History

The History Department at Loreto aims through its teaching and learning programs to develop in students a sense of historical perspective, an understanding of the present through the past and an affirmation of the importance of women in society. In keeping with the particular ethos of Loreto Normanhurst, the teaching of History at Loreto also aims to encourage in our students the values of justice, compassion and integrity, to assist each student to reach her academic and personal potential, while maintaining care and respect for the individual.

Students are encouraged to develop skills in evaluating sources and making judgements based on sources. From the beginning of Year 7 through to Year 12 students are continually faced with a range of sources and activities so that students move from a point of simple reading of the sources to the much more complex analysis of sources .

In every year and at each level of student ability, the girls are required to communicate logical arguments about historical issues and concepts whether in written or oral form. This may take the form of a relatively simple summary of an interview at a Year 7 level or the more complex analysis of an issue in senior years.

Students are also encouraged to develop an understanding of continuity and change, the forces which have shaped the modern world, the interdependence of nations and people in the modern world and an empathy with the people of the past.

Teachers use a wide variety of learning and teaching strategies that are suitable for students of different ages and different academic levels and that will facilitate the learning of the individual student.