Fingal

Fingal Community College | Coláiste Pobail Fhine Ghall

Choosing the RightOptions at Junior Cycle

Table of Contents

» General Introduction ............................................................................2

» A Brief Outline of Our Aims and Objectives ........................................2

» Class Sizes & Levels ..............................................................................3

» Mixed Ability at Fingal Community College ........................................3

» The Junior Certifi cate ............................................................................4

» Guidance & Counselling Department ..................................................5

» Choosing the Right Option for You ......................................................6

» The Seven Wonders of a First Year Student ........................................7

» Art, Craft & Design ........................................................................... 8-9

» Business Studies ........................................................................... 10-11

» CSPE ............................................................................................... 12-13

» English ........................................................................................... 14-15

» Geography .................................................................................... 16-17

» History ........................................................................................... 18-19

» Home Economics .......................................................................... 20-21

» Materials Technology Wood (MTW) ............................................. 22-23

» Mathematics ................................................................................. 24-25

» Metalwork ..................................................................................... 26-27

» Modern Languages ....................................................................... 28-29

» Physical Education ........................................................................30-31

» Religious Education ...................................................................... 32-33

» Science .......................................................................................... 34-35

» SPHE .............................................................................................. 36-37

» Technical Graphics ........................................................................ 38-39



General Introduction

Parents and Guardians

We are conscious that the transition of your child from primary to post-primary education, marks another milestone in your child’s development. As you help your child through this transition, it is natural to feel a degree of anxiety and concern at the challenges before them.

We hope that you will fi nd both this booklet informative and worthwhile, and that we will address any concerns that you may have regarding subject choices.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the college.

Please remember to have your completed forms returned to the main offi ce on or before the stated deadline.

A Brief Outline of Our Aimsand Objectives

At Fingal Community College, our Educational Aims include a commitment to:

» Build on the knowledge, understanding, skills and competencies acquired at primary school.

» Develop each student’s personal and social confi dence, initiative and competence through a broad, well-balanced general education.

» Prepare each student for the requirements of third-level education, employment and the demands and challenges of adult lift.

» Contribute to the moral and spiritual development of the young person and to develop an understanding and respect for the values and beliefs of others.

» Prepare the young person for the responsibilities of citizenship, in the national context and in the context of the wider international community. Recognise the need to provide broadly based programmes for all students, at levels appropriate to their ability.



Class Sizes & Levels

» The maximum class size will not exceed 30 pupils in academic subjects. In practical classes, the maximum number will not exceed 24 pupils however the maximum number of students for Home economics is 20.

» All subjects are available at the appropriate level: Higher and Ordinary Foundation Level is available to students of Gaeilge and Maths Fingal Community College follows the curricular programmes set down by the Department of Education and Skills which may be amended from time to time in accordance with the Education Act 1998 (Sections 9 & 30)

Mixed Ability at Fingal Community College

Strict streaming of classes has been found to foster negative attitudes and to lower self-esteem. In order to promote and encourage student self-confi dence, classes are placed in mixed ability groups.

The opportunity for students to prepare for examination subjects at various levels is achieved by setting. This involves timetabling two or more classes for a particular subject at the same time. Thus it is possible for a student to undertake the Junior Certifi cate course in different subjects at different levels. For example, a student might wish to take Junior Certifi cate English at Higher or Ordinary Level. The same student may choose to take Maths at Ordinary Level. This system allows for fl exibility so that the students’ needs are met, and yet it avoids a stigmatisation, which can go hand in hand with a system of strict streaming. The above system of setting may operate from the end of fi rst year and particularly with third year and senior cycle.



The general aim of education is to contribute towards the development of all aspects of the individual, including aesthetic, creative, critical, cultural, emotional, intellectual, moral, physical, political, social and spiritual for personal and family life, for working life, for living in the community and for leisure.

The Junior Certifi cate programme is designed to meet the needs of all students in second level education.

The Junior Certifi cate Programme aims to:

» reinforce and further develop a young person’s knowledge, understanding and skills acquired at primary level

» extend and deepen a young persons educational experience;

» prepare the young person for the requirements of for their programmes of study, of employment or of life outside full-time education

» contribute to the moral and spiritual development of the young person and to develop a tolerance and respect for the values and beliefs of others

» prepare the young person for the responsibilities of citizenship, in the national context, and in the context of the wider European and global communities

The Junior Certifi cate Programme is based on the following principles:

Breadth & Balance

At this stage of their school careers, all students should have a wide range of educational experiences. Particular attention must be given to reinforcing and developing the skills of numeracy and literacy. Particular attention should also be given to social and environmental education, science and technology and modern languages.

Relevance

Curriculum provision should address the immediate and prospective needs of the young person.

Quality

Every young person should be challenged to achieve the highest possible standards of excellence, with due regard to different aptitudes and abilities and to international comparisons.

The Junior Certifi cate



Guidance & CounsellingDepartmentThe Guidance and Counselling Department at Fingal Community College works closely with School Staff, Management and Parents to provide a service to all students which will assist them in making informed choices about their lives. For second level students these choices are focussed in a developmental way on three key areas: personal, educational and vocational.

Objectives

At the end of the Junior Cycle students will have experienced:

» Guidance in educational and personal learning management

» Vocational exploration and information

» Individual and/or Group Counselling will have been available for all students on request and/or on referral.

» Students will have access to information which is appropriate for their personal, educational and vocational development.

» Parents will have met with the School Guidance Counsellor at Information Evenings, at organised Guidance Meetings and on request.

» Students’ needs, with regards to the Guidance Counselling Service, will be evaluated, and in partnership with Staff and the Principal / School Management, planning for the future will be ongoing.

During your years here at Fingal Community College we may undertake, with you, some or all of the following:

» Help you to explore your feelings about your present life situation.

» Explore with you the choices open to you and explore the consequences of each choice.

» Help you to come up with solutions to any problems you may be experiencing.

» Offer confi dential counselling and/or advice on issues of a personal nature.

» Give you information on various educational/training courses and/or employment opportunities.

» Carry out Assessment and Aptitude Testing and Career Interest Inventories.

» Explain to you and your parents how to apply to college or university and how to access supports once you have been accepted.

What does a Guidance Counsellor do?

As a student you will make signifi cant decisions while still at school, these choices are related to personal and social matters, educational and vocational issues. Guidance Counsellors are trained professionals with the expertise and knowledge to help you make choices in the three important areas outlined above. We do this through individual consultation, guidance classes and other activities/events.

We do not make your decisions for you.



Choosing the Right Option for YouIt is important that the enclosed information is carefully read before the options are considered:

Identify the subjects/options that you think might suit you best and justify your choices.

Many subjects have value in their own right and may enhance the quality of your life.

