The Ancient World to the Modern World
In Levels 7 and 8, students study history from the time of the earliest human communities to the end of the ancient period, approximately 60 000 BC (BCE) – c.650 AD (CE). It also covers the period from the end of the ancient period to the beginning of the modern period, c.650 AD (CE) – 1750. The Ancient period was defined by the development of...
The Ancient World to the Modern World
In Levels 7 and 8, students study history from the time of the earliest human communities to the end of the ancient period, approximately 60 000 BC (BCE) – c.650 AD (CE). It also covers the period from the end of the ancient period to the beginning of the modern period, c.650 AD (CE) – 1750. The Ancient period was defined by the development of cultural practices and organised societies. The study of the ancient world includes the discoveries (the remains of the past and what we know) and the mysteries (what we do not know) about this period of history, in a range of societies including Australia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, China and India. The period from the end of the ancient period to the beginning of the modern history was when major civilisations around the world came into contact with each other. Social, economic, religious, and political beliefs were often challenged and significantly changed. It was the period when the modern world began to take shape.
In this band, students will apply the following historical concepts and skills to the historical knowledge: sequencing chronology, using historical sources as evidence, identifying continuity and change, analysing causes and effect and determining historical significance.
Key questions:
• How do we know about the ancient past?
• Why and where did the earliest societies develop?
• What emerged as the defining characteristics of ancient societies?
• How did societies change from the end of the ancient period to the beginning of the modern age?
• What key beliefs and values emerged and how did they influence societies?
• What were the causes and effects of contact between societies in this period?
• Which significant people, groups and ideas from this period have influenced the world today?
By the end of Level 8, students identify and explain patterns of change and continuity over time. They analyse the causes and effects of events and developments. They identify the motives and actions of people at the time. Students evaluate the significance of individuals and groups and how they were influenced by the beliefs and values of their society. They evaluate different interpretations of the past.
Students sequence events and developments within a chronological framework with reference to periods of time. They locate and select historical sources and identify their origin, content features and purpose. Students explain the historical context of these sources. They compare and contrast historical sources and ask questions about their accuracy, usefulness and reliability. Students analyse the different perspectives of people in the past using sources. They explain different historical interpretations and contested debates about the past. Students construct an explanation using sources of evidence to support the analysis. In developing these texts, and organising and presenting their findings, they use historical terms and concepts, evidence identified in sources, and acknowledge their sources of information.
The VCAA has recently published the Victorian Curriculum F–10 Version 2.0. To view the revised curriculum, familiarisation resources and support material, go to the Victorian Curriculum F–10 Version 2.0 website.
