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 Human Society and Environment (HSIE) Faculty
So that students will grow and thrive in the "real world" after school, the HSIE faculty equips them with the skills they will need to understand and navigate in our complex globalised society.
Human Society and Its Environment encompasses a group of subjects that explores the remarkable world around us – Geography, History, Commerce, Economics, Aboriginal Studies, Legal Studies, Ancient History, Modern History, Studies of Religion, Society & Culture, Business Studies and Business Services. The faculty's additional responsibilities extend to Languages, Careers, Special Education and Distance Education.
HSIE is an exciting and essential area of study and we hope to impart this enthusiasm and love of learning to our students.
The learning aims: HSIE aims to have its students develop a self-sustaining interest and enjoyment in learning for its own sake, so that they can continue to develop their understanding after they have graduated from the compulsory years of schooling. The emphasis is on students doing their own research to investigate both natural and human phenomena, through advanced skills in reasoning, analysing and evaluating diverse sources of data.
Technology in the classroom: The HSIE faculty is well-resourced with modern technology and comfortable classrooms. The installation of connected classroom technology (videoconferencing), wireless internet and interactive whiteboards has vastly increased the range of options for students to engage, create, present, collaborate and share their knowledge.
Staff approach: Our teachers challenge and inspire students to achieve at school, often producing a depth and breadth of research that they did not realise they could create. Our teachers are dedicated to giving each of our students the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Learning through experience: In order to reinforce classroom learning, HSIE teachers supplement class work with appropriate field studies and excursions. The faculty also supports the entry of students into academically challenging state and national competitions.
Current projects: Through the Digital Elders and Sustainable Schools programs, the HSIE faculty is enabling the school to become more engaged with our Indigenous community, its Elders and representatives – and to ensure the school practices sustainable agriculture, energy and resource use.
The ‘Gifted and Talented' (GAT) program, co-ordinated by the HSIE faculty, identifies the ‘hidden' talents that many students possess, and enable them to find full expression in a range of challenging activities from chess to music, and from drawing to debating and public speaking.
In keeping with the comprehensive approach of Glen Innes High School, the faculty also encourages appropriately challenging courses in both senior and junior years, including extension and Distinction courses.