Marine and Maritime Studies

Tilly SpadacciniDecember 1, 2017February 21, 2019

The Marine and Maritime Studies ATAR course provides students with opportunities to engage in unique theoretical and practical learning experiences, and to equip them with a broad range of skills and knowledge. Students study oceanography concepts to develop a strong understanding of the interdependence between components of the marine environment, conduct research into the safe and sustainable management of the oceans’ resources, and are also introduced to the world of maritime archaeology. As well as nautical craft and hull design, students are given the opportunity to develop responsible and competent boat-handling and navigation skills under power, and in doing so, demonstrate an understanding of nautical concepts. They develop knowledge of the properties inherent in seaworthy craft and the basics of good boat design, construction and maintenance. Students will also be provided with the opportunity to develop personal water-based skills (swimming/snorkelling/scuba), to allow them to engage directly with the marine environment.

Year 11 ATAR Course

Unit 1

This unit explores properties and characteristics of sea water and types of Western Australian marine ecosystems. Common nautical craft design features and features of hull designs are investigated. Maritime history and archaeology are introduced in this unit. Historic sea routes and exploration and mapping of the Western Australian coastline are studied. Nautical concepts, such as trip planning, rules and regulations, safety equipment, emergency situations, collision avoidance, and maintenance associated with small boat handling, are examined. Students further develop the skills associated with scientific inquiry.

Unit 2

This unit focuses on the cycling of matter through the marine ecosystem, the interdependence of organisms, global ocean currents, and global atmospheric circulation systems. Students investigate issues and strategies involved in the management of local Western Australian fisheries. Maritime history and archaeology understanding is developed further through the investigation of laws protecting wreck sites, local shipwrecks, and the historical information gathered from shipwrecks. Students have the opportunity to develop additional seamanship skills relating to power boating and charting. Students further develop the skills associated with scientific inquiry.

Assessments

Science Inquiry
15%
Practical
20%
Extended Response
10%
Tests
15%
Examinations
40%

Year 12 ATAR Course

Unit 3

This unit explores the importance of plankton and coral communities in the marine environment. Major resource management issues affecting Australia’s marine environment, including pollution, water quality and over-fishing, are investigated. Students also investigate methods of locating shipwrecks, formation and decay processes, and the excavation and conservation of artefacts. The concepts, including some scientific principles, behind snorkelling and diving are considered. Students further develop the skills associated with scientific inquiry, and the scientific method is applied to the investigation of real-world problems.

Unit 4

This unit focuses on the impacts of climate change, the process of coastal erosion and coastal engineering structures. Environmental and resource management is considered, including strategies for managing marine biodiversity. Students further explore the maritime history of Western Australia through the example of the Batavia shipwreck. Students have the opportunity to develop additional skills relating to snorkelling and diving. Students further develop the skills associated with scientific inquiry.

Assessments

Science Inquiry
10%
Practical
10%
Extended Response
10%
Tests
25%
Examinations
45%

Courses