Year 9 Subjects

Elective Subjects for the whole year: 
Students will have the opportunity to request to take four (4) options to study for the whole year or a Semester. These options run for three periods per week. 

The subject Music: Instrumental Music Specialist is compulsory for students involved in the instrumental/ vocal programme in the School. It is designed to complement the practical work done in lessons to provide the student with a thorough knowledge of the areas in which they work. 

In some circumstances, subject to the approval of the Head of Performing Arts, Instrumental Music Specialist students may enroll in Music: Keyboard as an alternative to Music: Instrumental Music  Specialist and thereby meet their compulsory Music class obligations.  

Year 9 Humanities examines Australia's development as a nation, the impact of industrialisation, global economic connections and the relationships between people, places and environments. Students investigate contemporary issues using evidence and multiple perspectives. 

Civics and Citizenship
•    Law and Order 
•    Australia's Legal System 

Economics and Business
•    Australia in the Global Economy
•    The Changing World of Business 

Geography
•    Biomes and Food Security
•    Geographies of Interconnections 

History
•    Australian History (1750–1914)
•    The Industrial Revolution (1750–1914) 

Assessment
Students will complete a range of formal and informal assessment types including tests, short and extended responses, source analysis tasks, research investigations, presentations, group activities and individual projects. These assessments will evaluate students’ skills and knowledge across the four Humanities disciplines. Grades are awarded for each discipline based on assessment results.

Course Description 

The Year 9 Mathematics course aligns with the Western Australian Curriculum (Version 9) and builds on skills developed in Year 8. Students develop understanding across the strands of Number, Algebra, Measurement, Space, Statistics, and Probability.

Students are placed into three levels based on prior achievement, with movement between levels as progress is monitored. Each level provides an appropriate level of challenge.

Level 1 extends the Year 9 curriculum with the inclusion of optional content, providing additional challenge and problem-solving opportunities.
Level 2 consolidates and applies the Year 9 curriculum.
Level 3 follows the Year 9 curriculum at a foundational level, supporting the development of core syllabus skills.

Students in Level 1 and Level 2 are introduced to the use of the CAS calculator to support learning and prepare for senior Mathematics studies.

The Year 9 Science course has three strands, Science Understanding, Science Inquiry Skills and Science as a Human Endeavour. The three strands of the curriculum are interrelated, and their content is taught in an integrated way. 

Students consider the operation of systems at a range of scales. They explore ways in which the human body, as a system, responds to its external environment and the interdependencies between biotic and  abiotic components of ecosystems.

Students are introduced to the notion of the atom as a system of protons, electrons and neutrons, and how this system can change through nuclear decay. They learn that matter can be rearranged through chemical change and that these changes play an important role in many systems. 

Students are introduced to the concept of the conservation of matter and begin to develop a more  sophisticated view of energy transfer. They begin to apply their understanding of energy and forces to global systems such as continental movement. 

Assessments are based around classwork activities, tests and examinations.

Health 1 period and Physical Education 2 periods per week as a double lesson. 

Course Description 
Health and Physical Education teaches students how to enhance their own and others health and wellbeing. Students develop knowledge, understandings and skills to strengthen their sense of personal identity and to build and maintain satisfying relationships. It also helps them to build resilience, make decisions and help take actions to promote their own and others health and physical activity participation. 

Integral to Health and Physical Education is the acquisition of movement skills, concepts and strategies to enable students to confidently, competently and creatively participate in a range of physical activities in various contexts and settings. how to optimise movement performance; and the benefits of physical activity to themselves, others and communities. Through movement in a variety of contexts and settings, students acquire, practise, manage and refine personal, interpersonal, social and cognitive skills. 

Physical Education: Movement and physical activity includes physical skill development in specific contexts chosen from the following broader contexts:

• Gross motor skills, (gymnastics/dance)
• Throwing and Catching skills (netball/basketball/volleyball) 
• Gross motor skills, (athletics skills, track and field)
• Kicking skills (soccer/Australian Rules/speedball)
• Striking skills (cricket/baseball/softball/tennis/hockey)

The Health and Physical Education curriculum teaches students how to be part of a healthy, active population and experience the personal and social benefits of living a healthy, active and fulfilling life.

