2021 YEAR 7 CURRICULUM HANDBOOK - PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT - MAPS marketing
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PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
YEAR 7
CURRICULUM
HANDBOOK
2021
PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
1 - CONTENTS
MONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
College Bell Times
SESSION BEGINS ENDS
Home Group 8.55 am 9.05 am
Period 1 9.07 am 10.05 am
Period 2 10.05 am 11.03 am
Recess 11.03 am 11.33 am
Period 3 11.33am 12.31pm
Period 4 12.31pm 1.29 pm
Lunch 1.29pm 2.14 pm
Period 5 2.14 pm 3.12 pm
Buses Depart 3.30pm approximately
PRINCIPAL
Mr Allan Robinson
ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS
Ms Clara Di Biase
Mr Mark Lohrey
JUNIOR SCHOOL LEADER (Year 7)
Ms Sonia Culcasi
YEAR 7 COORDINATORS 2020
Ms Belinda Bell
Ms Gemma Pearson
BUSINESS MANAGER
Mrs Lisa Ball
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Ms Cathy Green
MONTMORENCY
SECONDARY COLLEGE
Para Road Montmorency VIC 3094
Tel 9422 1500
Email montmorency.sc@education.vic.gov.au
2 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021
PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
College Bell Times 2
Our Values 4
Montmorency Secondary College Introduction to Year 7 5
Pastoral Care 6
General Information 7
Uniform Requirements 10
Child Safe Code of Conduct 11
Student Wellbeing and Engagement Policy (Extract) 12
Mobile Phones 13
Mobile Phones – Student Use Policy 13
Resource Centre 16
College Canteen 16
College Grounds 16
Homework and Use of the Study Planner 17
Careers Guidance 18
Year 7 Curriculum Outline 19
Montmorency Secondary College 7-9 Curriculum Grid 20
Subject Descriptions
MATHEMATICS 21
ENGLISH 22
SCIENCE 23
HUMANITIES 24
History 24
Geography 24
Civics and Citizenship 25
Economics and Business 25
LANGUAGES 26
French 26
Japanese 26
PHYSICAL EDUCATION 27
HEALTH AND HUMAN RELATIONS / PASTORAL CARE 28
ART 29
VISUAL COMMUNICATION 30
DRAMA 31
FOOD STUDIES 31
TECHNOLOGY/WOOD/METAL 32
MUSIC 32
3 - CONTENTS
MONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
Our Values
Courage is being able to
face difficulty and uncertainty
without being overcome by fear
or being deflected from a chosen
course of action
Courage
Teamwork Friendship is a
is when we mutual feeling
commit to work of trust and
co-operatively affection that
towards a Teamwork Friendship obligates people
common vision to be there for
each other
Happiness is the Achievement is
satisfaction and Happiness Achievement having a dream
contentment or aspiration and
that comes from acknowledging
developing and the milestones
maintaining positive reached along
relationships Trust the way
with others
Trust is when we
believe in ourselves
and each other and
rely on each other in all
circumstances
4 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021
PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
Montmorency Secondary College
Introduction to Year 7
In Year 7 at Montmorency Secondary College, the focus is on supporting our students to
experience a smooth transition into secondary school. Students learn to navigate through a
more complex physical and learning environment. They learn to effectively cope with a greater
number of subjects, teachers, fellow students and co-curricular programs.
The College has a strong, well developed Pastoral Care program focused on supporting students
through their transition, to maximise their learning opportunities and take advantage of the
many programs which the College provides.
• P
rior to the arrival of our Year 7 students, members of our Year 7 Sub-School team visit some
of our local primary schools or alternatively, make contact with relevant teachers from local
primary schools, to gather information about each student’s academic and social development.
• Orientation Day, held early in December, allows Grade 6 students enrolled at our College an
opportunity to experience a day at secondary school. Students meet their teachers, learn
about the timetable and where everything is located and meet Year 10 Bigger Buddies.
• Year 10 Bigger Buddies work closely with the Year 7 students, particularly at the beginning of
the year, to support students and help address any concerns they may have.
• T
he Year 7 Camp is held early in the school year to support student transition into secondary
school. It focuses on establishing friendships, confidence, problem solving and team spirit.
• W
ithin the College Pastoral Care program, Year 7 Home Group teachers teach their class for
one or more subjects. This enables Home Group teachers to get to know the students as
quickly as possible and be aware of any transition issues that may arise.
• In Term 1, the College runs a Pastoral Care/Music Night for all Year 7 students and their families.
This information night provides parents with additional information about the Year 7 Pastoral
Care program and the opportunities available for students to be involved in the Instrumental
Music Program.
Students are asked to make a language selection of either Japanese or French and students are
placed in language specific Home Group classes. Much care is taken to ensure that each student
is placed in a Home Group that supports personal, emotional and social development and the
child’s health and wellbeing.
5 - CONTENTS
MONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
Pastoral Care
We are sometimes asked ‘’What is Pastoral Care?”. Pastoral care refers to initiatives that are
implemented to support the whole student, encompassing their personal, social, academic and
emotional wellbeing. These initiatives are fully integrated into the culture of the school and
they include teachers, students and the wider school community.
At Montmorency Secondary College we strive for quality pastoral care. Our Principal Team,
teachers, wellbeing and education support staff all share a common positive goal to create
a culture where inclusivity is pivotal. Our aim is to ensure that all students at the College are
happy, engaged, involved and performing to their full potential.
For Year 7 students in particular, the transition from primary school to secondary school is both
a social and academic turning point and, at Montmorency Secondary College, we ensure our
Year 7 students have access to strong support networks at this exciting but challenging time.
