At Duncraig Primary School, HASS provides opportunities for students to explore and understand people, places, environments and societies across time.
HASS stands for Humanities and Social Sciences and includes the interrelated areas of History, Geography, Civics and Citizenship, and Economics and Business. Through these areas, students develop the knowledge and skills to become informed, active and responsible citizens.
Our HASS program is aligned with the Western Australian Curriculum, which can be accessed here:
https://k10outline.scsa.wa.edu.au/home/teaching/curriculum-browser/hass
Our Approach to HASS
At Duncraig Primary School, HASS is taught through engaging, inquiry?based learning that is supported by explicit teaching of key concepts, skills and vocabulary.
A key whole?school resource is:
- Inquisitive, a comprehensive, curriculum?aligned digital platform that supports inquiry, critical thinking and rich investigation
https://www.inquisitive.com/
Through Inquisitive and classroom programs, students develop skills in:
- Research and inquiry
- Analysing information
- Understanding perspectives
- Applying knowledge to real?world contexts
HASS is primarily taught by classroom teachers, with some classes also participating in specialist lessons to further enrich learning experiences.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
HASS learning is enhanced through meaningful connections to the wider community and real?world experiences. Students may participate in a variety of excursions, including visits to:
- Fremantle Prison
- WA Museum and State Library of Western Australia
- Maritime Museum in Fremantle
These experiences help students to engage with history, culture and society in authentic and memorable ways.
Celebrating Culture and Community
Duncraig Primary School recognises the importance of developing cultural understanding and respect. Students participate in significant events and commemorations linked to HASS learning, including:
- Reconciliation Week, promoting understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- NAIDOC Week, celebrating the history, culture and achievements of First Nations Australians
- ANZAC Day, honouring the service and sacrifice of those who have served
These events support students to develop a deeper understanding of Australia’s history, identity and diverse communities.
Developing Informed Citizens
Through our HASS program, we aim to develop students who:
- Understand their role within local and global communities
- Respect and appreciate diverse perspectives
- Think critically about social, environmental and economic issues
- Are prepared to contribute positively to society
At Duncraig Primary School, HASS encourages students to be curious, informed and active participants in the world around them.