Assess your strengths:

» Are you good with your hands?

» Do you like drawing/painting?

» Do you really enjoy mathematics?

» Are you neat and careful?

» Are you logical and methodical?

At this stage in a young person’s life it is best not to specialise, but choose a range of subjects from different groups.

The Process

1. Completed application forms are returned to the College for processing by a set date.

2. All places are confi rmed in writing by the College before assessment takes place.

3. Students are assessed in the New Year.

4. An information evening is then held to assist parents of incoming students.

5. Rules and regulations of the school are given to parents.

6. A place is offered on the understanding that parents and students accept the rules etc. and are willing to observe them in the interest of good order and fair play for all.

7. Students are offered optional subjects and are placed into class

groupings

8. The College will endeavour to satisfy each student’s choice, however

class size restrictions apply.



I don’t really like thatsubject but I wonder if Ishould choose it because

I’ll need it to get intoa certain course

in college?

That subject lookseasy, I wonder of I

should do that?

I wonder if thatsubject is only

for swots?

I wonder if I amgood enough to do that subject?

I wonder if I’llbe made fun of if

I choose thatsubject?

I wonder if anyof my friends are

doing that subject?

I wonder if thatsubject is for girls

or boys?

TheSeven Wondersof a First Year

Student



In Art, Craft & Design you will have the opportunity to create images and objects using a

variety of tools, materials and special equipment. To understand Art, Craft & Design it is

important to make things yourself so that you learn and understand by doing.

How can I learn more about Art,Craft & Design outside of school?

Some of the things you may do are:

» look at and think about visual images from fi lm, cartoons, books, billboards etc.

» keep a visual diary, where you will store knowledge, ideas, photographs, observations, etc.

» visit local and national art, craft & design centres and libraries.

» use the Internet, where you can fi nd styles and types of art, craft and design from your own countryand from other countries.

Art, Craft & Design

What will I learn in Art,Craft & Design?

In Art,Craft & Design you will:

» investigate by looking and recording yourobservations and experiences

» learn a variety of new crafts.

» learn to work in 3-D e.g. construction, sculpture or clay work.

» learn about the design process and how to use it to create new design objects and images.

» learn to make links between your artwork and that of other artists, craft workers, architects and designers from different countries and historical periods.

How will I learn Art, Craft & Design in school?

As you progress in Art, Craft, Design you will learn to work like an artist, crafts person, and designer. Some of the things you may do with your teacher and classmates are:

» develop your observational skills through drawing, painting and other media.

» use a variety of materials and resources (including ICT) and explore the different ways in which they can be used.

» learn how to plan, manage and complete your art works.

» try your best at homework and assignments.



How will I know how I’m getting on?

As you progress in Art, Craft & Design:

» you will be able to see and judge for yourself how you are progressing

» your teacher will tell you how your skills have improved as you become a better artist

» you will evaluate your own and other’s work through class discussions.

Will Art, Craft & Design have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Art, Craft & Design is all around you so it links with all subjects especially: Technical Graphics, Home Economics, Technology, Materials Technology (Wood), Metalwork, Religious Education, SPHE and CSPE.

How will Art, Craft & Design be useful to me?

Many of the skills you learn while studying Art, Craft & Design are very useful outside of school and in whatever job you choose to do in the future. There are many career opportunities in Art, Craft & Design - areas such as: photography, illustration, interior/industrial/fashion design, education and architecture.

What is the Art, Craft & Design Junior Certifi cate Exam like?

In Art, Craft & Design, you will be examined in two ways:

» course-work in third year, you will do a school-based project, chosen from a list of themes. You will research your theme, do preparatory work and complete a painting or graphic design, a craft piece, and a 3-D piece. You will relate your work to other artist’s work.

» an examination takes place in May during which you will draw an object and a person.

You can take Art, Craft & Design at Higher or at Ordinary Level. When the time comes to decide, your Teacher will help you choose the level that suits you best.

Will Art, Craft & Design be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

After the Junior Certifi cate, you may be able to choose Art as an option for your Leaving Certifi cate. You will continue to build on the artistic skills you developed in Junior Certifi cate, and you will be offered greater challenges. You will continue to study the history and appreciation of art, craft & design, and the built environment in more detail.

For more information about the Art, Craft & Design course:www.curriculumonline.ie

For more information about the Junior Certifi cate Exam:www.examinations.ie

For more information about Art, Craft and Design:www.scoilnet.iewww.artcyclopedia.comwww.nationalgallery.iewww.wwar.comwww.opw.ie

Is learning Art, Craft & Design anything like what I did in primary school?

You have already been expressing your creative abilities through drawing, paint and colour, print, clay, construction, fabric and fi bre in primary school. You will continue to build on these skills and you will also learn to use other tools,materials and special equipment to create images and objects.



Business Studies helps you to make more informed decisions in the everyday business

of living. It gives you a better understanding of the world of work. It encourages you to

think about how and why people start up in business and why you too might also consider

starting a business.

What will I learn in Business Studies?

Some of the things you will learn include:

» good communication skills such as letter writing and report writing.

» how to collect, organise, and record fi nancial information for yourself, your family, for clubs you may be a member of, and for businesses you may be employed with in the future.

» what your rights and responsibilities are as a consumer(someone who buys or uses goods and services-that’s you!).

» how to calculate your wages when you start working (including the minimum wage).

» about why our membership of the European Union is so important to our economy.

How will I learn Business Studies in school?

Some of the things you may do with your teacher and your classmates are:

» form a club in class to learn what it is like to be a club member

» prepare advertisements for different events to learn more about sales promotions.

» practise recording transactions.

» keep records of your pocket money or wages from part-time work.

» learn about the benefi ts of saving.

» take part in a mini-company enterprise as part of an out-of-class activity.

Business Studies



How will I know how I am getting on?

Your teacher will let you know:

» what you have done well

» how you can improve your work.

What is the Business Studies Junior Certifi cate exam like?

Ordinary level students are required to sit one written exam. They are required to answer twenty short answer questions and fi ve long answer questions. Higher level students are required to sit two written exams. Paper I examines students on household and personal questions, which consists of twenty short answer questions and four long questions. Paper II examines students from a business perspective and consists of four long questions. You can take the exam at Higher or at Ordinary level. When the time comes to decide, your teacher will help you choose.

How will Business Studies be useful to me?

Business Studies helps you to make wise decisions about saving and spending your money now and throughout your life. You will learn about the world of work which will introduce you to many possible careers such as: accountancy, fi nance, sales & marketing and management. It also gives you a good foundation for the three Leaving Certifi cate business subjects.

How can I learn more about Business Studies outside of school?


» discuss with family members how the household money is spent and help them get better value for their money by doing price surveys for food, mobile phones, insurance etc.

