HSIE Subjects
Years 9 & 10
Matthew de Koeyer
In Human Society and its Environment, you study how humans interact with the world, how society operates and how it is changing. Through the study of HSIE, you will develop the skills to prepare you to actively and responsibly participate as an informed citizen in the contemporary world.
The subjects offered in HSIE will develop critical and creative thinking skills to undertake meaningful social inquiry and solve problems that are multidisciplinary in nature. You will develop the ability to see connections and interactions between all parts of your social world and environment.
Students who study HSIE develop their self-realisation, civic responsibility, and their ability to foster human relationships.
Yr 9 HSIE - Mandatory History and Geography
Industrial Revolution & Australians at War
Students delve into the nature of history and the methodologies employed by historians to construct it through a variety of thematic and historical studies. They gain insight into how historians investigate and build narratives by examining different forms of history, including oral history, museum or archive studies, historical fiction, media, biography, and film. The historical issues explored encompass the collection, display, and reconstruction of the past, as well as the ethical considerations surrounding ownership, preservation, and conservation of historical artefacts and narratives. The course finishes with a depth study focused on World War One, Australia’s participation and wars impact on daily life in Australia.
Sustainable Biomes & Changing Places
Students examine the physical characteristics and productivity of biomes. Students examine the correlation between the world’s climatic zones and spatial distributions of biomes and their capacity to support food and non-food agricultural production. Students analyse the impact humans have on biomes in an effort to produce food and increase agricultural yields. They examine population trends and projections from Australia and across the world and forecast future food supply-and-demand issues. Challenges to food production are explored and management strategies investigated.
Students examine the patterns and trends in population movements and the increasing urbanisation of countries. They discuss the reasons for internal and international migration patterns and the consequences of population movements, including the increased concentration of populations within countries. Students examine strategies to create liveable and sustainable urban places, propose solutions and suggest opportunities for active citizenship.
Course Code: 09HSIE
Year Level & Semester: Year 9, Study of Both History and Geography, Semester 1 or 2.
Prerequisites & Limitations: None.
Suitability: All Year 9 students must study these subjects in either Semester 1 or Semester 2.
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What Students Learn:
The following Historical concepts are taught throughout Stage 5:
the nature and significance of the Industrial Revolution and how it affected living and working conditions, including within Australia
the nature and extent of the movement of peoples in the period (slaves, convicts and settlers)
the extent of European imperial expansion and different responses, including in the Asian region
the emergence and nature of significant economic, social and political ideas in the period, including nationalism
the inter-war years between World War I and World War II, including the Treaty of Versailles, the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression.
The following following Geographical questions are explored in Stage 5 :
What are the main characteristics that differentiate the worlds Biomes?
How do people use and alter biomes for food production?
Can the world’s biomes sustainably feed the world’s population?
What strategies can be used to increase global food security?
Whay has the world become urbanised?
How does migration impact on the concentration of people into urban places?
How does urbanisation change environments and places?
What strategies are used to manage environmental change in urban places to enhance sustainability?
Assessment:
Students will complete the following assessment tasks throughout the semester:
History - Source Analysis (25% of overall grade)
History - Research task with an in class extended response (25% of overall grade)
Geography - Extended Written Response (25% of overall grade)
Geography - End of semester in class exam (25% of overall grade)
Future Pathways:
Yr 9 HSIE - Mandatory will assist in the study of Yr 10 HSIE - Mandatory and Stage 6 Modern History, Ancient History, Society & Culture, Geography, Aboriginal Studies and Economics.
Examples of career pathways are shown below.
Education: primary secondary and tertiary teaching
Archeology & Historical Research
Government and Policy Formation
Careers in Tourism and Travel.
Careers in Agriculture
Costs:
There are no costs associated with this module.
Yr 10 HSIE - Mandatory History & Geograpahy
In this unit, students will continue their study of history from where they left off in Year 9, starting at the end of World War Two. They will explore the history of the modern world and Australia from 1945 to the present, with a particular focus on Australia's role in the global context. The twentieth century was a pivotal period for Australia's social, cultural, economic, and political development. Through in-depth studies and an emphasis on the transformation of the modern world during times of political upheaval, global conflict, and international cooperation, students will gain essential context for understanding Australia’s development, its place within the Asia-Pacific region, and its global standing.