Health 1 period and Physical Education 2 periods per week as a double lesson. 

Course Description 
Health and Physical Education teaches students how to enhance their own and others health and wellbeing. Students develop knowledge, understandings and skills to strengthen their sense of personal identity and to build and maintain satisfying relationships. It also helps them to build resilience, make decisions and help take actions to promote their own and others health and physical activity participation. 

Integral to Health and Physical Education is the acquisition of movement skills, concepts and strategies to enable students to confidently, competently and creatively participate in a range of physical activities in various contexts and settings. how to optimise movement performance; and the benefits of physical activity to themselves, others and communities. Through movement in a variety of contexts and settings, students acquire, practise, manage and refine personal, interpersonal, social and cognitive skills. 

Health Education: Personal social and community health includes the following contexts:

• Body Image, (stereo types, psychological pressure, eating disorder)
• Sexual Health, (STI’s, contraception, identifying risk)
• Mental Health, (talking about mental illness, analysing youth services)
• Relationships, (power in relationships)
• Alcohol, (facts about, impact of, harm minimization/reduction strategies)
• Domestic and family violence, (myths, effects on family, bystander intervention, White Ribbon Day, community support networks).

Course Description 

Year 9 Students explore key Biblical concepts such as sin, resurrection, covenant, belief and eternal life, and the role of revelation in faith. 

This is considered along with reason and scientific enquiry. 

In the second half of the year, we consider the radical nature of Christianity, and the counter-cultural focus of faith. 

This leads to a close exploration of homelessness and social justice.

Discover the future of innovation with Year 9 Mechatronics! Are you intrigued by the world of robotics and automation? This exciting course is your gateway to a hands-on exploration of mechanical, electrical, and coding systems. Our program empowers students to become problem solvers and innovative thinkers in a dynamic and enjoyable learning environment.  

Mechatronics is at the forefront of AI application, a field growing in significance across various sectors, including industry, home automation, entertainment, and even military advancements. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this cutting-edge technology journey. Enroll in Year 9 Mechatronics and embrace the limitless possibilities of tomorrow’s world! 

Future Pathways (Year 10) 

• Mechatronics - Year 10 

Are you ready to unleash your creativity and bring your ideas to life? Look no further than our exciting course, Workshop Technologies! Building on previous years, this course has everything you need to develop skills in design.  

This practical subject is about exploring the world of design and technology, offering you hands-on  experience crafting fascinating projects. Through this course, you’ll embark on a problem-solving and skill development journey, honing your design and practical abilities. Whether you’re working with wood, metal, or plastics, Workshop Technologies equips you with the essential skills and processes to excel in various media.  

Don’t miss the chance to discover your inner innovator and shape the future with your creative vision. Join us next year in Workshop Technologies and start turning your ideas into reality! 

Future Pathways (Year 10)

• Furniture Making
• Metal Workshop Technologies 

Students will examine a range of performance skills specific to acting on stage, including, acting techniques, improvisation, movement, voice production and auditioning.  Students will also have the opportunity for script writing and storytelling. This course is designed to challenge the students in the realms of what works on stage, rather than what works on screen and examining which skills travel between the two. 

This hands-on course introduces students to the exciting world of live performance production. Focusing on behind-the-scenes roles, students will explore key elements such as lighting, sound, set, costume, and stage management. Through practical projects and real-world applications, they will learn how to plan, design, and operate technical aspects of a live show. Ideal for creative problem-solvers and team players, this course offers a unique opportunity to bring performances to life and gain valuable experience in theatre and event production.

Politics and Law is an increasingly relevant subject for the next generation. The rise of social media and youth activism has led to a growing awareness of contemporary issues amongst secondary students. Whilst this awareness and passion for the subject is encouraging, it also raises concerns about the shifting sources of information students use to inform their worldview. Young people are increasingly being exposed to extreme ideologies and perspectives from both the left and right wings of the political spectrum. The social media algorithm, which thrives on engagement, prioritises these voices within the newsfeed, increasing the extent to which young people encounter such radical opinions.