» listen to the business news reports or read the business section of a newspaper

» be more aware of how you make use of your pocket money or part-time job wages

» compete in business quizzes/mini-company competitions

» make use of a route planner to help your family plan your holidays.

Will Business Studies have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes there are links with Mathematics, English, Geography and Home Economics. ICT skills will also be of use to you in Business Studies.

Is learning Business Studies anything like what I did in primary school?

The work you did in English will be a good help to you in letter and report writing. Your mathematics skills will help you to calculate wages, exchange rates, interest on savings and the cost of loans. Your knowledge of Ireland and the European Union from Geography (SESE) will also be of use to you in Business Studies.

Will Business Studies be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

Three subjects follow on from Junior Certifi cate Business Studies in Leaving Certifi cate: Accounting, Business, and Economics. Each one becomes more specifi c and allows you to concentrate more on the subject area you choose.



Civic, Social and Political Education (CSPE) is taught to all Junior Certifi cate Students. It

aims to help you to become actively involved in your community, your country and the

wider world.

What will I learn in CSPE?

In CSPE class you will get a chance to think about questions such as:

» what does it mean to be an active citizen?

» how can I get involved in my community?

» how can I make a difference?

» what are human rights?

» how can I play a part in protecting the environment?

But you will do more than just thinking about these things. You will be taking action.

How will I learn CSPE in school?

Being active in the classroom is very important in CSPE. Some of the things you may do with your teacher and classmates are:

» work on your own, but also in pairs and in groups

» discuss and debate topics in class

» learn through games, role play, photos and other activities

» use newspapers, magazines, books and the Internet to fi nd out information

» invite a guest speaker into the class or go on a trip outside of school.

Some other things that will help you learn in class are:

» asking questions

» keeping a fi le of your notes and handouts as they will be useful for learning and for revision

» fi nding out how voting works by organising a mock election in your class.

How will CSPE connect with the world outside of school?

CSPE is all about understanding our community, our society and the wider world; how each work and how we can make them better. Some of the things you may do are:

» take part in an environmental project, such as recycling, in your local area

» organise a visit to a local court • support a campaign for children’s rights

» watch what’s happening in the news

» discuss the topics that come up in class with your family and friends.

CSPE



What is the CSPE Junior Certifi cate exam like?

CSPE is examined at a common level. You will be assessed in two ways:

» a written examination, which is worth 40% of your fi nal grade and

» a report on your participation in an action project or the presentation of a course work assessment booklet. This report is worth 60% of the total examination mark.

Will CSPE have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes, it will. You will fi nd that building skills for citizenship in CSPE is similar to personal development in SPHE. You will fi nd links between Religious Education and CSPE in learning about the community. Concepts of democracy, law, rights and responsibilities, and knowledge of Ireland and the wider world in CSPE will help you with History and Geography in the Junior Cycle.

How will CSPE be useful to me?

You will fi nd CSPE useful if you want to study politics or sociology or many other courses. You will also fi nd it useful in your everyday life as it helps you to understand your community, society and the wider world.



» what you did well.

» what you need to improve.

» what you could do to improve.

You will also see how you improve in:

» taking part in a discussion.

» researching information.

» working as part of a team.

» taking an action for change.

Is learning CSPE anything like what I did in primary school?

CSPE will build on what you learned about ‘Myself and the Wider World’ in Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE). It will also build on what you learned about ‘Environmental Awareness and Care’ in the subjects Geography and Science.

Will CSPE be very different after Junior Certifi cate?

At the moment, there is no subject called CSPE after the Junior Cert., However, a Leaving Certifi cate subject called Politics and Society is likely to be introduced in the future. What you have learned in CSPE will be useful if you study Geography, Home Economics, History or Economics in the Leaving Cert.

For more information about the CSPE coursewww.curriculumonline.iewww.irlgov.ie

For more information about the Junior Certifi cate examwww.examinations.ie

For more information about CSPEhttp://cspe.slss.ie www.scoilnet.ie



English is an international language spoken or being learned by people in almost every

part of the world. In Junior Certifi cate English you will learn how to communicate more

effectively with others and to express your point of view in many different ways. You will

also have many opportunities to use your imagination and to fi nd out about great writers.

By the end of the Junior Certifi cate course, you should be better able to understand your

world and to say what you think about it.

What will I learn in English?


» how to communicate clearly

» how to speak and write in interesting ways about things that happen in your daily life

» how to explore different ways of using English e.g. interviewing, story - telling, describing, newspaper reporting, writing, advertisements or jokes etc.

» how to fi nd out about the great writers of Ireland and the world, and enjoy reading some of their work.

How will I learn English in school?

Some of the things you may do to learn more and to improve your English in the classroom are:

» work with a group to create a document e.g. a class newspaper

» listen to poems and stories

» read and think about a novel, a poem or a play

» compose poems or songs or longer pieces of writing

» ask and answer questions about what you read and hear

» re-write your work to make it better


How can I learn more about English outside of school?Some of the things you may do on your own or with others are:

» watch the news or a TV programme and talk about it afterwards

» go to a play or fi lm and do a review of it

» go to the library and ask the librarian about the books

» read a newspaper or a favourite magazine

» write and receive e-mails.

English



What is the English Junior Certifi cate Exam like?

You may be asked to:

» write about your experiences and your opinions

» write a letter or a report or a speech • respond to a poem

» write about a novel and a play that you have studied

» talk about TV programmes or newspaper articles or advertisements.

You may also be shown some short reading passages and you will answer questions on them. You can take the exam at Foundation, Ordinary or Higher level. When the time comes to decide, your teacher will help you choose the level that suits you best.



» what you did well

» where you need to improve

» what you could do to improve

Other things you may do are:

» ask a friend to look at your work

» look back over your work and decide whether you have improved or not

» do a class test

» enter a competition

Is learning English anything like what I did in primary school?

Most of the time, it will be. You will do similar work and you will continue to gain confi dence in speaking, reading and writing in English. As in primary school, learning English will help you to develop as a person. You will continue to learn about the wonderful power of words and to develop your imagination.

Will English have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes it will. As you get better at English you will get better at learning other languages. Having good English skills will also help you in presenting work for a range of other subjects e.g. History, Geography, Science and Home Economics.

Will English be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

In Leaving Certifi cate English you will continue to discuss important ideas and have a whole new course to enjoy. You can look forward to exploring the works of new writers and reading books from Ireland and other countries.

How will English be useful to me?You can continue to improve your English all your life. The better you are at English the more you are likely to enjoy speaking, reading and writing. Any third level course in English provides you with skills for a variety of positions in business, government, research, education, publishing, as well as in the cultural, entertainment, and communications industries.



In Geography you will study about places, people and what shapes the environment.

