Curriculum Guide: Year 9

Health and Physical Education

The Year 9 Health and Physical Education program challenges students to apply and refine their understanding of movement, fitness and wellbeing. Through units including Fitness, Invasion Games, Racquet Sports, Team Sports and SEPEP Netball, students develop skills in physical performance, strategy and teamwork.

Students engage in a personal fitness journey, exploring training principles such as strength, flexibility and conditioning through activities including aquatics and gym-based programs. They develop skills in goal setting, performance tracking and reflection, while the SEPEP unit introduces coaching, leadership and collaboration.

In Health, students examine key issues including risk-taking behaviours, relationships, drugs and alcohol, and fuelling for performance, exploring the impact of nutrition on wellbeing.
Across the course, students build confidence, resilience and the ability to make informed decisions that support lifelong health and active participation.

Humanities

The Year 9 Humanities course encourages students to understand the world around them through the study of geography, history, politics, civics and citizenship, and economics.

Through Feed the World, students explore global interconnections, sustainability and the impact of globalisation on food production and distribution. The World War I unit investigates the causes, experiences and consequences of conflict, with a focus on individuals and societies in the Australian context. In Our Nation, students examine Australia’s development, identity and civic structures, considering how society has been shaped over time.

Across the course, students analyse sources, evaluate perspectives and communicate ideas effectively. They develop inquiry, research and analytical skills while engaging thoughtfully with complex national and global issues.

数学

The Year 9 Mathematics curriculum develops students’ confidence and capability in applying mathematical concepts across a range of mathematical and practical contexts. The course builds fluency, reasoning and problem-solving skills through a sequence of interconnected topics.

Students strengthen foundational skills in Algebra before extending their understanding through Trigonometry, Index Laws and Surds, Linear Relationships, Statistics and Quadratics. Practical applications of mathematics are explored through Measurement and Financial Mathematics, helping students develop skills relevant to everyday life and future study.

Across all units, students are encouraged to think logically, justify their reasoning and communicate their understanding clearly, preparing them for further study in senior mathematics.

Science

The Year 9 Science curriculum consolidates and extends students’ scientific understanding while developing their ability to think critically, analyse evidence and apply scientific knowledge to contemporary issues.

Students explore key concepts across all scientific disciplines through units including Control Yourself, Chemistry – Up an Atom, Carbon Nation and Making Waves, alongside a dedicated skills-based unit focused on investigation design, data analysis and problem-solving.

Areas of study include:

• Biological Sciences – the role of the nervous system in maintaining homeostasis
• Chemical Sciences – chemical reactions and the formation of ions
• Physical Sciences – electrical circuits and energy transfer
• Earth and Space Sciences – plate tectonics and their impact on communities

Students design and conduct investigations with increasing independence, applying the scientific method to test hypotheses, collect and analyse data, and evaluate the reliability of results. Assessment includes tests, practical investigations, research tasks and examinations.

Learning emphasises the application of scientific concepts to contemporary issues including sustainability, energy use and human impact on natural systems. The course provides an important foundation for Year 10 Science and future VCE science pathways.

Café Program

The Year 9 Café Program provides students with an immersive introduction to hospitality, teamwork and enterprise through practical, hands-on learning experiences.

Across the eight-day program, students develop and operate a café business enterprise with a strong focus on food safety, customer service, sustainability and budgeting. Students work in a range of roles within the café environment, developing practical skills alongside an understanding of marketing, team management and hospitality operations.

The program includes the nationally recognised unit of competency SITXFSA005 Use Hygienic Practices for Food Safety from Certificate I in Hospitality/Kitchen Operations. Students who successfully demonstrate competency receive a Statement of Attainment that may support future employment opportunities within the hospitality industry.

Students are required to obtain a Unique Student Identifier (USI) to undertake this VET qualification.

Design and Technology

Learning in Design and Technology encourages students to think creatively, solve problems and develop practical solutions to real-world challenges. Through hands-on and digital learning experiences, students explore design thinking, engineering, coding, fabrication and innovation while developing technical, analytical and collaborative skills.

Students engage in iterative design processes, moving from concept development through to testing, refinement and presentation. Across the elective offerings, students are encouraged to experiment, take creative risks and apply their learning in purposeful and authentic contexts.

