INTRODUCTION
YEAR 9 FOCI
At Year 9 students need to cover all 8 Learning Areas within the New Zealand Curriculum. It is important
that students continue with this broad education to leave the doors open for future pathways.
Learn about both historical and contemporary social issues within our globalised world. This will range from war
and weapons to racism and democracy. Through a student led inquiry into an issue of your choice you will develop
an in-depth understanding of an issue you are interested in. Using this knowledge you will develop a presentation
through your choice of either dance or drama.
The changes to the Junior Curriculum has brought about a new structure with new courses being offered
at the Year 9 level. This means there is now a more detailed system of selection required by the students.
COURSE SELECTION
YEAR 9
All Year 9 students will be required to study:
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Themes which cover English, Mathematics, Science, Social Science and PE/Health.
Foci which allow students to experience different topics, undertake extension as well as access
support. You are required to select 12 different Foci from this book, as well as selecting another 4 as
possible back up in case your first choices are unavailable. These extra 4 need to be placed in the
boxes labelled as alternative Foci.
Spins which cover the areas of Technology, The Arts and Languages. All students need to select 12
Spins with 6 from Set 1 and 6 from Set 2. You will have two Spins per 6 week rotation, one from each
set.
Set 1:
You must select a minimum of 3 from Column A and 3 others which can come from either Column A or B. If you select from Column B you must have also selected the same subject from
Column A.
Set 2:
You must select a minimum of 3 from Column A and 3 others which can come from either Column A or B. If you select from Column B you must have also selected the same subject from
Column A.
PLUS ULTRA / CASH (SUPPORTED LEARNING) / ESOL STUDENTS
If you are selected to participate in any of these classes, you will only have six Foci, as the other six will
be part of the Plus Ultra / CASH / ESOL class. You will still need to choose 12 on enrolment.
A World In Which We Live
All About Them Gainz
Arts / Social Science
Physical Education / Maths
In this Foci, it’s all about ‘Them Gainz’, students will develop their own personalised fitness regime, with pre testing
and post testing analysis to see if they got ‘Them Gainz’. This mixture of practical and theory will motivate students
through an integrated approach so students can develop their personal fitness and compare results locally and also
nationally.
Ancient Warfare
Science / Technology
Students in this Foci will discover the history of ancient battles. From cave men beating each other with clubs, to
ancient Romans, or the Battle of Gate Pa (in Tauranga), students will also discover the science and maths behind
ancient battle machinery. This Foci may involve making working models of weapons of the past.
Chocolate Lovers
Technology
Everyone loves chocolate. Learn how to make custom homemade chocolate. Design a chocolate bar to be
individually wrapped with your own original design packaging.
Comic Book It
Arts / English
Do you catch yourself drawing cartoons, manga or muscle men? Do you enjoy visual stories? Have you got a story
you would like to share in a new way? Explore different types of comic storytelling, from pencil line figures to bold
colour illustration. Structure an action sequence in a story to retain interest, explore ways to illustrate your story and
produce a comic. You do not have to be a master artist to try this course.
Communicating Across The World
Social Science / Languages
Do you love the idea of travel and exploring cultures across the world? Are you fascinated by how other people
live? There is a clear link between society and language. Through this Foci students will develop an in-depth
understanding of a country and culture of their choice. This will include inquiry learning into the history, language
and culture.
Competitive Gaming
Maths / Social Science
This topic will look into the world of competitive gaming and you will learn to play a variety of different board games,
both traditional and new. Considering aspects such as history, strategies, and social requirements of games, this
Foci encourages students to continually think about how the actions of others impacts on your own decisions.
Debating
English / Social Science
Affirmative or negative? Whichever team you’re on, you’ll learn to have a properly good argument! Learn how to
plan your thoughts, work as a team, think on your feet and improve your public speaking.
Drone Driving Licence
Science / Technology
This is a mixture of theory and practical. Firstly, you will look at the rules and safety around drone usage in New
Zealand Then you will get to grips with handling and navigation of the new school drone and exploring some
potential future uses for this rapidly developing technology.
Food Of The World
Social Science / Technology
This Foci is for students who are interested in food and exploring foreign countries. Students will get the opportunity
to learn what different foods there are around the world and investigate the factors that influence why certain
countries have different cuisines. Students will do a practical assessment and prepare a dish as well as a theory
component presenting where the dish is from, what is in it, and why it is common in that country/region.
