Year 11 Subject Guide 2020

INTRODUCTION The purpose of this booklet is to provide a resource that guides students and parents/carers in Years 11 and 12 subject selection. It includes a comprehensive list of all Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) subjects that form the basis of Somerset College’s Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) curriculum offerings. For information regarding International Baccalaureate Diploma subjects, please refer to the IB Diploma Programme Subject Guide booklet. SUBJECT SELECTION FOR YEAR 11 IN 2020 It is important to choose senior subjects carefully as your decisions affect not only the type of career you can follow after leaving school but your success and feelings about school as well. Even though there are many factors to consider, choosing your course of study can be made easier if you go about the task calmly and logically, and follow a set of planned steps. Overall Plan: As an overall plan, you are advised to choose subjects:  which you enjoy  in which you have demonstrated some ability or aptitude  which help you reach your course and career goals  which give you skills, knowledge and attitudes useful throughout your life. These are quite general points, so it is wise to look in more detail at the guidelines outlined below. Guidelines: Relate subjects to current career information. It is helpful if you have a few career choices in mind before choosing subjects. If you are uncertain about this at present, seek help in trying to choose a course that will keep several career options open to you. Our Dean of Studies, Mrs Crowley, may be able to help you get started by giving you some suggestions on how to investigate jobs and how to approach career decision–making. The following resources are available and give information on subjects and courses needed for careers: • The Tertiary Prerequisites book provides information on the subjects required for entry to university and higher level TAFE courses. • QTAC website www.qtac.edu.au • www.myfuture.edu.au By checking this information you will become aware of the distinction between: • prerequisite subjects (subjects which must be taken for future courses or careers) • recommended subjects (not essential, but which are likely to make future courses easier to follow) • useful subjects (not essential, but give a general background or help develop particular skills). Investigate each subject fully. To do this, it will be necessary to:

• read subject descriptions and course outlines in this booklet • talk to Heads of Departments and teachers of each subject • look at books and materials used in the subject • listen carefully at subject selection talks • talk to students who are already studying the subject.

Make a decision on a combination of subjects that suits your requirements and abilities.

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