Ancient History
Ancient History is a Senior Authority subject undertaken in Years 11 and 12 that contributes to an Overall Position.
In history, as in our everyday lives, people ask meaningful questions, collect evidence, shift through it, analyse and evaluate it in order to produce satisfactory answers to problems of living. These answers provide a context for our own lives and establish a range of values that shape our attitudes, beliefs and behaviours.
Through the study of Ancient History we can understand how the modern world has been influenced by the peoples and achievements of the distant past. A study of early peoples and cultures allows us to understand the processes of change and continuity that have shaped today’s world, their causes and the roles people have played in those processes. We develop these understandings through processes of critical inquiry, debate and reflection and by empathizing with the views of others.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
A background in Ancient History is invaluable for the Art Teacher, Lawyer, Solicitor, Judge, Journalist, Research officer, Urban Planner, Historian, Diplomat, Teacher, Librarian, Archivist, Anthropologist, Archaeologist, Sociologist, Museum Curator, Theologian, Playwright and Stage Designer.
The Ancient History course offers a wide range of subject matter, as well as a great variety of assessment items. The program has been designed to enthuse students who are curious and developing an interest in ancient civilizations and culture.
The course that students study will:
- select themes and inquiry topics to reflect the geographical diversity of ancient societies
- include a number of briefer studies (background, comparative, linking) to ensure that students can place the inquiry topics within a broader understanding of the history of the period or theme being studied
- include some study of Australia, either as a separate inquiry topic or integrated into an inquiry topic as comparative or related study
Topics include:
- Archaeology
- Ancient Egypt – Studies in Pharonic Power
- Greek democracy in the 5th Century
- Everyday lives in selected Ancient Societies
- Famous Personalities eg Julius Caesar and Augustus
- Middle Ages
The inquiry process involves five aspects:
- definitions
- sources
- backgrounds, changes and continuities (motives and causes)
- effects, interests and arguments
- reflections and responses
ASSESSMENT
Student assessment will be undertaken in terms of the criteria set down in the syllabus.
Criteria 1: Planning and Using a Historical Research Process
Criteria 2: Forming Historical Knowledge Through Critical Inquiry
Criteria 3: Communicating Historical Knowledge
Assessment items will include a selection from the following:
- Research Assignment (in response to Inquiry questions)
- Multi-modal presentations, eg
- filmed documentary
- creative story (historical fiction)
- piece of music or dance
- web page
- piece of artwork (painting, sculpture)
- interview
- debate or formal speech
- analytical, argumentative or persuasive essay
- feature article for a magazine.
Other Assessment will include:
- Response to Stimulus and Short Response Tests
- Extended Response to Historical Evidence Tests
Students will be given the opportunity to visit the State Library in order to access a wider range of research materials.
PREREQUISITE SUBJECT
A study of History in Year 10 is a definite advantage. Students need to be competent readers and be able to express themselves clearly – a pass in English is highly desirable.
Queensland Certificate of Education - 4 points
