Albany Senior High School/Coursebook/1SST

What is this course about?
Senior Social Studies is about how societies work and how people can participate in their communities as informed, critical active and responsible citizens. you will also investigate how individuals, communities and societies respond to change and how ideas about society develop over time.

This course would appeal to students interested in human rights and society, how societies work and how people can participate in their communities as informed, critical, active, and responsible citizens. We will examine the cause and effect of social issues that relate to identity, culture, and organisations and learn to take actions that may bring about social improvement.

We explore global issues such as consumerism, corporatisation, genetic engineering, cultural diversity, land mines, child labour and care for the environment. Students will be expected to think deeply, express knowledge, manage self, interact with others and contribute to the learning community. You will gain the knowledge, skills and experience to understand how human rights are promoted and how cultures within New Zealand have adapted and changed.

What will I learn?
Students will gain knowledge, skills, and experience to


 * understand how individuals, groups, and institutions work to promote social justice and human rights.
 * understand how cultures adapt and change and that this has consequences for society.

What sorts of things will I do?
Topics such as the following: gender participation in employment, equality in the workplace, land claims (Waitangi and other international issues redressing land claims), access to and guardanship of national resources and treasures, gay rights and the Civil Union Bill, the 'anti-smacking bill' and the Stolen Generation: Australian Aborigines will be used to describe:


 * how cultures change
 * consequences of cultural change(s)
 * personal involvement in a social justice and human rights action
 * a social justice and human rights action, and
 * conduct a social inquiry.

This is to ensure that you are able to:


 * explain the perspectives and values of individuals, groups or institutions working to promote social justice and human rights.
 * analyse why and how social actions taken by individuals, groups, or institutions promote social justice and human rights
 * evaluate the importance to our society of individuals, groups, or institutions working to promote social justice and human rights.

Frequently asked questions:
Are there any costs for this course?

Class trips may incur a charge for transport and entry fees.