Subject | Community and Family Studies (CAFS)

Description

This course provides students with the opportunity to develop their understanding of the diverse nature and interdependence of families and communities within Australian society. Contemporary society is characterised by rapid social and technological change, cultural diversity, conflicting values and competitive pressures. Community and Family Studies is an interdisciplinary course drawing upon selected components of family studies, sociology, developmental psychology and students’ general life experiences.

HSC Assessment structure

The Year 11 course consists of 3 assessment tasks. Two of these are research based, investigating societal issues within Australian communities, the final assessment is the Preliminary Examination. The Year 12 course consists of 4 assessment tasks. Students are required to develop and utilise research skills in planning, collecting, recording, interpreting, analysing and presenting as they employ various research methodologies to complete an Independent Research Project (IRP) for one of these tasks. This task is teacher led; however, it requires students to conduct their own interviews and write both a case study and a literature review.

Career paths

There are many career paths linked to Community and Family Studies. Students studying this course will find it useful if they want to go into the following areas: nursing, teaching, psychology, sociology, disability work, childcare, healthcare, and law.

Skills required

Students are required to critically analyse practical life situations and propose thoughtful and creative solutions to these real life situations. Economic, social, ethical and other factors are considered when making decisions about the allocation of limited human and nonhuman resources. For students to excel in this subject it is useful for them to be interested in issues that face our society. Students should also be able to work both independently and as part of a team. A sound level of English attainment and general knowledge is useful to help structure insightful responses about a variety of topical issues.

Why choose it

This course develops knowledge, understanding and skills needed to have a direct and positive influence on the quality of your life and the lives of others both now and in the future. Many universities include Community and Family Studies (CAFS) as a favourable course for early entry to their courses. It is one the fastest growing HSC courses in NSW.

What happens next?

Attend the Subject Selection Information webinar.

You will receive an email which links to a subject selection form. Complete the form, print it off so your parent/ carer can sign it, then hand it to Dr. Nelson.

Complete your preferences by the due date Friday 4 August, 2023

Line structures that aim to accommodate the majority of students are created from your survey data. A subject may not run if a very low number of students select it.

The line structure is published to Year 10 students (2-3 weeks). Students with clashes will be contacted by Dr Nelson and may choose another subject. Under special circumstances a student may be granted the opportunity to study a subject offline.

Return the signed selection sheet to Dr. Nelson for processing.

Questions? Contact Dr Darryl Nelson, Director of Curriculum, on curriculum@smgs.nsw.edu.au or call the school on (02) 6457 1022.