Study of Society & the Environment

Study of Society & the Environment (SOSE)

At the Junior primary level SOSE is integrated with other Key Learning Areas in many ways. Children are guided to positive and inclusive attitudes towards other cultures and their environment.

Year 1 students begin with the basic needs of living things. They progress to looking at their personal development over time, including abilities, characteristics and family. Year 1 students have experienced visits from community people such as the Fire Service and Dental Clinic. They are also planning visits to the Supermarket and Airport to study the role of various workers.

Year 2 students commence with Parks and Gardens, incorporating a visit to nearby Cascades Gardens. Their focus on different Countries, including writing to Embassies and Consulates for information, culminates in a whole school celebration of 'Tri-Nations Days'. Year 2 students look at other Seasons and Celebrations such as Birthdays, Easter and Christmas.

Year 3 students embark on a study of Australian Communities, discovering reasons their families choose to live in the Redlands. Students learn about their responsibilities as community members including conservation of their environment. Year 3 students go on an excursion to Eprapah Park, where the children participate in Pond Dipping, Boardwalk and River Story activities.

As children enter the final years of their primary schooling, the focus of learning about their social world extends from Australia and its history to how Australia fits into the world picture. The effects of communication and technology development have of course developed to a point where we commonly talk of the shrinking glove.

The multiculturalism of Australia, its government and the effects on us all as average Australians are integral parts of SOSE studies at this level. The Discovering Democracy program is an excellent resource used in this area of the school, which ensures that what we teach, is relevant and encourages critical thinking skills. We aim to foster a love of learning of the world around us, while encouraging the children to develop well informed personal opinions.

In the senior part of the school, we are committed to aiding the development of sound research skills. Children are taught note taking, paragraphing and presentation skills.

The computer room and Information Services Centre serve as vital tools in the research process, providing access to the Internet and an appropriate selection of reference books and encyclopedia. Children are encouraged to share their information through written work, videotapes, audio tapes, drama, posters, oral and computer presentations, and assignment expos.

Classrooms are transformed into expo sites as children and staff from all levels of the school, come in to view and learn about the work that the children have done. Motivation, organization and skill development ensure the success of this program and the enjoyment of those involved in the learning process.