Web Solutions for Business

A high-quality digital presence is an important connection between businesses and their communities. Web Solutions for Business introduces students to web development and digital consultancy through practical design challenges.

Students work as digital consultants, analysing the needs of an existing local business, author or community organisation before designing and developing a professional multi-page website. Using web authoring software, students transition from visual block-coding to more advanced text-based web architecture.

A digital portfolio documents the full creative journey, including research, planning, design iterations and evaluation. At the conclusion of the course, students present both their final product and the process used to develop it.

Product Design and Technology

Year 9 Product Design and Technology encourages students to think creatively and critically about the environmental impact of design through hands-on fabrication and practical problem-solving.

Using the design thinking process, students identify problems, generate ideas and prototype sustainable solutions using resistant materials. Students develop practical workshop skills while considering sustainable practices, material selection and environmental impact.

The course combines technical skill development with creativity and critical thinking, preparing students to become thoughtful designers who contribute positively to a more sustainable future.

Robotics

Robotics introduces students to automation, coding and engineering through practical and collaborative learning experiences.

Students develop programming skills while exploring robotics components including sensors, actuators and controllers. Through project-based learning, students design and build robotic systems that respond to real-world challenges.

The course develops problem-solving, collaboration and digital literacy skills while providing a strong foundation for future study in engineering, computer science and related technologies.

Advanced Game Development

Interactive digital products such as games play a significant role in communication and entertainment. Advanced Game Development extends students’ understanding of programming concepts and computational thinking through the creation of interactive digital experiences.

Students take on the role of game developers, analysing user needs before designing and developing an original game for a targeted audience. Using Python programming, students strengthen logical reasoning, algorithmic thinking and user experience design skills while creating sophisticated digital products.

Streetwear Design

Streetwear Design develops students’ fashion design skills through the creation of original garments and accessories for an identified customer.

Using the Double Diamond Design Process, students develop design briefs, create prototypes and produce garments using commercial patterns and sewing machine techniques. Students build practical skills in garment construction, fabric selection, fashion illustration and creative sewing.

The course also explores the global and local fashion industry, examining the impact of celebrity culture, social media and fast fashion. Students document their design process through process journals and showcase their work through a fashion parade and exhibition.

This subject provides a strong foundation for future study in Fashion and Textiles and Product Design and Technology.

Systems Engineering

Systems Engineering introduces students to engineering principles through design thinking, electronics and practical problem-solving.

Students investigate mechanics, structures and electronic circuits while developing skills in building and programming components to solve real-world problems. Using the Double Diamond Design Process, students identify needs, generate ideas and develop practical solutions involving sensors, controllers and automation systems.

The course encourages students to consider environmental impact and ethical design while building technical capability, creative thinking and problem-solving skills. It provides a strong foundation for future study in Systems Engineering and related technology pathways.

Languages

Learning in Languages supports students to become confident communicators and culturally aware global citizens. Through the study of Chinese, French and German, students develop their ability to communicate across languages and cultures while strengthening their understanding of diverse perspectives and experiences.

Students build confidence in speaking, listening, reading, writing and viewing through purposeful and authentic learning experiences. Across all language pathways, students develop independence, intercultural understanding and communication skills that support future study, travel and engagement in an increasingly interconnected world. Languages will encompass two of the six elective choices in Year 9. It is a year-long course and is a continuation of the language studied in Year 7 and Year 8.

Chinese (Mandarin)

The Year 9 Chinese curriculum builds on the foundations developed in Years 7 and 8, supporting students to become more confident, independent and globally aware communicators. Students continue in either the Second Language or Background Language pathway, strengthening their language skills while deepening their understanding of Chinese culture and the global significance of one of the world’s most influential languages.

In the Second Language pathway, students extend their learning through practical and relevant topics such as countries and languages, school life, communication, weather, health and hobbies. In the Background Language pathway, students develop greater fluency through more complex themes including family relationships, friendships, personal interests, travel and future study.

Across both pathways, students strengthen their speaking, listening, reading, writing and viewing skills while communicating with increasing accuracy, cultural awareness and independence. Through purposeful learning experiences, students develop the confidence, intercultural understanding and communication skills needed for future study and engagement in an increasingly interconnected world.

French

The Year 9 French curriculum builds on the foundations established in Years 7 and 8, supporting students to become more expressive, confident and culturally aware communicators.

