The HSIE K–6 Syllabus lays a foundation for learning in Stages 4–5, giving students a broad overview of the periods pre-1788, 1788–1850 and 1850 onwards in Australia’s history (without specific reference to Federation). It outlines a broad understanding of the citizenship and life of Aboriginal peoples in Australia before 1788 and an understanding of how the British colonists established their citizenship rights in Australia. Stages 2 and 3 give students an overview of this period through the study of significant events, people and associated places, with only limited opportunity to explore the interaction between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people. Stages 4 and 5 build on this knowledge base and explore the issues and consequences of the events in depth.

Two pivotal questions ensure that students in Stages 2–3 develop a sense of shared history:

What did the British do to establish their citizenship in Australia?

What impact did this have on Aboriginal citizenship in Australia?

The table below provides an outline of the relationship between the content of the HSIE K–6 Syllabus and the History Stages 4–5 Syllabus.

OVERVIEW OF AUSTRALIAN HISTORY K–10

Period Pre-1788

Stage 2 (HSIE K–6) The contribution of people and groups from other countries to Australia’s heritage, eg Maccasans, Dutch The voyage of James Cook in relation to colonisation and world exploration at the time The contribution of people and associated places and events to community heritage, including knowledge of original Aboriginal nations and boundaries

Stage 4 (History 7–10) Longevity of Aboriginal occupation

Period 1788–1850

Stage 2 (HSIE K–6) The establishment of a British colony — aspects of life, significant people, achievements, events and places Aboriginal resistance to the establishment of a British colony — significant people, achievements, events and places Changes to people and places in the Sydney region as a result of British colonisation (Units – Places: Then, Now and Tomorrow; British Colonisation of Australia)

Stage 4 (History 7–10) Colonisation and contact between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people before 1900

Period 1850–

Stage 3 (HSIE K–6) Key figures, events and issues in the development of Australian democracy, including Sir Henry Parkes, the 1967 referendum, the republican movement Key figures and events that have influenced the development of democracy worldwide Significant events that have shaped Australia’s identity, including the discovery of gold, colonial exploration and expansion Australian human rights issues, past and present, including the effects of the forced removal of Aboriginal children (Units – Gold!; Australian Democracy)

Stage 5 (History 7–10) Australia’s history, incorporating aspects of civics and citizenship from 1901 to the present