For The Love Of Reading
English
Do you love to read? Would you like the opportunity to share your love of reading with like-minded people?
This foci will provide students with opportunities to read widely and to share that love with others.
Forensics
Science / Social Science
Students in this Foci will use Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths to solve crime.
From Blues To Rap
English / Arts
Students will study the lyrics from various genres to learn conventions that are employed to get their message
across. They will create their own lyrics that will be aligned with prescribed beats. The emphasis will be on evocative
use of language through figurative devices and rhythm.
Humanity: The Story Of Us
Social Science / Science
What would planet earth be like without people? Have you ever thought about your very existence and where you
have come from? Students will be given the opportunity to investigate the greatest adventure of all time – the history
of the human race. It will begin at humanity’s very roots and explore the journey from the hunter-gatherer state until
the emergence of the global citizen. It will be an interesting, thought provoking, and fast-paced story that will piece
together major world-changing events. Through a variety of methods and jaw-dropping information students will
tackle the story we all should admire; the one of our ancestors and of those who lived before us.
Imagine That
Social Science / Technology
Inventing - building something new or making something better. Start with an idea. Any idea. ‘Imagine That’ takes
your imagination on a journey by following your idea through to design and into a model. Identify, analyse, critique
- these are skills you will encounter as your creation comes to life. Release the creativity within you.
Investigating Our School
Maths / Social Science
Do you wear roman sandals or shoes? Statistically which house is most likely to win this year? Where do you hang
out at lunchtime? What is your preference student-led or teacher-led learning? These are just a few ideas you could
research within our school. In this Foci you will research our place in society.
Let’s Take Action
Social Science / Physical Education
Do you have a desire to change the world around you? Are you a person who will take action to stand up for
something you believe in? During this Foci you will investigate health and social issues of your choice in our
school or local area. For example, poverty, personal safety, healthy eating, physical activity, clean environment,
interpersonal relationship. You will then plan and implement a social action aiming to bring about change in your
chosen area.
Level Design (Computer Based)
Technology / Arts
This topic will look into the world of digital puzzle games. After briefly looking in to some history and theory of
puzzle games students will be introduced to using the Portal® for schools software. Once familiar with using the
software students will plan and create a series of increasingly complex puzzles for classmates to solve. This topic
will encourage understanding of physics principles and utilises logic and spatial awareness.
Life’s A Beach
Physical Education / Social Science
Do you enjoy beach life? Can you recognise dangers at the beach? Do you know how to respond to life threatening
situations? Through a mixture of theory and practical, you will investigate the many aspects of beach features,
sustainability and surf survival.
Like It, Tweet It, Instagram It
Social Science / Physical Education
Could you go a week without using social media? Social media safety is a contemporary geographical and health
studies issue which affects the well-being of all teenagers. Through this Foci you will investigate safety issues in
social media through student led inquiry into current issues of social media and social networking use in a local NZ.
This will include safety and privacy on different sites and the development of a practical resource for teenagers on
“how to keep ourselves safe on the internet”.
Making It Better
English / Maths
Do you struggle with writing? Do you struggle with text? Spelling, is it an issue? How about mathematics? Do you
know your times tables? What is algebra, measurement, number? Can you add, multiply, subtract and divide with
confidence? What is BEDMAS? Then ‘Making It Better’ is for you! You will learn to improve your reading, writing,
spelling, visualization and ability to work with numbers. All done at your own pace. Learn it! Love it! Achieve it! Your
success is our priority!
Maori World View Through Literature
English / Social Science
Students will explore Maori World View through the literature of Maori writers. Issues to be explored could include
the impact of colonisation, urbanisation, and cultural alienation through the study of the work of Maori writers.
Mathematical Doodling
Maths / Arts
Ever find yourself zoning out in class and just drawing silly doodles all over your pages? Well this is the place for
you. In this Foci we will actually promote doodling during class time! We will spend time investigating what sort of
patterns we can develop using some basic mathematical properties and turn them into amazing pieces of doodle
art! Once we have learned some new doodling games, we will then see how and where we can use these skills to
solve some complex problems ranging from Maths, to Science, to Game Theory.
Racing Car Competition
Technology / Science
Students design, manufacture and race an open wheel model car. This competition consists of a lightweight,
reliable, competitive car and working in groups. You will be dealing with efficiency, power, weight, etc.
Rocketry
Science / Maths
Exactly what it says on the tin. A combination of maths and science allow students to look at the theory before
developing and launching rockets. Projectile motion, fuel analysis and principals of aerodynamics will combine
to really see this option take off. Note: This option is an extension option and will have advanced aspects of
Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics.
