develop a range of strategies for listening attentively and extracting meaning from communications, including taking notes and small group discussion to record and summarise main messages. They reflect on how the explicit body language of a speaker influences their enjoyment and understanding of a presentation, and practise modifying their own body language to show interest and respect when listening to a speaker.

Students respond to a wide variety of aural, written and visual media; for example film, radio, the Internet, billboards, multimedia, and text messages. They explore both implicit and explicit meaning, how the author has structured and presented ideas, and whether they have used specialised...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Communication, they develop a range of strategies for listening attentively and extracting meaning from communications, including taking notes and small group discussion to record and summarise main messages. They reflect on how the explicit body language of a speaker influences their enjoyment and understanding of a presentation, and practise modifying their own body language to show interest and respect when listening to a speaker.

Students respond to a wide variety of aural, written and visual media; for example film, radio, the Internet, billboards, multimedia, and text messages. They explore both implicit and explicit meaning, how the author has structured and presented ideas, and whether they have used specialised language or symbols to communicate their message. Students share the meaning they have constructed with others and discuss any differences. They continue to challenge assumptions, use questions to clarify understanding, and justify their own interpretations while acknowledging that others may have different interpretations. They reflect on and evaluate the effectiveness of a variety of media in communicating a similar message, considering accuracy, inclusiveness and the techniques used to shape audience response.

Students expand their knowledge of specialised language used across the curriculum to communicate specific meanings and gain practice in using specific forms of communication; for example, practical reports in Science or fieldwork reports in Geography.

Students regularly present information, ideas and opinions for a variety of purposes, to a range of audiences, in both formal and informal settings. They focus on identifying the key messages they wish to communicate and structuring their ideas logically and coherently. They experiment with a range of presentation forms and seek feedback from their audience as to the effectiveness of their communication. Students work together to develop criteria which can be used to evaluate presentations.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Design, Creativity and Technology, they individually and in teams, develop innovative solutions in design and technology contexts (for example, creating a low-fat biscuit and designing a three-dimensional, environmentally-friendly package for eight of the biscuits) and evaluate their decisions with reference to design brief specifications. They develop greater spatial awareness, are encouraged to think flexibly, and represent their ideas using two- and three-dimensional hand- and computer-assisted drawing and modelling techniques including the use of appropriate technical language. They further explore the properties and characteristics of materials/ingredients, and carry out tests to determine their suitability for intended

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Design, Creativity and Technology, they individually and in teams, develop innovative solutions in design and technology contexts (for example, creating a low-fat biscuit and designing a three-dimensional, environmentally-friendly package for eight of the biscuits) and evaluate their decisions with reference to design brief specifications. They develop greater spatial awareness, are encouraged to think flexibly, and represent their ideas using two- and three-dimensional hand- and computer-assisted drawing and modelling techniques including the use of appropriate technical language. They further explore the properties and characteristics of materials/ingredients, and carry out tests to determine their suitability for intended products and/or systems.

In developing their understanding of systems, students learn about open- and closed-loop systems, and their control and the components used to make basic automated system; and energy sources (renewable and non-renewable) and forms that power systems. They explore how technological systems can convert energy and magnify force.

Students learn how design elements and principles can enhance their design work. Students refer to design briefs to consider and investigate aspects of function and aesthetics. They also consider how social, cultural, economic and environmental factors influence the development of their design ideas. They trial and make products and systems based on their design concepts, justifying changes in their thinking as they design, develop and evaluate products and systems, and recognise the right of others to perceive things differently.

Students further develop an understanding of the creative problem solving process. Individually and collaboratively, they apply imaginative and innovative strategies to develop creative design options, including those that are not immediately obvious, and plans for production.

Students continue to develop a variety of drawing and modelling techniques and computer assisted methods to visualise design ideas and concepts, and generate alternative options. After selecting and justifying the best design option, they develop a logically sequenced outline of the major stages of production and a list of materials/ingredients and/or systems components and quantities required. Students use numeracy skills to calculate quantities, sizes and/or expected outputs. They produce the product/system, using tools, equipment, machines and materials/ingredients safely and wear personal protective clothing and equipment if appropriate. Students develop a basic understanding of the risk assessment process. With direction, they choose and use increasingly complex production techniques and equipment; for example, a soldering iron, wire cutters, a food processor and electric beater, a hand plane, pedestal drill, overlocker, and report faults with tools and equipment. They reflect on and record the progress of their production activities, and make changes if required.

