Figure 1.--This Year 7 boy was in a Catholic College rather than an indtermediate school. To maintain roles at their existng schools, the Catholic system did not open intermediate schools. Thus the intermediate years are mixed in with the older secondary forms at Cathloic schools. |
There is considerable variation in New Zealand as to what kind of school children attend in year 7 or 8. Children in their 7th and 8th years of schooling (Forms 1 and 2) may either be in a separate intermediate school or part of a primary, secondary or composite/area school. Most children in urban areas attend intermediate schools. The history and culture of the ancient civilisations of India, Persia, Egypt and Greece may be studied. New Zealand geography, zoology and botany are introduced in a way which appeals to the soul of the eleven-year-old. English and maths are further developed. Another subject which is introduced at this age is woodwork. The children are taught to use wood in an imaginative way. Many intermediate have well equipped work shops.
These children normally begin at about 11 years of age. Many begin intermediate school in this form and some attend colleges or other secondary schools with programs beginning at year 7. Some children attending full primary schools, generally rural schools stay in prinary school until year 9. At twelve, the child experiences another change At this age the thinking begins to change from the picture building of the child to the intellectual (logical or cause and effect thinking) of the adult. However, it is only beginning, and science makes a memorable gateway to the awakening intellect for the child in pre-puberty.
The first science lesson is often taught in a way that bridges the gap between the artistic and the intellectual; for example, the hildren's music studies now lead to acoustics, and colour studies and painting lead to optics. Similarly, in geography, map drawing may be treated in an artistic as well as in a scientific manner, as is the drawing of plants in botany The children's earlier knowledge of free-hand form drawing is now put to use in geometrical studies, combining beauty and accuracy in construction. Drawing, too, becomes more technical, with recognition of shadows. In history the Roman era and the Middle Ages may be studied.
These children normally begin at about 12 years of age.
