Elective History

History Elective invites students to explore the past and understand how it shapes our world today. It goes beyond dates and facts, encouraging students to investigate the actions, motives, and impacts of people over time. Students will learn to critically examine historical evidence, including physical remains, written records, and oral histories, asking questions like "How do we know?" and "Why does this matter?"

This course develops essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. Students will explore diverse perspectives, including those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, migrants, and women, building an appreciation for different cultural experiences. By studying history, students gain valuable insights into the present and prepare for informed, responsible citizenship.

Course description

Elective History is for students who are interested in history and would enjoy studying important moments in world history, including great empires, terrible rulers, inspiring revolutions, moments of intense terror and investigating the mysteries of the past. It aims to develop advanced historical skills in analysing historical sources and conducting deep and meaningful research. This is an elective course that is studied in addition to the mandatory course. Elective History is excellent preparation for study in Ancient, Modern and Extension History in the senior years.

The Elective History Years 7–10 course includes Life Skills outcomes and content for students with disability.

What will students learn about?

Students will build important research skills, including the ability to find, evaluate, and interpret a wide range of historical sources. They will learn to consider different perspectives and contexts, apply relevant historical terms, and clearly communicate their findings to a variety of audiences. This course helps students become critical thinkers, effective communicators, and informed citizens, capable of understanding the past and its ongoing influence on the present.

Units covered

Year 9

Topic 1: History, Heritage and Archaeology through Big History
Topic 2: Thematic Study - Histories Mysteries
Topic 3: Ancient, Medieval and Modern Societies - The Crusades
Topic 4: Thematic Study - Revolutionaries

Year 10

Topic 1: Thematic Study - The Women of history
Topic 2: Thematic Study - Australian Bush Rangers
Topic 3: Ancient, Medieval and Modern Societies - Post 9/11 America
Topic 4: History, Heritage and Archaeology - History and the Screen

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