Concentrating on the aesthetic, functional features and/or performance of the product/system, students consider how it, and the processes used to develop it, could be improved, and compare it to other similar products/systems. They discuss and develop evaluation criteria to analyse and evaluate their completed product/system and consider the social and environmental impacts of their own and others’ products. They analyse and evaluate an innovative, recently developed and commercially available product or system and consider its benefits and drawbacks to user/consumer and manufacturer/producer.

Investigating and designing

At Level 8, students use various strategies and sources of information to investigate and research a range of factors relevant to more sophisticated design briefs to which they have contributed. During the design process they clarify their understanding of design brief requirements and their design ideas by gathering, responding to and providing feedback to others. They develop evaluation criteria from the design brief to inform their judgments during the design process. They use a variety of drawing and modelling techniques to visualise design ideas and concepts. Students demonstrate understanding of design elements and principles and use appropriate technical language.

Students understand and logically sequence major stages of production, and calculate and...

Investigating and designing

At Level 8, students use various strategies and sources of information to investigate and research a range of factors relevant to more sophisticated design briefs to which they have contributed. During the design process they clarify their understanding of design brief requirements and their design ideas by gathering, responding to and providing feedback to others. They develop evaluation criteria from the design brief to inform their judgments during the design process. They use a variety of drawing and modelling techniques to visualise design ideas and concepts. Students demonstrate understanding of design elements and principles and use appropriate technical language.

Students understand and logically sequence major stages of production, and calculate and list materials/ingredients and quantities needed for production. They record and communicate their ideas using a variety of media that includes information and communications technology equipment, techniques and procedures.

Producing

At Level 8, students work safely/hygienically with a range of tools and equipment, including some which are complex, and manage materials/ingredients, components and processes to produce products and systems, taking full account of the appropriateness of their properties, characteristics or expected outputs in meeting requirements of design briefs.

They make modifications during production, providing a sound explanation for changes that demonstrates reflection, research, responsiveness to feedback, and use of evaluation criteria.

Analysing and evaluating

At Level 8, students select appropriate equipment and techniques to safely test and evaluate the performance of their products/systems. They suggest modifications to improve their products/systems in light of evaluation of their performance, function and appearance. They recommend improvements to the performance, function and appearance of others’ product/systems. They describe and analyse the social and environmental impacts of their own and others’ designs, products and technological systems.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Health and Physical Education, they develop and refine a range of movement and manipulative skills; for example, gymnastics routines and high-level ball skills such as shooting a basket in basketball or spiking a volleyball. They participate in a variety of team and individual games and activities, using and building on skills and strategies from other sports as well as continuing to develop new, sport-specific, skills.

Students develop their swimming stroke techniques and proficiency in a range of water safety skills as they participate within an aquatic environment. This could include: swimming for a continuous distance of 150 metres, changing between freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke or survival backstroke; and while...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Health and Physical Education, they develop and refine a range of movement and manipulative skills; for example, gymnastics routines and high-level ball skills such as shooting a basket in basketball or spiking a volleyball. They participate in a variety of team and individual games and activities, using and building on skills and strategies from other sports as well as continuing to develop new, sport-specific, skills.

Students develop their swimming stroke techniques and proficiency in a range of water safety skills as they participate within an aquatic environment. This could include: swimming for a continuous distance of 150 metres, changing between freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke or survival backstroke; and while clothed, performing correct survival techniques, including sculling, treading water, floating and survival strokes for an extended period of time in a pool or open water. During participation in a range of outdoor recreation and adventure activities, students develop skills, knowledge and behaviours which enhance safe participation in these activities. For example, as part of a bushwalking activity, students could develop an understanding of appropriate clothing and footwear required and the need for sun protection and access to drinking water.

