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Year 12 Marine and Maritime Studies General

Course Description

The Year 12 syllabus is divided into two units, each of one semester duration, which are typically delivered as a pair.
Unit 3
In this unit students investigate Western Australian marine ecosystems, with a focus on estuaries, mangroves, coral reefs and seagrass meadows. Students identify the key species and food webs for each of these ecosystems, as well as examine adaptations of organisms living in mangrove ecosystems. Environmental and resource management will focus on aquaculture as a solution to declining fish stocks. Students gain an understanding of maritime studies, including the characteristics of construction materials, design and construction of water craft, and repair of fibreglass craft. The basic parts of the outboard motor, including features of two stroke and four stroke motors, will be studied, as well as features of small craft systems, including bilges, electrical, fuel, mooring lines and anchoring equipment.
Unit 4
This unit examines global surface ocean currents, atmospheric circulation systems and the impact of climate change on global sea levels, thermohaline circulation and marine ecosystems. The process of coastal erosion and coastal engineering structures is studied. Students gain an understanding of maritime studies, including common forms of construction material protection, and the possible side effects of using these materials. Aspects of small craft maintenance, including the use of a maintenance log, fuel and ignition, cooling system and engine diagnostics, are studied.

Careers/Further Study
TAFE pathways, Marine Tourism, Fishing Industry, Harbour and Port Authorities, Defence Force.