These networks include their family, teachers and their peers and they are a critical component
of our pastoral care program here at the College. Our ‘Bigger Buddies’ program, which assigns
selected Year 10 students to a Year 7 Home Group, has been a wonderful success and a key
support for our transitioning Year 7 students.
We employ various strategies to ensure Year 7 students receive the best pastoral care including
an innovative Year 7 Home Group structure. From Year 7, students are grouped into Home
Groups that spend the first 10 minutes of each day together. The Year 7 Home Group teachers
also teach their Home Group students for at least one
subject – the result of this consistent interaction is
the close bond which develops between the
Home Group teachers and their students.
For this reason, we generally try to
ensure the Home Group teachers
remain with their Home Group
until Year 9.
Early in Term 1, the Year 7
students enjoy a camp which
is designed to help the
new students get to know
their peers and teachers,
to make friends and to
bond. Students often tell
us that the Year 7 Camp is
the highlight of their first
year at secondary school as
they recount how many new
friendships were formed in
days filled with exciting group
activities.
If your family has any concerns
about your child in their time at
Montmorency Secondary College,
your first point of contact is to discuss
these concerns with their assigned Home
Group Teacher.
6 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021
PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
General Information
Attendance
• Regular, punctual attendance at school is essential.
• Attendance in all classes, including assemblies, is compulsory.
Absences
• A note from the Parent/Guardian is required to explain each student absence.
• If a student is absent for more than one day, parents are requested to notify the College by
either email or by phoning the General Office.
Arriving Late to School
• Students, who arrive after the class roll has been taken during Home Group, should report to
the General Office to sign in and collect a Late Pass.
• A note from a Parent/Guardian, explaining the student’s late arrival, should be provided to
the General Office, or alternatively, the Parent/Guardian should telephone the General Office,
providing a reason for their child’s late arrival.
• Students who do not provide an acceptable reason for being late to school may be given detention.
Arriving Late to Class
• A student who arrives late to any class disrupts the work of the class. The College requires
all students to be on time. Persistent lateness will be dealt with by the class teacher and the
problem referred to the Level Coordinator if punctuality does not improve.
Leaving School Early
• Students are not permitted to leave the College grounds during the school day without permission.
• It is expected that students will make dental, medical and other appointments, outside school
hours wherever possible.
• If a student needs to leave school early for any reason, the following procedure should be followed:
1. The student should have a note from the Parent/Guardian requesting permission for the
student to leave school at the specified time.
2. Upon arrival at school, the student is to take the note to their Level
Coordinator, who will then sign the note and return it to the student.
3. The student then presents the signed note to their class teacher when they need to leave.
4. Once the student leaves class, they will present the note to the General Office staff and
sign out using Xuno. The office staff will retain the note for attendance recording.
5. If the student needs to return to school later in the day, or following the appointment, they
should report to the General Office and sign in.
• It is important that class interruptions are kept to a minimum. Wherever possible, parent/
guardians are asked to avoid telephoning the College in order to have students paged or
dismissed from class and should follow the above procedure instead.
Communication with the College
• Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact the Year Level Leader or Coordinator, Student
Wellbeing Coordinator, Careers Teacher, Principal or Assistant Principals by emailing or
telephoning the College on 9422 1500.
• Interviews with class teachers may be arranged by telephoning or emailing the Year Level
Leader or Coordinator.
7 - CONTENTS
MONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
Assessment and Reporting
• Detailed Semester reports are uploaded to the Xuno Portal for Parents/Guardians to access at
the end of Terms 2 and 4.
• Brief Interim reports are uploaded to the Xuno Portal at the end of Terms 1 and 3.
• Parent/Teacher interviews are usually held at the end of Terms 1 and 3.
Newsletter and Notices
• The College Newsletter is emailed to Parents/Guardians approximately 10 times a year.
• The College issues notices to Parents/Guardians from time to time. Some notices, for example,
those providing details of excursions, require a response. Parents are advised to keep a close
eye on the Xuno Portal for all notices.
Personal Property
• Unnecessary expensive equipment should not be brought to school.
• The College will accept no responsibility for the care of these items.
• Everyone must respect the personal property of others.
Lost Property
• Any items found, should be handed into the General Office.
• Lost property is stored in the General Office and items left behind after PE class may be stored
in the Stadium’s PE office.
• All items should be clearly labelled with the owner’s name. This applies especially to uniform
items and valuable items such as phones, iPads, calculators, many of which are identical in make
and model.
• Students should avoid bringing valuable items to school that are not required for classwork.
Bags
• Student lockers will accommodate a standard-sized bag.
• Students’ bags should be clearly labelled with their name.
• Bags must not be taken into the classrooms. They are to be stored in lockers.
• The PE uniform should be carried in the College backsack or a separate carry bag.
Lockers and Padlocks
• Each student is allocated a locker. The locker should be kept in a tidy condition. The contents
of the locker may be inspected by staff at any time.
• Lockers should be locked at all times using the school-issued padlocks only. The College takes
no responsibility for the securing of students’ possessions.
• Cutting of replacement padlock keys can be arranged by completing an order form in the
General Office and paying $5.00 to the College Bursar.
• If a locker requires repair, students are required to complete a Locker Repair Slip, available at
the General Office, and provide details of what is required.
• If a locker key has been left at home, a student is required to see their Level
Coordinator to have the locker opened with a master key. Books and equipment required for
the day should then be carried with the student.
• Lockers may not be visited between periods, or during class time, except for the purpose of
collecting or returning PE uniform. A student may visit a locker in class time only if the class
teacher has given written permission.
8 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
Illness and First Aid
• Students who become ill should advise their classroom teacher that they are feeling unwell
and receive permission to report to Sick Bay, located in the General Office.
• Students who report to the Sick Bay will be attended to by the College Nurse and,
if necessary, parents will be contacted.