Students explore views about fitness and suggest what fitness might mean to various groups in society. They develop their understanding of the physical, mental, social and emotional benefits of participation in physical activity, and examine factors which influence such participation. They consider the relationship between physical activity, fitness and health, and explore ways to measure their own fitness and physical activity levels. They explore the relationship between their physical activity and nutrition in order to understand how they can maintain physical health. They investigate and address positive and negative motivational factors that influence the value they place on participating in physical activity. They are introduced to the components of performance-related fitness, and learn how to analyse and evaluate sports and activities from this perspective.

Students engage in activities which develop strategic thinking and tactical knowledge to improve individual and team performance in competitive sports or games. They collaborate with team members planning strategies and practising set plays for responding to games-based tactical challenges. Students observe peer performance, developing and using criteria to provide precise feedback about the performance of motor skills and tactics used in a specific sport or game. They also monitor and analyse their own performance.

Students undertake a variety of roles in team games (for example, player, coach, umpire or administrator) and reflect on their experiences. They respect the right of others to participate. They reflect on their own personal and social behaviours in physical activity settings, and how they contribute to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for learning and fair play.

Students continue their study of the changes associated with adolescence by identifying what changes have already occurred and what changes (physical, social and emotional) they can expect to experience. They describe the influence of the family on shaping personal identity and values. They explain how community attitudes and laws influence the sense of right and wrong.

In developing strategies to minimise harm and to protect their own and others’ health, students consider health resources, products and services, and the influences of the law, public health programs, their conscience, community attitudes, and religious beliefs. They begin to clarify a cohesive set of personal values and how they could be used to improve their health.

Students describe the health interests and needs of young people as a group, including those related to sexual health (for example, safe sex, contraception, abstinence and prevention and cure of sexually transmitted infections) and drug issues (for example, tobacco, alcohol, cannabis use). They explore actions at personal, family and societal levels that help to meet these needs, and identify the influences of individuals and groups. They explore ways of dealing with change, especially the social and emotional aspects of transition from primary to secondary school. They learn how to access reliable information about health issues affecting them and to identify barriers and enablers to accessing health services.

Students reflect on the range of influences on personal food intake: peers, advertising, mass media, mood, convenience, habit, cultural beliefs and values, and access to food products and services. They explore topical issues related to eating, and identify personal and community factors that influence their own food selection. Students consider the nutritional requirements for growth and activity at different stages of life, and learn to set nutritional goals using food-selection models. They learn how to analyse nutritional information provided in advertising and product labels, and to make decisions about how this information can be used by, or influence, individuals in their food choices.

Movement and physical activity

At Level 8, students proficiently perform complex movement and manipulative skills. Students measure their own fitness and physical activity levels and identify factors that influence motivation to be physically active. They maintain regular participation in moderate to vigorous physical activity and analyse and evaluate their level of involvement in physical activity. They combine motor skills, strategic thinking and tactical knowledge to improve individual and team performance.

Health knowledge and promotion

At Level 8, students describe the physical, emotional and social changes that occur as a result of the adolescent stage of the lifespan and the factors that influence their own development. They describe the effect of family and community expectations...

Movement and physical activity

At Level 8, students proficiently perform complex movement and manipulative skills. Students measure their own fitness and physical activity levels and identify factors that influence motivation to be physically active. They maintain regular participation in moderate to vigorous physical activity and analyse and evaluate their level of involvement in physical activity. They combine motor skills, strategic thinking and tactical knowledge to improve individual and team performance.

Health knowledge and promotion

At Level 8, students describe the physical, emotional and social changes that occur as a result of the adolescent stage of the lifespan and the factors that influence their own development. They describe the effect of family and community expectations on the development of personal identity and values. They identify outcomes of risk-taking behaviours and evaluate harm-minimisation strategies. They identify the health concerns of young people and the strategies that are designed to improve their health. They describe the health resources, products and services available for young people and consider how they could be used to improve health. They analyse a range of influences on personal and family food selection, and identify major nutritional needs for growth and activity.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Economics, they develop an understanding of the nature of scarcity, opportunity cost and resource allocation, and how these influence the Australian economy.

They consider the use, ownership and management of resources in personal, business and community contexts, and participate in activities in which they begin to appreciate that economic choices involve trade-offs that have both immediate and future consequences. They learn that a market, consisting of buyers and sellers, is one method of allocating resources. Students begin to identify markets in which they participate, and how the interaction of buyers and sellers influences prices. They explore how access to resources is a significant factor in determining income...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Economics, they develop an understanding of the nature of scarcity, opportunity cost and resource allocation, and how these influence the Australian economy.