Because of this shifting landscape, a vacuum exists for moderate, sincere investigation into contemporary issues relevant to today’s youth. Secondary education, particularly Year 9-10, is well placed to fill this void. Students can be encouraged to discuss and research political and legal issues, with an emphasis placed on reliable sources, critical thinking and tolerance of alternative viewpoints. Students will be allowed to express their opinions on controversial subjects, provided they are supported with evidence. 

Students explore relevant contemporary legislation being proposed, debated and scrutinised in the Commonwealth Parliament. Students will look at the way political parties, pressure groups, and individuals can impact the legislation, as well as the arguments for and against the legislation itself.

Students will also explore relevant contemporary court cases being heard within Australia’s court hierarchy, as well as investigate past criminal cases within Western Australia. The contemporary cases may be civil, criminal or Constitutional, depending on what cases are significant at that point in time. Students will also investigate proposed reforms to Australia’s justice system, like jury reform, and Indigenous justice reform.

Finally, students explore global issues that are trending on social media at that point in time. They investigate the facts, attempt to separate rhetoric and opinion from facts and figures, as well as understand the competing perspectives on various issues. In 2019 students may have explored the Black Lives Matter movement, in 2023 they may have investigated the October 7 events in Israel. The course will shift to the issues relevant at that point in time.

How much does it really cost to own a car, move out of home, or save for a major purchase? How do people grow their wealth and avoid financial mistakes?

Wealth & Riches: Spend, Save, Invest! is a practical Year 9 elective that helps students develop the financial knowledge and life skills needed to make smart decisions in a rapidly changing world. Students explore how to earn money, manage expenses, create budgets, build savings, and understand investment opportunities.

Through real-world scenarios and hands-on activities, students will learn how to prepare for part-time employment, understand the true cost of different lifestyles, investigate investment strategies, and examine how technology is transforming the way we spend and save. They will also explore online scams, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and emerging trends that are shaping the future of money.

This course equips students with the confidence and skills to make informed financial decisions and build a strong foundation for future success.

Topics of Study

Getting Job Ready

• Writing résumés and cover letters
• Preparing for part-time and casual employment
• Building workplace readiness skills

Spend: Managing Money Wisely

• Financial literacy fundamentals
• Budgeting and saving strategies
• Understanding Australian living expenses
• The costs of owning a car, pet, or living independently

Save: Planning for the Future

• Setting financial goals
• Creating short- and long-term savings plans
• Understanding needs, wants, and financial choices

Invest: Building Wealth

• Introduction to investing
• Risk and return
• Diversification and investment strategies
• Exploring shares, property, and other investment options

The Future of Money

• E-commerce and digital transactions
• Online scams and consumer protection
• Cryptocurrency and digital currencies
• Artificial intelligence and changing economic trends

Why Choose This Subject?

Gain practical life skills that you can use now and in the future. Whether you're applying for your first job, saving for a goal, or curious about investing, Wealth & Riches: Spend, Save, Invest! will help you take control of your financial future.

Students will have the opportunity to develop skills of communication in Japanese started in Year 8. 

The Japanese course is very communicative. Gone are the days when we just learnt grammar and we could conjugate a verb but not find out any information we might need when travelling in that country! This year of study will allow students to acquire a greater understanding of how languages function, to increase their literacy skills in general and to develop sensitivity to Japanese culture and people. 

As well as improving speaking and listening skills, from this stage, students will be required to use the  Hiragana characters when writing Japanese, and learn Katakana. 

Topics covered in this year will include Sport and Leisure, Family, Homes, Food, Work, Likes and Dislikes. Students will have the opportunity to try different types of Japanese food. 

Year 9 Japanese is essential if a student wishes to study Japanese in Years 10, 11 and 12. To help students in their study in Years 11 and 12 we run a biennial trip* to Japan so that students studying Japanese have the chance to travel to Japan, live with a Japanese family and attend a Japanese School for two weeks. This trip is not compulsory and a student can still succeed in their studies without going to Japan. Every other year*, Frederick Irwin hosts exchange Japanese students instead of travelling overseas.

*dependant on government restrictions.

This course will enable students to build upon their practical guitar skills learnt in Year 8. 