You will learn how the environment infl uences people, and how they change the

environment. You will develop your ability to draw and understand maps, graphs

and diagrams, as well as studying photographs and collecting information outside the

classroom through fi eldwork.

How will I learn Geography in school?


» work on your own, but also share information with others

» collect useful information related to Geography both inside and outside the classroom

» learn and use important geographical terms

» learn how to read a map and fi nd your way

» draw diagrams of natural and man made geographical features.

How can I learn more about Geography outside of school?


» watch news reports and documentaries on TV and DVD

» research subjects from books, newspapers and magazines at home and in the public library

» use the Internet to research places and people

» observe differences in the landscapes when on holidays

» write to or e-mail people your own age in other countries

What will I learn in Geography?


» where people live (the human habitat) and why they live there (population and settlement patterns)

» the natural world and what infl uences and shapes it

» the world of human activities and what infl uences and shapes it

» how to get and use information from different sources such as textbooks, maps, photographs, graphs, diagrams, newspapers, DVDs and the Internet.

Geography










» look back over your work to see how you have improved.

What is the Geography Junior Certifi cate exam like?

In the examination, you will answer twenty short questions in the fi rst part of the paper, and three questions requiring longer answers in the second part. There will be questions on map-reading, and on explaining photographs, diagrams and charts. There is also an optional fi eld-study project. You can take the exam at Higher or at Ordinary level. When the time comes to decide, your teacher will help you choose the level that suits you best.

How will Geography be useful to me?

Everybody uses geography in their daily lives. When you think of where to go on holiday or wonder what tomorrow’s weather will be like, you are thinking geography. When you look at an atlas map, or a town plan, or a weather map, you use what we learn in Geography. Geography prepares you for careers in town planning, outdoor pursuits education, weather forecasting, tourism and transport. Geography keeps you informed of topics which arise in conversation, current affairs, newspaper reports, and on TV, such as climate change, renewable energy and aid to poorer nations.

For more information about The Geography coursewww.curriculumonline.ie


For more information about geographywww.scoilnet.iewww.skoool.iewww.geography.learnontheinternet.co.uk

Will Geography be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

In Leaving Certifi cate Geography, some of the topics will be familiar and will be covered in much greater detail. New topics will also be introduced such as regions of the world. There is also a geographical investigation, involving fi eld-work, which is a compulsory part of the examination.

Geography, like Science, is concerned with the environment. Geography and CSPE both include themes such as care for the environment and issues concerned with the unequal division of the world’s wealth and resources.



History involves the study of people who lived in the past - ordinary people as well as

famous people. In History, you will learn about the sources of evidence on which we base

our understanding of their lives. You will fi nd out about important changes that, over

time, have helped to shape the world in which you live.

What will I learn in History?


» how people have lived during different periods

» how we fi nd out about the past

» how important changes took place during different periods, what caused the changes and how people were affected by the changes

» a broad understanding of local, Irish and international history

How will I learn History in school?

Some of the things you may do with your teacher and classmates are:

» use resources such as textbooks or the Internet / computer software to help fi nd out more about the past.

» learn about evidence and how it helps us to explore the past.

» learn to interpret pictures and moving images of people in the past.

» make your own notes to help you remember what you have found out.

» work on your own, but also in pairs and groups


How can I learn more about History outside of school?


» visit museums, historic buildings, local monuments and other historic sites.

» talk to older people about their lives in the past.

» look at history websites on the internet.

» watch documentaries and other historical programmes on TV, via the internet or on DVD.

» look at works of art & listen to songs and music produced by people of the past.

History



How will History be useful to me?

It will help you to better understand the world in which you live. You will gain experience of working with evidence and learn to tell the difference between fact and opinion. History is a very practical subject because it involves learning about people, countries, societies and cultures. History can help you in many different careers, especially those linked with heritage, tourism, research and the environment.







» look back over your work to learn from your mistakes

» test yourself, using questions from your textbook or ones you draw up yourself.

Will History be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

In Leaving Certifi cate History:

» you will continue to learn about people of the past and the evidence on which we build up accounts of their lives

» you will carry out your own historical research study on a subject in which you are interested.

Will History have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes, it will. History will give you a very useful historical background for many other subjects e.g. English, CSPE, Science, and Art, Craft and Design. Geography also looks at people’s places of settlement and how people’s lives are shaped by the places in which they live. History, like English, is a good subject for developing your communication skills.What is the History Junior Certifi cate

exam like?

You will:

» answer questions on different historical sources, such as photographs, cartoons and letters

» write accounts of what life was like for different types of people in the past

» answer questions about important events that happened in the past.

You can take the exam at Higher or at Ordinary level. When the time comes to decide, your teacher will help you choose the level that suits you best.

For more information about the History course:www.curriculumonline.ie

For more information about the Junior Certifi cate exam:www.examinations.ie

For more information about History:www.hist.iewww.bbc.co.uk/historywww.headlinehistory.co.ukwww.multitext.ucc.iewww.schoolhistory.co.uk

Is learning History anything like what I did in primary school?

In SESE: History, in primary school, you developed your knowledge and understanding of people, events and developments in the past. Junior Certifi cate History continues to build on these areas.



Home Economics is a subject where you will learn how to take care of yourself, others,

your home and your environment. As Home Economics is a very practical subject, you will

carry out a lot of activities in school and at home.

Home Economics

How will I learn Home Economics in school?

Some of the things you may do with your teacher and classmates are:

» follow recipes and cook dishes in pairs

» use textbooks, DVDs, computer programs and other materials

» hand and/or machine sew to make small items for yourself or your home

Some other things that will help you learn in class are if you:

» ask questions

» take notes

» keep a fi le of your work and your recipes

» suggest things to cook and make

» keep a fi le of interesting ideas for your craftwork or textiles.

What will I learn in Home Economics? Some of the things you will learn about are:

» your body - what is good to eat and how to keep healthy

» food - how it nourishes your body, how to choose it, store it, and how to prepare and cook it

» using money - how to spend it wisely, how to save it,and how you are protected as a consumer

» your home - about design in the home, about safety and hygiene

» design and craftwork, child development, textiles - you will carry out a project in one of these areas.

How will Home Economics be useful to me?

You will be able to use information you have studied in your everyday life; from looking after yourself, to shopping and caring for others. You will be more experienced at managing your resources and your time. There are many jobs and careers that you can work in, e.g. chefs!cooks, catering, fashion and textiles,child care, teaching, food industry, tourism,and health and nutrition.



For more information about the Home Economics course www.curriculumonline.ie


For more information about Home Economicswww.homeeconomics.iewww.scoilnet.ie

How will I know how I am getting on?Your teacher will let you know:


» what you need to improve


You will know when you are doing well when:

» you can read and follow a recipe

» you can organise, prepare and cook a good meal

» you can make an item e.g. a cushion for yourself or your home.