• It is important that a current emergency telephone number is listed on each student’s school
record. Any change to the home address, work address and telephone numbers or emergency
contact should be provided to the General Office immediately.
• It is important that a current medical plan for Anaphylaxis, Asthma, Diabetes and/or Epilepsy
is provided to the General Office or College Nurse.
Environment Duty
• Students in Years 7 to 9 will be required to do “Enviro” Duty on one or two occasions per year.
• “Enviro” Duty involves clearing the College grounds of litter, emptying paper recycling bins in
the College and assisting the General Office staff with general errands.
Personal Counselling
• Where students have personal problems that are affecting their wellbeing, they may discuss
these matters with the Student Wellbeing Coordinator.
• Parents may also contact the Student Wellbeing Coordinator by telephoning the College on
9422 1500.
9 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
Uniform Requirements
It is expected that all students will be wearing the correct College uniform as described below.
All uniform items are available for purchase from Academy Uniforms.
GIRLS UNIFORM BOYS UNIFORM
SUMMER SUMMER
° MSC Summer Dress ° MSC Grey Shorts
° Long or short plain white socks ° MSC Long or Short Sleeve White Shirt
° MSC Green Wool Jumper (Years 7 to 10) (with MSC Logo)
° MSC Black Wool Jumper (Years 11 & 12) ° MSC Green Wool Jumper (Years 7 to 10)
° MSC Spray Jacket ° MSC Black Wool Jumper (Years 11 & 12)
° Black leather T-Bar, Black Leather ° MSC Spray Jacket
Mary Janes or Black leather lace-up shoes ° Plain White Socks (no logo)
° Black Leather Lace-up Shoes
WINTER WINTER
° MSC Winter Skirt or MSC Long Black ° MSC Long Grey Trouser
Tailored Pants (with MSC Logo) ° MSC Long or Short Sleeve White Shirt
° MSC White Short or Long Sleeve Shirt (with MSC Logo)
(with MSC Logo) ° MSC Green Wool Jumper (Years 7 to 10)
° MSC Green Wool Jumper (Years 7 to 10) ° MSC Black Wool Jumper (Years 11 & 12)
° MSC Spray Jacket ° MSC Spray Jacket
° Black Tights or Black or ° Plain White or Grey Socks (no logo)
Plain White Short Socks
° Black Leather Lace-up Shoes
° Black leather T-Bar, Black Leather
Mary Janes or Black leather lace-up shoes
PE/SPORT UNIFORM
° MSC Microfibre Sport Shorts
° MSC Microfibre Track Suit Pants
° MSC Sports Polo Top
° MSC Spray Jacket
° MSC PE Backsack (Optional - Purchase from North of the Yarra Booksellers)
OPTIONAL ITEMS
° MSC Blazer
° MSC Tie
° MSC School Bag
° MSC School Scarf
10 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
• The MSC uniform is to be worn as intended. It should be of appropriate size and length (as
determined by the College) and in a good state of repair. Holes/tears should not be present.
Shirts should not have buttons missing. Shoes should be cleaned.
• If you are in doubt about uniform requirements, please contact the College for advice or refer
to our College Uniform brochure.
• Students representing the College in competition sport must wear the correct PE uniform or
the specific uniform provided by the College.
• PE uniform should not be worn on the way to school. Students are expected to change into
their PE uniform prior to the commencement of their PE class and change back to correct
school uniform for subsequent classes.
• If students have a PE class Period 5 (and they are in the correct PE uniform) they may wear
their PE uniform home.
• Natural colour undergarments can be worn under the MSC short and long sleeve white shirt,
however they should not be visible or protrude from under the shirt.
Jewellery/Make-up/Hair
• Jewellery should be unobtrusive and safe.
• Make-up is not encouraged and, unless kept to a minimum, will need to be removed.
• Only clear nail polish is acceptable; other colours will need to be removed.
• Hair colour is limited to natural colours. Blue, green, purple or scarlet for example are not
acceptable and will need to be removed.
Child Safe Code of Conduct
Montmorency Secondary College is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and
young people. Our school community recognises the importance of, and a responsibility for,
ensuring our school is a safe, supportive and enriching environment which respects and fosters
the dignity and self-esteem of children and young people, and enables them to thrive in their
learning and development.
11 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
Student Wellbeing and Engagement Policy (Extract)
In keeping with the educational and learning philosophy of the College, the Student
Engagement and Wellbeing Policy has been devised to acknowledge and support the rights and
responsibilities of the College community.
Respect for one another is an important factor on which the policy has been developed. The
emphasis on student engagement links positive, productive behaviours to students who are
actively participating in their learning.
Students Rights and Responsibilities
All members of our school community have a right to experience a safe and supportive school
environment. We expect that all students, staff, parents and carers treat each other with respect
and dignity. Our school’s Vision and Values Statement highlights the rights and responsibilities of
members of our community.
Students have the right to:
• participate fully in their education
• feel safe, secure and happy at school
• learn in an environment free from bullying, harassment, violence, discrimination or intimidation
• express their ideas, feelings and concerns.
Students have the responsibility to:
• participate fully in their educational program
• display positive behaviours that demonstrate respect for themselves, their peers, their
teachers and members of the school community
• respect the right of others to learn.
Students who may have a complaint or concern about something that has happened at school
are encouraged to speak to their parents or carers and approach a trusted teacher, their Home
Group Teacher/Mentor, the Student Wellbeing Coordinator, their Level Coordinator or a member
of the school leadership team.
Student Behavioural Expectations
Behavioural expectations of students, staff and families are reflected through our school’s
Vision and Values Statement. Student bullying behaviour will be responded to consistently with
Montmorency Secondary Colleges Bullying Prevention Policy.
