Individuals and Societies (History) - Objectives

A    Knowing and understanding

Knowledge and understanding is fundamental to studying Individuals and Societies subjects and forms the base from which to explore the concepts and develop skills. Knowledge is both factual and conceptual.

At the end of this course, the student should be able to:

1. use Individuals and Societies terminology in context
2. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of subject-specific content and concepts through developed descriptions, explanations and examples. 

B    Investigating

The development of investigative skills within the subjects of Individuals and Societies is an integral part of the inquiry cycle. It enables students to plan and carry out research as individuals or in a group. The focus is placed on acquiring systematic research skills and processes. As part of, or during, this process, students might reappraise methods and/ or research question(s) and make recommendations for improving the process and act on these where appropriate.

At the end of the course, the student should be able to:

1. formulate a clear and focused research question
2. formulate and follow an action plan to investigate a research question
3. use methods accurately to collect and record information consistent with the research question
4. effectively address the research question

C    Think critically

The ability to think critically within Individuals and Societies subjects is vital in developing a deeper understanding of the subjects and its concepts. 

At the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. analyse concepts, events, issues, models and arguments
2. analyse and evaluate a range of sources in terms of origin and purpose, recognizing values and limitations
3. interpret different perspectives and their implications
4. synthesize information in order to make valid, well-supported arguments

D    Communicating

Students should be able to demonstrate the ability to use a variety of media to organize and communicate their factual and conceptual learning. 

At the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. communicate information and ideas using an appropriate style for the audience and purpose
2. structure information and ideas in a way that is appropriate to the specified format
3. document sources of information using a recognized convention

ASSESSMENT:

• Oral and written work in class
• Oral lessons
• Special lessons prepared and explained by students
• Project Work
• Homework
• Paragraph writing
• Written tests
• Final exam

ATTITUDES

• Presents work neatly
• Is well equipped for work
• Completes assignments and meets deadlines
• Participates actively in class
• Strives to produce good work
• Shows respect to others
• Behaves appropriately in class

Bibliography

• Rockie, G., Walsh, R. (1986) 19th Century in Focus. Dublin: Gill & Macmillan Ltd.
• Walsh, B. (1995) History in Focus: GCSE Modern World History. London: John Murray.
• Hobsbawm, Eric (1989) The Age of empire 1875-1914. New York: Vintage Books
• Thomson, David (1957) Europe since Napoleon. London: Penguin Books