In Years 9 & 10 students also study two Elective Courses chosen from:

Accelerated Mathematics Program

St Pius also provides an accelerated Mathematics Program starting in Year 9 that allows top Maths students to complete their HSC in Mathematics one year early.  Information on this program can be obtained from the Mathematics Coordinator.

Grading

The Grading Policy for English, Maths & Science is clearly explained in the Handbook which each parent receives on the enrolment of their child.

Home Learning

We encourage students to appreciate the importance of taking responsibility for their own learning. They need to be organised and self-motivated in order to develop the best possible understanding of the concepts and skills covered at school.

There is always something that a student can do at home to help them reach their potential.

The three main types of home learning are:

1. Homework, or work set by the classroom teacher, is a regular feature of some subjects. It is usually designed to reinforce the concepts covered in class but often includes locating resources or reading a class novel. Homework is usually set one day and marked the next school day.
2. Preparing for and completing Assessment Tasks is another important feature of home learning. The Assessment Tasks are important as they are the primary tool for determining grades and results recorded in the semester reports. Some tasks are tests, others require research and the presentation of information in various ways. Learning how to manage the preparation of several tasks due around a similar time is an essential skill.
3. Study and revision is work initiated by the student. By preparing their own summaries, tests and reminders, students are better able to keep information fresh and develop a deeper understanding of the topic. To be effective, students should revise the information at regular intervals.

Time is taken to work with students on skills in organisation, time-management and revision techniques. With the help of parents, we encourage students to develop independent work habits.