Y10HIST

Year 10 History Half Year

Course Description

Head of Faculty/Teacher in Charge: Mr A. Collier.

This dynamic half-year course will focus on key events from New Zealand and the world. Some of the topics studied include; the Viking Raids, the First Crusade, the Rwandan Genocide, Witchcraft in 16th and 17th Century Europe, Historical Heroes and Villains, and an independent historical inquiry with a focus on the 20th century. 

This course aims to get students thinking critically, and making connections between the past and present. 

Studying history fosters a range of essential skills that are valuable both inside and outside the classroom. Here are some key skills required:

1.     Learning from Mistakes: History is a reservoir of lessons learned from both triumphs and failures. By studying past mistakes, we can avoid repeating them and make more informed decisions in the present and future.

2.     Cultural Awareness: History encompasses diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Exploring different historical periods and civilizations fosters cultural empathy and promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of human diversity.

3.     Identity and Heritage: History forms the foundation of personal and collective identity. By tracing our roots and understanding our heritage, we develop a stronger sense of belonging and connection to our communities and the broader world.

4.     Critical Thinking: Analyzing historical evidence and interpretations hones critical thinking skills. By evaluating sources, identifying biases, and constructing coherent narratives, students learn to think critically and form well-reasoned arguments—an essential skill in any field.

5.     Promoting Citizenship: Informed citizens are the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. History education cultivates civic responsibility by instilling an appreciation for democratic values, human rights, and the importance of active participation in society.

6.     Inspiration and Resilience: History is replete with stories of resilience, courage, and innovation in the face of adversity. Studying the triumphs of the human spirit against formidable odds inspires us to persevere in our own challenges and strive for a better future.

By honing these skills through the study of history, students not only deepen their understanding of the past but also acquire a versatile skill set that prepares them for academic success and lifelong learning.

This course is part of the Social Sciences Curriculum and if chosen will be one of your PART A selections.

Course Overview

What is taught in courses varies from year to year. This course could include:
Key events could include;

Witchcraft in the 16th and 17th centuries - why did people believe in witches?
The Rwandan Genocide - the cause and effect of this tragic event.
Historical heroes and villains - a comparative study of people from the past.
The Viking Raids - how did the Vikings change the world we live in today?

We will see how much ordinary people's lives have changed over time, for better or worse.

Contributions and Equipment/Stationery

1B5 workbook
A device

Pathway

Skills learned in this course will be useful in a wide range of Level 1 subjects.

Disclaimer

Please note that courses will go ahead only if student numbers, staffing, and timetabling allow it.  Where a subject is oversubscribed, and there are insufficient numbers or resources to create an extra class, a ballot system may be applied.  

Costs

The Board of Trustees has again asked to opt into the Ministry of Education donation scheme. Doing so resulted in the ability to waive student fee donations. Kaiapoi High School aims to deliver quality educational courses over and above those that which is funded by the Ministry. It is likely the School will opt into the donation scheme for 2025, however parental contribution for the costs of trips and activities where participation is optional, and/or components not covered by the Government grant, may be requested. We appreciate the financial support our families make to the School.