What is the Home Economics Junior Certifi cate exam like?In Junior Certifi cate Home Economics you will be examined in three ways:

» coursework - with help of your teacher, you will choose a project from one of the following areas: Child Development, Design and Craftwork or Textiles Skills

» a practical cookery exam - you will have a one and a half hour practical cookery exam which involves preparing and cooking food

» a written examination - you will also have a written exam, which you can take at Higher or Ordinary level.When the time comes to decide,your teacher will help you choose the level that suits you best.

Will Home Economics be very different after the Junior Certifi cate? In Leaving Certifi cate Home Economics you will study the core areas in greater detail: » Food Studies » Resource Management and Consumer Studies » Social Studies

You will also choose to study an elective area: » Home Design and Management » Textiles, Fashion and Design » Social Studies.

How can I learn more about Home Economics outside of school?


» cook dishes at home

» if you are eating out, take note of menus, prices, etc.

» use a library, magazines and the internet for information and ideas on food, household items and design

» watch cookery and interior decoration programmes on television Iook at fashion magazines for design ideas

» when shopping for clothes, look at the care labels and the type of fabrics used.

You can get your family to help by:

» organising your food for cookery class

» tasting what you cookIs learning Home Economics anything like what I did in primary school?

In SPHE and SESE: Science you will have learnt about your body, how to care for it and the correct foods to eat. You will have made some items in Visual Arts which will be useful when you start sewing in class. You will have weighed and measured items and materials in Mathematics.You will have studied topics related to the family in SESE (History, Geography and Science).

Will Home Economics have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes, it will. You will fi nd links with Science, SPHE, Physical Education, Art, Craft, Design and Business Studies.



Materials Technology Wood (MTW) is one of the technology subjects offered at Junior

Cycle. In MTW you will learn to design small projects and the skills required to use tools

and equipment to make your designs. You will work mainly with wood but also with

other materials. You will learn about wood as a material and how it is produced.

How can I learn more about MTW outside of school?


» rather than just looking at trees, try to recognise the different species and their features

» examine how pieces of furniture are put together and why they are so strong

» use the internet to fi nd information on design, wood, plastics and woodworking skills

» talk to people involved in the woodworking industry, for example carpenters or cabinet makers.

What will I learn in MTW?


» how to design a project given a brief description of what you are to make

» how to use the internet for research purposes

» how to use freehand sketching to communicate your ideas

» how to prepare a design drawing/plan of a project you design

» how to read design drawings and make small projects from these drawings

» how to safely use a range of hand and power tools in producing your design.

Materials Technology Wood (MTW)

How will I learn MTW in school?


» examine trees, their leaves and seeds and be able to recognise their varying characteristics

» investigate how trees affect the environment around us

» learn to sketch freehand • learn how to problem solve and use a design process to design projects

» develop your craft skills to allow you to make projects • prepare a design folder to accompany your project.








» look at each project you make to see what skills you need to improve on the next time

» compare projects you did in fi rst and second year with recent ones to see how your skills have developed over time

» revise theory work regularly to see how much you can remember.

Will MTW have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes. Materials Technology Wood will be useful to you in the study of any of the other three technology subjects, Technical Graphics, Metalwork and Technology. Many of the skills involved in this subject are also used in the other subjects. MTW is also related to some of the topics covered in Science and Art.

What is the MTW Junior Cert. Exam like?

There are two parts to the exam:

» coursework – you will design a project based on a given design brief (instructions). You will then make the project and prepare a project folder to accompany it (66%).

» written examination – there will be a two hour written paper which examines the woodwork theory you have learned over the three years (33%).

You can take the exam at Higher or at Ordinary Level. When the time comes to decide, your teacher will help you choose.

Is learning MTW anything like what I did in primary school?

You will be building upon the drawing work you did in Visual Arts. You may already have learned a lot about wood as a material as part of your work in Science. You may also have learned about trees as part of the natural environment and as a habitat in both Geography and Science. The skills you developed when designing and making things in Science will also be very helpful in MTW.

How will MTW be useful to me?

» You will know the correct procedures to follow when developing an idea into a fi nished artefact e.g. a piece of furniture or a child’s toy etc.

» You will be able to identify different trees, recognise their importance to us and our environment

» You will also have the skills to make objects from wood and know how to apply fi nishes to them, e.g. paint, varnish, stain or polish.

Will MTW be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

MTW develops into Construction Studies (Architectural Technology) in Senior Cycle. In this subject:

» the emphasis is on the principles behind building and construction

» there is a large amount of practical work involved in the course

» drawing skills learned in MTW will be further developed.

For more information about the MTW course:www.curriculumonline.ie


For more information about MTW www.scoilnet.ie www.technologystudent.com



In Mathematics, you will develop your problem-solving skills and your ability to present

logical arguments. You will be better able to use what you learned in Mathematics in

real life situations in everyday life and work. Project Maths is currently being introduced

to Fingal Community College. This Maths course aims to change attitudes to Maths &

introduces new ways of doing and thinking about Maths. It also encourages you to take

Maths at Higher Level.

How can I learn more about Mathematics outside of school?Some of the things you may do are:

» take part in mathematical challenges such as Prism or Hamilton Maths Challenge

» improve your mental arithmetic by using maths computer software

» get involved with some of the activities that are organised within the community for National Mathematics Week

» enter a project in SciFest or The BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition.

What will I learn in Mathematics? Some of the things you will learn include:

» sets

» number systems

» algebra

» functions and graphs

» trigonometry

» geometry

» statistics

» applied arithmetic & measurement

Mathematics

How will I learn Mathematics in school? Some of the things you may do with your teacher and your classmates are:

» use computer simulations

» do hands-on activities with real-life materials

» use a text book and answer maths problems

» take part in project work


» asking questions

» solving maths problems for yourself

» keeping your work organised in an exercise book



Is learning Mathematics anything like what I did in primary school?

You will already have learned about number, algebra, shape and space, measures and data in mathematics in primary school. Junior Certifi cate Mathematics aims to build on this. Many Junior Certifi cate Mathematics teachers use practical work and real-life materials in their classrooms. Students often take part in investigations and project work. This is similar to the way you learnt Mathematics in primary school.

Will Mathematics be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

In Leaving Certifi cate Mathematics, you will meet the same topics as you did in Junior Certifi cate, but to a greater depth, as well as some extra topics.







» try some questions from past examination papers

» try some of the revision quizzes.

How will Mathematics be useful to me?

Studying mathematics prepares you for business calculations, for handling your money sensibly and for courses in sciences, engineering and technology. You should see mathematics as an opportunity to strengthen your thinking skills.

