Compiling the OLMC Senior Course Guide may sound like a busy, tedious endeavour. It’s not. It is certainly less engaging than working with students in the classroom as it’s mostly screen-based, cutting and pasting and typing and coping with tired eyes.
However, it does unearth some gems. It’s like fossicking in the administrative dust and finding a diamond in the form of precise, well-polished student thinking. It’s as if a veil is lifted on Year 10 and 11 attitudes to some of their subjects and we - their teachers - get to read what they enjoy about their studies.
In the weeks before the Senior Course Guide changes are due, I ask specific students to write 50 to 100 words on the positives of doing VCE History, Politics, Accounting, Business Management or Legal Studies. These are the subjects under the Humanities golf umbrella and they are all above par and fabulous to get around. Students share their thoughts regarding the subject in order to alert their younger readers - those about to choose Year 10, 11 and 12 studies - and these quotes are placed alongside the more formal descriptions of the courses.
You can see an example here:
It’s with great pleasure that I share a range of the ‘subject spruiks’ that have crossed our desks this year. These tiny snippets of insight give us energy to continue, remind us why we do our work, and sprinkle a-ha moments around the office. Who knew that an administrative task could be so invigorating?
‘Accounting has allowed me to understand how businesses track income and expenses, manage cash flow, and make informed financial decisions. It has very quickly become my favourite subject as it lays a solid foundation for a future in business, finance, or even just managing personal finances better in the future. I would highly recommend this subject to students who enjoy organisation and logical thinking!’ Hanna
‘I have thoroughly enjoyed Citizens and the Law this year. The content I have learnt is interesting and has expanded my knowledge on the legal system. I would recommend this subject for people who would like to learn more about law, or who are considering VCE Legal Studies, as it is a perfect pathway towards it.’ Ava
‘I enjoy Politics because it gives us a chance to discuss current events and go deeper into the stories we see on the news and social media. Politics is not only enjoyable but also gives us valuable information that we can take into our everyday lives as well as other classes (especially our Humanities subjects.) I would recommend Politics to anyone who has an interest in world events.’ Lucy
‘Legal Studies is a thought-provoking subject that offers deep insight into the complexities of the Australian legal system. I really enjoy learning about rights, courts, and key legal principles, and applying them in real-life cases. This subject has strengthened my analytical and evaluation skills and provides a great foundation for anyone considering law, criminology, or other related fields.’ Maddie
‘Studying Business Management is a great way to understand how real businesses operate and make decisions. I enjoyed learning how entrepreneurs turn ideas into successful businesses. I would highly recommend this subject to those interested in learning about the internal and external business environment, as well as what’s involved in creating and managing your own business.’ Bella
‘Commerce gave me a great understanding of how the economy works, especially through supply and demand and economic players. The ASX Sharemarket Game was a fun highlight, and if you enjoyed Year 9 Economics, you’ll love this subject. It’s a great intro to business and economic thinking.’ Emily
‘I love History Revolutions. It is so fascinating and engaging to be learning about how different countries have developed into what they are today. To be learning about events and individuals who have shaped society, and therefore are so relevant to life today, is something so unique to this subject, and what makes this subject so rewarding.’ Liv