They consider the use, ownership and management of resources in personal, business and community contexts, and participate in activities in which they begin to appreciate that economic choices involve trade-offs that have both immediate and future consequences. They learn that a market, consisting of buyers and sellers, is one method of allocating resources. Students begin to identify markets in which they participate, and how the interaction of buyers and sellers influences prices. They explore how access to resources is a significant factor in determining income levels and appreciate that people's incomes, in part, reflect choices they have made about education, work, careers and skill development.

Students develop personal financial literacy skills and an understanding of the importance of being an informed consumer. They practise making informed consumer decisions. They consider the nature of current and future work opportunities and factors that influence such opportunities. They learn about the nature of business and business ownership, and begin to gain an understanding of concepts such as risk-taking, competition, and supply and demand.

Students learn about the role of government in influencing economic activity and managing the economy.

Students use the inquiry process to plan economic investigations, analyse and interpret data, and form conclusions supported by evidence. For example, students investigate the way resources are allocated in various markets such as the housing market, the Australian Football League players’ market, the local community market and the chocolate market. They begin to form and express opinions on economic issues that interest and/or impact on them personally, or locally and nationally.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Geography, they use a variety of geographic tools and skills, together with an inquiry-based approach, to investigate the characteristics of the regions of Australia and those surrounding it: Asia, the Pacific and Antarctica. They explore how and why, over time, human and physical interactions produce changes to the characteristics of regions, for example, settlement patterns and agricultural and urban land use.

Students extend their knowledge and understanding of physical phenomena, including natural hazards, and of the physical processes that produce them. They identify patterns of distribution and occurrence of major physical features and their interrelationship with human activities such as farming, fishing, manufacturing...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Geography, they use a variety of geographic tools and skills, together with an inquiry-based approach, to investigate the characteristics of the regions of Australia and those surrounding it: Asia, the Pacific and Antarctica. They explore how and why, over time, human and physical interactions produce changes to the characteristics of regions, for example, settlement patterns and agricultural and urban land use.

Students extend their knowledge and understanding of physical phenomena, including natural hazards, and of the physical processes that produce them. They identify patterns of distribution and occurrence of major physical features and their interrelationship with human activities such as farming, fishing, manufacturing and settlement. Students become aware of contrasts within the regions of Australia and those surrounding it from their investigation of a number of smaller regions such as South-East Asia, the South Pacific nations and Papua New Guinea. They develop an appreciation of differences in the culture, living conditions and outlooks of people, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, in these areas.

Students investigate environmental issues such as forest use and global warming. They begin to design policies, and evaluate existing policies, for managing the impact of these issues and ensuring the sustainability of resources.

Students apply their knowledge and understanding of scale, grid references, legend and direction to use large-scale maps (such as topographic maps), as sources of spatial information, as well as other spatial representations (such as those found in atlases and geographic information systems). Students research and analyse photographs, maps, satellite images and text from electronic media and add these to their presentations.

Observing basic mapping conventions, students learn to draw overlay theme maps. They recognise that parts of the Earth’s surface can be represented in various ways, at different scales, and from different perspectives on a range of maps, photographs and satellite images. They are provided with opportunities to collect and process data and present a summary of results using a range of techniques such as sketch maps, graphs and electronic media (such as geographic information systems and spreadsheets).

Students undertake fieldwork to investigate the characteristics of a selected local region and the physical processes and human activities that form and transform it. Students are encouraged to participate in activities to contribute to the sustainable management of local places.

Geographic knowledge and understanding

At Level 8, students demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of the regions of Australia and those surrounding it: Asia, the Pacific and Antarctica. They explain, using examples, how the interaction of physical processes and human activities create variations within the regions. They use evidence and appropriate geographical language to explain contrasts within smaller regions surrounding Australia. Students describe differences in culture, living conditions and outlook, including attitudes to environmental issues, in these regions. They demonstrate understanding of environmental issues based on inquiry and propose ways of ensuring the sustainability of resources.

Geospatial skills

At Level 8, students collect geographical...