When a student acts in breach of the behaviour standards of our school community,
Montmorency Secondary College will institute a staged response, consistent with the
Department’s Student Engagement and Inclusion Guidelines. Where appropriate, parents will be
informed about the inappropriate behaviour and the disciplinary action taken by teachers and
other school staff.
Disciplinary measures may be used as part of a staged response to inappropriate behaviour.
These may be used in combination with other engagement and support strategies to ensure
that factors that may have contributed to the student’s behaviour are identified and addressed.
Disciplinary measures at our school will be applied fairly and consistently. Students will always be
provided with an opportunity to be heard.
The full Student Wellbeing and Engagement Policy can be found at http://montysc.vic.edu.au/
images/Docs/Policies/Student_Wellbeing/Student%20Wellbeing%20and%20Engagement%20
Policy.pdf
12 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
Mobile Phones
In accordance with the Department of Education’s Mobile Phones – Student Use Policy, issued
by the Minister for Education, personal mobile phones must not be used at Montmorency
Secondary College during school hours, including recess and lunchtime, unless an exception has
been granted.
Students who choose to bring mobile phones to school must have them switched off and
securely stored in their locker prior to Home Group and they are to remain there until school
dismissal at the end of the day.
Mobile Phones – Student Use Policy
Purpose
To explain to our school community the Victorian Department of Education and Training and
Montmorency Secondary College’s policy requirements and expectations relating to students
using mobile phones and other personal mobile devices during school hours.
Scope
This policy applies to:
• All students at Montmorency Secondary College and,
• Students’ personal mobile phones and other personal mobile devices brought onto school
premises during school hours, including recess and lunchtime.
Definitions
A mobile phone is a telephone with access to a cellular (telecommunication) system, with or
without a physical connection to a network. For the purpose of this policy, “mobile phone” refers
to mobile phones and any device that may connect to or have a similar functionality to a mobile
phone such as smart watches.
Policy
Montmorency Secondary College understands that students may bring a personal mobile phone
to school, particularly if they are travelling independently to and from school.
At Montmorency Secondary College:
• Students who choose to bring mobile phones to school must have them switched off and
securely stored during school hours
• Exceptions to this policy may be applied if certain conditions are met (see below for further
information)
• When emergencies occur, parents or carers should reach their child by calling the College’s
General Office.
Personal Mobile Phone Use
In accordance with the Department’s Mobile Phones Policy issued by the Minister for Education,
personal mobile phones must not be used at Montmorency Secondary College during school
hours, including lunchtime and recess, unless an exception has been granted.
Where a student has been granted an exception, the student must use their mobile phone for the
purpose for which the exception was granted and in a safe, ethical and responsible manner.
13 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
Secure Storage
Mobile phones and other personal mobile devices owned by students at Montmorency
Secondary College are considered valuable items and are brought to school at the owner’s
(student’s or parent/carer’s) risk. Please note that Montmorency Secondary College does
not have accident insurance for accidental property damage or theft. Students and their
parents/carers are encouraged to obtain appropriate insurance for valuable items. Refer to the
Montmorency Secondary College’s Personal Property Policy.
Where students bring a mobile phone or other personal mobile device to school, Montmorency
Secondary College will provide secure storage. Secure storage is storage that cannot be readily
accessed by those without permission to do so. At Montmorency Secondary College students
are required to store their phones in their lockers, which should be locked at all times, or,
alternatively, handed into the College’s General Office to be placed in a lockable cupboard or the
College safe.
Enforcement
Students who use their personal mobile phones or other personal mobile devices inappropriately
at Montmorency Secondary College will be instructed to hand over the item(s) and if the student
refuses to hand over the items, may be issued with relevant consequences consistent with our
College’s Student Wellbeing and Engagement Policy.
At Montmorency Secondary College, inappropriate use of mobile phones and other personal
mobile devices is any use during school hours, unless an exception has been granted, and
particularly use of a mobile phone:
• in any way that disrupts the learning of others
• to send inappropriate, harassing or threatening messages or phone calls
• to engage in inappropriate social media use including cyber bullying
• to capture video or images of people, including students, teachers and members of the school
community without their permission
• to capture video or images in the school toilets, changing rooms, swimming pools and gyms
• during exams and assessments.
14 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
Exceptions
Exceptions to this policy may be applied only if certain conditions are met (see below for further
information).
The three categories of exceptions allowed under the Department’s Mobile Phones Policy are:
1. Learning-related exceptions
Specific exception Documentation
For specific learning activities Unit of work, learning sequence
(class-based exception)
For students for whom a reasonable Individual Learning Plan
adjustment to a learning program is needed Individual Education Plan
because of a disability or
learning difficulty
2. Health and wellbeing-related exceptions
Specific exception Documentation
Students with a health condition Student Health Support Plan
Students who are Young Carers A localised student record
3. Exceptions related to managing risk when students are offsite
Specific exception Documentation
Travelling to and from excursions Risk assessment planning documentation
Students on excursions and camps Risk assessment planning documentation
When students are offsite (not on school Risk assessment planning documentation
grounds) and unsupervised with
parental permission
Students with a dual enrolment or who need Risk assessment planning documentation
to undertake intercampus travel
Where an exception is granted, the student can only use the mobile phone for the purpose for
which it was granted.
Camps, Excursions and Extracurricular Activities
Montmorency Secondary College will provide students and their parents and carers with
information about items that can or cannot be brought to camps, excursions, special activities
and events, including personal mobile phones and other personal mobile devices.
