Individualised Educational Program and Assessment for Siena – Secondary

May 2026

Siena picks up new skills with confidence and ease, and knowledge is absorbed effortlessly. She has a keen mind that quickly comprehends and makes connections. Siena is highly creative with impressive craft skills. Siena often sets herself academic goals or new hands-on skills to master. She has a clear vision of what she wants to learn and is quite focused once engaged. Siena responds well when she is challenged and extended.

 

English

Outcomes

  • EN4-RVL-01

uses a range of personal, creative and critical strategies to read texts that are complex in their ideas and construction

  • EN4-URA-01

analyses how meaning is created through the use of and response to language forms, features and structures

  • EN4-URB-01

examines and explains how texts represent ideas, experiences and values

  • EN4-URC-01

identifies and explains ways of valuing texts and the connections between them

  • EN4-ECA-01

creates personal, creative and critical texts for a range of audiences by using linguistic and stylistic conventions of language to express ideas

  • EN4-ECB-01

uses processes of planning, monitoring, revising and reflecting to support and develop composition of texts

 

Siena reads fluently and confidently, engaging with a wide variety of literature. Last year, she read several books independently, including The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, and participated in a monthly Book Club in our Lending Library, which exposed her to literature she may not have chosen independently. Our children love Book Club, and Siena will participate again this year.

Our approach to English emphasises a love of reading and literature, with exposure to poetry, Greek mythology, Shakespeare, short stories, and works by Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander authors. Daily Read Alouds are a cherished family ritual, providing opportunities for discussion and engagement with language. Socratic-style discussions are used to encourage deeper comprehension and critical thinking.

 

Last year we focused on Reading & Literature:

  • Independent reading of a variety of novels
  • Exposure to classic and modern literature through Book Club and family Read Alouds
  • Poetry: listening, reciting, and memorising

Grammar & Vocabulary:

  • Sentence structure, tenses, and correct word usage
  • Nouns, verbs, adjectives, homonyms, synonyms, antonyms, homophones, onomatopoeias
  • Abbreviations and contractions
  • Development of stronger vocabulary

Writing & Composition:

  • Narrations (oral and written) across multiple subjects
  • Short story and paragraph construction
  • Participation in weekly Writing Club, developing collaborative and independent writing skills

 

In the upcoming period we will also be covering:

Reading & Literature:

  • Literary analysis: character, setting, plot, conflict, and resolution
  • Study of figures of speech, description, rhyme, and metre in poetry
  • Developing summarising, outlining, and paraphrasing skills
  • Exposure to complex texts and variety of literary genres

Grammar & Vocabulary:

  • Continued focus on correct tense usage, word choice, and sentence structure
  • Expanding vocabulary through copia of words, figurative language, and descriptive writing

Writing & Composition:

  • Developing complex story plots, characterisation, and conflict resolution
  • Producing higher-quality written narrations, both oral and written
  • Practising sequencing, parsing, and writing in multiple forms
  • Continued participation in Writing Club and competitions, including the Clarence Valley Long Way Home Writing Competition and the Writing Club 2026 published book

Integration Across Subjects:

  • Narrations and writing exercises connected to Faith, Geography, History, and Science
  • Emphasis on extracting main points, sequencing, and presenting information clearly

 

Siena will continue to develop:

  • Reading comprehension and critical analysis
  • Written and oral communication skills
  • Vocabulary, spelling, punctuation, and grammar
  • Narration and summarising skills across multiple subjects
  • Story planning, characterisation, and literary techniques
  • Engagement with literature and ability to discuss texts critically

 

Resources include:

Our Town Library and Wattle Gum Library.