Geographic knowledge and understanding

At Level 8, students demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of the regions of Australia and those surrounding it: Asia, the Pacific and Antarctica. They explain, using examples, how the interaction of physical processes and human activities create variations within the regions. They use evidence and appropriate geographical language to explain contrasts within smaller regions surrounding Australia. Students describe differences in culture, living conditions and outlook, including attitudes to environmental issues, in these regions. They demonstrate understanding of environmental issues based on inquiry and propose ways of ensuring the sustainability of resources.

Geospatial skills

At Level 8, students collect geographical information from electronic and print media, including satellite images and atlas maps and analyse, evaluate and present it using a range of forms. They construct overlay theme maps using map conventions of scale, legend, title, and north point. They identify and gather geographical information from fieldwork and organise, process and communicate it using a range of written, oral, visual and graphic forms.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Information and Communications Technology, they learn to use a variety of ICT tools and techniques to assist with filtering, classifying, representing, describing and organising ideas, concepts and issues. For example, a graphic/visual organisers such as an interaction outliner can be used to help structure thinking about the actions, reactions and outcomes of two groups associated with an issue; and rule-using software such as databases and spreadsheets enable the filtering and classifying of data and information in order to make more informed decisions. Students begin to use ICT tools and peripherals, such as dataloggers, to support the input of data for sensing, monitoring, measuring or controlling sequences and events...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Information and Communications Technology, they learn to use a variety of ICT tools and techniques to assist with filtering, classifying, representing, describing and organising ideas, concepts and issues. For example, a graphic/visual organisers such as an interaction outliner can be used to help structure thinking about the actions, reactions and outcomes of two groups associated with an issue; and rule-using software such as databases and spreadsheets enable the filtering and classifying of data and information in order to make more informed decisions. Students begin to use ICT tools and peripherals, such as dataloggers, to support the input of data for sensing, monitoring, measuring or controlling sequences and events. Through practice, students become skilled in judging the capabilities and limitations of these tools and techniques as aids to learning.

In addition, students use ICT tools to retrace the decisions made and actions taken when learning and problem solving; for example, by using a range of symbols, charts, images, sound and text, students can create a flow chart that maps their thinking processes and actions. Students reflect on the effectiveness of these saved thinking process maps and retrieve relevant ones to guide future applications.

Students become efficient users of ICT for planning collaborative projects that involve creating information products and solving problems. Using software such as word processors and spreadsheets, and using techniques such as tables and shading, they develop project plans that sequence tasks, estimate timelines and record task responsibilities where teams are involved. Team members record and monitor progress through shared electronic files. Students use the operating system facilities to manage their desktop workspace and organise their files in a way that assists their personal learning style. They learn to save and retrieve compressed files and develop an understanding of the characteristics of different file formats, such as .jpeg, .gif and .avi.

Students develop their knowledge about the characteristics of data by manipulating various data types, such as text, sound, numbers and images (still and moving), to create formatted information products; for example, essays and reports, animated slide shows, and websites, brochures and cartoons. They plan the design of products, influenced by generally accepted ict presentation conventions, and develop criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of each presentation style. These include meeting audience/user needs and communicating a message effectively. Students make ongoing modifications to their products to improve their efficiency and effectiveness, such as testing the functionality of parts of a solution, correcting typographical errors and editing to clarify the meaning of the message.

Students apply their knowledge of data characteristics to solving problems; for example, when calculating the time it takes to travel to a distant planet using various fuels, they elect to use spreadsheet software because it is designed to manipulate numeric data, unlike word-processing software, which is designed to format text.

Students explore the distinction between legal and illegal uses of ICT and create information products that comply with ICT intellectual property law. This particularly relates to copyright.

Students develop and manage their digital bank of evidence, developing, for example, an electronic portfolio for a range of audiences, including teachers, parents and potential employers, and use this to demonstrate and monitor their learning progress in all areas of the curriculum.

They select appropriate search engines and use complex search strategies (for example, Boolean) to locate information from the Internet and other sources, and they evaluate the credibility, accuracy, reliability and comprehensiveness of this information. They organise and store gathered information to enable easy retrieval. They access online interactive e-learning tools to help them to develop knowledge in all areas of the curriculum.

