1. Subject Choice Guidelines
First Year Students

2. Important Factors to Consider
The Student’s interest in or liking for a subject
Their aptitude for a subject
The value of the subject for their personal/academic development
Whether or not it is necessary to keep options open
The relevance of the subject for future study/career options

3. Subject Offered * Unless officially exempted 11 Core Subjects Irish *
English
Maths
History
Geography
Science
Religious Education *
CSPE
SPHE
Physical Education
Tutor
* Unless officially exempted
Optional Subjects
(Please choose three from the list
below)
Art
French
Home Economics
Music
Business Studies
Metalwork
Woodwork
Technical Graphics

4. Choosing Optional Subjects
Important to place subject choice in genuine order of preference
Indicate options from 1 – 3
1 = highest preference.
EXAMPLE
ART
FRENCH BUSINESS STUDIES
HOME ECONOMICS TECHNICAL GRAPHICS
METALWORK WOODWORK
MUSIC 1 2 3

5. Do I need to choose a Foreign Language?
It is advisable to choose a foreign language to keep more options open for the future
At Present: NUI Colleges (NUIG,UCC & UCD) require a 3rd Language for entry to most courses.
Other colleges require two languages: English and Irish or 3rd Language.
Institutes of Technology require English or Irish.
The Defence Force also requires Irish, English and a 3rd Language.
Garda Siochana Requires two languages: English and Irish or 3rd Language.

6. A BROAD SELECTION OF SUBJECTS CAN KEEP OPTIONS OPEN
French
Language
Business Studies
Business
Art
Wood
Metal
Technical Graphics
Music
Home Economics
Practical

7. The Easy Subjects There is no such thing as an easy subject.
However It is important to consider the content of a subject and match it to student ability
Example if the student has an aptitude for practical tasks they would enjoy a subject with project work and ‘hands on’ practical activities.
Likewise if a student is very academic they will find theory subjects much easier to understand.

8. Expected Study Routine
14 Subjects (10 Exam Subjects)
Study includes homework and revision.
Advised to study for 1.5hours per night.
Study should be planned and encouraged at home.
Advised that students spend approx mins on a learning task with a short break and then another 15-20mins etc.
Balance in life in very important and extra curricular activities are encouraged e.g. sport/exercise as well as academic achievement.

9. Finally
“Life is full of choices but making choices would be easier if we stay true to ourselves.”