The Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) department invites students to explore the very experience of being human. Through subjects such as Business, Geography, History and Legal Studies, students gain insight into the cultural, economic, environmental, and philosophical dimensions that have shaped the past and the present. By developing their critical inquiry skills, students can determine how decisions that are made (both historical and into the future) contribute to our species' well-being.
Subject description
Civics and Citizenship provides students the opportunity to understand the key foundations of the society in which they live. Students examine the fundamentals, structures and processes relevant to governance and the legal system. Additionally, students investigate the importance of active and informed citizenship, and how individuals can make a difference in today’s world.
In Geography, students are faced with the challenges and issues in the modern world and how these vary locally, nationally, and internationally. Students are empowered to think critically by developing strategies and actions that can help combat these real-world issues.
Civics and Citizenship is offered as an elective subject and is studied for one semester in both Year 9 and Year 10.
What it will help students do
Importantly, both Civics and Citizenship, and Geography equip students with a range of skills and a disposition to actively engage in creating a better society. Throughout this study, students are invited to consider the importance of democracy, cultural understanding, social justice, peace, and sustainability as key pillars in the creation of a more humane future.
Skills developed
Through studying Civics and Citizenship, and Geography, students will develop the ability to:
- Ask critical questions Analyse, evaluate, and interpret data and information
- Communicate effectively across a range of text types
- Make decisions to create a better future
Out of Class Requirements
Homework and assessments completed via QLearn as required.
What’s important for this subject
An open and questioning mind about the world we live in will build capacity for students to be successful learners, confident and creative individuals and informed globally aware citizens.
Course Outline and Assessment
Unit 1: Civics and Citizenship – Identity and Media
| Blog post |
Unit 1: Civics and Citizenship – Resilient Democracy
| Blog Post
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Unit 2: Geography - Biomes and Food Security
| Letter
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Unit 2: Geography – Wellbeing
| Report
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National History, Geography and Civics competitions Various excursions/incursions to units of study
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