NCEA Level 3 History 301
HIS301 Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Mrs A. Nielsen.
Recommended Prior LearningThis is a literacy-heavy subject. You should have 12 credits from a Level 2 subject which is literacy-rich (eg. Classics, Geography or English). Level 1 or 2 History is helpful, however, all students will be considered on a case by case basis.
“History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view, to be useful to the modern traveller”. - Henry Glassie
History is the study of the past – it investigates the people, societies, and events of the past. Studying History gives us the tools to analyze and explain problems, develop empathy, think critically and understand how the events of the past influence the world today.
In Year 13 students will study a range of different contexts based around the themes of power, imperialism and colonisation. The course builds on the knowledge and skills students learnt in HIS201 with a focus on historiography that teaches the students to think like historians. Students will learn a range of skills such as examining historical perspectives, exploring different sides of contested events, writing convincing and logical arguments, analysing sources and learning how to carry out effective research.
UE Approved Subject
Course Overview
Term 1
In Term One students will analyse historian's perspectives on a contested historical debate. They will develop an understanding of the social, political, cultural and intellectual factors that shaped people’s thinking about the past. The context for this will be decided based on the interests of the class. Possible topics could include the causes of the Rwandan Genocide or the decision to drop the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Term 2
In Term Two students will complete a mini topic with the aim of developing their source analysis skills. Students will learn to evaluate the usefulness and reliability of historical sources, explain different perspectives and cross reference information. Students will have the opportunity to complete a research project on a topic of their choice related to the themes of the course.
Term 3
In Term Three students will study an event that is of significance to New Zealanders. In this unit students will develop their essay writing skills and the ability to formulate a convincing argument. The context for this will be decided based on the interests of the class. Possible topics could include the invasion of the Waikato or New Zealand's influence in the Pacific.
Term 4
In Term Four students will focus on revision and preparation for the external examinations.
Career Pathways
Secondary School Teacher, Curator, Journalist, Foreign Policy Officer, Solicitor, Tertiary Lecturer, Teacher Aide, Exhibition and Collections Technician, Primary School Teacher, Social Worker, Tour Guide, Elected Government Representative, Copywriter, Author, Editor, Archivist, Historian, Psychologist