Middle School Subjects – Humanities and Social Sciences

The Humanities and Social Sciences are the study of human behaviour and interaction in social, cultural, environmental, economic and political contexts. HASS is both a historical and contemporary focus, from personal to global contexts, and consider challenges for the future.

At Emmaus, we aim to generate a lifelong enjoyment of history so students become informed citizens.

We develop knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the past and the forces that shape societies, including Australian society.

We explicitly teach understanding and use of historical concepts such as evidence, continuity and change, cause and effect, significance, perspectives, empathy and contestability.

We teach and develop students’ capacity to undertake historical inquiry, including skills in the analysis and use of sources, and in explanation and communication.

Year 7

History:

  • Introduction to the Ancient Past
  • Ancient China
  • Ancient Greece
  • Roman Empire

Geography:

  • Water in the World
  • Place and Livability

Year 8

History:

  • Medieval Europe
  • Angkor/Khmer Empire
  • The Spanish conquest of the Americas

Geography:

  • Changing nations
  • Landforms and Landscapes

Year 9

History:

  • Industrial Revolution
  • Making a Nation (Australia)
  • World War One
  • French Indo/China

Geography (elective subject):

  • Biomes and food security
  • Interconnections

Students develop their understanding of HASS through various learning tasks and assessment types. These include:

  • Essay writing
  • Creating podcasts
  • Source analysis
  • Creating journals
  • Creating Wiki sites
  • Field trips
  • Reports

Year 10 – History

Year 10 Geography