1. Junior Certificate Subject Choice
St Paul’s Monasterevin

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

3. Important Considerations
Interest in the subject
Ability in the subject
Future career aspirations

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

5. 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.

6. Career Advantage Art Home Economics
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.

7. SCIENCE
Science : useful for careers in human medicine, allied healthcare professions, biomedical and forensics
Music: useful for careers in entertainment and performance sector, sound and stage production, dance, broadcasting

8. Choosing Subjects

9. How do students choose?
Research
Discuss
Reflect
Decide

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

11. 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?

12. 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!

13. 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.

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

15. Contact Ms. Garrett for more information
Questions?
Contact Ms. Garrett for more information