Students will be involved in practical guitar activities involving a range of musical styles and playing  techniques. They will learn pieces individually, and as part of small groups. 

Students will widen their knowledge of guitar chords and pieces as well as gaining an understanding of areas such as: chord reading, notation, tablature, maintenance and performing. 

There will be the opportunity to create, perform and evaluate their own pieces using the skills learned.  Guitars will be provided for each session.

This course is designed specifically for Instrumental/Vocal students who receive lessons at School or on a private basis in the community.  It complements and extends the practical work usually done in lessons to provide the student with a thorough knowledge of the areas in which they work. 

Areas covered include:

• Arranging
• Performing
• Music Theory & Analysis
• Aural 
• Working with technology 
• Music literature 

This course is compulsory for students enrolled in the Instrumental/Vocal programme with the School and can be considered for those receiving lessons outside the school.

Unleash your creativity in this project-based course where you’ll learn to write and compose your own original songs. Whether you're working with an instrument or creating music electronically, you’ll explore the elements of songwriting, develop your musical ideas, and bring your compositions to life. 

No matter your style or experience level, this is your chance to tell your story through music.

This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to Outdoor Education through adventure activities and includes basic camping and expedition skills a range of adventure activities as well as the  development of an awareness and appreciation of natural environments. 

Particular emphasis will be placed on the development of personal characteristics; perseverance,  determination, empathy and resilience as well as those of individual responsibility and self-discipline when involved in adventure activities, outdoor camps and expeditions. 

The course is both theoretical and practical. 

The following areas will be covered during the year:

• Bushwalking
• Canoeing
• Camp Craft - camp fire cooking, tenting, minimum impact
• Expedition First Aid - CPR
• Map and Compass Navigation 
• Mountain Biking
• Orienteering 
• Surf Awareness 
• Sailing Camp 

All students enrolled in Year 9 Outdoor Education will be involved in a compulsory 4-day camp experience during Week 10 of Term 3 (Tuesday until Friday). 

in the camp is a compulsory part of course assessment but is contingent on student participation and attitude throughout the year. Costs associated with this camp and practical activities in Outdoor Education will be added to Term Fees. 

Parents please note that as we spend a large part of the year in outdoor and aquatic environments, all members of the class may need to be made aware of an individual’s medical condition, in the interests of that student’s physical safety and the duty of care to the whole group. 

Students need to be aware that Outdoor Education involves outside practical activities, and therefore students taking this Course must be prepared to participate in all weather conditions. 

Please refer to the Fees and Charges Information Brochure for an indication of the cost associated with Outdoor Education units. 

In Year 9, students will use visual art language and artistic conventions of greater complexity during their design and production process. They will develop an understanding how to apply a wide range of mediums, techniques and styles through the production of 2D and 3D pieces, including mixed media on wood,  painting, sculpture and public art. Personal expression and the impact their work can have on their audience will be employed and originality and experimental applications will be encouraged. 

Students will build on the knowledge they have gained in previous years, producing pieces that surround their interests, challenge the viewers of their work, and will be guided in ways to make their work effective and innovative.

Students will study range of mediums and techniques to create Urban Art, including Murals, Street Art,  Environmental Sculpture, Graffiti Art, and ‘Pop Up’ Shops. 

The focus of this subject will involve investigating a variety of themes and how to communicate ideas using visual language. 

Artworks will consider the spaces that surround us individually and locally. 

The subject will involve a wide range of approaches, will incorporate collaboration with peers and  installation of art within the school grounds. Students will produce artwork for display and explore  marketing and collectives.

In this engaging Year 9 Forensic Science course, students will step into the role of crime scene investigators to explore the fascinating world of forensic science. Through hands-on experiments and real-world case studies, students will learn how science is used to solve crimes. Topics include fingerprint analysis, DNA profiling, blood spatter interpretation, trace evidence collection, and the principles of crime scene preservation. This course blends biology, chemistry, and physics to give students a deeper understanding of how science supports justice.

Throughout the year, students will participate in simulated crime scenes, analyze evidence, and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to crack cases. The course emphasizes scientific inquiry, accuracy, and ethical considerations in criminal investigations. By the end of the year, students will have a strong foundational understanding of forensic techniques and the role of science in modern law enforcement, preparing them for further studies in science and criminal justice.