Students develop an understanding of the functioning of environments and the scale of human-induced environmental change challenging sustainability. They explore worldviews influencing approaches to environmental use and management. Students undertake an investigative study of the causes and consequences of environmental change in an environment in Australia and another country. They compare and evaluate the management responses in both countries and propose ways individuals can contribute to environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, students examine the nature of, and differences in, human wellbeing and development that exist within and between countries. They describe ways of measuring human wellbeing and development to reveal spatial variations and develop explanations for differences. Students investigate examples from Australia and across the world of issues affecting development, the impact on human wellbeing and the consequences of spatial variations across scales. Local, national and global initiatives to improve human wellbeing are also examined
Course Code: 10HSIE
Year Level & Semester: Year 10, Study of both History & Geography, Semester 1 or 2.
Prerequisites & Limitations: None.
Suitability:All Year 10 students must study these subjects in either Semester 1 or Semester 2
More Information
What Students Learn:
The following historical concepts are taught throughout Stage 5:
continuing efforts post-World War II to achieve lasting peace and security in the world, including Australia’s involvement in UN peacekeeping
the major movements for rights and freedoms in the world and the achievement of independence by former colonies
the nature of the Cold War and Australia’s involvement in Cold War and post-Cold War conflicts (Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf Wars and Afghanistan), including the rising influence of Asian nations since the end of the Cold War
developments in technology, public health, longevity and standard of living during the twentieth century, and concern for the environment and sustainability
The following following Geographical questions are explored in Stage 5 :
How do envirnoments function?
How do people’s worldviews affect their attitudes to and use of environments?
What are the causes and consequences of change in environments and how can this change be managed?
Why is an understanding of environmental processes and interconnections essential for sustainable management of environments?
What makes human wellbeing a geographical issue?
How can the spatial variations in human wellbeing and development be measured and explained?
What are the economic, social and environmental impacts of variations in development and human wellbeing?
How do governments, groups and individuals respond to inequalities in development and human wellbeing for a sustainable future?
Assessment:
Students will complete the following assessment tasks throughout the semester:
Source analysis task (20% of overall grade)
Research Task and In class written response (20% of overall grade)
Extended Written Response (20% of overall grade)
End of semester in class exam (40% of overall grade)
Future Pathways:
Yr 10 HSIE - Mandatory will assist in the study of Stage 6 Modern History, Geography, Ancient History, Society & Culture, Aboriginal Studies, Agriculture and Economics.
Examples of career pathways are shown below.
Education: primary secondary and tertiary teaching.
Archeology & Historical Research
Government and Policy Formation
Careers in Tourism and Travel
Careers in Agriculture
Costs:
There are no costs associated with this module.
Elective History
History - A Moment in Time is an elective module. Students will learn that the past contains many stories and that there is never only one uncontested version. Students will investigate their own chosen historical event, and aim to design a unique historical reconstruction in a medium of their own choice. Students will examine popular and controversial historical reconstructions, in written form, art, film and media. They will be introduced to historical research skills that allow them to build a sound understanding of a historical society, allowing them to place their chosen event in a rich historical context. They will complete this unit with a final product (story, short animated film, play, photography, painting, video game, etc) that demonstrates their richer understanding of their chosen event and the way historians study and reconstruct the past.
Course Code: 10S5HSIH
Year Level & Semester: Year 9 or 10, Semester 1 or 2.
Prerequisites & Limitations: None.
Suitability: Students who are interested in history and who consistently achieve grades of B or higher in HSIE.
More Information
What Students Learn:
Students explore the nature of history, heritage and archaeology and the methods that historians use to construct history through a range of thematic and historical studies. The construction of history is examined through options such as oral history, museum or archive studies, historical fiction, media, biography or film. Historical issues studied include the collection, display and reconstruction of the past, ethical issues of ownership, preservation and conservation of the past. Features of a range of ancient, medieval and modern societies are explored and students have the opportunity to study historical themes such as war and peace, crime and punishment, music through history, slavery and gender in history.
Students undertake processes of historical inquiry, including understanding and analysing sources and sequencing major historical events to show an understanding of continuity, change and causation. Students develop an understanding of historical concepts such as empathetic understanding, significance and contestability. They apply research and communication skills, including the use of ICT, and examine different perspectives and interpretations to develop an understanding of a wide variety of viewpoints. Students are provided with opportunities to construct a logical historical argument supported by relevant evidence and to communicate effectively about the past for different audiences.