Students use email software functions to organise their email mailbox. For example, they clean up, archive and sort email to allow the efficient and secure storage and retrieval of relevant messages and/or attachments. They access appropriate websites and online forums such as blogs and chat sites, to locate information and to share ideas, applying protocols that respect other users and that protect the personal safety of students. They publish their work on the Internet after it has been tested and evaluated.

ICT for visualising thinking

At Level 8, students select and apply ICT tools and editing functions that support the filtering, classifying, representing, describing and organising of concepts, issues and ideas. They use rule-using software to assist with problem solving and decision making.

Students retrieve and modify successful approaches to visualising thinking for use in new situations. They explain what features of the new situations influenced their decisions to use particular ICT tools and techniques.

Students use a range of data types, including sound and still and moving images, to record the decisions made and actions taken when developing new understanding and problem solving. They evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their decisions and actions in the given situations.

ICT ...

ICT for visualising thinking

At Level 8, students select and apply ICT tools and editing functions that support the filtering, classifying, representing, describing and organising of concepts, issues and ideas. They use rule-using software to assist with problem solving and decision making.

Students retrieve and modify successful approaches to visualising thinking for use in new situations. They explain what features of the new situations influenced their decisions to use particular ICT tools and techniques.

Students use a range of data types, including sound and still and moving images, to record the decisions made and actions taken when developing new understanding and problem solving. They evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their decisions and actions in the given situations.

ICT for creating

At Level 8, students independently use the operating system to manage their desktop workspace. They organise their folders logically, appropriately name and locate files for sharing with others and apply techniques to facilitate the easy handling of large files.

When creating information products, students prepare designs that identify the structure and layout of the products, the evaluation criteria, and the plans for managing collaborative projects. Students independently apply a range of processing skills, functions and equipment to solve problems and create products which contain minimal functional, typographical, formatting and readability errors. During the processing stage of collaborative work, students monitor project plans and record reasons for adjusting them. They apply criteria to evaluate the extent to which their information products meet user needs and comply with intellectual property laws. They use ICT in a safe, efficient and effective manner.

Students keep their bank of digital evidence up-to-date, and ensure it is easy to navigate, complies with ICT presentation conventions and demonstrates a diversity of ICT skills and knowledge.

ICT for communicating

At Level 8, students select the most appropriate search engines to locate information on websites. They use complex search strategies to refine their searches. They judge the integrity of the located information based on its credibility, accuracy, reliability and comprehensiveness.

Students share their ideas through their blog, website or other public forums, which are correctly formatted, comply with ICT conventions and demonstrate an awareness of the characteristics that contribute to products meeting their purpose.

Students organise their email mailbox into a logical structure and maintain it. They evaluate the merits of contemporary communication tools, taking into account their security, ease of use, speed of communication and impact on individuals.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Interpersonal Development, they develop positive relationships through understanding and respecting others. They participate in activities which enable them to identify the differing values and beliefs held by individuals in local, national and global contexts, and reflect on the impact these may have on relationships.

They learn how to manage their emotions and behaviour in their relationships, especially with peers. They consider the needs of others and ways of responding with appropriate sensitivity, learning to adapt their behaviour and language to suit different settings. Exploring appropriate scenarios, students learn that while they need to value friendship and respect confidentiality, in certain circumstances confidentiality...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Interpersonal Development, they develop positive relationships through understanding and respecting others. They participate in activities which enable them to identify the differing values and beliefs held by individuals in local, national and global contexts, and reflect on the impact these may have on relationships.

They learn how to manage their emotions and behaviour in their relationships, especially with peers. They consider the needs of others and ways of responding with appropriate sensitivity, learning to adapt their behaviour and language to suit different settings. Exploring appropriate scenarios, students learn that while they need to value friendship and respect confidentiality, in certain circumstances confidentiality may need to be breached. They manage their impulses to encourage harmonious collaborations and relationships.

In a variety of forums, students investigate various forms of bullying and the consequences for the bully and the victim. They also explore other forms of conflict in both local and broader contexts. Through experience and reflection, students come to understand the need for empathy for others. They develop and practise appropriate skills in conflict resolution. Students explore how peers may influence the way they respond to others. They continue to identify strategies to build and maintain positive social relationships; for example, by acknowledging and celebrating the diversity of individuals, recognising peer influence on their own behaviour, showing sensitivity to cultural diversity, recognising and accommodating others’ strengths and weaknesses and acknowledging the existence and possible implications of different values and beliefs.