Students explore units including Sur le départ (Getting Ready to Travel), En plein air (Outdoors and Leisure), À ta santé (Health and Wellbeing), and Mes dernières vacances (My Recent Holidays). Through these topics, students communicate about travel, lifestyle and personal experiences while developing greater confidence in using French creatively and accurately.

Across the course, students strengthen their speaking, listening, reading, writing and viewing skills while expanding vocabulary and deepening grammatical understanding. Students communicate across different time frames, allowing them to tell stories, share experiences and express ideas with increasing sophistication.
Through dynamic learning experiences, students develop fluency, intercultural understanding and the confidence to engage with a global community.

German

The Year 9 German curriculum builds on the foundations developed in Years 7 and 8, supporting students to become confident, independent and adventurous communicators.

Students explore units including Nichts wie weg! (Let’s Get Away!), Sport ist Mord! (Sport and Lifestyle), Chaos oder Ordnung? (Home and Living), and Auf Schnäppchenjagd! (Shopping and Consumer Choices). Through these topics, students communicate about travel, lifestyle, home life and everyday experiences while developing confidence in expressing opinions and sharing ideas.

Across the course, students strengthen their speaking, listening, reading, writing and viewing skills while expanding vocabulary and refining grammar. Through meaningful learning experiences, students develop practical communication skills, intercultural understanding and the independence needed for future study, exchange opportunities and global engagement.

音乐

Year 9 Music develops students as creative, skilled and reflective musicians through listening, composing and performing.

Students build on their understanding of the elements of music while analysing, interpreting and creating music across a range of styles, cultures and historical contexts, including First Nations perspectives. They refine technical and expressive skills as soloists and ensemble performers while developing confidence in composition and arrangement.

Through these experiences, students strengthen their aural, analytical and collaborative skills while understanding music as an important cultural, social and personal form of expression.

Music Performance

Music Performance develops students’ ability to create, perform and respond to music while building both individual and ensemble skills.

Students explore the elements of music through composing, performing and listening to a range of musical styles, periods and cultures. Personal inquiry tasks deepen understanding while supporting creative and organisational development.

This elective is ideal for students who enjoy performing, composing and exploring music through practical and collaborative learning experiences.

Music Technology

Music Technology is designed for students interested in creating, recording, remixing and producing music using contemporary digital tools.

Students explore studio production, sound design, live performance, gaming audio and DJ-style techniques using digital audio workstations and music technologies. Through these experiences, students create original tracks, manipulate sound, experiment with sampling and remixing, and explore how technology supports musical creativity.

The course supports pathways into music technology and production, with Year 9 studies contributing toward Certificate II in Music Industry and preparation for future VCE VET Music pathways.

Certificate II in Music Industry (CUA20620)
Year 9 Units of Competency

• BSBWHS211- Contribute to health and safety of self and others (Core)
• CUAIND211- Develop and apply creative arts industry knowledge (Core)
• CUAMCP211- Incorporate technology into music making (Elective)
• CUAMPF213- Perform simple repertoire in ensembles (Elective)

表演艺术

Learning in the Performing Arts empowers students to explore creativity, collaboration and communication through dynamic and practical learning experiences. Through Dance, Theatre Studies and Theatre Technology, students learn to express ideas, tell stories and respond to the world around them using movement, performance and design.

Students develop transferable skills including confidence in public speaking, creative problem-solving, empathy and critical thinking. Participating in the Performing Arts also strengthens resilience, collaboration and self-awareness while enriching students’ broader learning experience.

Dance

Year 9 Dance explores the art of choreography and performance, allowing students to transform ideas into movement.

Students take inspiration from influential choreographers and contemporary dance styles, discovering how dance communicates stories and emotion. Through a range of practical experiences, students experiment with movement while developing technical skill, expressive performance and creative confidence.

Students work both independently and collaboratively to create original performances while learning how to train safely and care for their bodies through the development of strength, flexibility and control.

The course encourages students to take creative risks, challenge themselves and experience the excitement of performance within a supportive and inspiring environment.

Theatre Technology

The Theatre Technology elective provides students with hands-on experience in stagecraft and theatre design, exploring how technical elements bring performances to life.

Students participate in workshops covering direction, set design, lighting, costume, props, sound and production. Through the theatre design process, students generate ideas, develop concepts and present a final design through models and pitches.