Will Mathematics have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

You will fi nd links with several subjects, such as Science, Geography, Business and the technology subjects, where a good knowledge of mathematics will be of great value to you in working out equations, distances, calculations and formulae.

What is the Mathematics Junior Certifi cate exam like?

Ordinary and Higher level students will sit two written exam papers each consisting of six questions. Foundation level students will sit one written exam paper consisting of six questions.

You can take the exam at Higher, Ordinary or Foundation level. When the time comes to decide, your teacher will help you choose the level that suits you best.

For more information about the Mathematics course:www.curriculumonline.ie


For more information about mathematics:www.skoool.iewww.maths.nuigalway.ie/PRISMwww.hamilton.ie/mathschallenge



Metalwork is one of the technology subjects offered at Junior Cycle. It is an activity-based

course focusing on metal, how to work with it and how to assemble different parts. Other

materials such as plastics and wood are also investigated and used in project work. You

will be working with basic electronic components too.

How can I learn more about Metalwork outside of school?


» take note of the importance of metals and engineering materials in everyday life in the world around you

» look out for different metals and try to name them

» look at designs of everyday items around you. Try to work out how they are put together and why they are put together in this way.

What will I learn in Metalwork?


» how to read and follow a technical drawing

» skills in shaping, cutting and joining materials

» how to use a wide variety of tools and machines correctly and safely

» the properties of different metals and how they are made

» the importance of metal in our everyday lives

» how to use the internet in your research.

Metalwork

How will I learn Metalwork in school?


» examine the properties of different metals, plastics and wood

» examine simple mechanisms and ‘how things work’

» learn how to do freehand sketching

» develop good craft skills using hand tools and machines in a safe way

» learn many different methods of joining and assembling materials

» learn how to apply a variety of decorative fi nishes to protect your work

» learn about basic electronic components and how to construct simple electronic circuits.



Is learning Metalwork anything like what I did in primary school?

You will fi nd that aspects of Maths you did in primary school will be useful to you, for example working out measurements from drawings. You will also have examined different materials in SESE: Science so you will be building on this knowledge.

How will Metalwork be useful to me?

You will be able to work with metals and other materials such as wood and plastic. You will be able to assemble these materials into useful and interesting items. You will know the most suitable fi nish to apply to your project and how to apply it.

Will Metalwork have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes. Metalwork covers some of the same topics studied in Materials Technology Wood. Many of the practical skills learned in Metalwork are similar to those learned in the other two subjects. If you are taking Technical Graphics it will help you to understand drawings and diagrams that you will be using in Metalwork. You will also fi nd some of the same topics coming up in Science and Geography.Will Metalwork be very different after

the Junior Certifi cate?

Leaving Cert. Engineering (Engineering Technology) builds on what you learned in Junior Cert. Metalwork. However, the topics are covered in much greater detail and a higher level of skill is necessary in practical work

What is the Metalwork Junior Certifi cate exam like?

There are two (or three) parts to the exam:

» Course-work project - there is a project worth 37.5% at Higher level or 75% at Ordinary level. You will have approximately four months to make it

» Written examination - the written paper is based on metalwork theory and makes up 25% for both levels

» practical exam (Higher level only) - this is worth 37.5% of the total marks for Higher level. This involves making and assembling parts from a given drawing and you will have three hours to do this.

You can take the exam at Higher level or at Ordinary level. When the time comes to decide, your teacher will help you choose the level that suits you best.





» Other things you may do are:

» as you progress through the junior cycle, have a look back over your earlier projects to see how your metalworking skills have improved

» you will notice that project drawings will become easier to read and understand.

For more information about the Metalwork course:www.curriculumonline.ie


For more information about Metalwork:www.scoilnet.iewww.skoool.iewww.technologystudent.comwww.practicalstudent.com



The modern languages you can learn for Junior Certifi cate at Fingal Community College are

French & German. In learning a modern language, you will begin to understand what you

read and hear, and to talk and write in the language.

How can I learn more about a modern language outside of school?


» fi nd out information about the language you are learning and the countries where they speak it

» carry out research on the Internet. Ask your teacher for a list of websites

» fi nd speakers of the language as email pen-pals to communicate with over the internet

» use a library for books, DVDs, magazines, dictionaries, etc.

What will I learn in a modern language?


» how to speak in the language about yourself, your family and friends, your hobbies, your school, etc. This will help you to talk to people who speak the language

» the skills of listening to, reading and writing in the language

» the grammar of the language

» information about the countries where people speak the language, and their way of life.

Modern Languages - French & German

How will I learn a modern language in school?


» work on your own, in pairs and in groups

» learn through activities and games

» use textbooks and other materials

» watch fi lms, listen to songs and look at pictures & posters.


» asking questions

» taking notes and keeping your work in a folder

» speaking the language as much as you can, in and out of class.

You will learn the language in small blocks which you will build upon as you go along. But remember, learning a language is like making a jigsaw: you need all the pieces!









» look back over your work to see how you have improved

Will the modern languages be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

By studying a modern language in Leaving Cert., you will continue to build up your knowledge of your chosen language, the way of life of the people who speak it, and you will continue to use the language for a whole variety of purposes. It is important to study a modern language for Junior Certifi cate if you wish to continue studying it for the Leaving Certifi cate.

Having a Leaving Certifi cate modern language is an entry requirement for many Irish universities.

What are the modern language Junior Certifi cate exams like?

In each of the modern languages:

» you will listen to and answer questions on conversations, news items, etc. in the language

» you will read and answer questions on texts like advertisements, articles, recipes and celebrity profi les in the language

» you will write texts like notes, cards and postcards in the language.

You can take each exam at Higher or at Ordinary level. When the time comes to decide, your teacher will help you choose the level that suits you best.

Is learning a modern language anything like what I did in primary school?

You may have been learning English, Irish or even a modern language already, so you already know a lot about learning how languages work. This will be of great help to you as you make comparisons between the languages. It may also help you to guess the meanings of words and phrases in the new language you are learning.

Will a modern language have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes, it will. You will fi nd links with History, Geography, other modern languages, English and Irish.

How will a modern language be useful to me?

You will fi nd modern languages useful in your personal life for travelling and in many careers including tourism, catering, education, business and translation services.

For more information about the French & German Courses: www.curriculumonline.ie

For more information about the modern language Junior Certifi cate exams: www.examinations.ie

For more information about modern languageswww.scoilnet.iewww.epals.com www.bbc.co.uk/languageswww.french.iewww.german.about.comwww.italian.about.com



Physical Education (PE) is a subject where you can take part in and learn about physical

activities. You learn about how important keeping fi t is for the health of your body

and mind. In some activities you work on your own and in others you work with your

classmates as part of a team.

