Students

EDTE4260 – Geography in the Secondary School II

2024 – Session 1, In person-scheduled-weekday, North Ryde

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff Convenor / Lecturer
Susan Caldis
susan.caldis@mq.edu.au
Contact via Email
29 Wallys Walk, Level 2, Room 267
Consultation by appointment
Tutor
Katherine Jones
kathy.jones@mq.edu.au
Contact via Email
N/A
Consultation by appointment
Credit points Credit points
10
Prerequisites Prerequisites
(EDTE4250 or TEP425) and (TEP401 or EDTE4010 or EDST3010)
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description

This unit focuses on the teaching of Geography in Years 11 and 12. It provides students with greater depth, especially in terms of the teaching strategies related to Geography's inquiry-based methodology (geographic skills, contemporary issues, fieldwork and the Senior Geography Project).

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • ULO1: Demonstrates a detailed knowledge of the philosophy, structure, content and inquiry based methodologies of the NSW Stage 6 Geography syllabus.
  • ULO2: Designs and implement coherent lesson sequences drawing on their knowledge of the NSW Stage 6 Geography syllabus.
  • ULO3: Demonstrates the capacity to identify and articulate clear and appropriate learning goals in lesson preparation including a focus on literacy.
  • ULO4: Demonstrates knowledge of students' varied approached to learning and the need to cater for these by differentiating the curriculum.
  • ULO5: Demonstrates an ability to select, develop, use and evaluate a range of appropriate and engaging resources to support student learning.
  • ULO6: Employs a range of strategies to assess student achievement of learning outcomes and effectively link outcomes and assessment strategies.
  • ULO7: Demonstrates the ability to critically reflect on and improve teaching practice.
  • ULO8: Prepares for and contributes to discussions about geographical education.
  • ULO9: Demonstrates recognition about the range of policies and policy documents that teachers in NSW may need to comply with in schools.

General Assessment Information

  • Students should be aware of and apply the University policy on academic honesty (see: https://policies.mq.edu.au/document/view.php?id=3) 

  • Unless a Special Consideration (see: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/assessment-exams/special-consideration) request has been submitted and approved, a 5% penalty (of the total possible mark) will be applied each day a written assessment is not submitted, up until the 7th day (including weekends). After the 7th day, a mark of‚ 0 (zero) will be awarded even if the assessment is submitted. Submission time for all written assessments is set at 11:55pm. A 1-hour grace period is provided to students who experience a technical issue. This late penalty will apply to non-timed sensitive assessment (incl essays, reports, posters, portfolios, journals, recordings etc).  

  • Late submission of time sensitive tasks (such as tests/exams, performance assessments/presentations, scheduled practical assessments/labs etc) will only be addressed by the unit convenor in a Special consideration application. Special Consideration outcome may result in a new question or topic.  

  • Please format assessments using 12-point font and 1.5 spacing. 

  • All assessments are submitted electronically. Turnitin plagiarism detection software is used to check all written assessments. 

  • Students can use Turnitin’s Originality Report as a learning tool to improve their academic writing if this option is made available in the unit. 

  • Students should carefully check that they submit the correct file for an assessment as no re-submissions will be accepted after the due date and time, including instances where students upload an incorrect file in error. 

  • Word limits are strictly applied. Work above the word limit will not be marked.  

  • All assessments are marked using a clear marking scheme or a rubric. 

  • Marking of all assessments is moderated by the Unit Convenor. 

  • Applications for extensions must be made via AskMQ (https://ask.mq.edu.au/).  

  • It is not the responsibility of unit staff to contact students who have failed to submit assessments. If you have any missing items of assessment, it is your responsibility to make contact with the unit convenor. 

University policy on grading 

Criteria for awarding grades for assessment tasks 

Assignments will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the University's Grading Policy. For Professional Experience (PEx) units the PE Report is marked as satisfactory or unsatisfactory and the Teaching Performance Assessment (in final PE units) is marked as not meets, meets or exceeds.  

 

Descriptive Criteria for awarding grades in the unit 

To meet the unit outcomes and successfully pass this unit, students should attempt all assessment tasks.  

 

Grade 

Descriptor 

HD 

(High Distinction) 

Provides consistent evidence of deep and critical understanding in relation to the learning outcomes. There is substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem-solving approaches; critical evaluation of problems, their solutions and their implications; creativity in application as appropriate to the discipline. 

D 

(Distinction) 

Provides evidence of integration and evaluation of critical ideas, principles and theories, distinctive insight and ability in applying relevant skills and concepts in relation to learning outcomes. There is demonstration of frequent originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and providing solutions; and the use of means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience. 

