During Years 8 and 9 at Aspley State High School, our students experience a wide range of learning opportunities across the key learning areas.  By studying broadly in these years, students are more equiped to make informed choices based on their strengths and interest areas for the senior phase of learning - Years 10, 11 and 12.

The 8 and 9 program is also flexible enough to allow students to study more units in subject areas they enjoy and still meet the main aim. For more information view the Curriculum Plan.

Guidelines for selection

Before selecting subjects, it is important all students and parents read the subject information carefully. This information is available via the Year 8 section of the website or the relevant faculties.

The best choices are made when students and parents collaboratively discuss selections taking into consideration the student’s strengths and interest areas. If required, parents can contact our school Guidance Counsellor or a member of the administration for more support.

Year 8

In Year 8, half of the students time (the equivalent of three units) is spent studying integrated units in a subject called Multi-Disciplinary Studies (MDS).  Students must also study one unit of Maths and English. For the remaining subjects, students can select from those offered. Thus, each student will choose four subjects.

For more details view the Curriculum Plan.

For Year 8, subjects are selected at the enrolment interview. Selection forms will be sent to parents with the enrolment package and will be posted on the website in term 4.

All efforts are made to ensure students get their first preferences in the selection process. This is restricted by other student choices and resources.

Year 9

In Year 9 semester one, students study two units of MDS and make four other selections.

In semester 2, students select six subjects.

Students must study at least one unit of Maths, English and Science. Students are also expected to have studied at least one subject from all the Key Learning Areas across their Year 8 and 9 program. Where this is not the case, students will be placed in a suitable subject to fulfil this important requirement.
 
Students select their subjects in term four of Year 8. Selection forms will posted on the website and made available through the office at that time. All efforts are made to ensure students get their first preferences in the selection process. This is restricted by other student choices and resources.

Year 10

In Year 10 semester one, students study 6 subjects.

In semester 2, students select six subjects.

Students must study English and Mathematics and select four (4) choices.

Students identified as requiring a VET pathway for Years 11 and 12 will be invited to study Certificate I in Work Education in Semester 2. More information about this program can be found by contacting our senior schooling Head of Department.

Serious consideration must be given to the choice of year 10 subjects as it can assist in the better understanding of senior subjects.

1. Before selecting subjects, it is suggested that you:

•  make contact with the guidance officer, head of department or your teacher to discuss your abilities in particular subjects and the path they can lead in Senior Subjects selection and career ambitions
• choose subjects you enjoy and reflect your skills and abilities

2. Check each subject carefully before selection by:

• reading the subject descriptions and course outlines
• view materials and books used in the subject and be fully aware of the requirements of the subject
• listen carefully at subject selection talks

3. All students must study an English and Math subject

Each subject is divided into two semester units. It is expected that when choosing a subject you complete both semester units. Change of subject at mid semester year 10 is not advised unless it is to reallocate a student to a different math or science selection. This process is completed under the guidance of the Heads of Department.

While every effort is made through careful timetable construction to accommodate student choices, there are times when classes are restricted because of student numbers and teacher availability.