Glossary

Assessment tasks 

Pieces of work that are undertaken over a designated period of time, or as an examination, and are graded to determine the student’s level of performance.

ATAR

Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) is a rank that is generated from a student’s results across their Year 12 studies. This rank is used by most tertiary institutions as a primary criterion for selection purposes. 

GAT 

The General Achievement Test (GAT) is a general knowledge examination, undertaken by all students who are undertaking a Unit 3 and 4 subject. The GAT is used by the VCAA as a means of verifying grades. 

GA

Graded Assessments (GAs) are internal assessment tasks that occur for Unit 1 and 2 subjects. The assessment is completed in class and marked by the class teacher. 

IA

Internal assessments (IAs) are formal assessments marked by the subject teacher that contribute to an IB DP student's overall result for the subject. Samples of the student's work are also submitted to the IB for moderation. 

IB

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a non-profit foundation that offers high-quality and challenging curriculum that focuses on developing inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed. 

IB DP

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) is an international program of study for students in their final two years of schooling. 

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are the basis for satisfactory completion of VCE units. There are 2 to 4 learning outcomes per unit. Learning outcomes define what students will know and be able to do as a result of undertaking a study. 

Prerequisite subjects 

These are subjects that must be satisfactorily completed before a student is eligible for selection into specific tertiary courses. Students should check prerequisites with the relevant institutions before finalising their university and TAFE preferences.  

SAC

School Assessed Coursework (SAC) are assessment tasks in Unit 3 and 4 subjects that are specified in a study design and set by class teachers which students must complete satisfactorily. This work is completed in class and is assessed by the teacher. 

SAT

School Assessed Tasks (SAT) are completed in subjects that produce a product, portfolio, or model. This Unit 3 and 4 work receives a grade from A+ to UG based on the quality of the work. The work is marked internally, according to VCAA specifications, and the score is confirmed externally. 

Study score 

A score of 0 – 50 is given for each Unit 3 and 4 study. This sums up a student’s total achievement, relative to all other students doing that same study. The score is based on School Assessed Coursework, School Assessed Tasks and examinations. 

Unit/Unit of study 

A self-contained study of approximately one semester’s length. 

VCAA 

Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) – the body that administers the VCE. 

VCE 

Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) – A senior school certificate based on mainly theoretical learning. 

VET 

Vocational Education and Training (VET) – Industry-endorsed certificate programs that enable joint VCE and TAFE qualifications. 

VTAC

The Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) - the body that facilitates students’ applications to most tertiary institutions and assigns ATARs to students.