Big History
A study of the cosmos, life and humanity. The course focuses on using evidence to develop deeper ideas about the world.
About the Big History course
Big History helps students understand the history of the universe. From the ‘big bang’ to the modern day and beyond. Students explore themes and patterns that can help us better understand the world we live in.
It is a theoretical course. Ideally, it would be shared between key learning areas as the content is multidisciplinary.
An awareness of the Controversial Issues in Schools policy and procedures is essential in planning to teach various aspects of the Big History course.
The Big History project was co-founded by Bill Gates and David Christian. The support materials reference available open education resources for Big History.
This is a 200-hour course consisting of 10 mandatory units. The content should be taught in chronological order.
Course documents
Schools must use the Big History course document (DOCX 243.2 KB) to develop educational programs for this course. They must comply with the:
Assessment advice
Big History assessment advice (DOCX 225.7 KB) is available to assist teachers. They can select a range of different activities to assess and report on.
Assessment activities should:
- reflect the school's organisation of the course
- provide students with opportunities to show their learning.
Department-approved elective courses are not credited on the Record of School Achievement (RoSA).
Teaching resources
Schools may adapt or change this content or use other materials suitable to their local context. Provided they comply with the course documents.
Sample scope and sequence:
Professional learning
Engaging with professional learning courses may help you develop knowledge, understanding and skills for effective course implementation.
- Complete the department-approved elective course – Big History microlearning (NR36617)
- Access recordings from statewide staffroom sessions via the Teaching and Learning 7–12 statewide staffroom.
Contact
For more information: