9SOC

Year 9 Social Studies

Course Description

Head of Faculty - Kaihautuu: Mr B. Silk.

Social Studies is about how societies work and how people participate in them as active, informed and responsible citizens. You will look at issues relating to Aotearoa New Zealand, the Pacific and beyond – set in the past, present and look at the future possibilities. 

Throughout the year programme, we will cover a variety of different topics.

Students will look at their own turangawaewae and cultural identities and that of others. They will develop an understanding of the impact European migration has had on both different groups and on Aotearoa New Zealand. 

Students will gain knowledge and understanding of the world around them by learning about continents, oceans and countries.

Students will further their understanding of environmental sustainability and the causes and effects of e-waste.  They will then carry out their own social action and reflect upon the effectiveness of this action in relation to environmental sustainability.

Students will also look at the ancient world and gain an understanding of how these cultures have impacted our lives today.  

Students will develop their research skills through an inquiry into international conflicts, such as World War I, World War II and the Vietnam War. Exploring war archives and comparing the similarities and differences between the wars.

Social Studies is collaborative, relevant, and helps to develop our future leaders by looking at the societal issues of the past, present and future.

Course Overview

Term 1
Turangawaewae - students explore their own culture and what makes them, them.
European Migration - students explore why Europeans migrated to Aotearoa and what impact it had on New Zealand as a country.

Term 2
Sustainability - students develop an understanding of what sustainability is by exploring case studies of 'e-waste' and 'green-washing'.
Social Action - students complete a mini social action from their learning on sustainability.

Term 3
International Conflict - students compare and contrast international conflicts
Ancients - students develop an understanding of ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt and the impact they have on us today.

Term 4
Knowing Our Planet - students explore our oceans, continents, and countries.

Contributions and Equipment/Stationery

2B5 exercise book and digital device (laptop preferred).

Pathway

Y10 social studies and then on into senior social science or commerce subjects.

Career Pathways

Assessment Information

A range of methods of assessment are used and in many cases students are able to chose the way that they would like to present their knowledge and skills for marking.