Year 9 Humanities

What will I learn?

The course will cover a number of topics within the civics and citizenship profile which will empower students to become informed citizens. The course will also provide the a good introduction to VCE legal studies and prepare students for Unit 1 and 2 Legal Studies. Students will examine the ways political parties, interest groups, media and individuals influence government and decision making. The course will allow students to investigate the features and principles of Australia’s court system by exploring and examining Victorian criminal and civil cases. 

The course will explore a number of topics including:

Topic 1 - Crime & Punishment

• Understanding the role of police in Victoria

• Criminal Investigation

• Bourke Street Gargasoulas Case

• Sanctions & their purpose

• Role of prisons in Victoria & Overseas

Topic 2 - Criminal Cases that have encouraged change within the law 

• Port Arthur Massacre – Development of the gun laws and political pressure for change

• Jill Meagher Case – Changes in parole laws in Victoria

• Dietrich v The Queen – The right to legal representation

• Mabo Case – Courts making law & the importance of the High Court in Australia

• Vicki Lee Roach – The High Court & Prisoners right to vote

Topic 3 - Importance of civil law in the justice system 

• Introduction to civil law

• Dispute resolution methods

• Other ways of resolving disputes

• Falls Festival Case – How civil law can aim to provide justice

• Rebel Wilson Case – Civil Law recent example of Defamation

What will I do?

A number of different assessment activities will be used throughout the semester including: 

1. FOLIO and REPORT An investigation of current newsworthy events, which examines the ways political parties, interest groups, media and individuals influence government and decision-making processes. Students will investigate, describe, analyse and interpret information, from a range of sources.

2. RESEARCH PROJECTStudents study the purpose and work of the High Court. Using an Inquiry Based Approach students to study a dilemma. Students will use an inquiry and research approach. They will analysis and synthesis information.

3. CLASS ACTIVITIES Students will take part and complete a range of class activities as part of their participation in this subject. These activities will include bookwork, homework, participation, collaboration, eLearning, tests, role-plays, reports, posters etc

What will this lead to?

VCE Legal Studies

Why choose this subject?

• I am interested in the role humans play in shaping the world in which we live

• I am interested in the law

• I want to work in law enforcement or in the courts.

Duration

3 period a week for a semester

Head of Humanities: Michelle Ladhams