Cottage Press: Language Lessons for Grammar Students,

Voyages in English

Spelling Wisdom, Writing Prompt Cards and English for Australian Schools – Ridout, Writer’s Jungle, Institute for Excellence in English, Voyages in English

 

Mathematics

Outcomes

  • MA4-INT-C-01

compares, orders and calculates with integers to solve problems

  • MA4-FRC-C-01

represents and operates with fractions, decimals and percentages to solve problems

  • MA4-RAT-C-01

solves problems involving ratios and rates, and analyses distance–time graphs

  • MA4-ALG-C-01

generalises number properties to operate with algebraic expressions including expansion and factorisation

  • MA4-IND-C-01

operates with primes and roots, positive-integer and zero indices involving numerical bases and establishes the relevant index laws

  • MA4-EQU-C-01

solves linear equations of up to 2 steps and quadratic equations of the form

ax2 = c

  • MA4-LIN-C-01

creates and displays number patterns and finds graphical solutions to problems involving linear relationships

  • MA4-LEN-C-01

applies knowledge of the perimeter of plane shapes and the circumference of circles to solve problems

  • MA4-PYT-C-01

applies Pythagoras’ theorem to solve problems in various contexts

  • MA4-ARE-C-01

applies knowledge of area and composite area involving triangles, quadrilaterals and circles to solve problems

  • MA4-VOL-C-01

applies knowledge of volume and capacity to solve problems involving right prisms and cylinders

  • MA4-ANG-C-01

applies angle relationships to solve problems, including those related to transversals on sets of parallel lines

  • MA4-GEO-C-01

identifies and applies the properties of triangles and quadrilaterals to solve problems

  • MA4-DAT-C-01

classifies and displays data using a variety of graphical representations

  • MA4-DAT-C-02

analyses simple datasets using measures of centre, range and shape of the data

  • MA4-PRO-C-01

solves problems involving the probabilities of simple chance experiments

 

Siena is often quick to grasp new concepts and has a good understanding of Mathematics. She waxes and wanes regarding her enthusiasm for Maths.

Last year Siena covered:

  • Number & Algebra
  • Integers, fractions, and decimals
  • Percentages
  • Algebra: basic expressions, equations, and order of operations
  • Problem solving using number and algebraic reasoning
  • Measurement & Geometry:
  • Length, mass, time, and angles
  • 2D and 3D spatial structures
  • Statistics & Probability:
  • Data collection and representation
  • Chance and probability

 

In the upcoming period, Siena will cover:

  • Number & Algebra:
  • Fractions and percentages in applied contexts
  • Advanced problem solving
  • Algebraic techniques and linear relationships
  • Indices
  • Measurement & Geometry:
  • Angle relationships
  • Triangles and quadrilaterals
  • Pythagoras’ theorem
  • Area and volume of 2D and 3D shapes
  • Statistics & Probability:
  • Data analysis and interpretation
  • Probability calculations

 

Siena will continue to develop:

  • Mathematical reasoning and problem-solving strategies
  • Ability to represent and interpret data
  • Application of mathematical knowledge to practical and abstract problems
  • Communication and justification of solutions
  • Spatial awareness and measurement skills

 

Resources include: Maths Online, Kahn Academy, maths board games and our living maths books collection.

 

Science

Outcomes

  • SC4-WS-01 Working scientifically Observing

uses scientific tools and instruments for observations

  • SC4-WS-02 Working scientifically Questioning and predicting

identifies questions and makes predictions to guide scientific investigations

  • SC4-WS-03 Working scientifically Planning investigations

plans safe and valid investigations

  • SC4-WS-04 Working scientifically Conducting investigations

follows a planned procedure to undertake safe and valid investigations

  • SC4-WS-05 Working scientifically Processing data and information

uses a variety of ways to process and represent data

  • SC4-WS-06 Working scientifically Analysing data and information

uses data to identify trends, patterns and relationships, and draw conclusions

  • SC4-WS-07 Working scientifically Problem-solving

identifies problem-solving strategies and proposes solutions

  • SC4-WS-08 Working scientifically Communicating

communicates scientific concepts and ideas using a range of communication forms

  • SC4-OTU-01

explains how observations are used by scientists to increase knowledge and understanding of the Universe

  • SC4-FOR-01

describes the effects of forces in everyday contexts

  • SC4-CLS-01

describes the unique features of cells in living things and how structural features can be used to classify organisms

