Human Society and Its Environment

Year 12 - Trial HSC Wrap Up

Year 12 have now crossed the finish line for their Trial HSC exams across all HSIE subjects. While there may have been a collective sigh of relief, the real work begins now. These assessments give students a clear picture of where they are already strong and where a bit of extra polish is needed before the HSC kicks off next term. The focus for the weeks ahead is simple. Check results, take teacher feedback on board, and use it to fine tune skills your knowledge. There is still some content to cover, so staying switched on and turning up ready to learn will make all the difference. Parents and carers can help keep the momentum going by encouraging steady study habits, setting small and realistic goals, and reminding students that while the trial does count towards their final school assessment mark, it is also the perfect chance to pinpoint what to work on before the big exams.

Year 11 – Preparing for Yearly Exams

Year 11 students are preparing for their Yearly Examinations, scheduled for Weeks 7 and 8. These exams will cover a full year’s worth of learning in subjects such as Legal Studies, Business Studies, Commerce, Economics, and Ancient and Modern History. The period leading up to these exams is a chance for students to consolidate their knowledge, practise responding to different styles of questions, and check their understanding of key syllabus concepts. Regular review of notes and clarification of content with teachers are important steps to ensure they finish the year with a strong foundation for the HSC.

Year 10 – Changing Places

In Geography, Year 10 is working through the Changing Places unit. This has included examining the causes of increasing global urbanisation and exploring how migration patterns contribute to the concentration of people in cities. Students have been looking at examples of urban growth in different regions and considering how these changes affect the economy, the environment, and the social make-up of communities. This unit is designed to build an understanding of how population movement and urban development are shaping the modern world.

Year 9 – Human Wellbeing

Year 9 has started the Human Wellbeing topic in Geography. They have used choropleth maps of Kellyville to identify variations in economic status, educational access, and cultural diversity within the area. These maps have provided a visual way to interpret data and to understand how geographic tools can reveal patterns and trends in the wellbeing of communities. Students are beginning to link this local analysis to broader discussions about global wellbeing and the factors that influence quality of life.

Year 8 – From Conquistadors to Catchments

Year 8 are concluding their History topic on the Spanish conquest of the Americas, focusing on the rise and fall of the Aztec Empire. They examined cultural traditions, the structure of Aztec society, and the impacts of Spanish colonisation on indigenous peoples. Students are now moving into their Geography topic Water in the World. This will involve learning about the spatial distribution of water resources around the globe and identifying the main issues linked to water use and consumption. They will also consider how access to water varies between regions and the implications this has for communities.

Year 7 – Ancient China

Year 7 students are currently studying Ancient China. They have been learning about the role of emperors, important inventions, the structure of society, and cultural achievements. An assessment task is coming up soon where students will demonstrate their ability to interpret historical sources and communicate their understanding of life in ancient times. This unit is helping them develop key skills in historical inquiry and critical thinking while exploring one of the world’s oldest civilisations.

From ancient civilisations to contemporary geographic challenges, students in HSIE are developing their ability to analyse information, identify connections, and think about how history and geography help explain the world we live in today. The remainder of the term will see these skills continue to grow.

Sandy Free

Head Teacher HSIE (Rel.)