Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) is the study of human behaviour and interaction in social, cultural, environmental, economic and political contexts. Humanities and Social Sciences has a historical and contemporary focus, from personal to global contexts, and considers opportunities and challenges for the future.
The Humanities and Social Sciences learning area comprises four subjects: Civics and Citizenship, Economics and Business, Geography and History.
By studying Humanities and Social Sciences, students will develop the ability to question; think critically; make decisions based on evidence; devise proposals for actions; and communicate effectively.
Thinking about, reflecting on, and responding to issues requires an understanding of the key historical, geographical, political, legal, economic, business and societal factors involved, and how these different factors interrelate.
The Humanities and Social Sciences subjects provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to develop a broad understanding of the world in which we live and how people can participate as active and informed citizens in the 21st century.
In Primary School, all students participate in units of work in History and Geography. At Year 3 the Civics and Citizenship curriculum commences and in Year 5 the Economics curriculum starts. Teachers often use an integrated approach to teaching these subject areas linking to learning outcomes in other learning areas such as English, Mathematics, Technologies and the Arts.