In the key learning area of Human Society and its Environment (HSIE), students at Yarrawarrah Public School learn about Australia, its history and place in the world. The disciplines include geography, ecology, economics, politics and sociology.

In each unit of study students develop their knowledge, skills, values and attitudes of people in their social and physical environments.

HSIE is organised into four strands:-

• Change and continuity
• Cultures
• Environments
• Social Systems and Structures

Many of the topics covered can be integrated into units of work in English, Science and Technology or Creative and Practical Arts. This year we have been trialling units in Combined Outcome Groups (COGS). These have included Growth and Change and Interconnecting Growth and Change and Local Places and Environments (Stages 1, 2 and 3). 

Students learn how to research topics using living sources, books and technology. All Stage groups have organised excursions to support understanding in relevant units. Years 1 and 2 visited Sutherland Hospital and invited the fire brigade, ambulance and shire librarian to visit the school. Every second year Stage 3 visits Parliament House in Canberra.

Stage 1 Excursion to Featherdale Wildlife Park

Stage 3 Excursion to Sydney Harbour