THE SCIENCES

In Years 11 and 12, for ATAR students the Science learning area provides further opportunities for specialisation. The Integrated Science course enables students to investigate science issues, in the context of the world around them.

It incorporates aspects of biology, chemistry, geology and physics, and can also include less traditional areas such as forensic science and biotechnology.

CHEMISTRY (ATAR)

The Chemistry ATAR course equips students with the knowledge, understanding and opportunity to investigate properties and reactions of materials. Theories and models are used to describe, explain and make predictions about chemical systems, structures and properties. Students recognise hazards and make informed, balanced decisions about chemical use and sustainable resource management. Investigations and laboratory activities develop an appreciation of the need for precision, critical analysis and informed decision making.

This course prepares students to be responsible and efficient users of specialised chemical products and processes at home or in the workplace. It also enables students to relate chemistry to other sciences, including biology, geology, medicine, molecular biology and agriculture, and prepares them for further study in the sciences.

Pre-Requisites: An ‘A’ or strong ‘B’ grade in Chemical Sciences by the end of Year 10 Science course, plus an A grade in Year 10 Mathematics.

PSYCHOLOGY (ATAR)

Psychology is the scientific study of how people think, feel and act. It aims to answer important questions such as what factors influence human development. While there are other disciplines that overlap with psychology’s main aim to understand humans, psychology is rigorous in its use of scientific method. This allows for systematic exploration into the complexities of human behavior based on evidence gathered through planned investigations.

Pre-Requisites: An ‘B’ grade by the end of Year 10 Science course

HUMAN BIOLOGY (ATAR)

The Human Biology ATAR course gives students a chance to explore what it is to be human—how the human body works, the origins of human variation, inheritance in humans, the evolution of the human species and population genetics. Through their investigations, students research new discoveries that increase our understanding of human dysfunction, treatments and preventative measures. Practical tasks are an integral part of this course and develop a range of laboratory skills; for example, biotechnology techniques. Students learn to evaluate risks and benefits to make informed decisions about lifestyle and health topics, such as diet, alternative medical treatments, use of chemical substances and the manipulation of fertility.

Pre-Requisites: An ‘A’ or strong ‘B’ grade by the end of Year 10 Science

PHYSICS (ATAR)

In the Physics ATAR course students will learn how energy and energy transformations can shape in the environment from the small scale, in quantum leaps inside an atom’s electron cloud, through the human scale, in vehicles and the human body, to the large scale, in interactions between galaxies. Students have opportunities to develop their investigative skills and use analytical thinking to explain and predict physical phenomena.
Students plan and conduct investigations to answer a range of questions, collect and interpret data and observations and communicate their findings in an appropriate format. Problem-solving and using evidence to make and justify conclusions are transferable skills that are developed in this course.

Pre-Requisites: An ‘A’ or strong ‘B’ grade by the end of Year 10 Science

MARINE AND MARITIME STUDIES (ATAR)

The Marine and Maritime Studies ATAR course provides students with opportunities to engage in unique theoretical and practical learning experiences, and to equip them with a broad range of skills and knowledge. Students study oceanography concepts to develop a strong understanding of the interdependence between components of the marine environment; conduct research into the safe and sustainable management of the oceans’ resources; and are also introduced to the world of maritime archaeology. As well, nautical craft and hull design features, and maritime history and archaeology, are investigated.

Pre-Requisites: An ‘A’ or strong ‘B’ grade by the end of Year 10 Science

MARINE AND MARITIME STUDIES (General)

The Marine and Maritime Studies General course provides students with the opportunity to study the sea and how people interact with it. Practical learning experiences equip students with a broad range of skills and knowledge. Students develop seamanship skills, nautical skills and water-based skills. Students investigate oceanography concepts to explore the interdependence between components of the marine environment, and consider issues around the sustainable management of Western Australian fisheries.

Pre-Requisites: None, but an interest in Science and a strong work ethic is required.

INTEGRATED SCIENCE (General)

The Integrated Science General course enables students to investigate science issues in the context of the world around them. It encourages students to develop their scientific skills of curiosity, observation, collection and analysis of evidence within the context of Marine Science and Forensic Science. These topics include aspects of biology, chemistry, geology and physics, which encourage students to be curious about the world around them, and allow them to gain a balanced view of the benefits and challenge presented by science and technology. Students conduct practical investigations that encourage them to apply what they have learnt in class to real-world situations and systems.

Pre-Requisites: None, but an interest in Science and a strong work ethic is required.

ENROLLING AT YANCHEP SECONDARY COLLEGE

Yanchep Secondary College provides young people in the Yanchep area with a high quality, comprehensive education.

MATHEMATICS

Offers all senior secondary students the opportunity to advance their mathematical skills.

TECHNOLOGIES

In this course students will use technology processes to design and produce products.

ENGLISH

Students learn about the English language: how it works and how to use it effectively. Language plays a central role in human life:

THE ARTS

The Arts represent an outlet of human expression, usually influenced by culture…