Exclusions
This policy does not apply to
• Out-of-school-hours events
• Travelling to and from school
• Students undertaking workplace learning activities, e.g. work experience
• Students who are undertaking VET
Related Policies and Resources
• Student Wellbeing and Engagement Policy
• Mobile Phones – Department Policy
• Personal Property Policy
15 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
Resource Centre
The Resource Centre has an extensive range of fiction and non-fiction books. The collection also
includes graphic novels, audio books and specialist books to support students with learning
difficulties. Internet access is provided. Printing and photocopying facilities are also available,
with two large colour copiers/printers. Students are able to borrow iPads (Years 7-9) and laptops
(Years 10-12) on short term loan.
The Resource Centre also has a large range of games and puzzles for students to use during
lunchtimes. Comfortable seating zones are provided for student use.
• A quiet working atmosphere is to be maintained in the Resource Centre at all times.
• The Resource Centre is open from 8.30am until 4.00pm each school day, however, it is not
open during recess.
College Canteen
The College canteen serves an assortment of hot and cold food and is open each day from
8.00am until 2.15pm. Lunch may be ordered through the canteen before school or purchased
from the canteen at lunchtime.
College Grounds
• After arriving at school, students must not leave the College grounds during school hours
without permission.
• Students must not have visitors in the school grounds and must not meet outsiders at the
College fence during the day.
• Visitors who have legitimate business in the College grounds are required to
sign in at the General Office and will be issued with a Visitor’s Pass.
• Students are encouraged to take care of the College grounds, gardens, recreational facilities
and buildings.
• Spitting and littering are inappropriate behaviours as they have a negative effect upon the
environment and the health and safety of the College community.
• Vandalism, including graffiti, caused to College property, will not be tolerated and there will be
serious consequences.
• Students must not be in the College buildings without permission and supervision of a teacher.
• Students should avoid stepping on, or walking through, the garden beds in the College Grounds.
• The courtyard areas are for passive recreation only. No vigorous ball games, running etc.
Out-of-Bounds Areas:
The following areas of the College Grounds are out-of-bounds to students:
• The carpark areas at the Dobson Road entrance of the College.
• The driveway and grounds alongside the Simms Road end of the College.
• The portable complex (P1-P10) during lunchtime and recess, unless the student is with a teacher.
• The path and stair areas at the rear of the gymnasium.
16 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
Travel to and from School
• Students are expected to behave appropriately when travelling to and
from school.
• Students may ride a bicycle to school provided that:
° a helmet is worn
° the bicycle is chained and locked in the College’s bicycle enclosure
° the bicycle is not ridden in the College grounds.
• Students who drive cars to school must park outside the College grounds or, alternatively, the
stadium car park is available for student parking.
• Skateboards, rollerblades and roller skates must not be brought to, or ridden, at school.
• For safety reasons, students who are driven to school should be dropped off in the area
marked “Drop-Off Zone” at the western end of the Dobson Road carpark.
Prohibited Substances
• Students are not permitted to bring cigarettes, vaporisers, smoking materials, alcohol, illegal
drugs or dangerous substances to school, to have any of these substances in their possession,
to use any of these substances at school or to be in the company of any person who is using
any of these substances.
• Permanent markers (Textas), steel rulers and chewing gum are not to be brought to school
because of the damage they can cause to school property.
Homework and Use of the Study Planner
Montmorency Secondary College expects students to further develop and consolidate their
independent learning skills by completing homework tasks. Homework has a positive effect on
learning and is an important part of reinforcing the concepts that are introduced in class. It also
plays a significant role in building work ethic, self-discipline and responsibility.
To facilitate this all students at Montmorency Secondary College are issued with a homework
study planner. Students are expected to take the study planner to all classes to record
homework, tests and assignments, etc. Regular use of the study planner helps to develop sound
organisational skills. The study planner informs parents of the study commitments of your
child in each subject. We encourage parents/guardians to check the study planner regularly to
monitor their child’s progress and assist them in planning their time in order to complete tasks.
The study planner is a useful means of communication with teachers.
Homework will generally be between 45 and 90 minutes per day, increasing with progress
through the year levels. It may be set during weekends and school vacations, as well. Where no
formal homework is set it is expected that students read. The Resource Centre is also available
for student use out of school hours.
Homework may consist of, (but not limited to):
• Independent reading on a daily basis,
• Tasks such as continuation of classroom work, projects and assignments, essays and research.
17 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
Careers Guidance
The Careers program focuses on building students’ ability to explore and self-identify strengths
and limitations through a staged series of experiences and programs designed to help make
informed choices. In Year 7, all students complete an online Career Action Plan (CAP) in the
student secure area of the Montmorency Careers Website. Students continuously access this
throughout their secondary school life providing them with a comprehensive career portfolio. The
Montmorency Careers Website www.montmorencycareers.com is the resource hub for all things
careers for students and parents. The website provides a wealth of information including; Senior
School Pathways, Post School Options, Workplace Learning, Parents and Students sections.
Michael Weeding
Careers & Post Compulsory Pathways Coordinator
Tel: (+613) 9422 1625
Email: Michael.Weeding@education.vic.gov.au
18 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
Year 7 Curriculum Outline
(Please also refer to the Curriculum Grid on the next page)
Montmorency Secondary College provides a contemporary student-centred, diverse curriculum
program that embeds the curriculum essentials and gives students considerable choice. Support
for this approach is strong and students, staff and the school community have responded to it
with enthusiasm and purpose.
The curriculum runs on a two-week timetable with twenty-five, 58 minute periods per week. The
school day starts at 8.55 am with a 10 minute Home Group. A Home Group system runs across
the college from Year 7 to Year 11, with Year 12 students allocated a Mentor teacher.
