History Elective

History enables young people to develop an interest in and enjoyment of exploring the past. History Elective provides opportunities to develop a knowledge and understanding of past societies and historical periods.

Students explore the nature of history, heritage and archaeology and the methods that historians use to construct history through a range of thematic and historical studies. The construction of history is examined through options such as oral history, museum or archive studies, historical fiction, media, biography or film. Historical issues studied include the collection, display and reconstruction of the past, ethical issues of ownership, preservation and conservation of the past. Features of a range of ancient, medieval and modern societies are explored and students have the opportunity to study historical themes such as war and peace, crime and punishment, music through history, slavery and gender in history.

Students undertake processes of historical inquiry, including understanding and analysing sources and sequencing major historical events to show an understanding of continuity, change and causation. Students develop an understanding of historical concepts such as empathetic understanding, significance and contestability. They apply research and communication skills, including the use of ICT, and examine different perspectives and interpretations to develop an understanding of a wide variety of viewpoints. Students are provided with opportunities to construct a logical historical argument supported by relevant evidence and to communicate effectively about the past for different audiences.