History and Geography are mandatory courses taught through Stages 4 and 5. In Stage 6, courses currently elected by students for study are; Modern History, Business Studies, Legal Studies and Work Studies.
The study of History is a disciplined process of inquiry into the past which helps students to explain how people, events and forces from the past have shaped our world. It allows students to locate themselves and others through human experiences to the present day. History provides opportunities for students to explore human actions and achievements in a range of historical contexts. Through History students learn to interpret sources of evidence in order to construct reasoned explanations based on evidence drawn from the past.
Geography is the study of places and the relationships between people and their environments. 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. Through a pattern of inquiry, students explain patterns, evaluate consequences and contribute to the management of places and environments in an increasingly complex world. Engagement in fieldwork and the use of other tools including mapping and spacial technologies are fundamental to geographical inquiry.
Business Studies encompasses the theoretical and practical aspects of business in contexts which students will encounter throughout their lives. It offers learning from the planning of a small business to the management of operations, marketing, finance and human resources in large businesses through the analysis of contemporary business strategies.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. Students also investigate business planning and use a range of information to assess and evaluate business performance. The role of incentives, personal motivation and entrepreneurship, especially in small business, is recognised as a powerful influence in business success.
Work Studies is designed to assist students in their transition from school to work. It develops knowledge and understanding of the issues faced by students in the transition to work and the skills needed for effective career planning and performance of tasks in the work environment.
Legal Studies. Being well informed about legal issues, including the rights and responsibilities integral to our society, is part of being an active and informed citizen. Students of Legal Studies Stage 6 will develop an understanding of legal concepts and the way the law functions in our society.The course focuses on the way in which law is generated, how it is structured and how it operates in Australian and international contexts. Students will develop an understanding of the implications that legal decisions can have for Australian society and the ways in which the legal system can affect the lives of Australian citizens. A critical understanding of the processes of reform and change will help students to contribute to making our society more equitable for all.
Modern History challenges students to consider the great social, technological, economic, political and moral transformations from the late eighteenth century to the present. It requires students to analyse the causes, progress and effects of these transformations and, finally, to make judgements about them. Modern History is especially relevant to the lives of students, as the events and issues that form its content are, in many cases, still current.
The study of Modern History Stage 6 also contributes to the development of skills that are of great importance in today’s workforce. The fluent communication of thoughts and ideas gleaned from the critical analysis of primary and secondary sources is a sought after skill. The ability to deconstruct texts and narratives, pose intelligent questions, test hypotheses and make critical use of information technologies is essential to living and working in the twenty-first century.