The course culminates in a collaborative project in which students construct a life-size element of their design, strengthening skills in communication, organisation and teamwork. Students also work alongside the Theatre and Technical team on co-curricular events, gaining authentic practical experience.

This subject provides a strong foundation for students interested in the design stream of VCE Theatre Studies.

Theatre Studies

The Theatre Studies elective provides students with opportunities to refine and extend their performance skills through the exploration of realistic and non-naturalistic theatre.

Students engage in practical performance, critical analysis and reflective practice while developing greater sophistication in how they create and interpret dramatic work. They explore character development, text analysis and dramaturgy before collaborating to devise ensemble performances inspired by physical, epic and absurd theatre traditions.

Across the semester, students document and reflect on their creative process while building confidence, critical thinking and expressive performance skills.

视觉艺术

Learning in the Visual Arts engages students in a wide range of practical and analytical experiences, combining seeing, thinking, feeling and creating through visual language.

Students explore traditional and contemporary art and design practices while experimenting with materials, techniques, concepts and technologies. Through these experiences, students develop creative confidence, analytical thinking and the ability to communicate ideas visually.

Art

The Year 9 Art elective provides students with opportunities to develop their creative voice and explore how art communicates meaning and connection.

Through the units Finding Your Style and Art that Connects, students experiment with a range of materials, techniques and artistic approaches while developing their own visual language and personal style.

Students engage in practical and analytical tasks, reflecting on both their creative process and the work of others. The course supports the development of creativity, technical skill and critical thinking while providing a strong foundation for future study in Visual Arts.

Media

The Year 9 Media elective introduces students to the evolving world of media, exploring how stories are created and communicated across film, television, print and digital platforms.

Students engage in units including The Making Process and Lights, Camera, Create, where they plan, storyboard, film and edit their own productions. Using digital equipment and editing software, students bring creative ideas to life while developing skills in visual storytelling.

Students work both collaboratively and independently, documenting their production process and exploring authentic media practices through workshops, excursions and film screenings.

This folio-based subject provides a strong foundation for future study in Media and creative industries pathways.

Photography

The Year 9 Photography elective explores the creative and technical processes of analogue and digital photography.

In Into the Darkroom, students experiment with traditional darkroom techniques and explore the role of photography in visual art history. In Digital Image Making, students develop skills in digital photography using DSLR cameras and the Adobe Creative Suite while exploring composition, lighting and perspective.
Students document their ideas, research and experimentation through a folio and process journal while refining their ability to present and communicate creative work.

This subject provides a strong foundation for future study in Photography and creative industries pathways.

VCD Architecture and Graphics

The Year 9 VCD – Architecture and Graphics elective introduces students to the principles and practices of architectural and visual communication design.

Students investigate units including Built By Design and Design the Message, exploring how architecture and design shape the built environment and communicate ideas. Students develop skills in two- and three-dimensional drawing, rendering, model making and digital design using both traditional materials and the Adobe Creative Suite.

Working within a folio-based structure, students document their design process from concept through to final presentation while building confidence in presenting creative ideas and solutions.

This subject provides a strong foundation for future study in Visual Communication Design and pathways into architecture and design industries.

社区生活

Community Life is a dedicated period embedded within the daily learning program where students participate in experiences that support wellbeing, connection and belonging.

Structured through the House system, Community Life Mentors work closely with students at each year level to strengthen relationships, support personal growth and foster a strong sense of community.

A central component of Community Life is Thrive, encompassing Social and Emotional Learning and Life & Faith for Years 7–12. These lessons support students in developing healthy identities, managing emotions, building empathy and establishing positive relationships.

Community Life also includes assemblies, House events, sport, Thrive, Upskill and Literacy and Numeracy Masterclasses, contributing to a rich and engaging school experience.

APS Sport

Sport is an important part of life at Caulfield Grammar School, providing students with opportunities to develop skills, confidence and a strong sense of belonging within a supportive and inclusive environment.

Through participation in APS and AGSV competitions, alongside regional, state and national interschool events, students experience both performance and participation pathways across a wide range of sports.

The program encourages teamwork, resilience and active lifestyles while helping students balance wellbeing, learning and personal growth.

Wheelers Hill 校园

Heads of Faculty