Assessment:
Students will complete a range of sourced based and written assessment activities across the areas of Acquiring, Processing and Communicating key historical information. Assessment weighting will follow the following:
SAT 1 - (20% of overall grade)
SAT 2 - (20% of overall grade)
SAT 3 - (20% of overall grade)
SAT 4 - End of Course Exam (40% of overall grade)
Future Pathways:
Elective History - will assist in the study of Yr 10 HSIE - Mandatory and Stage 6 Modern History, Ancient History, Society & Culture, Aboriginal Studies and Economics.
Examples of career pathways are shown below.
Education: primary secondary and tertiary teaching.
Archeology & Historical Research
Museum Curator
Costs:
There are no costs associated with this module.
Elective Geography
This unit takes students around the world, exploring both Earth's oceans and landforms. The course explores the geological processes that give the continents and the oceans their unique shapes. The unit then explores the different environments created by these forces and how those environments shape the lives of animals and humans living in them. The unit allows students who have enjoyed the study of Geography in years 7 & 8 to pursue this passion and deepen their knowledge of Geography. The course also provides many oppurtunities for students to improve their technical Geography skills through the participation in a number of fieldwork programs.
Course Code: 10S5HSIG
Year Level & Semester: Year 9 or 10, Full Year Course (can only study once)
Prerequisites & Limitations: None.
Suitability: Students who are interested in history and who consistently achieve grades of B or higher in HSIE.
More Information
What Students Learn:
The following geographical concepts are taught throughout Stage 5:
Place: the significance of places and what they are like.
Space: the significance of location and spatial distribution, and ways people organise and manage the spaces that we live in.
Environment: the significance of the environment in human life, and the important interrelationships between humans and the environment.
Interconnection: no object of geographical study can be viewed in isolation.
Scale: the way that geographical phenomena and problems can be examined at different spatial levels.
Sustainability: the capacity of the environment to continue to support our lives and the lives of other living creatures into the future.
Change: explaining geographical phenomena by investigating how they have developed over time.
Assessment:
Students will complete the following assessment tasks throughout the semester:
Natural Phenomena Research Task and Presentation - (20% of overall grade)
Extended Written Response - (20% of overall grade)
Personal Interest Project - (20% of overall grade)
End of semester in class exam (40% of overall grade)
Future Pathways:
Elective Geography - Mandatory will assist in the study of Stage 6 Geography, Society & Culture, Aboriginal Studies, Business Studies and Economics.
Examples of career pathways are shown below.
Education: primary secondary and tertiary teaching.
Local and State Government
Government Policy Formation
Environmental Scientist
Costs:
There are no costs associated with this module.
Aboriginal Studies
Aboriginal Studies is an elective module. Students develop knowledge about historical and contemporary issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Students will investigate Aboriginal Peoples’ roles across different scales, from the local to the international level. They will develop an understanding of the importance of self-determination and autonomy to Aboriginal People’s ongoing contribution and success. This unit will develop students' ethical research skills, requiring them to apply community consultation protocols, as well as respecting Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property. These experiences will assist students to become active and informed advocates for a just and inclusive world.
Course Code: 10S5HSIA
Year Level & Semester: Year 9 or 10, Full Year Course (can only study once)
Prerequisites & Limitations: None.
Suitability: Students who are interested in expanding their knowledge of Australia's First Nations people or those considering studying Aboriginal Studies in Stage 6.
More Information
What Students Learn:
The following core area are taught in stage 5 Aboriginal Studies :
Core 1: Aboriginal Identities, This unit covers the following areas: individual identity, cultural expressions and interpretations, social factors and experiences, adaptations in cultural expression, cultural expression and celebrations, spiritual identity and family structures
Core 2: Aboriginal Self-Determination and Autonomy, This unit covers the following areas: denial of human rights, human rights, self-determination and autonomy and lands and waters, economic independence and self-determination
Assessment:
Students will complete the following assessment tasks throughout the semester:
Extended response (Identity and the land) - (20% of overall grade)
Extended response (heritage and identity) - (20% of overall grade)
Local community case study (20% of overall grade)
End of course Exam (40% of overall grade)
Future Pathways:
Stage 5 Aboriginal Studies - will assist in the study of Yr 10 HSIE - Mandatory and Stage 6 Modern History, Ancient History, Society & Culture and Aboriginal Studies.
