Civics and Citizenship 7-10 – Year 8
Learning Objectives
In Year 8, students understand how citizens can actively participate in Australia’s political system, the role and impact of elections, and the ways political parties, interest groups, media and individuals influence government and decision-making processes. Students consider how laws are made and the types of laws used in Australia. Students also examine what it means to be Australian by identifying the reasons for and influences that shape national identity, and how this contributes to active citizenship.
Inquiry questions provide a framework for developing students’ knowledge, understanding and skills. The following inquiry questions are examples only and may be used or adapted to suit local contexts:
- What is the role and impact of elections and political parties in Australian democracy?
- How can citizens shape and influence Australia’s political system?
- How are laws made and applied in Australia?
- What different perspectives are there about national identity?
Achievement Standard
By the end of Year 8, students explain how Australians are informed about and participate in their democracy. They describe the roles of political parties and elected representatives in Australian government. They explain the characteristics of laws, how laws are made and the types of law in Australia. Students identify ways in which Australians express different aspects of their identity and explain perspectives on Australia’s national identity.
Students develop questions and locate, select and organise relevant information from different sources to investigate political and legal systems, and contemporary civic issues. They analyse information and identify and describe perspectives and challenges related to political, legal or civic issues. They explain the methods or strategies related to civic participation or action. Students use civics and citizenship knowledge, concepts, terms and references to evidence from sources to create descriptions, explanations and arguments.