The Levels 7 and 8 curriculum provides a study of the Australian Constitution and how its features, principles and values shape Australia’s democracy. They explore the responsibilities and...
The Levels 7 and 8 curriculum provides a study of the Australian Constitution and how its features, principles and values shape Australia’s democracy. They explore the responsibilities and freedoms of citizens and how citizens can participate in Australia’s democracy. They look at how the rights of individuals are protected through the justice system, how laws are made and the types of laws used in Australia. Students also explore how Australia’s secular system of government supports a diverse society with shared values. Students also examine what it means to be Australian by identifying the reasons for and influences that shape national identity.
Key questions
How is Australia’s system of democratic government shaped by the Constitution?
What are the freedoms and responsibilities of citizens in Australia’s democracy?
What principles of justice help to protect the individual’s rights to justice in Australia’s system of law?
How are laws made and applied in Australia?
How is Australia a diverse society and what factors contribute to a cohesive society?
What different perspectives are there about national identity?
By the end of Level 8, students explain features of Australia’s system of government, and the purpose of the Constitution in Australia’s representative democracy. They analyse features of Australian democracy, and explain features that enable active participation. They explain how Australia’s legal system is based on the principle of justice, and describe the types of law and how laws are made. Students identify the importance of shared values, explain different points of view and explain the diverse nature of Australian society. They analyse issues about national identity in Australia and the factors that contribute to people’s sense of belonging. They identify ways they can be active and informed citizens, and take action, in different contexts.
