HSS2: Humanities and Social Sciences

Discover the Dynamic World of HSS2: World History and Classics

Why study HSS2? Because it's a dynamic, contested, and evidence-based discipline that brings the past to life in exciting and meaningful ways. Engage rigorously with key historical concepts such as change, causation, and significance. HSS2 offers a balanced study of ancient (Classics) and modern history, delving into political, economic, social, and cultural aspects.

Experience the vibrant blend of Archaeology, English, History, and Philosophy within Classics, alongside the structured yet flexible exploration of modern history. HSS2 helps us understand who we are, why we are the way we are, and where we might be heading. It addresses timeless issues such as warfare, empire building, consensus forging, and political fragmentation—issues that continue to confront modern states worldwide.

Join HSS2 for a rigorous intellectual journey that reveals the complexities of the past and provides invaluable insights into our present and future.

Explore Wars, Revolutions, and Conflicts with HSS2: Understanding Our Rights and Responsibilities

Join HSS2, an exciting new course that delves into the theme of Wars, Revolutions, and Conflicts, exploring our rights and responsibilities through the lens of History and Classics. This integrated course encourages you to examine past events, understand yourself as a New Zealander, and connect with people distant in time and place. Engage with fascinating topics such as:

Ancient History / Classics:

• • Mythology and Religion

  • Homer’s Iliad (Trojan War)

Modern Histories:

• • The Scientific Revolution & Age of Enlightenment

  • “Herstories” - the role of women in each context studied

  • The Taranaki Wars and Parihaka 

  • NZ’s involvement in International Conflicts  (to be decided by the class)

  • Pasifika and  New Zealand relations: NZ colonization in the Pacific, Mau Movement in Samoa

HSS2 offers a dynamic engagement with the past, developing your ability to understand historical events and their relevance today. Dive into this intellectually stimulating course and gain a deeper understanding of the world and your place in it.

Discover the Impact of Wars, Revolutions, and Conflicts with HSS2: Level 2

Dive into HSS2 at Level 2, where you'll explore the powerful theme of Wars, Revolutions, Conflicts, and the human response. This course offers a compelling journey through history, examining how humanity has faced and responded to some of the most significant events in our past. Engage with captivating stories, analyse diverse perspectives, and understand the profound impact these events have had on societies and individuals. Join HSS2 and uncover the lessons of the past to better understand our present and shape our future.

Ākonga will have the opportunity to be assessed using internally and externally assessed standards, from both History and Classics domains: 

History Standards

• Standard 91229 - Carry out an inquiry of an historical event or place that is of significance to New Zealanders (internal)

• Standard 91230 - Examine an historical event or place that is of significance to New Zealanders (internal)

• Standard 91232 - Interpret different perspectives of people in an historical event that is of significance to New Zealanders (internal)

• Standard 91233 - Examine causes and consequences of a significant historical event (external)

• Standard 91231 - Examine sources of an historical event that is of significance to New Zealanders (external)

Classics Standards

• Standard 91202 - Demonstrate understanding of a significant event in the classical world (internal)

• Standard 91200 - Examine ideas and values of the classical world (external)

Endorsement is available if students achieve a mix of internal and external standards. 

Ākonga should have:

1 x refill or 1 x 1B8 lined book, 1 x document wallet, pens / pencils, etc. This has a cost of $5 and can be purchased from the Student Centre. Students must also have their own chromebook, charger and a set of working headphones.