In human society and its environment (HSIE), both subjects of history and geography are mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
Students learn specific historical and geographical concepts and skills in history and geography. They also have an opportunity to learn more about people and the societies and environments in which they live through elective subjects in Years 7 to 10 (Stages 4 to 5).
A large number of individual subjects make up the key learning area of HSIE in which students:
- research, gather and analyse information
- question and make judgements
- write for a variety of purposes.
Human Society and its Environment (HSIE), is the study of how humans interact with the world, how society operates and how it is changing. HSIE subjects aim to give students the skills to prepare them to actively and responsibly participate as informed citizens in the contemporary world. A variety of individual subjects contribute to the key learning area of HSIE in which students:
- undertake inquiry and research activities to develop critical-thinking skills;
- understand the relationship between cause and effect;
- develop verbal and written communication skills through collaborative and independent learning activities;
- explore different perspectives and interpretations of the past and present;
- make judgements and assessments of a variety of primary and secondary sources; and,
- establish real-world connections to both historical and contemporary issues.
Stage 4 and Stage 5 Core subjects (Years 7 to 10)
In Human Society and its Environment (HSIE), both History and Geography are mandated subjects from Kindergarten to Year 10. Students learn specific historical and geographical terminology, concepts and twenty-first century skills through the exploration of both historical and contemporary issues, people, societies and environments.
Years 7 and 8 Integrated Curriculum
Hawkesbury High School’s Integrated Curriculum blends the key learning areas of HSIE, English and Science through thematic and enriched learning activities and environments. This integrated learning approach focuses on developing students’ twenty-first century learning skills of communication, collaboration, critical-thinking, creativity, character and citizenship. Student engagement with future-focused learning inspires them to become leaders of their own learning, mindful global citizens and prepares them to solve complex problems in an ever-changing world.
Geography
Geography is the study of places, people, space, environments and how they are all connected. As geographers, we aim to learn about where things are, why they are there, the relationships between them, how they develop and how they change over time. The study of geography develops students’ understanding about physical, social, environmental, political, economic and cultural factors. Stage 5 Units include:
- Sustainable Biomes
- Changing Places
- Environmental Change and Management
- Human Wellbeing
History
Students investigate the past and develop an understanding of how people, groups, events and developments have influenced past societies and have shaped the world today. History develops students’ core skills in source analysis, chronology, historical investigations and perspectives, and in understanding cause and effect relationships. Stage 5 Units include:
- Movement of People
- World War I and WWII
- Right and Freedoms
- Modern History Mini-Study
- Ancient History Mini-Study
Japanese
Japanese strengthens foundational literacy skills and fosters cultural understanding. Students are supported to develop skills in effective verbal and written communication, as well as knowledge of Japanese language, heritage, identity and culture. For students who seek future international employment opportunities, Japanese provides students with lifelong skills to engage with both domestic and international employment opportunities in a range of sectors, such as media, education, travel, hospitality, marketing and international relations.
Japanese is delivered as a compulsory subject in Stage 4 and offered as an elective subject in Stage 5.
Stage 5 Electives (Years 9 and 10)
Commerce
Commerce enables young people to develop skills in managing their own finances, as well as knowledge and understanding of various real-world issues across financial, economic, business, legal, political and employment sectors. In building their skills and understanding of contemporary issues, students are supported in become citizens who can make informed and responsible decision as individuals and as part of the wider community. Students appreciate the importance of ethical and socially responsible behaviour, and fundamental rights, rules and laws that promote fairness, justice and equity in society. Core Study topics include:
- Consumer and Financial Decisions
- The Economic and Business Environment
- Employment and Work Futures
- Law, Society and Political Involvement
Mysteries and Disasters
Students examine a range of sources relating to a number of history topics including gangsters, bushrangers, convicts and unsolved mysteries. They also examine crime through time and gain knowledge of early investigative techniques and punishments used in ancient and medieval times. Students will also have the opportunity to use Information and Communications Technologies (ICT), view historical texts and conduct research about historical personalities.