Ahoy, Year 8 students! Get ready to set sail into STEM with SailLAB, an innovative educational course that will seamlessly integrate with the Year 9 Outdoor Education program, SailLAB merges core subjects such as Mathematics, Environmental Science, Physics, and Chemistry. 

Through a blend of classroom-based learning, practical application and hands-on experimentation, students will explore and test scientific principles. From understanding wind patterns to constructing wind anemometers and exploring Beaufort's Scale, they will unravel the natural forces behind sailing. Further exploration into buoyancy and engineering involves constructing model boats and testing various hull shapes, leading to a buoyancy challenge where students design boats capable of holding maximum weight.

Mathematics and Physics intersect as students analyse sail features, calculate sail surface areas, and apply Pythagoras' Theorem in sail design, culminating in a sail-powered boat construction challenge. We'll also investigate water quality, learn how to harness wind energy, and understand the subtle shifts of the wind. During our hands-on sessions, you'll have the opportunity to design and test hull shapes, and even create your own racecourse for a mini regatta using radio-controlled boats. Additionally, students investigate the mechanics of sailing, learning about pulleys, levers, and other devices aboard a boat to comprehend mechanical advantages. SailLAB's interdisciplinary approach makes STEM subjects exciting and relevant by immersing students in the captivating world of sailing. 

This is a dynamic pilot programme, supported by Australian Sailing. The classroom-based sessions focus on inquiry, design, testing, and evaluation. It may culminate in an optional 1-2 day sailing adventure at a local yacht club, enriching students' understanding through practical activities. 

SailLAB nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and essential STEM skills, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural sciences. Join us on this educational adventure to inspire and equip students for the future.

Step into the exciting world of Computer Science and Game Design, where innovation, creativity, and problem‑solving collide. Code and Create is your gateway to understanding how the digital world works — from the hardware inside your computer to the powerful apps and games you use every day.

Learn how to design your own mobile apps, write real code, and explore how spreadsheets are used in industry to plan, budget, and design your dream gaming computer. Get hands‑on with digital tools as you uncover what makes computers run and how data drives decision‑making in today’s connected world.

Venture into the dynamic realm of Game Design and interactive entertainment. Explore the evolution of gaming artistry and discover the design principles behind the games you love. Work collaboratively with fellow creators to craft captivating game characters and visually stunning environments.

From initial concept to polished creation, you’ll experience the power of pixel‑based game development, learning the ins and outs of planning, designing, and building your own digital worlds. Along the way, you’ll create exciting multimedia promotions for your games and compete in fun, weekly gaming challenges.

Develop your character design skills as you sculpt iconic heroes and villains that players won’t forget. Whether you’re coding gameplay, designing art, or promoting your creation, you’ll be building real skills used in the game and technology industries.

Whether you’re passionate about technology or simply curious about how it all works, Code and Create will empower you with essential digital, creative, and problem‑solving skills for the future.

Future Pathways (Year 10)

Code and Create Advanced

Senior School Pathways

• Year 11 Computer Science (General)
• Year 11 Applied Information Technology (ATAR)

Step into the exciting world of Computer Science and Game Design, where innovation, creativity, and problem‑solving collide. Code and Create is your gateway to understanding how the digital world works — from the hardware inside your computer to the powerful apps and games you use every day.

Learn how to design your own mobile apps, write real code, and explore how spreadsheets are used in industry to plan, budget, and design your dream gaming computer. Get hands‑on with digital tools as you uncover what makes computers run and how data drives decision‑making in today’s connected world.

Venture into the dynamic realm of Game Design and interactive entertainment. Explore the evolution of gaming artistry and discover the design principles behind the games you love. Work collaboratively with fellow creators to craft captivating game characters and visually stunning environments.

From initial concept to polished creation, you’ll experience the power of pixel‑based game development, learning the ins and outs of planning, designing, and building your own digital worlds. Along the way, you’ll create exciting multimedia promotions for your games and compete in fun, weekly gaming challenges.

Develop your character design skills as you sculpt iconic heroes and villains that players won’t forget. Whether you’re coding gameplay, designing art, or promoting your creation, you’ll be building real skills used in the game and technology industries.