Cr 

(Credit) 

Provides evidence of learning that goes beyond replication of content knowledge or skills relevant to the learning outcomes. There is demonstration of substantial understanding of fundamental concepts in the field of study and the ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; convincing argumentation with appropriate coherent justification; communication of ideas fluently and clearly in terms of the conventions of the discipline. 

P 

(Pass) 

Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the field of study; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes 

F 

(Fail) 

Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the discipline. 

 

Note: If you fail a unit with a professional experience component, the fail grade will be on your transcript irrespective of the timing of the placement. 

Note: Any content or ideas generated by third parties or artificial intelligence sources has been acknowledged." 

Withdrawing from this unit 

If you are considering withdrawing from this unit, please seek academic advice via https://ask.mq.edu.au before doing so as this unit may be a co-requisite or prerequisite for units in the following sessions and may impact your course progression. 

Results 

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit https://ask.mq.edu.au 

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due
Participation 20% No Ongoing
Overview of an HSC topic 35% No 23:55 on 28/03/2024
Program evaluation and adaptation 45% No 23:55 on 08/06/2024

Participation

Assessment Type 1: Participatory task
Indicative Time on Task 2: 35 hours
Due: Ongoing
Weighting: 20%

 

Participation in online forums and workshops

 
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrates a detailed knowledge of the philosophy, structure, content and inquiry based methodologies of the NSW Stage 6 Geography syllabus.
  • Designs and implement coherent lesson sequences drawing on their knowledge of the NSW Stage 6 Geography syllabus.
  • Demonstrates the capacity to identify and articulate clear and appropriate learning goals in lesson preparation including a focus on literacy.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of students' varied approached to learning and the need to cater for these by differentiating the curriculum.
  • Demonstrates an ability to select, develop, use and evaluate a range of appropriate and engaging resources to support student learning.
  • Employs a range of strategies to assess student achievement of learning outcomes and effectively link outcomes and assessment strategies.
  • Demonstrates the ability to critically reflect on and improve teaching practice.
  • Prepares for and contributes to discussions about geographical education.

Overview of an HSC topic

Assessment Type 1: Summary
Indicative Time on Task 2: 40 hours
Due: 23:55 on 28/03/2024
Weighting: 35%

 

Students identify core concepts, common student misunderstandings, relevant contemporary resources, appropriate instructional strategies and representations. Students provide a rationale for the instructional approach based on the relevant literature (500 words plus design task)

 
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrates a detailed knowledge of the philosophy, structure, content and inquiry based methodologies of the NSW Stage 6 Geography syllabus.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of students' varied approached to learning and the need to cater for these by differentiating the curriculum.
  • Demonstrates an ability to select, develop, use and evaluate a range of appropriate and engaging resources to support student learning.
  • Prepares for and contributes to discussions about geographical education.
  • Demonstrates recognition about the range of policies and policy documents that teachers in NSW may need to comply with in schools.

Program evaluation and adaptation

Assessment Type 1: Case study/analysis
Indicative Time on Task 2: 35 hours
Due: 23:55 on 08/06/2024
Weighting: 45%

 

Students evaluate the suitability of a learning and teaching program for a hypothetical cohort of students and adapt the program to better suit students’ needs. Include a rationale (500 words plus design task).

 
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrates a detailed knowledge of the philosophy, structure, content and inquiry based methodologies of the NSW Stage 6 Geography syllabus.
  • Designs and implement coherent lesson sequences drawing on their knowledge of the NSW Stage 6 Geography syllabus.
  • Demonstrates the capacity to identify and articulate clear and appropriate learning goals in lesson preparation including a focus on literacy.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of students' varied approached to learning and the need to cater for these by differentiating the curriculum.
  • Demonstrates an ability to select, develop, use and evaluate a range of appropriate and engaging resources to support student learning.
  • Employs a range of strategies to assess student achievement of learning outcomes and effectively link outcomes and assessment strategies.
  • Demonstrates the ability to critically reflect on and improve teaching practice.
  • Prepares for and contributes to discussions about geographical education.
  • Demonstrates recognition about the range of policies and policy documents that teachers in NSW may need to comply with in schools.

1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:

  • the academic teaching staff in your unit for guidance in understanding or completing this type of assessment
  • the Writing Centre for academic skills support.

2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation

Delivery and Resources

Required and recommended texts 

McInerney, M., Butler, J., Caldis, S., Cranby, S., Jones, S., Law, M., Maude, A., & Nicholas, R. (2021). Teaching Secondary Geography. Cambridge University Press  https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108980906 

International Research in Geographical and Environmental Education (IRGEE) journal

Information about the unit iLearn site   

This unit has a full web presence through iLearn.   