Examples of career pathways are shown below.
Education: primary secondary and tertiary teaching.
Archeology & Historical Research
Government and Policy Formation.
Social Work and Public Health
Costs:
There are no costs associated with this module.
Commerce A - Business Basics
In this course, students will learn to identify and research issues that individuals face when making consumer and financial decisions. They will investigate laws and mechanisms that protect consumers, including the process of consumer redress. Students will examine a range of options related to personal financial decisions, assess strategies for responsible financial management, and study the principles of promotion and selling.
Additionally, students will explore the contribution of work to both individuals and society, and examine the changing nature of work. They will investigate how individuals can derive an income and understand the evolving rights and responsibilities of workplace participants. Students will analyse various perspectives on employment and consider future trends in the workforce. The course will also cover topics related to travel, including its economic and social impacts, and the various factors influencing travel decisions.
Course Code: 10S5HSICA
Year Level & Semester: Year 9, Semester 1 or 2.
Prerequisites & Limitations: None.
Suitability: Students who are considering studying Economics, or Business Studies in Stage 6.
More Information
What Students Learn:
The following follwing concepts and skills are taught in Markets Finance & Economics :
explore the nature, role and operation of businesses in the context of an increasingly globalised economy.
investigate cause-and-effect relationships in relation to a major economic event or development affecting Australian consumers and businesses.
investigate Australia’s place in the global economy, measurement of economic performance, trade patterns, the impact of changes in our economy and the implications of these changes for consumers, businesses and broader society.
explore the range of investment options available and analyse information and data to make informed investment decisions.
Assessment:
Students will complete the following assessment tasks throughout the semester:
Investment report (20% of overall grade)
Extended Written response (20% of overall grade)
Research essay (20% of overall grade)
End of semester exam (40% of overall grade)
Future Pathways:
Stage 5 Markets Finance & Economics - will assist in the study of Stage 6, Society & Culture, Business Studies and Economics.
Examples of career pathways are shown below.
Education: primary secondary and tertiary teaching.
Business owner.
Finance - banking, financial advice and services
Entrepreneur
Costs:
There are no costs associated with this module.
Commerce B - The Business Environment, Law & Economy
In this course, students develop an understanding of the economic environment, including the importance and features of markets. They explore the nature, role, and operation of businesses within an increasingly globalised economy. Students investigate cause-and-effect relationships related to major economic events or developments affecting Australian consumers and businesses. They also study principles of investing and responsible financial management.
Additionally, students learn how laws impact individuals and groups, regulate society, and facilitate participation in the democratic process. They examine various legal and political systems, exploring strategies used to resolve contentious legal and political issues. The course includes practical studies such as "Law in Action," promoting independence and understanding of legal procedures. Students also explore the contribution of work to individuals and society, the changing nature of work, and how individuals can derive an income while understanding the evolving rights and responsibilities of workplace participants.
Course Code: 10S5HSICB
Year Level & Semester: Year 10, Full Year of Study.
Prerequisites & Limitations: Suited to Year 10.
Suitability: Students who are considering studying Legal Studies, or Society and Culture in Stage 6.
More Information
What Students Learn:
The following follwing concepts and skills are taught in Law and Government :
develop an understanding of how laws affect individuals and groups and regulate society, and how individuals and groups participate in the democratic process.
examine various legal and political systems and learn how strategies are used to resolve contentious legal and political issues.
investigate a range of situations in which individuals may come in contact with the law.
examine the legal rights and responsibilities of individuals in society and the range of options available for dispute resolution.
Assessment:
Students will complete the following assessment tasks throughout the semester:
Rearch task with in class writen assessment (20% of overall grade)
Legal Case Study analysis (20% of overall grade)
Rearch task with in class writen assessment (20% of overall grade)
End of semester exam (40% of overall grade)
Future Pathways:
Stage 5 Law and Government - will assist in the study of Stage 6, Society & Culture, Business Studies and Economics.
Examples of career pathways are shown below.
Education: primary secondary and tertiary teaching.
Legal profession
Finance - banking, financial advice and services
Government -l ocal, state and federal
Policy development
Costs:
There are no costs associated with this module.
