Humanities and Languages
As we wrap up another term in the Humanities department, it’s time to reflect on the incredible journey we've taken through the year so far. Our students have engaged deeply with the past and present, exploring the complexities of the human experience and the world we live in.
Historical Highlights
This term Ancient History saw our students delving into the intriguing world of ancient personalities. Hatshepsut, female Pharaoh of Egypt and her building projects, expeditions and military conquests were investigated and our learners explores how this woman became a formidable leader; a strong woman, living in a man’s world.
The modern era was equally captivating, with a focus on the transformative events of the 20th century. From the impacts the Second World War had on Australia and the rest of the world in Year 10, to the Cold War, leading into conflicts that occurred within such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War for our Year 12s.
Geographical Explorations
Our geography curriculum this term emphasized not only physical geography but also human geography. Students engaged in hands-on mapping exercises, creating detailed maps that highlight various physical features, climate zones, and human-made structures. Climate change has also been a central theme, with students investigating its global impacts and local indicators.
Legal Studies Insights
A key highlight was a deep dive into human rights and social justice issues. Students examined landmark cases and legislation that have shaped our understanding of justice and equality. Their assessment topics have covered technology and the law (Year 10) contracts and agreements (Year 11) and international human rights laws (Year 12)
Business Brilliance
In Business the focus has been on a multitude of topics ranging from the principles of economics, supply and demand, market structures, and economic theories through simulations and case studies. These case studies looked at the morals and ethics of big multi-national corporations, as well as the business practices of smaller national businesses.
Social and Community Studies Adventures
Students have examined the dynamics of society and identity this term, looking at topics that ranged from the role of social institutions in shaping individual and group identities to the impact of media on societal values.
Tourism Trends
In Tourism, students examined the multifaceted world of travel and tourism. They explored the economic, cultural, and environmental impacts of tourism on destinations. A significant theme was sustainable tourism, focusing on how to minimize negative impacts while maximizing benefits for local communities.
Looking Ahead
As we look forward to the next term, we’re excited to continue our exploration of history, geography, legal studies, business, social studies, and tourism. Our curriculum will delve into new topics and offer more hands-on experiences, fostering deeper understanding and engagement in these vital areas. We encourage all students to keep their curiosity alive and continue asking questions about the world around them.
A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated teachers and enthusiastic students for making this term a success. Here’s to many more adventures in the Humanities!
Cecilia Hall
Head of Department - Humanities and Languages - Year 7F to 7I
Our Year 8 Japanese students have been comparing festivals and celebrations in Japan, Australia and India. In their assessments, the resourceful research by our students have highlighted insights to the differences between cultures. Japan has over 100,000 festivals annually. While commenting about the Ekka, students were interested to discover Japanese people enjoying hanabi (fireworks) that last for two hours compared to our short 20 minutes of vibrant displays. Students also noted how the hanabi culture is closely linked to Japanese spirituality.
Recently, Year 7 Japanese students have completed their dialogues and recipes in Japanese for their assessments while they designed and created an obento. Many students commented on the value and culture of obento in Japan, including why the obento started and how it has evolved, then how obento influences modern Australian eating habits. Additionally, our students were inspired by how the Japanese create a variety of delicate and well-balanced portions of all the food groups and flavours in an artful display. Ms Warrick organised this culinary experience - Arigatou Ms Warrick!
Georgina Wellwood
Japanese Teacher