Society and Culture

Prerequisite  None

Course Description

The goal of Society and Culture is the development of social and cultural literacy and a clear understanding of the interaction of persons, societies, cultures, environments and time. The influence of other aspects of societies and cultures – including power, authority, identity, gender, technologies and globalisation – is also central to the course.  

Society and Culture draws on cross-disciplinary concepts and social research methods from anthropology; communication; cultural and media studies; philosophy; social psychology; and sociology. Students are provided with essential concepts, skills, competencies and knowledge to encourage a process of independent thinking that can be used to explain patterns of behaviour, solve problems, and engage in and actively contribute to all levels of society. 

The study of Society and Culture prepares students for adult life by developing knowledge, understanding, skills and other qualities associated with effective citizenship at local, national, regional and global levels. In so doing, it forms a basis for moving towards a more just society through positive participation in community life and attaining social and cultural literacy.

For whom this course is intended

Students interested in careers in Arts, Sociology, Studies in Society, Psychology, Politics, Government, Cultural Studies, Aboriginal Studies, Economics, International Studies. This course provides excellent background for any course or occupation dealing with people.

Main Topics Covered

Year 11 course

●        The Social and Cultural World:  30% of course time

●        Personal and Social Identity:  40% of course time

●        Intercultural Communication:  30% of course time

HSC Course

Core:  

●        Social and Cultural Continuity and Change: 30% of course time

●        The Personal Interest Project:  30% of course time

●        Depth Studies:  40% of course time

Two to be chosen from:

●        Popular Culture

●        Belief Systems and Ideologies

●        Social Inclusion and Exclusion

●        Social Conformity and Nonconformity

Particular Course Requirements

The Personal Interest Project (PIP) is a significant individually researched topic conducted during the course. The PIP project is worth 40% of the HSC examination mark. The PIP is the major project for this subject.