What will I learn in PE?


» how to take part in many activities

» how to be part of a team, but also fun activities which you can do on your own

» why physical activity is good for you.

Physical Education

How can I learn more about P.E. outside of school?

Some of things you may do are:

» practise the activities you learned in class with a friend

» join a club or a team, in school or locally

» fi nd out about the activities you take part in by reading books, newspapers and magazines, as well as looking them up on the Internet.

At home you can get your family to help by:

» showing and telling them about what you did in class

» going to sporting activities and events that are happening in the community.

How will I learn P.E. in school?Some of the activities you may do with your teacher and classmates are:

» adventure activities » athletics

» dance and gymnastics » games

In these, you may be asked to:

» work on your own, in pairs or in larger groups

» show your classmates, or sometimes show on video, what you can do well

Some things that will help you learn in class are:

» be willing to take part in every class & activity

» have proper clothing and footwear

» ask questions or ask for help

» keep a neat fi le of your notes and handouts.

What is the Physical Education Junior Certifi cate exam like?

There is no Junior Certifi cate exam in Physical Education.

However, your teacher will keep records and reports of your participation level.







» what you can do to improve.


» think back about the things you did in Physical Education class

» talk to your teacher if you are fi nding anything diffi cult

» ask a friend to help you develop your skills.

Will Physical Education have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes, it will.

Your map-reading skills from Geography may help you read maps in adventure activities. Learning about what happens to your body in Science will help you when you exercise. Learning about nutrition in Home Economics will help you make wise food choices.

Will Physical Education be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

At the moment, there is no subject called Physical Education after the Junior Cert.

However, a Leaving Certifi cate subject called Physical Education is likely to be introduced in the future.

You will continue to do physical activities in different ways but you may want to focus on one or two key areas in which you have a special interest.

How will Physical Education be useful to me?

You may wish to study sport, physical education, or leisure and recreation in third level courses when you leave school.

By taking part in Physical Education, you will:

» learn activities that you can enjoy outside of class and when you are older

» learn about physical activities which will help you have a healthy lifestyle.

Is learning Physical Education anything like what I did in primary school?

You have been taking part in Physical Education in primary school which has provided you with learning opportunities in athletics, dance, gymnastics, games, outdoor and adventure activities, and aquatics. In Junior Cycle, many of the games and activities will be the same. You will get the opportunity to further improve your skills and realise how important physical activity is for you.

For more information about the Physical Education course: www.curriculumonline.ie

For more information about physical education:www.scoilnet.iewww.fi t4life.iewww.healthpromotingschools.co.uk



In Religious Education (RE) you will learn about what people believe, why they believe

and how these beliefs infl uence their own lives, the lives of others and the world around

us. You will explore how many religions, particularly Christian religions, have shaped the

Ireland you live in today.

Religious Education

How can I learn more about Religious Education outside of school?


» talk to family and friends about their different beliefs and different ways of celebrating religious festivals

» listen to accounts of different religious beliefs in news reports from around the world

» notice how often fi lms, books and art include signs of religious actions, beliefs or events

» look at religious buildings near your home or when you are on holidays.

What will I learn in Religious Education?


» about at least one of the major world religions in detail

» how different communities of faith organize themselves: their leaders, celebrations, forms of worship and guidelines about their members’ behavior.

» the different religious and non-religious ways of trying to understand the world

» how religious beliefs shape some ideas and laws

How will I learn Religious Education in school?Some of the things you may do with your teacher and your classmates are:

» visit religious centres and places of worship

» listen to speakers from different organizations and religions

» work on your own, but also in pairs and in groups

» use textbooks and other materials as well.


» asking questions and taking your own notes

» keeping a fi le for your notes and handouts; they will be useful for learning and for revision!










» look back over your work to see how you have improved.

How will Religious Education be useful to me?

RE will be useful to you in:

» helping you understand how people make decisions, how people are inspired by their religious beliefs, how confl ict happens and how it can be solved

» helping you solve problems and thinking for yourself when working with others

» planning to travel to or live in other countries.

You can also continue studying RE as part of some courses and degrees when you leave school.

Is learning Religious Education anything like what I did in primary school?

Different primary schools offer different kinds of religious education: you may have participated in an Ethics Programme; your religious education may have been separate from school; or you may not have taken part in a religion class yet. You will still be able to study Junior Certifi cate RE because you will use a lot of the things you have learned already, such as communicating your ideas, questioning, working in groups and fi nding out information using technology.

What is the Religious Education Junior Certifi cate exam like?

In your school, you may have the option of choosing to do RE as a Junior Certifi cate exam subject. Not every student/school will do/offer RE for their Junior Certifi cate.

During the school year you will choose one topic from twelve and research this for a special project called a journal. Before your exam you will complete a booklet describing your journal work.

In the exam, you will read and respond to different types of questions: short-answer questions, a comprehension passage, longer questions and some photos or pictures.

Will Religious Education be very different after Junior Certifi cate?

After the Junior Certifi cate you may be able to choose RE as an option for your Leaving Certifi cate. On the other hand, your school may offer a RE course that refl ects the values of your school. This would not be examined at Leaving Certifi cate level.

For more information about the Religious Education course:www.curriculumonline.ie

For more information about the Junior Certifi cate exam:

www.examinations.ie

For more information about Religious Education:

www.scoilnet.iewww.ress.ie



We come across science in everyday things in the world round us, both living and

non-living. Studying Science in school can help you to understand the importance of

science in our lives and in the environment.

Science

How can I learn more about Science outside of school?


» watch science programmes on television

» keep up to date with the science stories in the news

» use the Internet, which is a huge source of science explanations and experiments. Ask your teacher for a list of websites.

What will I learn in Science?

The Science course covers the three sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Biology is the science of living things. You will learn about:

» plants and animals including humans

» the environment and how to care for it.

Chemistry deals with the composition of substances and their properties. You will learn about:

» the materials that make up the world around us

» how materials can change and be changed.

» Physics is the science of matter and energy and how they interact. You will learn about:

» forces and energy

» how things work


As you progress in Science you will learn to work like a scientist. You will learn how to plan and carry out experiments and investigations and make sense of the results. As you do your coursework you will be able to see how you are getting on by looking back at earlier experiments and investigations. Your teacher will also tell you how your skills have improved.



Is learning Science anything like what I did in primary school?

In primary school you learned about living things, energy and forces, materials, and about care for the environment. You also explored the world around you and learned to work like a scientist. In Junior Certifi cate Science you will use and develop these science skills.

Will Science be very different after Junior Certifi cate?

After the Junior Certifi cate, Science splits into four subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Agricultural Science. Depending on your school, you can choose to do different combinations of these. If you would like to choose any of these subjects in Leaving Certifi cate, it is important that you take Science as a subject for Junior Certifi cate.

