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.
HSIE is a combination of subjects that all relate to “Human Societies in its Environment”. The HSIE Faculty at Doonside Technology High School are an innovative and professional group of teachers that exhibit expertise in the wide range of courses outlined below.
Courses
Students in Years 7 to 10 study both mandatory History and Geography.
In Years 9 & 10 HSIE offers a range of electives which include Aboriginal studies, commerce, elective history, In the wild (elective geography), international studies and work education.
Senior students can select from the wide range of HSIE subjects on offer including Aboriginal studies, ancient history, business studies, business services (VET), geography, legal studies, modern history, retail services (VET), society & culture, studies of religion and work studies (non-ATAR).
Learning experiences
Across these subjects students experience a variety of different learning activities such as classroom based learning, group projects, field assignments, role plays, mock trials, ICT based tasks, work placements and excursions.
Through their studies in HSIE at Doonside Technology high students develop:
- An appreciation and value of the study of the past.
- An understanding about their place on this planet, and their ability to contribute to and affect change in this world.
- A sense of value, respect and tolerance for cultures other than their own.
- The ability to think critically and express their opinions with confidence, thus helping them to become active and informed citizens.