Years 9 & 10 Social Science, Level 4/5 NZ Curriculum

Link to year 9 Hapara workspace: https://bit.ly/43aPoFL 

Link to year 10 Hapara workspace: https://bit.ly/3F37248 

Course Overview:

In Years 9 and 10 Social Science, students will explore how societies function, how people interact with the environment, and how historical and contemporary events shape our world. Through inquiry and critical thinking, students will develop a deeper understanding of identity, culture, governance, and economic activities, particularly in the context of Aotearoa New Zealand and global connections. They will examine how people, places, cultures, and systems interact to shape societies locally and globally.

What Students Will Gain from this Course:

Knowledge & Understanding:

• The foundations of identity, belonging, and citizenship in Aotearoa New Zealand.

• How identity in Aotearoa/New Zealand has been and is affected by global structures, processes, and events.

• Key historical and contemporary events that have shaped societies and influenced social and economic decision-making.

• The relationships between people, environments, and economies.

• The significance of cultural and political systems, including governance and citizenship.

Skills Development:

• Critical Thinking: Analysing different perspectives, making informed decisions, and evaluating sources.

• Research & Inquiry: Investigating historical and social issues, using evidence to support conclusions.

• Communication: Engaging in discussions, presentations, and structured writing tasks.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with peers to explore ideas and develop solutions.

Values & Citizenship:

• Learning: Developing curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world.

• Integrity: Encouraging ethical decision-making and respect for diverse perspectives.

• Guardianship (Kaitiakitanga): Recognizing our responsibilities to protect the environment and heritage.

• Hauora (Well-being): Understanding how social and historical events impact personal and community well-being.

• Truth: Seeking accuracy in historical narratives and understanding multiple perspectives.

Assessment & Learning Approach:

• Inquiry-based learning with research tasks, discussions, and reflections.

• A mix of formative and summative assessments, including projects, presentations, and written responses.

• Opportunities for real-world connections through case studies, local contexts, and global perspectives.

This course builds a strong foundation for further Social Science learning and fosters active, informed participation in society.

Years 11-13 History – NCEA Levels 1-3

Course Overview:

History teaches us to understand past events and consider their ongoing impact on the world today. At NCEA Levels 1-3, students will explore significant historical ideas and concepts through inquiry-based learning, examining both New Zealand and global historical events. They will develop the ability to critically evaluate evidence, analyse different perspectives, and construct well-supported arguments about historical developments.

Level 1 History:

Link to Hapara workspace: https://bit.ly/3EgQg1k 

• Focuses on understanding key historical concepts and big ideas.

• Examines significant historical events from New Zealand and globally.

• Encourages critical thinking, analysis of sources, and forming judgments based on evidence.

Level 2 History:

• Develops skills in gathering, classifying, and interpreting historical evidence.

• Encourages recognizing bias, propaganda, and multiple perspectives.

• Expands historical understanding by exploring deeper cause-and-effect relationships in significant global and national events.

Level 3 History:

Link to Hapara workspace: https://bit.ly/4aFvtQU 

• Explores historical events, movements, and perspectives that have shaped societies in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally.

• Develops research skills to critically evaluate sources and construct evidence-based arguments.

• Analyzes the causes, consequences, and significance of historical events.

• Investigates how history informs present-day issues and identities.

Assessment & Learning Approach:

• Internal Assessments: Research-based projects, analysis of perspectives, and inquiry-driven tasks.

• External Assessments: Essay-based examinations on significant historical themes and developments.

• Focus on inquiry, source analysis, and critical thinking skills.

Key Themes & Topics:

• New Zealand history and its global connections.

• Conflict, power, and resistance.

• Social movements and cultural change.

• Indigenous perspectives and colonial impacts.

Expectations for Students:

• Engage actively in discussions and research.

• Meet deadlines for assessments and projects.

• Uphold academic integrity and critical thinking.

This course aligns with the values of Learning, Integrity, Guardianship, Hauora, and Truth, ensuring students develop a deep understanding of history’s role in shaping society