Preliminary Course Overview

The study of Ancient History engages students in an investigation of life in early societies based on the analysis and interpretation of physical and written remains. It offers students the opportunity to investigate the possible motivations and actions of individuals and groups, and how they shaped the political, social, economic and cultural landscapes of the ancient world. In Year 11 we will cover a range of topics which will introduce knowledge and develop skills you will need to be successful in your HSC. 

Knowledge and Understanding Students:

 ● develop knowledge and understanding of a range of features, people, places, events and developments of the ancient world in their historical context 

● develop an understanding of continuity and change over time. Skills Students: 

● undertake the process of historical inquiry 

● use historical concepts and skills to examine the ancient past 

● communicate an understanding of history, sources and evidence, and historical interpretations. Values and Attitudes Students: 

● appreciate the influence of the past on the present and the future 

● value the contribution of the study of Ancient History to lifelong learning, and active and informed citizenship. 

The course comprises three sections. Students are required to study all three sections of the course. 

Year 11 course (120 hours) Ancient History Indicative hours Investigating Ancient History covering the following areas.

The Nature of Ancient History. 

Including topics covering: Sites and sources, History of Archaeology, investigation of Ancient Sites and Sources, Preservation, Conservation and/or Reconstruction of Ancient Sites, Cultural Heritage and the Role of Museums, the Treatment and Display of Human Remains. 

Including Case Studies, Ancient Australia and Tutankhamen's Tomb, Deir el Medina          60 hours

Features of Ancient Societies.                                                                                                                                    40 hours

Slavery in the Roman World. Ancient Egyptian death and funerary custom. 

Studies of features of ancient societies are concerned with seeking explanations to the ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions of history: how people lived in the past, why they may have lived that way, and how and why their life circumstances changed. These studies provide students with opportunities to develop an understanding of: 

● the social history of a people through an investigation of the remains of their material culture 

● the key developments and forces that may have shaped the selected feature(s) 

● the nature of the available sources. Slavery in the Roman World. 

Historical Investigation                                                                                                                                                 20 hours

The historical investigation is designed to further develop relevant investigative, research and presentation skills. The investigation should extend a particular area of individual student or group interest. The investigation may be undertaken as a standalone study or integrated into any aspect of the Year 11 course and need not be completed as one project. It may be conducted individually or collaboratively.