Grade 9 Electives

Course Description

Podcasting provides students with the opportunity to develop their speaking, communication, and digital media production skills through the creation of original audio content. Throughout the course, students will improve their pronunciation, word stress, rhythm, and intonation while learning techniques for clear and engaging spoken communication. Students will also explore the fundamentals of podcast production, including planning, script writing, recording, editing, and publishing audio content. Using industry-standard audio editing tools, they will learn how to enhance sound quality and create professional-style podcasts.

Final Project

For the final project, students will work in pairs to plan, record, edit, and produce an original podcast on a topic of their choice. They will apply the communication, speaking, and technical skills developed throughout the course to create an engaging and well-structured audio programme. The completed podcast will demonstrate their ability to communicate ideas effectively, collaborate with others, and produce high-quality digital media content.

Course Description

Forensic Science introduces students to the scientific techniques used to investigate and solve crimes. Through a range of practical investigations and hands-on activities, students will explore how evidence is collected, analysed, and interpreted. The course covers key areas of forensic investigation, including crime scene examination, fingerprint analysis, impression evidence, hair and fibre identification, and blood evidence. Students will gain an understanding of how scientific principles are applied in real-world forensic work while developing their skills in observation, data collection, analysis, and critical thinking.

Final Project

For their final project, students will take part in a comprehensive forensic investigation based on a simulated crime scene. Working individually or in teams, they will collect and analyse evidence, evaluate findings, and develop conclusions supported by scientific reasoning. Students will present their investigation process and conclusions, demonstrating their ability to apply forensic techniques, interpret evidence, and communicate their findings clearly and effectively.

Course Description

Architectural Design introduces students to the connection between mathematics and the built environment. Through practical activities and design challenges, students develop an understanding of how mathematical concepts are used in architecture and construction. The course explores topics such as measurement, geometry, scale, proportion, and spatial reasoning, helping students apply these skills to real-world design problems. Students will learn how architects use mathematics to create accurate, functional, and visually appealing structures while developing their own creativity, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail.

Final Project

For their final project, students will design and present an original architectural concept that demonstrates the mathematical principles studied throughout the course. Using accurate measurements, scale drawings, and geometric calculations, students will create a detailed design proposal and explain the decisions behind their work. The project will showcase both their understanding of mathematical concepts and their ability to apply them in a practical and creative architectural context.

Course Description

Academic Writing helps students develop the skills needed for success in secondary school and beyond. Students will learn how to organise ideas clearly, construct effective paragraphs, support arguments with evidence, and write in a formal academic style. Through a variety of writing tasks, students will explore essay structure, research techniques, critical thinking, and editing strategies. Students will learn how to evaluate sources, develop coherent arguments, and communicate information effectively for different academic purposes. The course focuses on building confidence, accuracy, and independence as writers.

Final Project

For their final project, students will research a topic of interest and produce a structured academic essay. They will demonstrate their ability to plan, draft, revise, and edit their work while applying the academic writing conventions studied throughout the course. Students will present a well-supported argument using appropriate evidence and will reflect on the writing process from initial planning through to the final submission.

Course Description

Environmental Science explores the relationship between humans and the natural world. Students will investigate environmental challenges such as pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource management while examining sustainable solutions and conservation strategies. Through experiments, investigations, and case studies, students will learn how scientific principles can be applied to protect ecosystems and promote environmental responsibility. The course encourages students to think critically about current environmental issues and consider how individual and collective actions can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Final Project

For their final project, students will investigate a local or global environmental issue and propose evidence-based solutions. They will gather information, analyse scientific evidence, and evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches to environmental management. Students will present their findings through a report, presentation, campaign, or model that demonstrates their understanding of environmental science, sustainability, and responsible decision-making.

Course Description

Data Analysis introduces students to the methods used to collect, organise, interpret, and present data. Students will explore statistical concepts, graphical representations, and real-world datasets to identify trends and draw meaningful conclusions. The course develops analytical thinking and problem-solving skills while demonstrating how data is used to inform decisions in fields such as science, business, technology, and public policy. Students will learn how to evaluate information critically, recognise patterns, and communicate findings effectively using a range of visual and statistical tools.

Final Project

For their final project, students will conduct a data-based investigation on a topic of their choice. Students will collect and analyse data, create visual representations of their findings, and present conclusions supported by statistical evidence. The project will require students to apply the techniques studied throughout the course while demonstrating their ability to interpret information accurately, justify conclusions, and communicate insights clearly to an audience.