Scientific Photography
Science / Arts
National geographic type photography, super slow-motion and timelapse photography are just a few examples of
how photography can be used to observe the world around us.
Sing with Glee
Arts
Isn’t singing fun? Have ever you wanted to sing like a pop star? Do you want to learn how to harmonise, have voice
control and a good vocal range? Do you like rap, pop, soul, blues, gospel, hip hop, rock or reggae music? How
about singing tunes with others like on the TV programmes GLEE and PITCH PERFECT. If you answered YES
to any of the above, then this FOCI is for you. You will have the opportunity to sing modern songs in different sized
groups and/or solo (if you choose).
Sport And Culture: A Global Study
Social Science / Physical Education
Would you like to find out more about the globalised world in which we live? Are you interested in different countries,
cultures and sports around the world? In this Foci you will conduct an inquiry into a country of your choice examining
people, places and society. This will include an investigation into a sport from this country in which you will have
practical physical experiences.
Sports Media
Physical Education / English
Do you have a passion for sports? Do you find how the game is promoted fascinating? In this Foci you will create a
promotional video of a sport of your choice. You will use a range of media capture devices including GoPros, drone
cameras, etc.
Te Reo Maori - An Artist’s World
YEAR 9 SPINS
Languages / Arts
Love drawing? Does taamoko mahi whakairo (carving) or raranga (weaving) interest you? Nau mai haere mai ki
Te Tuapapa O Te Reo Maori. Express your uniqueness in Te Reo Maori, through an artistic point of view. You will
gain confidence in speaking reading and writing in Te Reo using Maori Art forms to demonstrate your skills and
knowledge.
Te Reo Maori - In Song, In Actions
SET 1
A
B
A
B
Art 1
Art 2
Food Technology 1
Food Technology 2
Dance 1
Dance 2
French 1
French 2
Drama 1
Drama 2
Information
Technology 1
Information
Technology 2
Design & Visual
Communication 1
Design & Visual
Communication 2
Japanese 1
Japanese 2
French 1
French 2
Metal Technology 1
Metal Technology 2
Japanese 1
Japanese 2
Soft Material
Technology 1
Soft Material
Technology 2
Music 1
Music 2
Spanish 1
Spanish 2
Spanish 1
Spanish 2
Te Reo Maori 1
Te Reo Maori 2
Te Reo Maori 1
Te Reo Maori 2
Wood Technology 1
Wood Technology 2
Languages / Arts
Do you love Kapa Haka, have an interest in Mau rākau (Maori weaponry) Nau mai haere mai ki Te Tuapapa O Te
Reo Maori. Express your uniqueness in Te Reo Maori, through an artistic point of view. You will gain confidence in
speaking, reading and writing in Te Reo and using Performing Arts to demonstrate your skills and knowledge, hui
e tiaki e!
The What, Where & Why Of Sport
Social Science / Physical Education
This Foci is for students who enjoy sport and would like to explore how geographic concepts influence and impact
upon a chosen sport. You will investigate how things such as culture, tradition, climate, location and economics
influence a chosen sport.
TPHS News
English / Social Science
Create a weekly news programme for Te Puke High School. Your team of reporters, camera people, writers and
presenters will write and produce stories to share.
TPHS Photography Exhibition
Arts / English
What makes a good image? How is it composed? How do you get a message across in images? Do you have
an eye for colour and theme? Explore the exciting field of photography and create an entry for the TPHS Photo
Exhibition.
TPHS Short Film Festival
English / Arts
Ever wanted to make your own short film? Be part of the first ever TPHS Six Week Film Festival. Following a central
theme, you and your team will script, plan, budget, film and edit your film. You will then share it and voting will take
place. Who will take out the grand prize?
Travel Writer
English / Physical Education
Do you have a passion for the outdoors? Do you like to share your experiences with others? In the Foci you will
participate in an outdoor experience and then write about your experiences for others. This could be via a blog,
magazine, or social media.
Understanding War Through Film
Social Science / English
Throughout this Foci students will learn about the history of warfare, how it has developed through time and how it is
represented through film. Students will be given an insight into how specific film techniques are used to influence the
audience’s perception of historical events and experiences. Through this process students will be able to compare
and contrast film v’s reality and will research films and present their findings through various media.
Wear That Art
Arts / Technology
Want to wear something that is original and unique? Want to feel your fashion flows? A shirt that identifies you?
