This unit teaches students to explore cultural connection and environmental management. Students explore Aboriginal cultural obligations to Country and examine how Aboriginal cultural works reflect oral traditions and landscape mapping. They observe and record geographical information, propose strategies for managing local environmental events and understand the role of seasonal calendars in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities.

Unit 1 – HSIE, Stage 3 (staff only) (DOCX 4.1 MB)

This unit teaches students to investigate the establishment of British colonies in Australia by creating timelines and recounting the stories of migrants and free settlers, highlighting the significant contributions made by women during this period. By examining the Blue Mountains crossing and the gold rush, students analyse the consequences of these developments for Aboriginal Peoples and the landscape.

Unit 2 – HSIE, Stage 3 (staff only) (DOCX 9.9 MB)

This unit teaches students about the significant events and people that led to Australia becoming a federated nation. They’ll use sources as evidence to understand that the Australian Constitution is the set of rules by which Australia is governed. Students describe how and why Australian symbols and emblems reflect identity and have changed over time.

Unit 3 – HSIE, Stage 3 (staff only) (DOCX 16.8 MB)

This unit teaches students to examine how to manage Country sustainably. Students explore cultural obligations to Country in the continuation of Aboriginal cultures and how local knowledges influence the management of environments and World Heritage areas. They research and present strategies for sustainably managing and protecting global environments for future generations.

Unit 5 – HSIE, Stage 3 (staff only) (DOCX 9.9 MB)

This unit teaches students to investigate the connections between Aboriginal languages in their local area and across NSW, as well as the impact of colonial interactions on language documentation. By examining the role of Aboriginal Knowledge Holders in revitalising languages and the significance of re-establishing Aboriginal place names, students learn how Aboriginal Peoples celebrate their languages and cultural practices today.

Unit 6 – HSIE, Stage 3 (staff only) (DOCX 6.9 MB)

This unit teaches students about the principles of democracy in Australia, including its bicameral government structure, law-making processes, and the historical development of voting rights for women and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Students learn about the structures, roles and responsibilities of Federal, State and Local Governments, and describe how Australians can engage in democratic processes and civic participation.

Unit 7 – HSIE, Stage 3 (staff only) (DOCX 11 MB)