Human Society and its Environment (HSIE) encourages students to investigate and critically analyse the historical and contemporary issues that span the environment, business, the economy, law, and the significant human events from the past.
Our faculty delivers a range of subjects which overlap and interconnect in ways that foster students’ abilities to develop empathy, awareness and understanding of cultural contexts, an appreciation of the value of sustainability, and skills in objectively collating and analysing objective information.
HSIE subjects contain a range of specific practical and literary components which aim to develop the fieldwork, interpretive, and communication skills of students so each young man can effectively engage and positively contribute to their world.
Stage 4 – 5 History
Involves a study of ancient and medieval worlds with an emphasis on Ancient Australia and the development of Europe in the middle ages. In Year 9 and 10 it involves an Australian perspective through the study of Australians at War and the Changing Rights and Freedoms of its peoples.
Stage 4 – 5 Geography
Students learn to question why the world is the way it is, reflect on their relationships with and responsibilities for the world and propose actions designed to shape a socially just and sustainable future. Geographical inquiry involves students acquiring, processing and communicating geographical information. Engagement in fieldwork and the use of other tools including mapping and spatial technologies are fundamental to geographical inquiry.
Stage 5 Commerce (Elective)
Provides the knowledge, skills, understanding and values that form the foundation on which young people make sound decisions on consumer, financial, business, legal and employment issues. It develops in students an understanding of commercial and legal processes and competencies for personal financial management.
Stage 5 International Studies (Elective)
Provides students with an opportunity to explore and recognise their own cultures and appreciate the richness of multicultural Australia and the world. They gain knowledge of different cultural practices, values, beliefs and heritages to form a broader world-view.
Stage 6 Ancient History
This course focuses on the historical events and personalities of the ancient past. The subject provides insight into the skills of the subject including, historiography, science and archaeology. Ancient History stimulates students’ curiosity and imagination and enriches their appreciation of humanity by introducing them to a range of cultures and beliefs as well as to the origins and influences of ideas, values and behaviours that are still relevant in the modern world.
Stage 6 Business Studies
Offers learning from the planning of a small business to the management of operations, marketing, finance and human resources in large businesses. Contemporary business issues and case studies are embedded in the course to provide a stimulating and relevant framework for students to apply to problems encountered in the business environment.
Stage 6 Economics
Discussion of economic issues dominates the media and politics. By understanding economics, students can make informed judgements about issues and policies and participate responsibly in decision-making.
Stage 6 Extension History
Based on their study of Modern or Ancient History, students can engage in extension study based on the theory of historical research. Students also complete an historical research task.
Stage 6 Geography
Continues to build on Junior Geography and provides students with opportunities to investigate contemporary geographical issues within spatial and ecological dimensions, at increased depth. The course also investigates and explores the importance of effective management strategies and actions that can be taken to shape societies of the future. A significant component of Senior Geography is the use of fieldwork and case studies to help students develop their knowledge and understanding of biophysical and human geography issues.
Stage 6 Legal Studies
This course focuses on the way in which law is generated, how it is structured and how it operates in Australian and international contexts. Learning about our legal system will allow students to investigate the way our society operates and the influences that shape it.
Stage 6 Modern History
This course focuses on the historical issues and events of the contemporary world. The subject instils analytical skills in a variety of available source materials. Modern History enables students to trace the historical background of contemporary issues and to explore the significance of individuals, events and ideas. It equips students with knowledge, understanding and skills to help them examine and make sense of the world around them.