Draw up designs that reflect who you are, identify something about you or something you stand for or represents
you. Select and develop a design that you can print onto fabric. Create and design a garment/item/article that will
show your design off.
SET 2
SET 1
Art 1 - Superkitch and Koralie
Students will develop a character through drawing, painting and collage which will become an integral part of a
layered artwork using dynamic painting, drawing, street art and collage techniques. Students may develop their
character further in a range of contexts with extension offered through the creation of flip books, projection, and
t-shirt design.
Art 2 - Lichtenstein
Students will create a self portrait painting based on the style of American Pop Artist Roy Lichtenstein. In addition
to learning important paint layering processes, students will also learn about basic colour theory, composition
and expression. Students may develop their portrait further in a range of contexts with extension offered through
working this into a digital project, introducing students to Photoshop.
Dance 1 - World Dance Tour
Come on a world dance tour. Stop in Africa, India and China learn some rhythms see how similar - and how
different - dance is around the world. To finish we will blend different cultural dancers with modern and popular
dance styles.
Dance 2 - D.E.A.D Drop Everything and Dance
Want to be in a dance video or produce one?
First you will examine jazz dance, learn basic movements and then collaboratively create a dance with a messages
for a contemporary music videos.
The finished product a D.E.A.D dance video.
Drama 1 - Scene One: Impro Intros
Scene One is a course to enable you to build confidence, get to know and trust others and share ideas. Her you
explore your creative ideas and play with them through improvisation situations while learning to apply drama
techniques to practical situations.
Drama 2 - Scene Two: Acting Up
In Drama Scene Two we will continue to develop strong inter personal relationships as we devise and create
stories we can perform. We will look at a theatre form and begin to focus on exploring and developing our drama
techniques while building positive relationships and communication skills.
Design & Visual Communication 1 - Cool Spaces
Design a space for yourself in a place you would love to retreat or to chill out. Learn to think, draw, sketch, make
mock-ups and computer generate your design.
Design & Visual Communication 2 - USB Project
3D printers are changing the way that we look at the world. Learn to think, draw, sketch, make mock-ups and
computer generate your design. Design and make a prototype product.
French 1 - It’s All About Me!
Take your French beyond ‘bonjour’ and ‘oui’ and learn how to meet and greet in true French style. Talk about
your likes and dislikes too. You will do this through a range of games, stories, online activities, songs, group and
individual activities while learning more about French geography, history and culture.
French 2 - My Family & Other Creatures
Learn to communicate about the people and animals in your life. Do this through a range of engaging games,
songs, stories, online activites and more. You will also get the chance to experience French food as well as learn
more about French culture.
Japanese 1 - It’s All About Me!
Take your Japanese beyond ‘konnichiwa’ and learn how to get to know people in true Japanese style. Learn to
read and write using real Japanese characters in a meaningful way. Do this through a range of games, stories,
online activities, songs, group and individual activities while learning more about Japan’s geography, history and
culture.
Japanese 2 - My Likes & Dislikes
Like it? Hate it? Learn how to talk about it in Japanese. Learn more characters and experience Japanese food.
The games, songs, stories and varied activities continue and you will lean more about the fascinating culture of
Japan.
Music 1 - Getting Started
Students will learn to read music, play music and create their own music through learning the skills that will enable
them to do this. This will involve learning to read music through playing music. Learning to play chords on both
keyboard and guitar and learning to use the skills to create music.
Music 2 - What’s It All About
Students will learn what is involved in performing music and present a small piece of music they have learnt either
on their own or in a group situation. They will then learn how to use music technology to create music and also
start to discover what is making and contributing to the music that is out there.
Spanish 1 - It’s All About Me!
Take your Spanish beyond ‘hola’ and ‘Si’ and learn how to meet and greet in true Spanish style. Talk about your
likes and dislikes as well through a range of games, stories, online activities, songs, group and individual activities
while learning more about the geography, history and culture of the Spanish-speaking world.
Spanish 2 - My Family & Other Creatures
Learn to communicate about the people and animals in your life. Do this through a range of engaging games,
songs,stories, online activites and more. You will also get the chance to experience food from around the Spanishspeaking world as well as learn more about the rich culture and history Spain and the many other countries where
it is spoken.