  • SC4-SOL-01

explains how the properties of substances enable separation in a range of techniques

  • SC4-LIV-01

describes the role, structure and function of a range of living systems and their components

  • SC4-PRT-01

explains how uses of elements and compounds are influenced by scientific understanding and discoveries relating to their properties

  • SC4-CHG-01

explains how energy causes geological and chemical change

  • SC4-DA1-01

explains how data is used by scientists to model and predict scientific phenomena

 

Siena’s Science program is designed to develop her critical thinking, knowledge, and understanding of the biological, physical, and technological world. She is encouraged to cultivate a questioning mind and understand the importance of evidence in making informed and responsible decisions as an individual and as part of the community.

Siena and her sibling Sebastian have a natural curiosity and enthusiasm for science, often pursuing knowledge independently. They watch science videos, conduct experiments, record observations, and analyse results to understand why outcomes occur. They engage in a variety of activities, including reading books, watching documentaries, creating K’nex models and Kapla designs, and experimenting with hands-on investigations.

 

Last year Siena’s studies included:

Biology:

  • Characteristics of living things
  • Plant and animal cells
  • How organisms obtain and use energy
  • Mendelian genetics
  • Protists and fungi
  • Roles in ecosystems
  • Human body systems (circulatory, respiratory, etc.)
  • Ecology: Interdependence of life
  • Water and Carbon cycles
  • Periodic Table & Chemistry Foundations:
  • Historical attempts to organise elements (Triads, early grouping systems)
  • Development of patterns in atomic properties
  • Creation of the first widely accepted periodic table
  • Discovery of predicted elements
  • Atomic structure: electrons, protons, neutrons, atomic number

 

This period her studies will include;

Chemistry:

  • Definition of chemistry
  • Matter and its properties
  • Ancient ideas about matter and early attempts to understand substances
  • Alchemists and their goals
  • Work of Robert Boyle
  • Law of Conservation of Mass
  • Development of atomic theory (John Dalton)
  • Elements, compounds, and chemical reactions
  • Periodic Table:
  • Atomic structure
  • Organisation and patterns of elements

Physics:

  • Energy transformation
  • Forces in action
  • Magnets
  • Simple machines

Earth & Space Science:

  • Observing the Universe
  • Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ cultural knowledge of astronomy

Biology / Living Systems:

  • Cells and classification
  • Human and plant systems
  • Ecosystems

Solutions & Mixtures:

  • Properties of matter and water

Change:

  • Chemical and geological change

Data Science:

  • Analysing and interpreting scientific data

 

Siena will develop and apply working scientifically skills, including:

  • Planning and conducting investigations
  • Making predictions and observations
  • Recording, analysing, and interpreting data
  • Evaluating outcomes and forming conclusions
  • Using scientific knowledge to solve problems

 

Her learning is flexible and inquiry-driven, allowing her to follow emerging interests and expand into areas beyond the formal program. A variety of resources will be used, including books, online media, hands-on experiments, and visual and digital content, supporting her ongoing curiosity and engagement with science.

Resources include: Singapore Science textbooks, Design curriculum, John Hudson Tiner collection, Science Encyclopedias, our extensive home and town libraries, DVDs and youtubes, Experiment kits, Snap Circuit Kits, K’nex, Lego, Kapla Blocks, Scratch Coding, the Drone & Robotic kits; Edison, Boson and the Robobloq Qooper.

 

Human Society and its Environment (HSIE) – History

Outcomes

  • HI4-CON-01

describes continuity and change over a period of time in relation to a historical context

  • HI4-SPE-01

explains the key features of past societies, historical periods and events

  • HI4-CPP-01

describes different contexts and perspectives of the past

  • HI4-IEP-01

accounts for significant ideas and events that shaped the past

  • HI4-APP-01

explains Aboriginal Peoples’ experiences and perspectives of colonisation

  • HI4-SOU-01

uses evidence from sources to support historical accounts and explanations about the past

  • HI4-INQ-01

explains the meaning and context of sources as part of a historical inquiry

  • HI4-COM-01

communicates historical ideas using historical terms and concepts for a range of purposes, audiences and contexts

 

Siena’s History program aims to develop a broad understanding and interest in world and Australian history, including Ancient, Medieval, and Modern periods. She will build an understanding of how the past has shaped the present, and how historical events and individuals influence contemporary society.