Will Science have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Science links with many of the other subjects you will be studying. You will use some of the things you learn in Mathematics to analyse and interpret the results of your investigations. In Geography you will study about the environment and soil. In Home Economics you will study about food and the human body.

What is the Science Junior Certifi cate exam like?

In Junior Certifi cate Science you will be examined in two ways:

» coursework - during the three years of the Junior Certifi cate you report on the investigations that you carry out in class. These reports count for 35% of your Junior Certifi cate marks

» written examination - you will answer questions on the science topics that you have studied and on the skills (e.g. science investigation skills) that you have developed.


How will Science be useful to me?

Many of the skills you learn while studying science such as problem-solving and investigation skills are very useful outside of school and will be of use to you in whatever job you choose to do.

In third level there are many different types of science courses on offer and many different careers open to science students.

These include becoming a: pharmacist, radiographer, doctor, dentist, technician, psychologist, astronomer, teacher, vet and researcher.

For more information about the Science course:www.curriculumonline.ie


For more information about science:www.scoilnet.iewww.science.iewww.howstuffworks.comwww.strangematterexhibit.com



In Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) you learn about what might help you to

make choices for a confi dent and healthy life. In SPHE class you will learn how to get on

with your classmates better, as well as help each other to be healthy, safe and well.

SPHE

How will I learn SPHE in school?

In SPHE you may learn by:

» working on your own, in pairs, groups or as a whole class

» taking part in activities and games

» talking and listening to others, including visitors who come into your SPHE class

» doing projects and making posters.

What will I learn in SPHE?


» how to settle into your new school and into your new class

» how to make friends with new people in your class

» where to go and what to do if you need help or advice in your new school

» what it means to make healthy choices about such things as smoking, alcohol, healthy

» eating and being active

» how to form healthy, close relationships, and to understand human sexuality.

How will SPHE connect with the world outside of school?

Some of things you may do are:

» talk at home about what you are doing in SPHE class

» fi nd out about different health issues for young people, e.g. smoking, healthy eating, sexual health

» try out some of the things you learn in class, e.g. really listening to your friends, making healthier choices about what you eat and how you spend your free time.




You will:

» know more about what you can do to be healthier and well

» know who to talk to if you need help and advice

» become better at making healthier choices

» become more able to talk about your feelings

» become better at listening to others.

Will SPHE be very different after the Junior Certifi cate?

At the moment, not all schools offer SPHE after the Junior Certifi cate. However, there is likely to be a new SPHE course in Senior Cycle.

In this course, you will be able to learn about making healthier choices for when you are in school and also when you leave school.

Will SPHE have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes. You will also learn about your body in Home Economics, PE and Science. You might carry out some study in Religious Education on how to form healthy relationships.

What is the SPHE Junior Certifi cate exam like?

There is no Junior Certifi cate exam in SPHE. However, your teacher may ask you to keep a portfolio, which is a personal fi le that could contain:

» written accounts of what you did in class e.g. quizzes and worksheets

» records and reports from your teacher

» pictures, drawings and fact sheets on various topics.

Is learning SPHE anything like what I did in primary school?

In SPHE in primary school, you have been learning about yourself (taking care of your body, growing and changing, safety and protection), about yourself and others (your family, friends and relationships), and about yourself and the wider world (citizenship and media).

Some of the activities in SPHE may be the same, e.g. circle time. You will now be learning about what you can do to be a healthier teenager.

For more information about SPHE:www.sphe.iewww.scoilnet.iewww.bodywhys.iewww.spunout.ie

For more information about the SPHE course:www.curriculumonline.ie



Technical Graphics is one of the technology subjects offered at Junior Cycle. In Technical

Graphics you will learn how to represent 3-D objects on paper and on computer. You will

develop problem-solving and creative thinking skills through the solution of graphical

problems.

Technical Graphics

What will I learn in Technical Graphics?


» how to produce drawings using drawing equipment, freehand sketches and computers

» how to read and interpret drawings and diagrams

» how graphics relate to the design and manufacture of products.

How will I learn Technical Graphics in school?

Some of the things you may do with your teacher and your classmates include:

» produce neat drawings of everyday items

» create models of recognisable items on the computer

» use freehand sketching, colouring and shading to represent objects

» make paper/cardboard cut-outs of items and use these to model items in 3-D

» work on your own and as part of a group

» use a textbook and worksheets

» organise and maintain a folder of drawings and notes.

How can I learn more about Technical Graphics outside of school?


» become aware of how graphic communication is all around us, in the print media, and on television

» examine how goods are packaged to see how the skills learned in Technical Graphics can be put to best use

» use the internet to fi nd examples of graphic illustration and computer aided design

» be alert to examples of shape in nature and in the built environment



How will I know how I am getting on?Your teacher will let you know:




» try working with a few members of your class in a study group

» check back over your work and compare what you are doing now with what you did before. You should notice that your skills are improving.

Will Technical Graphics be very different after the Junior Certifi cate? At Leaving Certifi cate, you will be able to study Design and Communication Graphics. In this subject:

» there will be a greater emphasis on computer graphics and freehand sketching

» the geometry that you have learned in Junior Certifi cate will be further developed.

Is learning Technical Graphics anything like what I did in primary school?

You will have learned and done lots of things in mathematics which will be built on in Technical Graphics. For example, you will have learned about 2-D and 3-D shapes, and lines and angles.

In Visual Arts, you will have made drawings, experimented with lines, shapes, textures, patterns and tones. All of these previous learning experiences will be helpful when building up your skills in Technical Graphics. However your Technical Graphics teacher will start with the basic skills required and build on them throughout the course.

Will Technical Graphics have anything to do with other subjects I will be studying?

Yes, Technical Graphics will be very helpful in the study of Materials Technology Wood, Technology, and Metalwork as each of these subjects require you to make drawings of the pieces you will be making. The problem solving and geometry you will learn in Technical Graphics will prove very useful in Mathematics.

How will Technical Graphics be useful to me?

Technical Graphics helps you to think in a more logical and creative way. You will be able to communicate information using diagrams and sketches. You will have learned how to present information in a neat and organised fashion. This subject will be of use to you if you want to progress into career areas such as architecture or engineering.

For more information about the Technical Graphics course:www.curriculumonline.ie


For more information about Technical Graphics:www.scoilnet.iewww.sip.ie

What is the Technical Graphics Junior Certifi cate exam like?You will sit a three hour examination paper. It is made up two sections:

» short answer questions which you complete on the sheet provided and

» longer questions which require more detailed answers.

The longer questions allow you to show, in greater detail, the drawing and problem-solving skills you have learned.




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