Students will need regular access to a computer and the Internet to complete this unit.  

Weekly access to iLearn is compulsory for all students. Important assessment information will be posted here, as will other relevant unit notices and materials, including a reading template and guide to lecture note taking to assist your studies. 

Various activities and materials for discussion and critical reflection are included and students enrolled in INFQ or online mode are especially encouraged to use this web component. Electronic links and suggested references will be included in the Resources section. Please check the iLearn unit regularly.  

Weekly lectures are available on the web through the ECHO360 lecture component. You must listen to all lectures. 

PowerPoint slides are available in iLearn in advance of the weekly lecture and/or are available in the Active Learning Tool.  

Access and technical assistance  

Information for students about access to the online component of this unit is available at https://ilearn.mq.edu.au/login/index.php. You will need to enter your student username and password. 

Please do NOT contact the Unit Convenor regarding iLearn technical help.  

Assistance is available from IT Helpdesk  

Ph: 9850 4357 or 1800 67 4357  

Log a request: help.mq.edu.au. 

On Campus: Ground floor at 18 Wally’s Walk 

Structure 

The unit structure can be found in the university timetable https://timetables.mq.edu.au/2024/ In the tutorial students will discuss issues and questions arising from the lectures and prescribed readings. They are expected to base their arguments/discussions on evidence from published research and other relevant material. There will be a supporting iLearn site for the unit providing additional readings, links and materials.  

 

The weekly program for the course with the accompanying readings/ preparation is available on the following pages or on the unit iLearn site. 

Unit Schedule

Workshops are designed and delivered by Dr Susan Caldis and Ms Kathy Jones. In-person attendance and active participation is an expectation. Please see ilearn for dates, times and focus of each workshop.

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Students seeking more policy resources can visit Student Policies (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/policies). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

To find other policies relating to Teaching and Learning, visit Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au) and use the search tool.

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/admin/other-resources/student-conduct

Results

Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit connect.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au

Academic Integrity

At Macquarie, we believe academic integrity – honesty, respect, trust, responsibility, fairness and courage – is at the core of learning, teaching and research. We recognise that meeting the expectations required to complete your assessments can be challenging. So, we offer you a range of resources and services to help you reach your potential, including free online writing and maths support, academic skills development and wellbeing consultations.

School of Education Procedures 

In addition, the following policies and procedures of the School of Education are applicable in this unit. 

 

Attendance for undergraduate units 

See the university timetable for information about when classes begin in this unit. https://timetables.mq.edu.au/2024/  

 

Activities completed during weekly tutorials (DAY or ONLINE DAY mode) or on campus days (INFQ mode) are essential for building the core knowledge and/or skills required to demonstrate the learning outcomes of this unit [and to meet the AITSL Graduate Teacher Standards and/or ACECQA requirements]. Attendance at all tutorials or on campus days is expected and the roll will be taken. Make up tasks may be given if attendance is missed to ensure all content is covered to meet accreditation requirements.  

 

Students are required to attend the tutorial in which they are enrolled. Any changes to tutorial enrolments must be completed officially through e-student. Please do not contact the unit convenor requesting a change. 

Electronic Communication 

It is the student’s responsibility to check all electronic communication on a regular weekly basis.  Communication may occur via: 

  • Official MQ Student Email Address 

  • The Dialogue function on iLearn 

  • Other iLearn communication functions 

Fail Rule  

This unit is a part of a professional course listed on Schedules 2 and 3 of the Academic Progression Policy. This course has additional requirements that are applicable for the full duration of the course, including course-specific inherent requirements, Fitness to Practice requirements and other compulsory course requirements. It also has rigorous academic progression standards. Inability to meet these requirements may result in a withdrawal of offer of admission and/or permanent exclusion from the course in accordance with the General Coursework Rules. 

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

The Writing Centre

The Writing Centre provides resources to develop your English language proficiency, academic writing, and communication skills.

The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources. 

Student Services and Support

Macquarie University offers a range of Student Support Services including:

Student Enquiries

Got a question? Ask us via the Service Connect Portal, or contact Service Connect.

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/. 

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

The 5R's Framework

5Rs Framework 

The 5Rs Framework, developed by the School of Education at Macquarie University, is embedded throughout your teacher education course.  

Your use of the 5Rs Framework will help you develop the capabilities that will make your teaching career sustainable and fulfilling.  

In this unit, you will learn using the 5Rs framework in the following important ways: 

* Reflexivity and Research-engaged are the focus of this unit. The whole unit is developed reflexivity theory and the GEOGStandards; a range of theory-practice reflection activities in each module provide active and sustained support towards completion of the formal Assessment Tasks

Unit information based on version 2024.01R of the Handbook