Ancient History provides opportunities for students/candidates to study people, societies and civilisations of the past, from the development of the earliest human communities to the end of the Middle Ages. Students/candidates explore the interaction of societies, the impact of individuals and groups on ancient events and ways of life, and study the development of some features of modern society, such as social organisation, systems of law, governance and religion.
Students/candidates analyse and interpret archaeological and written evidence. They develop increasingly sophisticated skills and understandings of historical issues and problems by interrogating the surviving evidence of ancient sites, societies, individuals and significant historical periods. They investigate the problematic nature of evidence, pose increasingly complex questions about the past and formulate reasoned responses.
Students/candidates gain multi-disciplinary skills in analysing textual and visual sources, constructing arguments, challenging assumptions, and thinking both creatively and critically.
Pathways
A course of study in Ancient History can establish a basis for further education and employment in the fields of archaeology, history, education, psychology, sociology, law, business, economics, politics, journalism, the media, health and social sciences, writing, academia and research.
Objectives
By the conclusion of the course of study, students/candidates will:
- comprehend terms, issues and concepts
- devise historical questions and conduct research
- analyse evidence from historical sources to show understanding
- synthesise evidence from historical sources to form a historical argument
- evaluate evidence from historical sources to make judgments
- create responses that communicate meaning to suit purpose.