Essential Learning Standards (Victorian Curriculum F-10)
The Essential Learning Standards describe what is essential for students to achieve from Years
Prep to 10. This informs our whole school curriculum planning framework and sets out learning
standards that we use to develop our teaching and learning programs. We offer a guaranteed
and viable curriculum for all students focused on sustainable excellence in teaching practice,
student engagement and high performance.
By first identifying different students’ needs and understanding how to best engage them,
students of all interests and abilities are given the best possible opportunity to learn. Regular
assessment and feedback allow our teachers to adjust either the content being taught, the
process used to learn, or the product expected from students, to ensure that learners at different
starting points can receive the instruction they need to grow and succeed.
Our College aims to ensure all students achieve and find relevance in school. Our program
encourages students to participate in their learning; to negotiate and select areas of interest,
to accelerate and excel in their own paths. Students from Years 7 to 12 can choose from a wide
range of Arts, Sports and Community activities. The College’s facilities respond to the interests
and needs of our community and encourage high levels of excellence through personal initiative,
creativity and growth.
Year 7 Curriculum
The Year 7 program is comprehensive and introduces students to subjects in all the key learning
domains. A Pastoral Care program is a key feature of the first year of this College. Year 7
students learn in Home Groups and undertake the following course:
• Mathematics 8 periods per fortnight
• English 8 periods per fortnight
• Humanities 6 periods per fortnight
• Science 5 periods per fortnight
• Language (Japanese or French) 5 periods per fortnight
• Physical Education 4 periods per fortnight
• HHR / Pastoral Care 2 periods per fortnight
These subjects run all year.
Year 7 students also rotate through a number of Visual Art, Performing Art and Technology
subjects so that they experience a variety of learning environments before they make elective
choices in later years. Each unit runs for one semester and takes 4 periods per fortnight.
The students study:
Technology (Wood & Metal); Art/Ceramics; Visual Communication Design (Graphics); Music;
Drama; and Food Studies (Home Economics)
Please Note: The Year 8 & 9 Curriculum Grid is included on the following page to allow students
and parents to see how the curriculum develops over the Middle School.
19 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
Montmorency Secondary College 7-9 Curriculum Grid
(10 day timetable – 25 periods per week @ 58 mins)
Year 7 Year 8 Year 9
1
English English English
2
3
4
5
Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics
6
7
8
9
Humanities Science Science
10
11
12
Science Humanities Humanities Humanities Humanities
13 (5 periods per 10 day cycle)
14
Language
15
(5 periods per 10 day cycle) PE/Health PE/Health PE/Health PE/Health
16
17
PE
18
Language Language Language or Language or
19 Wood/Metal Food Endeavour Endeavour
20 Studies
21
Art/ VCD Elective Elective Elective Elective
22 Ceramics Learning Learning Learning Learning
Unit 1 Unit 3 Unit 1 Unit 3
23
Music Drama
24 Elective Elective Elective Elective
Learning Learning Learning Learning
25 HHR/Pastoral Care Unit 2 Unit 4 Unit 2 Unit 4
Notes:
1. Students at Year 8 and 9 must choose at least one elective Learning Unit from each of the
following Learning Areas:
• The Arts
• Design, Creativity and Technology.
2. Students may then choose two elective Learning Units from the full range of electives offered,
however they may choose no more than two learning units from the following domains:
• Textiles • Visual Art
• Media
3. Challenge and Bridging Units run in the elective block. Entry into the units is by invitation
only based on analysis of a student’s academic results and work habits.
4. Students in Year 9 may choose to continue with a language (Japanese or French) with a
view to continuing it in VCE or, alternatively, they participate in the Endeavour Program.
20 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
MATHEMATICS (4 periods per week)
Course Outline
The Year 7 Mathematics course builds on concepts and skills introduced in Primary School by
providing the opportunity for students to revise and consolidate their understanding of material
from the Victorian Curriculum Level 4 Mathematics dimension. Students are then progressively
introduced to concepts and skills in accordance with Victorian Curriculum Level 5 progression
points. The areas covered during the year are outlined below.
Space Measurement, chance and data
• Lines and angles • Length and perimeter
• Plane and solid shapes • Areas and Volume
• Transformations • Time
• Co-ordinate number plane • Collecting and Interpreting Data
Number • Probability
• Whole numbers and indices Structure
• Number patterns • Expressing generality
• Decimals • Equations and inequations
• Fractions • Functions
• Percentages • Set theory
Throughout the course an important aim will be to foster analytical skills and to encourage an
appreciation of how mathematics can be applied to real-life situations.
Classwork
Students will be required to maintain a workbook containing neat and complete records of class
work and other designated activities. A copy of the textbook and a scientific calculator is also
required in order to complete assigned tasks. These will include skills-based exercises, problem-
solving activities and other investigations as prescribed by the teacher. Students will work on
individual tasks as well as participating in group activities.
Homework
Homework will be assigned to finish class tasks or to complete separate sets of exercises from
the class text. Homework should also include regular revision of the material covered in class and
questions selected from the Chapter Review section of the textbook for further practice.
Assessment
Students will be assessed according to a number of criteria. Typical assessment measures
may include tests, problem-solving tasks, project and assignment work, group activities and
homework worksheets.
21 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
ENGLISH (4 periods per week)
Course Outline
Students will have a balanced program, incorporating language, literature and literacy learning
activities. A variety of text types including novels, short stories, poetry and film are read and
discussed in class, and wider reading is encouraged by students’ participation in a wide reading
program. They will also develop reading comprehension through the CARS and STARS program.
Students are encouraged to write in a variety of styles for a variety of audiences and purposes.
Work on speaking and listening includes class discussion, small group discussion, reading
aloud, dramatic activities, and participation in class debating. Attention is given to expression,
punctuation and spelling as part of effective communication.
