The Human Society and Its Environment Key Learning Area of study that the students learn about at St John the Baptist Catholic School is guided by the NSW Board of Studies and the HSIE K-6 curriculum.
Learning in this Key Learning Area is supported by the allocation of at least one 90 minute session per week for students in Years K-6 to develop of their skills in:
- identifying the interactions of people with one another and with the social, cultural and physical environments;
- applying Catholic beliefs to decision making; and
- acquiring knowledge and understanding.
At our school we have moved to an Inquiry Learning Model for HSIE. This is founded in the well researched principles devised by Kath Murdoch. This model is also refered to as an Integrated Unit as it incorporates activites from all Key Learning Areas so that students have a purpose for their learning.
The Inquiry Learning Model allows for children to drive their learning by asking what they already know regarding a topic and what would they like to know. The children become involved in the learning process and share, through the use of cooperative groups, their knowledge and skills with others in the class.
As Integrated Units combine all Key Learning Areas, specific, generic skills are required so that our students are able to get the most out of their learning. These `generic skills' are taught to the children so that they when they leave our school they are well equipped as thinkers with a set of skills that are applicable to many situations.
These skills can be described as;
| Research |
Finding information in different ways. |
| Communication |
Sharing information in different ways. |
| Solving Problems |
Trying to find an answer. |
| Using Technology |
Using the best materials or technology safely. |
| Expression |
Showing others what we can do and feel. |
| Task Management |
Doing my best work in a set time. |
|
Cooperation |
Working well with others. |
| Responsibility |
Looking after myself, others and the environment. |