Humanities and Languages
As we bid farewell to an enriching Term 1, it’s time to reflect on the incredible journey students have had exploring the realms of History, Geography, Business and Economics. From thought provoking discussions to creative expressions of shared human experiences, Humanities at Ripley Valley State Secondary College has been a tapestry of learning, growth and connection.
Students have embarked on explorations that have taken them beyond the pages of textbooks: from studying ancient civilisations to understanding the impact of global events, classes have been a bridge that connects humans throughout time to contemporary society. These classes have broadened horizons, and encouraged students to critically think about their place in the world today.
Here are three of many highlights from this term:
Year 9 students in Miss Mallet’s took the opportunity to ‘flip the classroom’ and become teachers themselves. While the teacher took a seat alongside the students, each member of the class became experts on the different migrant groups that came to Australis during the 19th century. Students worked in small groups and investigated the living and working conditions of these groups, before coming back to the class and presenting their expert findings. Each groups taught the rest of the class, and prepared a quiz to check for understanding.
Year 11 Ancient History students explored an archaeology unit this term, and at one stage learned about ‘Bog Bodies’ in Europe (well-preserved remains that can be up to 2,000 years old). Recently, they examined the case of Lindow Man, a famous bog body found near London in the 1980s. Students used evidence from Lindow Man’s remains, and items found with him to determine his cause of death. They worked in groups to argue in a mock-trial whether Lindow Man died as a result of an accident, murder or ritual sacrifice. Students used historical evidence to support their theories and present them to ‘court’. Some students used precedent to prove their case, another group utilised a dramatic re-enactment of Lindow Man’s final moments. It was finally concluded, by using the evidence at hand, that Lindow Man died as a result of ritual sacrifice, possibly to ask the Celtic gods to protect the people of England from an imminent Roman attack. This classroom activity had students working together, exploring historical evidence and then proving a theory by using that historical evidence.
Archaeology Club continues to thrive, with more members this year, engaging in activities at lunch time that help them learn the same techniques that archaeologists use to delve into the mysteries of our past, uncover hidden treasures and piece together the untold stories of civilisations long gone.
As we finish this term, we recognise the exceptional work and achievements of our students. From insightful research assignments to outstanding performances in exams, their dedication has left an outstanding legacy for continued excellence at Ripley!
As we look forward into the rest of the year, we are excited about what lies ahead. Plans for next term include field trips for Geography, immersive projects and more opportunities for students to continue to explore the many aspects of humanity. We will continue to foster curiosity, critical thinking and a life-long love for Humanities.
Cecilia Hall
Head of Department - Humanities and Languages - Year 7F to 7I
Our Community Day was held on the 2nd March, and we welcomed many visitors to the classroom. Many people spoke about the trip to Japan in 2025. For those that would like more information, please go to the school website:
https://ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au/extra-curricular/cultural
This week, the Japanese students are super excited to host Mr Kawana and Mr Yamazaki who are travelling from Japan to visit our school, create exchanges and meet staff. Currently, Year 7 enjoy their online lessons with Mr Kawana and his students from Japan at the Chiba University Junior High School. Last week, the students from Japan created and shared some videos about their school. Our students did find the conversation to be fast. This is a weekly lesson and we welcome any student at Ripley who would like to be part of the exchange. If there is a student who would like to have some experience with an international exchange, they can contact Ms Wellwood or their teacher.
The Year 8 students are utilising all their writing and speaking skills for hiragana, katakana and kanji by creating surveys of daily routines and times. They are working very hard and I am proud of their efforts!
Japan Club starts in Term 2, after school on Thursdays from 3-4pm. Watch this space for more information!
Georgina Wellwood
Japanese Teacher