Homework
• Grammar and Spelling tasks (textbook)
• T
here is always English homework in the form of reading - either wide reading or reading of
class novels.
• Assignments must be completed and process writing is also to be worked on at home.
• Class teachers will set particular homework tasks.
Assessment
• An assessment will be made for all the following areas of study within the English course
• Writing Folio
• Reading Tasks
• Speaking and Listening
22 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
SCIENCE (5 periods over 2 weeks)
Course Outline
The course is activity based. Emphasis will be placed on the skills required for practical work:
safety in Science, use and identification of equipment, ability to follow and carry out given
instructions, writing of practical reports as well as research skills. The course is aligned with the
requirements of the Victorian Curriculum of:
• Science Understanding
• Science as a Human Endeavour
• Science Inquiry Skills
Classwork
Topics Include:
• Science Toolkit • The Particle Model
• Classification • Mixtures
• Food Chains and Webs • Forces in balance
• The Earth, Sun and Moon
Homework
Completion of class work and approximately half an hour per week of set homework or revision
is required.
Assessment
Assessment will include:
• Topic Tests • Class Exercises
• Poster/Assignments • Practical Reports
23 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
HUMANITIES (3 periods per week)
Course Outline
Humanities involve the study of human societies and environments, people and their cultures
in the past and the present. Students develop key ideas and concepts that enable them to
understand the way in which people and societies have organised their world under particular
conditions; including the distribution of wealth, the development of codes, laws and belief
systems and how people have interacted with their physical environment.
History
Course Outline
The Year 7 History curriculum focuses on historical knowledge and understanding, as well as
historical reasoning and interpretation. History focuses upon The Ancient World, with Depth
Studies including Egypt and China. The content provides opportunities to develop historical
understanding through key concepts, including evidence, continuity and change, cause
and effect, perspectives, empathy, significance and contestability. These concepts may be
investigated within a particular historical context to facilitate an understanding of the past and to
provide a focus for historical inquiries. Students are also introduced to economic principles such
as supply, demand, needs and wants.
Geography
Course Outline
Water in the World / Place and Liveability
The Year 7 Geography curriculum provides students with opportunities to further develop their
understanding of place, space and environment, interconnection, sustainability and change and
apply this understanding to a wide range of places and environments at the full range of scales,
from local to global, and in a range of locations. Through the study of civics and citizenship,
students will explore the values, rights and responsibilities of Australian citizenship.
The Year 7 Geography curriculum looks at:
• How do people’s reliance on places and environments influence their perception of them?
• What effect does the uneven distribution of resources and services have on people’s lives?
• How can we improve the availability of resources and access to services?
Assessment
The following assessment will be undertaken:
• Mapping Skills • Classwork / Tests
• Research Project • Document Analysis
24 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
HUMANITIES, cont.
Civics and Citizenship
Course Outline
The Year 7 curriculum provides a study of the Australian Constitution and how its features,
principles and values shape Australia’s democracy. Students also examine what it means to be
Australian by identifying the reasons for and influences that shape national identity.
Main Areas of Study:
• Government and Democracy
• Laws and Citizens
• Citizenship, Diversity and Identity
Assessment
Class work, topic test.
Economics and Business
Course Outline
The Year 7 curriculum considers what it means to be a consumer, a worker and a producer in the
market and the relationships between, and interdependence of, these groups. The ways markets
work within Australia to set prices, the participants in the market system and the ways these
participants may influence the market’s operation are explored.
Assessment
Class work, topic test
Homework
Students will be expected to complete unfinished class work at home. Teachers set questions
and a variety of activities and homework. Research assignments are part of the homework for
the Year 7 Humanities course.
25 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
LANGUAGES (5 periods over 2 weeks)
In Year 7, students study either French or Japanese. Emphasis is placed upon learning basic
conversation skills, which will enable students to cope in a variety of everyday situations in
the language they are learning. Words, expressions and sentence patterns are practised in
conversational or acting situations. We believe that you learn another language by using it. In
addition, students will study the geography and some cultural aspects of the country of their
chosen language, by means of DVDs, films, videos or worksheets.
French
Course Outline
Greetings; introducing yourself; describing yourself and others; talking about: your likes and
dislikes, sports, 24 hour Race at Le Mans and understanding classroom commands; pets;
discussing your weekend activities. Students also learn about French geography and study some
famous French people.
Homework
Students will, at times, be required to complete set tasks e.g. Cultural Assignments, Worksheets
and vocabulary practise as well as completing any unfinished class work.
Assessment
Language communication, cultural awareness inter-personal development, personal learning,
communication skills and ITC.
Japanese
Course Outline
Greetings; self-introductions, classroom instructions, fruits, colours, animals, likes and dislikes,
stationery items, places, sports activities and transport. Basic sentence structures and linking
words are taught. The “hiragana,” written script, is also fully introduced with emphasis on its
recognition. A cultural project will be given to learn Japanese geography and lifestyle.
Homework
Students will at times be required to complete set tasks (cultural research assignments, grammar
worksheets, hiragana in Japanese, the writing of dialogues, and the practise of vocabulary) as
well as completing any unfinished class work.
Assessment
Language communication, cultural awareness, inter-personal development, personal learning,
communication skills and ITC.
26 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (2 periods per week)
Course Outline
The aim is to encourage each student to be physically active during Physical Education (PE)
classes. The program is practical, with theoretical components introduced when relevant
during practical lessons. While acquisition of skills and participation in a variety of games
are encouraged, emphasis is also placed on cardio-vascular fitness, flexibility and strength.
In particular, body awareness and general human movement are emphasized, especially in
gymnastics, dance and athletics. PE also encourages group co-operation, leadership, and positive
games attitudes. The activities covered throughout the year may include: fitness assessments,
basic skills, minor games, athletics, cross country, gymnastics, dance, volleyball, softball/baseball,
football/soccer, netball/basketball, hockey, badminton and cricket.
