Junior Certificate Subject Choice St Paul’s Monasterevin

Aim For students to give themselves a package of subjects and levels which: They can manage Will give a sense of career direction

Important Considerations Interest in the subject Ability in the subject Future career aspirations Stress-free 4 more years in ISK

Junior Certificate Exam Subjects Mandatory: Irish English Maths History Geography French CSPE Business Religion Optional (Choose 2) Technical Drawing Wood Technology Science Home Economics Art, Craft and Design

Applied Sciences – Usefulness: Technical Graphics: Useful for careers in Engineering, Information Technology, Architecture, Printing, Aviation, Army and Air Corps, Design, Construction Industry etc. Wood Technology: Useful for Architecture, Building Construction, Carpentry, Engineering, Design, Town Planning, Quantity Surveyor, Plasterer, Housing etc.

Career Advantage  Art Advertising, Marketing, Printing, Architecture, Fashion Designer, Primary Teacher, Media, Fashion Design. – A portfolio is often a requirement for Art courses  Home Economics Home Ec Teaching, Dietician, Chef, Food Science, Nursing, Childcare etc.

Choosing Subjects

How do students choose? Research Discuss Reflect Decide

Research Subject Websites – Career Websites – Junior Certificate course books.

Discuss Subject Teachers. Current Pupils. Parents/Guardians Older Brothers & Sisters. Guidance Counsellor.

Ask…. Do I like this subject? Am I good at it? How have I performed up to now? Is there a chance I might need it for further study/career? Am I keeping my options open? Is Level important?

Decide We do not have a crystal ball to see into the consequences of our decisions but we tend to be happier and more at ease with our decisions when we have done our work!

Level – Higher, Ordinary → If students are willing to put in the study over the next two years then they should start all subjects at Honours level. → It is easier to drop to a lower level if the student themselves, you as parents, and teachers agree that it is the right move, than to find that the Ordinary level class is too easy and then needing to move to Honours. → Sometimes movement is restricted between Ordinary and Honours classes simply because there is no place available. So the advise is start at the Higher level and keep the head down.

The Points System

How can it go wrong? Subjects chosen are too difficult and they do not like them. No thought given to future can lead to disappointment. Picking traditional subjects and so limiting options. Following friend’s selections or teacher reputation. Not fully informed about subject, especially if informed by only one source.

Summary Subjects should be chosen based on: - Ability & Interest - Career Aspirations - College Entry Requirements. Q. What subjects will you enjoy and do best in??

Useful websites Qualifax CareersPortal CareerDirections

Questions? Contact Ms. Garrett for more information