James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2021

ED5966 - Senior Curriculum I

Subject Description

This subject fosters GSTs' development of specialist subject pedagogical and pedagogical content knowledge to the Year 12 level. The focus of the subject is mastery of professional knowledge and demonstration of a range of competent practices for the teaching of specialist subjects through sequencing of learning, with specific reference to the QCAA Senior Secondary Curriculum (QCAA, 2017). GSTs will be developing and demonstrating a thorough understanding of the content knowledge and processes of the subject and the effective teaching of content and skills. Special attention in this subject is on the use of diagnostic, formative and summative assessment and moderation and reporting practices in the teaching of this curriculum area. Focus continues on the development of preservice teachers' content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge for the discipline with attention to integrating ICT use and Critical Thinking in the curriculum area.

Learning Outcomes

• demonstrate advanced and integrated understanding of the content and characteristics of developmentally appropriate curricula for secondary students, specifically the QCAA Senior Secondary Curriculum (QCAA, 2017)
• demonstrate advanced knowledge of the learning processes used by secondary students from diverse backgrounds in learning within the curriculum area
• demonstrate knowledge and technical skills to plan for the integration of ICT to facilitate and showcase learning and Critical Thinking
• design, implement and evaluate curriculum, assessment and differentiated learning opportunities, to enhance learning outcomes for all students, including those from diverse cultural, linguistic and socio-economic backgrounds and with specific learning needs
• demonstrate dispositions necessary to constructively evaluate various teaching methods, materials and media as they relate to secondary students learning as stipulated in relevant state and national frameworks and policies

Subject Assessment

• Written > Critical appraisal/review - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Learning plan - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Reflection/reflective task 1 - (40%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Assumed Knowledge:  Curriculum, planning, teaching, assessing knowledge

Availabilities