Te Reo Maori 1
This course is designed for learners of Te Reo Maori who want to take their language skills beyond the classroom
and on to the rugby field or the netball courts. We will compose chants, haka, write songs about our whanau,
create whanau photo albums, and plan a celebration. Together we will build strong connections to our past, our
present and our future. Hui e tiaki e! My kainga , my castle. My tupuna, my hero.
Te Reo Maori 2
This course is a follow on course designed for learners of Te Reo Maori who already have mastered the basic
language features and need extension through intensive language development. Te Reo Maori me ona tikanga is
best seen in whakataukī, pepeha, and purakau. We will discover the hidden features of Te Reo, and incorporate
these skills into a personal designer tee-shirt, cap or bag. Taking Te Reo Maori beyond the page and into our
community. My tribe ,our ways. My style with flair.
SET 2
Food Technology 1 - Licence To Cook
Do you know how food contributes to your health? Can you work confidently and independently when preparing
food? Can you use a wide range of processes to prepare a variety of different dishes? Do you have to cook meals
for your family? If you answered NO to any of these questions then this Spin is for you. As you undertake your
“Licence to Cook” you will be taught specific skills and techniques that will help you prepare a range of dishes.
You will also be given the opportunity to make informed decisions about your diet and foods than can help your
health. Near the end of this spin you will be asked to start making at least one meal a week for your family. Are
you prepared to accept these challenges and get “your licence to cook”?
Food Technology 2 - Lifting The Lid
Do you want to develop your cooking skills beyond the basic? Are you capable of facing a cooking challenge
every week? Can you work confidently and independently when preparing food? Can you use a broad range
of equipment and processes to prepare food? If you answered YES to any of these questions then this Spin is
for you. When you “lift the lid” you will be given a weekly challenge to take a simple food item and turn it into
something spectacular. So if you want to discover how rice can be anything but ordinary, join us in this spin.
Information Technology - Computer Life Hacks
Feel that you are a computer whizz? Want to get to know more about how the parts work together and how
computers store information? In this Spin subject you will investigate what is needed to get a computer up and
running; learn how computers use simple electronic signals to perform complex calculations and play your favourite
games. You’ll use the technological process to design and develop a solution to a problem.
Information Technology 2 - Rescue
In our world of computers people are always trying to find ways to solve problems and make our lives easier. In
this Spin you’ll develop the skills required for problem solving in a digital environment. Building on Year 9 and
developing knowledge for the future you will use the technological design process to develop a digital media
solution to a given issue.
Metal Technology 1 - Gadgets
Design and make a gadget in conjunction with 3D computer modelling and a CNC router. Introduction to hand
tools and machinery in an engineering workshop.
Metal Technology 2 - Wind Indicator
Everyday life revolves around the use of time. Design and make a free standing inspired clock in acrylic, with
aluminium and brass details. Introduction to technological practice, workshop skills, CAD drawing and safety.
Soft Material Technology 1 - Funky Fabric Fun
Have you ever wanted to create your own fabric prints? Would you like to learn how to create cool designs on
fabric using photos, internet images or your own original designs? Would you like to create cool GRAFFITI ART
on fabric? Would you like to learn skills that allow you to make many simple sewing products?
“Funky Fabric Fun” gives you the opportunity to do all this by experimenting with Photoshop, inkjet printers, fabric
pens, fabric crayons, fabric paints and bleach to create one off designs on fabric. Once your fabric is created you
will make it into 1 or 2 small fabric items such as a cushion or a cover for your electronic device. For example,
cell phone, notepad or iPod.
Soft Material Technology 2 - Pinterest It
Do you want to experiment with fabric dyes? Would you like to learn how to create cool tie dye designs? Do you
want to learn how to use a sewing machine or improve your sewing machine skills and sewing techniques? Then
this spin is for you. You will have the opportunity to learn specific skills and techniques tie dye a readymade t-shirt
and a pair of boxers you have made yourself. Then sew a simple carry bag to take it home in. So take up the
challenge and get creative while improving your sewing skills. Once complete you will upload what you made on
our Pinterest page.
Wood Technology 1 - Trinket Box / Storage Unit
Are you interested in practical work? This Spin gives you the opportunity to use hand tools and basic machinery
to produce a trinket box/storage unit. Your project can be personalised by using 2D Design CAD and laser cutting
designs.
Wood Technology 2 - Product Design / Audio Stand
Are you a creative type? Learn how to problem solve and use the design process to produce a personalised cell
phone / audio stand. Processes include designing, planning, working with hand tools and machinery. Learn 2D
CAD drawing and use the laser to cut components.