Humanities and Social Sciences
In a world that is increasingly culturally diverse and dynamically interconnected, it is important that students come to understand their world, past and present, and develop a capacity to respond to challenges, now and in the future, in innovative, informed, personal and collective ways.
The Australian Curriculum for the Humanities and Social Sciences plays an important role in harnessing students’ curiosity and imagination about the world they live in and empowers them to actively shape their lives; make reflective, informed decisions; value their belonging in a diverse and dynamic society; and positively contribute locally, nationally, regionally and globally.
Thinking about and responding to issues requires an understanding of different perspectives; the key historical, geographical, political, economic and societal factors involved; and how these different factors interrelate. The Humanities and Social Sciences in F–6/7, which encompasses the knowledge and understandings of history, geography, civics and citizenship, and economics and business, gives students a deep understanding of the world they live in from a range of perspectives, past and present, and encourages them to develop an appreciation and respect for social, cultural and religious diversity.
The Australian Curriculum for the Humanities and Social Sciences empowers students to shape change by developing a range of skills to enable them to make informed decisions and solve problems. The subject provides students with the skills, behaviours and capabilities that will equip them to face challenges in their lifetime and to participate in and contribute to the wellbeing and sustainability of the environment, the economy and society. Through studying Humanities and Social Sciences, students are given opportunities to develop their ability to question, think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, make decisions and adapt to change.
Through the Humanities and Social Sciences, students become well placed to contribute to Australia’s ideas of a cohesive society, sustainable environment, productive economy and stable democracy.
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A Life with Transport
A 60 minute lesson in which students will identify different types of modern transport and how they are used.
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Toys From the Past
A 60 minute lesson in which students will compare toys from the past with the present.
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Identifying and Classifying Toys
A 60 minute lesson in which students will identify an everyday object as a toy and describe how it is used in daily life.
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Australia's System of Government Unit Plan
This Civics and Citizenship unit addresses a range of Australian government concepts involving democratic systems, roles and responsibilities of government and the process of making laws.
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Calling Australia Home Unit Plan
This Australian History unit covers a range of concepts relating to democracy, citizenship and immigration experiences of 20th century Australia.
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People Live in Places Unit Plan
This Geography unit covers a range of concepts relating to the places students live in and belong to.
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Australian Gold Rush Unit Plan
This Australian Gold Rush unit investigates the historical discovery of Australia’s Gold Rush period, from the mid-to-late 1800s. Ideas include the discovery of gold, mining lifestyle, wealth and success, social consequences, and how these shaped the Australia we live in today.
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The Continents of Africa and South America Unit Plan
This Geography unit addresses the topographical features and the natural environment of the continents of Africa and South America.
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An Introduction to Aboriginal Art Unit Plan
This Visual Arts unit addresses the history of Aboriginal art in Australia and the variety of techniques used in different artworks.
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Melting Pot – Exploring the Cultures That Made the Australian Gold Rush
A 60-minute lesson about the influence different cultures had on Australia during the gold rush years, the challenges newcomers faced, and how they made Australia what it is today.
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The Topography of Africa
A 60 minute lesson in which students will explore the topographical features of the continent of Africa.
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Welcome to Africa!
A 60 minute lesson in which students will identify some of the countries and major cities on the continent of Africa.
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Celebrations Inquiry Task - Presenting
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Why Celebrate?
A 60 minute lesson in which students will explore how and why people celebrate.
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Early Explorers Assessment Task
An inquiry-based assessment task in which students will demonstrate an understanding of the Age of Exploration and how the journeys of explorers impacted upon other societies.
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The Myth of Terra Nullius
A 60 minute lesson in which students will examine the myth that Australia was a Terra Nullius land before contact with the British.
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Spanish, Portuguese and Dutch Explorers
A 60 minute lesson in which students will identify how the Spanish, Portuguese and Dutch explorers contributed to the European 'discovery' of Australia.
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Chinese Exploration
A 60 minute lesson in which students will investigate the exploration of the Chinese during the fifteenth century.
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Terra Australis Incognita
A 60 minute lesson in which students will understand why the fifteenth century was known as the Age of Exploration.
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The History of Technology in Occupations
A 60 minute lesson in which students will explore how technology has been used within occupations throughout history.
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Occupations Using Technologies
A 60 minute lesson in which students will explore how technological devices are used within occupations in the community.
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Technology and Occupations
A 60 minute lesson in which students will identify and explore the need for technology within occupations in the community.
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Our Place - Australia Inquiry Task
An inquiry-based assessment task in which students will demonstrate an understanding of the natural and human features of Australia.
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Human Features of Australia
A 60 minute lesson in which students will identify the human features of Australia and explore some Australian landmarks.
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Rainforests of Australia
A 60 minute lesson in which students will identify, describe and locate rainforests in Australia.
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Deserts of Australia
A 60 minute lesson in which students will identify, describe and locate deserts in Australia.
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Mountains of Australia
A 60 minute lesson in which students will identify, describe and locate mountains in Australia.
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Australian Capital Cities and Regional Centres
A 60 minute lesson in which students will investigate the geographical location of capital cities and regional centres around Australia.
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Assessment - Calling Australia Home
An assessment task in which students will demonstrate knowledge of Australian democracy and citizenship experiences in the 20th century.
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Celebrating Diversity
A 60 minute lesson in which students will investigate the cultural practices of Australian communities.
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Australian Immigrant Experiences
A 60 minute lesson in which students will explore the narratives of Australian immigrants.
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Anh's Story
A 60 minute lesson in which students will investigate the stories of Asian migrants to Australia.