In previous studies, Siena has explored topics including Roman Britain, the Early Medieval period, Elizabethan England, the English Reformation, and the Scottish monarchy. These studies have provided a foundation for understanding historical change and continuity over time.

This year, Siena will revisit and extend her studies of Australian history, with a focus on pre-European contact and colonial Australia. She will examine both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and European perspectives, developing an understanding of differing experiences and viewpoints. Siena will also explore her own family history in connection with national history, noting that her ancestors arrived on the First Fleet. This provides a meaningful context for understanding Australia’s early colonial development.

Australian history will be studied in a broadly chronological sequence, continuing to explore the experiences of both Indigenous and European Australians and the development of our nation over time.

Following this, Siena will undertake studies in Ancient history, including Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as Viking societies. Her Asian studies will focus on Japan, including early Japan and the influence of China, the age of the samurai, the Edo period, and Japan’s opening to the wider world.

Throughout her studies, Siena will develop historical skills including:

  • understanding chronology and sequencing events
  • identifying cause and effect
  • exploring different perspectives
  • engaging with historical narratives and sources
  • discussing and reflecting on historical events and their significance

Siena’s learning will be supported through living books, discussions, and reflective responses to build depth of understanding.

 

Resources Include: History of Australia – Meredith Hooper, Story of the World – Susan Wise Bauer and our extensive collection of historical living and non-fiction books in Wattle Gum Library, and the town library.

 

Human Society and its Environment (HSIE) – Geography

Outcomes

  • GE4-DFC-01

locates the diverse features and describes the characteristics of a range of places and environments

  • GE4-PRI-01

explains the processes and interactions that change people, places and environments

  • GE4-PER-01

examines and describes the perspectives of people and organisations on a range of geographical issues

  • GE4-MAN-01

explains the management and protection of places and environments

  • GE4-APC-01

explains Aboriginal Peoples’ Custodianship, care and management of Country

  • GE4-TAP-01

selects and uses geographical tools to acquire and process geographical information

  • GE4-COM-01

uses concepts and terminology to communicate geographical information for a range of purposes, audiences and contexts

 

Siena’s Geography program aims to develop her awareness and appreciation of diverse cultures, environments, and places around the world. She will build an understanding of the social and economic factors that influence geographical challenges and the ways people interact with their environments.

Siena is strengthening her geographical skills, particularly in mapping and spatial awareness. She is developing proficiency in identifying continents, countries, and major world regions, and will continue to build accuracy in locating and naming these using a variety of tools. Resources such as Sheppard Software and Mega Maps support the development of these skills in an engaging and interactive way.

A focus will also be placed on the Australian environment, including natural features, human impact, and sustainable practices. Siena will explore how individuals and communities can care for the environment and make responsible choices.

Her learning is supported through a range of resources, including living books from both our home and local library, as well as selected documentaries and digital media. This approach allows flexibility to follow areas of interest while continuing to build geographical knowledge, skills, and understanding.

Siena will also develop geographical inquiry skills by asking questions, researching topics of interest, and discussing her findings.

Resources include: our own library and town library, DVDs and youtubes, Sheppard Software and Mega Maps

 

Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)

  • PH4-MSS-01

transfers movement skills and concepts for use in a range of dynamic movement environments

  • PH4-MSS-02

demonstrates how strategies and actions can be transferred to solve movement challenges

  • PH4-SHP-01

plans for and uses strategies to participate in activities that encourage safety, health and lifelong physical activity

  • PH4-SMI-01

refines and applies self-management and interpersonal skills to manage complex situations

  • PH4-SHW-01

assesses the influence of contextual factors on attitudes and behaviours to propose strategies that enhance safety, health and wellbeing

