Akomanga Tuaiwa - Class Nine

‘Polarity and Contrast’

The theme in Class 9 is of polarity and contrast. This stage of adolescence is often an emotional roller coaster and life may be experienced by students as a series of highs and lows. This is reflected in many of the themes of the subjects during the year such as rights and responsibilities, comedy and tragedy and black and white drawing and print-making. Through these and other subjects, students are encouraged to use both the senses and intellect, challenging them to think deeply and observe meticulously. These critical thinking skills help the student to begin to see beyond black and white polarities. Curriculum content, concepts and ideas are grounded in authentic contexts to support students in making the necessary connections and becoming more adept at putting their thoughts into action. All subjects are compulsory, including a chosen language, keeping a breadth of learning that creates a firm foundation for the years ahead.

The Pedagogical Aims for Class 9 are:

• To awaken to the polarities of subject knowledge through both heart and will.

• To develop the reasoning power of the student.

• To show how causes, issues, “facts”, phenomena, opinions, etc., can pull in two directions, have two sides.

• To work with accurate observation, objectivity and detail.

• To bring claims of rights and responsibilities to consciousness.

• To foster tolerance and social engagement.

• To build inner courage and perseverance.

• To bring idealism to the fore – to push ideas to the limits, and limitations.

• To work with the hands and soil.