Modern History Two units for each of Year 11 and HSC NESA Developed Course
What background knowledge do I need to study Modern History? Stage 5 Mandatory Australian History and an interest in the Modern World.
Why study Modern History? A study of Modern History plays an important part in our development as informed and thinking adults. It leads to a greater understanding of the world both past and present and promotes the ability to view issues from different perspectives. Valuable vocational and life skills are learned through the study of History: skills of research, communication, analysis and the use of evidence to support ideas. Perhaps the best reason for studying Modern History is that learning about people is the most fascinating pastime there is.
Course description: The Year 11 course is designed to provide students with opportunities to investigate individuals, groups, events, institutions, societies and ideas in a range of historical contexts as background to their HSC studies. The HSC course is designed for students to investigate national and international forces for change and continuity in the 20th century through the examination of four major areas of study.
Main topics covered: Year 11 Course •
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Part I – Investigating Modern History. This topic has two components: o
The Nature of Modern History Students examine historiographical issues such as contestability of the past, the construction of modern histories and History and memory. This topic may be integrated into other topics in the course.
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Case Studies Students undertake two case studies. For example: The Decline and Fall of the Romanov Dynasty, The Boxer Rebellion, The US Civil War, Decolonisation in Indochina, the Cuban Revolution.
Part II – Historical Investigation o
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Students undertake an historical investigation unit based on an ideology or event of significance that has helped to shape the Modern World. For example: The Development of Nationalism, Socialism, Marxism, Democracy or Imperialism, The Industrial Revolution and Social Change, The Impact of Colonisation on Africa, Asia or The Pacific.
Part III – The Shaping of the Modern World o
World War 1 – the historical context, the nature of World War 1 and the nature and legacy of World War 1 and its influence on modernity.
Assessment information: There is no external examination in Year 11. Students will be assessed through three formal assessment tasks, one of which is the Year 11 Examination.
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Subject Choice for the Higher School Certificate