  • PH4-IPS-01

investigates and uses health information, products and support services to propose strategies that enhance safety, health and wellbeing

  • PH4-RRL-01

explains and applies strategies for promoting safe and respectful relationships in a range of contexts

  • PH4-IBC-01

investigates and explains factors that shape identity and sense of belonging

 

Siena’s Personal Development is supported by the values upheld within our family, grounded in our Catholic faith. She is encouraged to develop confidence and resilience, recognise her inherent dignity and worth, and apply strategies to support both herself and others. Siena is guided to make safe and responsible choices, remove herself from harmful situations, and treat others with kindness, respect, and generosity, reflecting Christian charity in her interactions.

Siena actively participates in and connects with her local community through homeschool, church, and sporting groups. These environments provide regular opportunities to build respectful relationships, practise cooperation, and develop social and emotional skills across a wide range of age groups.

Her program also includes the development of her spiritual life, deepening her personal relationship with God and increasing her understanding of faith and the Church.

In the area of Physical Activity, Siena is developing habits that support a healthy and active lifestyle. She participates in a range of activities that build endurance, coordination, and skill. Siena takes part in Parkrun events with family and the wider community, competed in the annual swimming carnival (achieving 3rd place in her events), and will participate in the upcoming home education sports day.

Siena continues to develop movement skills and applies these in a variety of physical contexts. She is also building her understanding of health, including personal hygiene, nutrition, and the importance of maintaining physical and mental wellbeing. She is encouraged to consider the impact of lifestyle choices on herself and the broader community, including both positive and negative outcomes.

Siena will continue to reflect on her personal growth and wellbeing through discussion and real-life application of strategies.

Resources include: Liturgical Year Resources,  saints biographies and the ‘Green’ Catechism.

 

Creative Arts: Music

Outcomes

  • MU4-PER-01

uses performance skills to demonstrate understanding of the elements of music and communicate musical ideas

  • MU4-LIS-01

uses listening skills to describe music in relation to stylistic, cultural, historical or social contexts and the elements of music

  • MU4-COM-01

improvises, arranges or composes using the elements of music to create musical ideas

 

Siena has a natural aptitude and strong interest in music. She participates in her church choir alongside experienced adult members, where she contributes to group performance and develops her vocal skills. Music is a constant presence in her home environment, with exposure to a wide range of genres. Siena also engages independently with music, listening regularly and demonstrating an ability to recognise and identify a variety of musical works and artists.

Siena is currently learning the violin through weekly lessons at the Clarence Valley Conservatorium. She is developing skills in reading music notation and performing on her instrument, and has shown strong progress in both areas. She performs each term at Conservatorium Performing Arts Nights, building confidence and experience in live performance.

Her program will include:

  • Performance (violin and choral singing)
  • Listening and appreciation across a range of musical styles
  • Music literacy, including reading notation
  • Ongoing skill development through regular practice and instruction

 

Technology: Textiles Technology

Outcomes

  • TT5-SAF-01

applies design processes and safe work practices to develop textile projects

  • TT5-COM-01

communicates ideas, concepts and processes for textile design and production

  • TT5-CDT-01

investigates and applies construction and decorative techniques to create textile products

  • TT5-MAT-01

justifies the selection and use of materials and technologies for textile design and production

 

Siena has a strong passion and aptitude for textiles. She independently taught herself to crochet using online tutorials and quickly progressed to designing and creating complex pieces. She has also demonstrated the ability to interpret and follow commercial sewing patterns, independently constructing a garment within a short timeframe.

Siena will focus on developing her knowledge of textile fibres, including natural and synthetic materials and their properties. She will continue to build her practical skills through both hand and machine techniques, following patterns and producing a range of textile items, including at least one completed project.

She will further develop her design skills by planning, creating, and evaluating her own textile pieces. Siena will also continue to enter her work in local shows; last year she was awarded Junior Grand Champion for a self-designed cross-stitch bookmark.

Her program will also include consideration of safe work practices and appropriate use of tools and equipment.