Technological and applied studies (TAS) is mandatory for all students in Year 7 and 8. Students can also select from a range of elective TAS subjects.
In TAS, students develop knowledge, understanding and skills through a design and production process using a range of tools, materials and techniques in theory and practical lessons.
The continuum of technology learning is:
- mandated from Kindergarten to Year 8 through Science and Technology K-6 and Technology Mandatory Years 7-8 syllabuses
- based on students becoming increasingly sophisticated in their ability to apply knowledge, skills and understanding to design and produce solutions
- optional for student specialisation in high school through a range of syllabuses addressing particular technologies and aspects of design.
Stage 4
Technology Mandatory 7 – 8
Technology Mandatory engages students in design and production activities as they develop solutions to identified needs and opportunities. Through the practical application of knowledge and understanding they learn about Agriculture and Food Technologies, Digital Technologies, Engineered Systems and Material Technologies.
The Technology Mandatory Years 7–8 course includes Life Skills outcomes and content for students with disability.
Stages 4 and 5
Stage 5 Elective Courses
Building and Construction
The study of Industrial Technology provides students with opportunities to engage in a diverse range of creative and practical experiences using a variety of technologies widely available in industrial and domestic settings.
They develop knowledge and understanding of materials and processes. Related knowledge and skills are developed through a specialised approach to the tools, materials, equipment and techniques employed in the planning, development, construction and evaluation of quality practical projects and processes. Critical thinking skills are developed through engagement with creative practical problem-solving activities.
Child Studies
This course is designed to develop the students’ knowledge and appreciation of the physical, emotional, intellectual and social stages of growth and development of the young child and the needs that are associated with these stages of development. This will provide a basis for future parenting and/or current contact with children.
Design and Technology
Students demonstrate skills in innovation and enterprise in their project work. They use techniques when communicating designed solutions to a range of audiences. They will develop a range of ICT skills and have the ability to select appropriate ICT applications to develop documentation for project work and communicate designed solutions.
Engineering
The study of Engineering provides students with opportunities to engage in a diverse range of creative and practical experiences using a variety of technologies widely available in industrial and domestic settings.
They develop knowledge and understanding of materials and processes. Related knowledge and skills are developed through a specialised approach to the tools, materials, equipment and techniques employed in the planning, development, construction and evaluation of quality practical projects and processes. Critical thinking skills are developed through engagement with creative practical problem-solving activities.
Industrial Technology – Timber
Timber provides opportunities for students to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in relation to the timber and associated wood working industries.
Timber (Industrial Technology-Timber) develops knowledge and skills in the use of materials, tools and techniques which are enhanced and further developed in the study of Cabinet working, Carpentry skills and Wood Machining.
Stage 6
Stage 6 TAS Subjects
Community and Family Studies
Community and Family Studies is designed to develop in each student an understanding of the diverse nature and interdependence of families and communities, within Australian society.
The course enables students to plan and manage resources effectively in order to address contemporary issues facing families and communities.
Design and Technology
The Preliminary course involves the study of both designing and producing. This is explored through areas such as design theory and practice, design processes, environmental and social issues, communication, research, technologies, and the manipulation of materials, tools and techniques. The course involves hands-on practical activities which develop knowledge and skills in designing and producing. The Preliminary course includes the completion of at least two design projects.
The HSC course applies the knowledge and understanding of designing and producing from the preliminary course. It involves the development and realisation of a Major Design Project, a case study of an innovation, along with the study of innovation and emerging technologies.
Engineering Studies
Both Preliminary and HSC courses offer students knowledge, understanding and skills in aspects of engineering that include communication, engineering mechanics/hydraulics, engineering materials, historical/ societal influences, engineering electricity/electronics, and the scope of the profession. Students study engineering by investigating a range of applications and fields of engineering.
Food Technology
The Preliminary course will develop knowledge and understanding about food nutrients and diets for optimum nutrition, the functional properties of food, safe preparation, presentation and storage of food, sensory characteristics of food, the influences on food availability and factors affecting food selection. Practical skills in planning, preparing and presenting food are integrated throughout the content areas.
The HSC course involves the study of: sectors, aspects, policies and legislations of the Australian Food Industry; production, processing, preserving, packaging, storage and distribution of food; factors impacting, reasons, types, steps and marketing of food product development; nutrition incorporating diet and health in Australia and influences on nutritional status. Practical experiences in developing, preparing, experimenting and presenting food are integrated throughout the course.
Information Process and Technology
The Information Processes and Technology Stage 6 course, teaches students about information-based systems. It covers the processes of collecting, organising, analysing, storing and retrieving, processing, transmitting and receiving, and displaying, as well as the technologies that support them. With this background, students will be well placed to adapt to new technologies as they emerge.
Timber – Industrial Technology
Industrial Technology Stage 6 consists of project work and an industry study that will develop a broad range of skills and knowledge related to the focus area chosen for the course. The Focus Areas include: Timber Products and Furniture Technologies.
In the HSC course, students design, develop and construct a Major Project with a management folio. They will also undertake a study of the overall industry related to the specific focus area industry.