Bourke High School

A quality education in a caring environment

Telephone02 6872 2522

Emailbourke-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Human society and its environment

In human society and its environment (HSIE), both subjects of history and geography are mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.

Students learn specific historical and geographical concepts and skills in history and geography. They also have an opportunity to learn more about people and the societies and environments in which they live through elective subjects in Years 7 to 10 (Stages 4 to 5).

A large number of individual subjects make up the key learning area of HSIE in which students:

  • research, gather and analyse information
  • question and make judgements
  • write for a variety of purposes. 

In Year 11 and 12, students can choose from a range of HSIE courses. These include:

  • Aboriginal Studies
  • Ancient History
  • Business Studies
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • History Extension
  • Legal Studies
  • Modern History
  • Society and Culture
  • Studies of Religion.

The courses studied within the Human Society and its Environment (HSIE) faculty help students enrich their understanding of the world and different cultures.  Students examine the relationships shared by different nations and cultures, and assess the impact of these relationships on Australians.  Students also develop essential skills and knowledge for being active and responsible citizens.

Students undertake a compulsory study of a variety of courses within the HSIE faculty.  These include History, Geography and Work Education.

The HSIE faculty also offers a wide range of elective courses.  These courses are not mandatory, and therefore run when students choose to undertake a study of these.  These include History (Elective) in Stage 5, Aboriginal Studies in both Stage 5 and Stage 6, and Modern History and Geography in Stage 6.

For more information about the HSIE faculty, please contact Mr Murray Cronin, Head Teacher HSIE, on 68722522.