Students work in teacher and student-selected teams to complete short- and long-term tasks of varying complexity. When selecting team members, they are encouraged to recognise differing capabilities and are increasingly able to select a team which acknowledges the advantage of including students with a variety of learning and thinking styles.

In their teams, students gain experience in a variety of different roles and reflect on those roles which they prefer. They participate in tasks which require them to build knowledge cooperatively to achieve a shared purpose, and reflect on the contribution they have made and how it could be improved. They also consider how the effectiveness of the team could be improved.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Personal Learning, they explore a range of preferred and non-preferred learning strategies and reflect on how various strategies contribute to their learning, recognising that particular learning tasks may require different strategies. They take greater responsibility for their own learning, making choices and decisions about their learning and considering their strengths and weaknesses.

With support, students identify difficulties in their understanding of new material and develop a range of strategies to aid comprehension and understanding. They use feedback from teachers and other adults beyond the school context to expand their content knowledge, making use of learning opportunities within the school such as specialist...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Personal Learning, they explore a range of preferred and non-preferred learning strategies and reflect on how various strategies contribute to their learning, recognising that particular learning tasks may require different strategies. They take greater responsibility for their own learning, making choices and decisions about their learning and considering their strengths and weaknesses.

With support, students identify difficulties in their understanding of new material and develop a range of strategies to aid comprehension and understanding. They use feedback from teachers and other adults beyond the school context to expand their content knowledge, making use of learning opportunities within the school such as specialist music or technology facilities and guest speakers, and outside the school such as experiential workshops and specialist laboratories. Students monitor their learning and study habits and use this information to work with the teacher to set learning goals. They identify the attributes of effective learners, such as risk-taking, persistence and flexibility, and use these criteria to evaluate their growth as learners.

Students understand, appreciate and monitor the impact of differing emotions on their learning. They manage impulsive behaviour by considering alternative courses of action in response to an idea or problem and possible consequences. They develop their understanding of the value of persistence, by exploring the relationship between effort and performance, using both their own experiences and those of others including their peers and people who have made significant contributions to society. They identify and employ strategies for maintaining a positive attitude.

Students reflect on the ethical aspects of dealing with others such as being honest and encouraging freedom of choice, and the advantages of acting responsibly in social and learning situations. They develop their skills in learning with and from their peers. They begin to take responsibility for the development and maintenance of a positive learning environment within and outside the classroom, recognising that individuals have different needs, opinions and goals and that compromises must be reached in determining acceptable group behaviours.

Students practise setting short-term and long-term goals, prioritising their available time and developing strategies for monitoring their progress towards goal achievement. They undertake a range of tasks and monitor, evaluate and refine their management strategies. They reflect on their study and revision strategies and develop and use criteria to evaluate their work.

The individual learner

At Level 8, students monitor and describe their progress as learners, identifying their strengths and weaknesses and taking actions to address their weaknesses. They identify a variety of learning habits and adopt those which assist their learning. They identify, select and use an expanded repertoire of learning strategies appropriate to particular tasks. They seek and respond to feedback from peers, teachers and other adults and explain how their ideas have changed to develop and refine their content knowledge and understanding.

Students demonstrate an awareness of different cultural and societal beliefs, values and practices, identifying and discussing the effect of ethical issues on learning and working with others. With support, students determine learning...

The individual learner

At Level 8, students monitor and describe their progress as learners, identifying their strengths and weaknesses and taking actions to address their weaknesses. They identify a variety of learning habits and adopt those which assist their learning. They identify, select and use an expanded repertoire of learning strategies appropriate to particular tasks. They seek and respond to feedback from peers, teachers and other adults and explain how their ideas have changed to develop and refine their content knowledge and understanding.

Students demonstrate an awareness of different cultural and societal beliefs, values and practices, identifying and discussing the effect of ethical issues on learning and working with others. With support, students determine learning improvement goals, justifying their decisions and making appropriate modifications as necessary. They consider both their own and others’ needs when making decisions about suitable learning processes and the creation of positive learning environments within and outside the classroom.

