In Human Society and its Environment (HSIE), both courses of History and Geography are mandatory from Year 7 to Year 10. Students learn specific historical and geographical concepts and skills. Additionally, students learn to:
· research, gather and analyse information
· question and make judgements
· write for a variety of purposes.
Commerce is offered as an elective in both Stage 4 (Year 8) and Stage 5 (combined Years 9 and 10). The study of Commerce enables young people to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to research and develop solutions to consumer, financial, economic, business, legal, political, and employment issues, in order to make informed and responsible decisions as an individual and as part of the community.
In Year 11 and 12, students can choose from a range of HSIE courses. These include:
Ancient History: 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 equips students with the skills to analyse and challenge accepted theories and interpretations about the ancient world, especially in light of new evidence or technologies.
Business Studies: Business Studies aims to develop knowledge, understanding, skills and values which enable students to make judgements about the performance of businesses in a dynamic business environment.
Geography: Geography is an investigation of the world which provides an accurate description and interpretation of the varied character of the earth and its people. It is a key discipline through which students develop the ability to recognise and understand environmental change and the interactions which take place in our world.
Legal Studies: Legal Studies develops students’ knowledge, understanding and critical thinking skills in relation to the legal system and its effectiveness in promoting a just and fair society, with a view to empowering students to participate effectively as responsible citizens at the local, national and international level.
Modern History: The study of Modern History engages students in an investigation of the forces that have shaped the world, based on the analysis and interpretation of sources. It offers students the opportunity to investigate the possible motivations and actions of individuals and groups, and how they have shaped the world politically, culturally, economically and socially.
Society and Culture: The central goal of Society and Culture Stage 6 is the development of social and cultural literacy and a clear understanding of the interaction of persons, societies, cultures, environments and time. The influence of other aspects of societies and cultures – including power, authority, identity, gender, technologies and globalisation – is also central to the course.
Below is the generic information on the HSIE Key Learning Area as provided by the NSW Department of Education.
In human society and its environment (HSIE), both subjects of history and geography are mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
Students learn specific historical and geographical concepts and skills in history and geography. They also have an opportunity to learn more about people and the societies and environments in which they live through elective subjects in Years 7 to 10 (Stages 4 to 5).
A large number of individual subjects make up the key learning area of HSIE in which students:
- research, gather and analyse information
- question and make judgements
- write for a variety of purposes.
In Year 11 and 12, students can choose from a range of HSIE courses. These include:
- Aboriginal Studies
- Ancient History
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Geography
- History Extension
- Legal Studies
- Modern History
- Society and Culture
- Studies of Religion.