Whangarei Girls’ High School Whangarei Girls’ High School

Level 3 Social Studies*

3SST
Course Description

In Level 3 Social Studies students will critically examine social and political issues in New Zealand and overseas, and analyse different perspectives on these. This course challenges students to think critically about contemporary society, the people in power and will help them to become informed citizens. It also gives students an opportunity to actively participate in social actions aimed at challenging existing social processes. Contexts and topics are contemporary and can be decided with the teacher as the year progresses and as social issues arise. 

All Year 13 Assessments come with Reading Literacy credits. The externals come with both reading and writing credits. Senior Social Studies is an approved subject for University. 

Learning Opportunities

In this course you will need to:

Develop these skills:Explore this content:
  • Critical Thinking Skills - to think critically about the people who are in positions of power and implications of this. How these people are represented in the media. Racism in societies, both nationally and overseas. 
  • Protests in Iran - Exploring the civil unrest and protests against the government of Iran associated with women's rights and the death in police custody of Mahsa Amini in 2022.

  • Collaboration - Students will be encouraged to work in groups and contribute to class discussions. Be mindful and respectful of all opinions.
  • Contemporary social issues to be decided by students and the teacher. Examples might include:
    • Current international, political and/or cultural conflicts and wars.
    • Human Rights (e.g. indigenous, gender, youth, worker, minority groups, asylum seekers).
    • Law changes (e.g. abortion laws).
    • Social media and book bans.
    • Crime and punishment (e.g. restorative vs punitive punishment, the death sentence).

  • Communication Skills - to share your thoughts and listen to others.  To continue to develop both your written and verbal communication skills.





Year Levels/Departments:

Seniors, Social Studies




			
					
					Resources Required
										
1B8 exercise book, gluesticks, pens.