In Year 10 History, you will explore one of the most significant events of the twentieth century, World War Two and its impact on Australia and the wider world. Through a range of historical sources, you will investigate the key causes of the war, including the political, economic, and social factors that led to global conflict.
A major focus of the course is Australia’s involvement in World War Two, examining the experiences of Australian soldiers, nurses, prisoners of war, and civilians on the home front. You will study important campaigns and events, including the war in Europe and the Pacific, and consider how the conflict affected Australian society, culture, and national identity.
You will also analyse the consequences of World War Two, including the human cost of the conflict, the creation of international organisations such as the United Nations, changes in global power, and the emergence of new political tensions. The course will explore how the war shaped the modern world and continues to influence international relations, technology, human rights, and Australian society today.
Throughout this semester-based subject, you will develop valuable historical skills, including researching, analysing evidence, evaluating different perspectives, and constructing well-supported arguments. Year 10 History encourages you to think critically about the past and understand how historical events continue to shape the world you live in.
What You Will Learn
- Causes of World War II and the reasons why Australians enlisted to go to war.
- Significant places where Australians fought and their perspectives and experiences in these places.
- Significant events, turning points of World War II and the nature of warfare, including the Holocaust and use of the atomic bomb.
- Effects of World War II, with a particular emphasis on the changes and continuities brought to the Australian home front and society.
- Significance of World War II to Australia’s international relationships in the twentieth century, with particular reference to Britain, the USA, Asia and United Nations.
- Significant developments and events since 1945 that have contributed to global change, such as World War II, the United Nations, the Cold War and technologies.
- The contribution of significant movements for social and political change since 1945.
- The significant events, individuals and groups in the women’s movement in Australia, and how they have changed the role and status of women.
- The continuing efforts to create change in the civil rights and freedoms in Australia, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, migrants and women.
Ways You Will Learn
- Investigate historical sources, photographs, maps and artefacts.
- Explore significant events through class discussions and activities.
- Analyse different perspectives and experiences from the past.
- Research historical topics using a range of sources.
- Watch documentaries and examine primary source evidence.
- Complete inquiry-based projects and presentations.
- Develop skills in historical writing and source analysis.
- Participate in debates about historical events and their impact.
- Use digital technologies to research and present findings.
- Connect historical events to issues and challenges in the modern world.
How You'll Show Your Learning
- Source analysis tasks.
- Historical research investigations.
- Essays and extended written responses.
- Class discussions and debates.
- Inquiry-based tasks.
- Analysis of historical perspectives.
- Ongoing coursework completed in class on key skills and key knowledge.
- Examination.
Assessment Tasks
- Ongoing coursework completed in class.
Summative Assessment
- Source analysis assessment.
- Essay assessment.
- Examination at the end of the semester.
Future School Pathways
VCE Modern History