All students must have a PE uniform and are expected to change into the uniform each lesson.
Assessment
Practical assessment will be conducted in Year 7 PE on the following sports;
• Athletics
• Netball
• AFL football
• Cricket
Students are assessed in relation to Movement and Physical Activity using the following criteria:
• Skill development
• Skill application
• Participation/Attitude
27 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
HEALTH AND HUMAN RELATIONS /
PASTORAL CARE (2 periods per fortnight)
Course Outline
The course encourages students to look closely at themselves and how they relate to people in
various situations. Relationships are particularly important as students change from primary to
secondary school, especially student/teacher relationships and friendship groups.
Topics
Classes will develop topic areas which are relevant to their needs and interests. Initial work
will concentrate on knowing the school, friendship, relationships, self awareness, body image,
emotions and feelings. As the year progresses work is done on general health issues (Sun
Smart, QUIT, Dental Health and First Aid), basic reproduction, human growth and development,
with emphasis on puberty. ‘Protective Behaviours’, which empowers students to have control
over their own safety, is included in the course. Classes will also consider assertiveness, equal
opportunity, harassment and bullying. Videos, texts and printed materials are used to extend
students’ knowledge and understanding. Students are encouraged to participate in all activities
and discussions.
Classwork
• Students are required to maintain an up to date workbook.
• Students are expected to participate in general and small group discussions and activities and
to work co-operatively.
Homework
Students may be required: To complete class work at home; to undertake research, interviews and
survey work to complement class activities and collect information from the media for use in class.
Assessment
A non-graded, descriptive assessment is provided based on behaviour, attitude, participation,
understanding and the maintenance of the student’s work book.
28 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
ART (2 periods per week for a semester)
Course Outline
In this subject students are introduced to a range of art forms and techniques, including painting,
drawing, printmaking and ceramics.
Creating and Making
Students use starting points to generate and expressively develop ideas when making and
presenting artworks. They explore and manipulate art elements, principles and concepts to
structure their artworks.
Exploring and Responding
Students develop their ability to discuss their own and others’ responses to artworks.
Classwork
• Drawing
• Landscape Painting
• Lino Block Printmaking
• Ceramic Sculpture
• Australian, Indigenous and international artists and artworks
Assessment
• Finished artworks
• Folio
• Artwork Analysis
29 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
VISUAL COMMUNICATION
(2 periods per week for a semester)
Course Outline
Visual Communication Practice – Designing Planning and Making Visual Communications
Students will be introduced to a range of visual communications practices, including the
development of skills in freehand, perspective, instrumental drawing and rendering. Students will
complete preliminary exercises to develop a range of ideas in their sketchbooks and produce
final presentations.
Responding to Visual Communication and Design – Exploring and Responding
Students will begin to distinguish between forms of visual communication and identify design
elements and principles.
Classwork
• Visual Communication Practice including
° Creative Design
° Logo Design
° Typography
° Perspective Drawing
° Instrumental Drawing
° Digital-Based Design
• Responding to Visual Communication & Design
Assessment
• Design Analysis
• Final Presentation Pieces
• Visual Diary
30 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021PRIDE IN ACHIEVEMENT
DRAMA (2 periods per week for a semester)
Course Outline
Drama allows students to explore ideas, situations, feelings and attitudes. Drama also builds
confidence, improves communication skills and encourages students to find inventive solutions
to tasks individually and through group work. Students will perform short self devised scripted
plays, develop different acting techniques and experiment with stagecraft elements.
Classwork
Class work will involve exploring drama skills and techniques such as voice, movement,
awareness of space, mime, short self devised scripted plays and stagecraft. Participation in group
work is important.
Assessment
Assessment will be based on:
• Participation as an individual
• Contribution to group work
• Understanding shown of dramatic elements by demonstrating a range of skills
• Maintenance of a logbook
• Recording observations and activities.
FOOD STUDIES (2 periods per week for a semester)
Course Outline
Food Studies at Year 7 level introduces food preparation through the technology process.
Recipes and simple meals are planned and produced. Students then evaluate the suitability of
the selected food products, equipment and processes.
Basic nutrition principles are examined, along with appropriate safety and hygiene procedures.
Cooperative as well as independent work skills are actively encouraged.
Assessment
• Research assignment/digital folio
• Production exercises
31 - CONTENTSMONTMORENCY SECONDARY COLLEGE
TECHNOLOGY/WOOD/METAL
(2 periods per week for a semester)
Course Outline
Students make simple projects that introduce them to the basic problem solving in design, hand
tools, materials, construction and finishing techniques. All students are expected to complete at
least three projects, these being a pencil case, key tag and a nickel band ring.
As each new tool or material is introduced the relative technology is discussed with each group.
Notes, sketches and designs are recorded by each student.
Homework
Students will not have homework on a regular basis due to the practical nature of the course, but
they will have to plan designs and catch up on any bookwork which they have missed through
absence or other reasons.
Assessment
• Practical
• Bookwork
MUSIC (2 periods per week for a semester)
Course Outline
This course is designed as a general introduction to the understanding of music.
Students have the opportunity to both observe and play many different instruments across all
major musical family groups. Individual and group practical work is used to actively engage
students in the study and performance of the basic elements of music. Students will also learn
the techniques of reading written music, aided by using music software.
Homework
This will generally involve the completion of unfinished class work, preparing for tests and any
instrumental practice students choose to undertake.
Assessment
Students will be assessed on:
• Practical work • Research assignment
• Reading music • Participation in class
32 - Year 7 Curriculum Handbook 2021You can also read
