Human Society & Its Environment

Human Society and its Environment is the study of how humans interact with the world, how society operates and how it is changing.

Through the study of HSIE, students develop the skills to prepare them to actively and responsibly participate as informed citizens in the contemporary world.

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.

Stage 4

In Years 7–8, students develop core disciplinary knowledge and skills through targeted depth studies. In History, students investigate ancient societies such as Ancient Egypt and Ancient China, examining political structures, beliefs, burial customs, key individuals and technological achievements while learning to analyse sources and construct evidence based explanations. In Geography, students study Landscapes and Landforms and Place and Liveability, exploring geomorphic processes, landscape values, environmental management, and the factors that shape the liveability of places. Together, these units build students’ analytical, research and communication skills and provide a strong foundation for further HSIE learning.

Stage 5

In Years 9–10, students deepen their understanding of the modern world through mandatory History and Geography, while also having the option to study Commerce, Elective History and International Studies. In History, students examine World War I, the interwar period, World War II, civil rights and post-war migration. Geography focuses on Sustainable Biomes, Changing Places and Environmental Change and Management, developing students’ capacity to interpret spatial data and propose sustainable solutions. Commerce introduces students to the world of consumers, personal finance, law, employment and the global economy, emphasising real world decision making and financial literacy. Elective History allows students to explore specialised topics such as Chinese history, ancient warfare and the Holocaust, with a strong focus on historical inquiry and critical analysis of sources. International Studies builds students’ understanding of global cultures, international relations and contemporary global issues. Together, these subjects prepare students with advanced analytical, communication and problem solving skills essential for senior HSIE courses.

Stage 6

In Years 11-12, students can select from a wide range of HSIE subjects that develop advanced disciplinary knowledge and prepare them for tertiary study and future careers. Ancient History and Modern History build high level skills in historical analysis, evaluating sources, constructing arguments and understanding complex civilisations and modern global developments. Business Studies explores the nature of business, management processes, operations, marketing, finance and the challenges facing contemporary enterprises. Economics develops students’ understanding of microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, global economic issues, government policy and Australia’s role in the world economy. Geography focuses on biophysical and human environments, fieldwork, global challenges and geographic research methods. Legal Studies examines the legal system, criminal and civil law, human rights and the operation of law in a contemporary context. Society and Culture provides a deep exploration of cultural diversity, social institutions, personal and social identity and continuity and change. Together, these courses foster critical thinking, research capability and sophisticated communication skills across the HSIE disciplines.

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