International Studies
International Studies is a Stage 5 interest elective which is suitable for students who are interested in developing cultural understanding in preparation for studying Stage 6 Society and Culture. This course facilitates student learning, respect and appreciation of the significance of culture. It also encourages students to explore the value of culture from various perspectives and to develop skills to engage harmoniously.
Stage 6 Electives (Preliminary and HSC Courses)
Society and Culture
Society and Culture is a challenging and engaging course that teaches students to think critically about themselves, their society and culture; and other societies and cultures. It is respected by prospective employers and supports the accreditation of an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
During the higher school certificate (HSC) course, all students undertake a core study of social and cultural continuity and a number of possible depth studies including beliefs and ideologies and popular culture. All students are required to complete a personal interest project.
Ancient History
Students investigate the distant past and think critically about representations of history. All candidates undertake a core study of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Studies of personalities, ancient societies and historical periods are also undertaken with a number of possible options drawn from Egyptian, Greek, Near Eastern and Roman history.
Modern History
Students study various aspects of the modern world, including people, ideas, movements, events and developments from the eighteenth century to the present. The course develops students’ abilities to analyse and evaluate methods and issues in the investigation of modern history. Topics include Power and Authority, Dictators of the 20th Century, American Civil War, The French Revolution, WWI, Russia and the Soviet Union, Conflict in Iraq and the Nuclear Age.
Geography
In studying Geography, students learn to question why the world is the way it is, reflect on their relationships with and responsibilities for the world, and propose actions in order to become informed, responsible and active citizens. Students investigate the interactions between social, cultural, environmental, political and economic factors, on both local and global scales. It is a relevant subject for students who are passionate about cultures, sustainability, economics, environment and population. All students are required to complete a Senior Geography Project (SGP) in Year 11.
Business Studies
Business Studies encompasses theoretical and practical aspects of business that students will encounter in their lives. It empowers students to become informed and responsible citizens by developing knowledge, understanding, skills and values relevant to their interactions with business and participation in a dynamic business environment. Topics include business planning and management, marketing, finance and human resources.
Legal Studies
Legal Studies develops students' knowledge and understanding of the nature and functions of law and law-making, the development of Australian and international legal systems, the Australian constitution and law reform. It focuses on the operation of the legal system and attempts by the law to achieve justice through the courts and other institutions. Students evaluate legal rights and responsibilities, providing a relevant platform for students who have a genuine interest in learning about the law, world politics and policing.
Work Studies
Work Studies assists students in their transition from school to work by developing knowledge and skills needed for effective career planning and performance of tasks in the work environment. Students are taught how to access work-related information, present themselves to potential employer and how to function effectively in the workplace.
Japanese Beginners
Students who learn another language understand how languages work as systems and therefore students’ literacy skills are enhanced. The study of Japanese provides students with opportunities for continued learning and for future employment and experience, both domestically and internationally, in areas such as public relations, commerce, hospitality, education, marketing, international relations, media and tourism.
Special programs/activities offered
- Stage 4 Integrated Curriculum (Application of twenty-first century learning skills through a thematic and integrated learning approach)
- Stage 4 and 5 fieldwork activities (Previous fieldwork excursions to Penrith Lakes and Central Coast Chocolate Factory)
- Society and Culture – Cultural exchange school visits and Nan Tien Temple excursion
- Geography Fieldwork – Taronga Zoo Economic Enterprise excursion and Penrith Lakes/Nepean River fieldwork.
- Commerce – Financial organisation talks
- Legal studies – Supreme court visits
- Japanese – International Exchange Program
- Study lectures
Staff
- Ms N Wergeltoft (Head Teacher)
- Mrs N Martirena (Deputy Principal)
- Mr J Brady (SRC Co-ordinator)
- Ms C Moran (Languages)
- Mr D Trewlynn
- Ms M Fyfe
- Mr A O'Shea
- Mr L Vrinat (Year 12 Advisor)