Whether you’re passionate about technology or simply curious about how it all works, Code and Create will empower you with essential digital, creative, and problem‑solving skills for the future.

Future Pathways (Year 10)

Code and Create Advanced

Senior School Pathways

• Year 11 Computer Science (General)
• Year 11 Applied Information Technology (ATAR)

The Year 9 Film and Television course marks the beginning of specialisation within the Media pathway, focusing on the development of both practical production skills and critical understanding. Students explore a range of media forms, including film, television, and digital content, while examining how stories are constructed and how audiences are engaged. 

Through collaborative projects, students develop skills in storyboarding, filming, editing, and sound design, while also learning about production roles and responsibilities. This course provides a strong foundation for further study in film and media, preparing students for the Year 10 Film pathway.

The Year 9 Design and Photography course introduces students to visual communication through photography and advertising. Students develop technical skills in composition, camera techniques, and image construction, while also exploring how media influences audiences through advertising. 

Using the SWAT code framework, students analyse and create media products, including a photography portfolio and both television and radio advertisements. This course builds students’ visual literacy and creative confidence, preparing them for further study in design and photography.

Semester One 

Welcome to the world of stitches, imagination and self-expression. Our Year 9 sewing course is designed to ignite your passion for sewing and fashion, helping to unlock your creative potential. From crafting plush furry cushions, to designing and making your own personalised hoodie, this course promises to be an  inspiring journey. 

Course Highlights:

• Plush furry cushions: Huggable creations
• Personalised Hoodies: Style that speaks
• Fashion Drawings: Sketch your dreams
• Soft toy magic: sewing with a smile
• Upskilling in sewing 

Future Pathways (Semester 2 and Year 10) 

• Sewing Unleashed - Creative Textiles (Year 9 Semester 2)
• Discovering the Art of Sustainable Sewing (Year 10 Semester 1)

Semester Two 

Prepare to embark on an exciting sewing adventure that will awaken your inner designer an let your  creativity soar! Our Year 9 sewing course is a thrilling journey into the world of textile artistry and  craftmanship. In this course you’ll delve into the world of stitches and fabrics, creating unique and  meaningful textile projects that showcase your personality and style. 

Course Highlights:

• Designer Floor Cushion: Your personal oasis
• Hand Embroidered Photo Art: Stitched memories
• Stippled Makeup Pouch: Craftmanship in miniature 
• Own Choice Project: Choose your own sewing adventure. Receive expert guidance and support to bring your vision to life. 

Future Pathways:

• Discovering the Art of Sustainable Sewing: Year 10 Semester One

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other? Join us for an exciting Year 9 Cooking Course that will ignite your passion for food, nourishment, and creativity. Our course, Ready, Steady, Cook, is designed to excite your taste buds, challenge your culinary skills, and deepen your understanding of the culinary world. 

Course Highlights: 

• The Art of Nutrition.
• Mastering Advanced Techniques and Skills.
• Plating Perfection
• The Importance of Sustainability in the Kitchen. 

Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the world of food, nutrition, and sustainability in an exciting and hands-on way. 

Future Pathways (Semester 2 and Year 10)

• Baking Mastery: Creating Delicious Delight (Year 9 Semester Two)
• Culinary Creations: A Touch of Class (Year 10 Semester Two) 

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with flour, sugar, and endless creativity? Look no further! Our Baking Mastery course is here to unleash your inner pastry chef and take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure. Get ready to roll up your sleeves, don your apron, and dive into the sweet world of baking! 

Course Highlights:

• Have a deep understanding of the science and art of baking.
• Be able to create a wide variety of delicious baked goods from scratch.
• Develop a sense of culinary creativity and innovation. 
• Cultivate essential life skills that extend beyond the kitchen. Join us in the kitchen, where memories are made, and dreams rise like perfectly proofed dough. 

Future Pathways (Year 10)

• Culinary Odyssey: Around The World in 20 Days! (Year 10 Semester One)
• The Art of Cake Decorating  (Year 10 Semester One) • Culinary Creations: A Touch of Class (Year 10 Semester Two)