Managing personal learning

At Level 8, students set realistic short-term and long-term learning goals within a variety of tasks and describe their progress towards achieving these. They complete competing short, extended and group tasks within set timeframes, prioritising their available time, utilising appropriate resources and demonstrating motivation. They initiate and undertake some tasks independently, within negotiated timeframes. They review the effectiveness of the management of tasks, identifying successes and suggesting strategies that would improve outcomes. They develop and use criteria to evaluate their work, and use these criteria to make appropriate refinements. They demonstrate a positive and structured approach to learning, identifying and using effective strategies that assist with study, both at school and at home.

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Thinking Processes, they participate in increasingly complex investigations and activities in which they seek evidence to support their conclusions, and investigate the validity of other people’s ideas; for example, by testing the credibility of differing accounts of the same event, questioning conclusions based on very small or biased samples of data, and identifying and questioning generalisations. From such investigations and activities, students learn to make and justify changes to their thinking and develop awareness that others may have perceptions different from their own.

Students draw on an increasing range of contexts to formulate the questions that drive their investigations. They participate in challenging...

As students work towards the achievement of Level 8 standards in Thinking Processes, they participate in increasingly complex investigations and activities in which they seek evidence to support their conclusions, and investigate the validity of other people’s ideas; for example, by testing the credibility of differing accounts of the same event, questioning conclusions based on very small or biased samples of data, and identifying and questioning generalisations. From such investigations and activities, students learn to make and justify changes to their thinking and develop awareness that others may have perceptions different from their own.

Students draw on an increasing range of contexts to formulate the questions that drive their investigations. They participate in challenging tasks that stimulate, encourage and support the development of their thinking. They apply a range of discipline-based methodologies to conduct inquiries and gather, analyse and synthesise information. They gather information from a variety of sources and begin to distinguish between different types (for example, quantitative and qualitative) and sources (primary and secondary) of data. They begin to synthesise both self-selected and teacher-directed information to make meaning. They recognise the complexity of many of the ideas and concepts they are exploring and use a range of thinking strategies to develop connections.

Students increasingly focus on tasks that require creative thinking for understanding, synthesis and decision making. They develop creative thinking behaviours and strategies through flexible approaches; for example, considering alternative perspectives, suspending judgment, seeking new information and testing novel ideas. They evaluate alternative conclusions and perspectives using criteria developed individually and in collaboration with their peers.

Students reflect on their own learning, seeking to refine existing ideas and beliefs when provided with contradictory evidence. They develop their capacity to identify, monitor and evaluate the thinking skills and strategies they use. During their investigations and inquiries they use specific language to discuss their thinking and reflect on their thinking processes. They reflect on, modify and evaluate their thinking strategies.

Reasoning, processing and inquiry

At Level 8, students use a range of question types, and locate and select relevant information from varied sources when undertaking investigations. When identifying and synthesising relevant information, they use a range of appropriate strategies of reasoning and analysis to evaluate evidence and consider their own and others’ points of view. They use a range of discipline-based methodologies. They complete activities focusing on problem solving and decision making which involve an increasing number of variables and solutions.

Creativity

At Level 8, students apply creative thinking strategies to explore possibilities and generate multiple options, problem definitions and solutions. They demonstrate creativity, in the ways they engage with and explore...

Reasoning, processing and inquiry

At Level 8, students use a range of question types, and locate and select relevant information from varied sources when undertaking investigations. When identifying and synthesising relevant information, they use a range of appropriate strategies of reasoning and analysis to evaluate evidence and consider their own and others’ points of view. They use a range of discipline-based methodologies. They complete activities focusing on problem solving and decision making which involve an increasing number of variables and solutions.

Creativity

At Level 8, students apply creative thinking strategies to explore possibilities and generate multiple options, problem definitions and solutions. They demonstrate creativity, in the ways they engage with and explore ideas in a range of contexts.

Reflection, evaluation and metacognition

At Level 8, students explain the purpose of a range of thinking tools and use them in appropriate contexts. They use specific language to describe their thinking and reflect on their thinking processes during their investigations. They modify and evaluate their thinking strategies. They describe and explain changes that may occur in their ideas and beliefs over time.