The S2 Course reflects the Experiences and Outcomes from Curriculum for Excellence in Social Studies; People, Place and the Environment. The course is designed to promote active learning, thinking skills and problem solving in relevant contexts about our world.

Course Content

Deforestation

Pupils will investigate the different human causes of deforestation within the Amazon Rainforest. They will also understand what impact this can have on the people and environment within this ecosystem. Pupils will have the opportunity to create their own campaign to stop Deforestation and be able to highlight solutions which can be used to save the Rainforest from disappearing.

Volcanoes

Pupils will investigate how Volcanoes are created and understand the process of tectonic movement on a global scale. Pupils will explore up to date case studies which will highlight what impact these natural disasters can have on people and the landscape. Pupils will have the opportunity to create and explode a Volcano within class.

Wild Weather and Hurricanes

Pupils will explore where Hurricanes are found throughout the world as well as what conditions are needed for a Hurricane to occur. Pupils will also have the opportunity to investigate up to date case studies which will enable them to have a greater understanding of what impact these natural disasters can have on people and the environment. Pupils will also have the opportunity to create a drama, video or RAP which will highlight their knowledge and understanding on this topic.

Interdisciplinary China Unit

Pupils will investigate different Geographical aspects of China including the Chinese One Child Policy, location of major cities within China and the Yangtze River Dam. Pupils will complete a ‘Passport to China’ and have the opportunity to share all of their knowledge and understanding during our faculties ‘Chinese Celebration’ event at the end of term.

Within the course a variety of teaching and learning approaches are used including, cooperative learning, group work, class discussions, individual written work, presentations, debates, model making and role play. Pupils have the opportunity to develop their communication and ICT skills throughout each unit by getting involved in both group led and individual projects.

Assessment is an integral part of our teaching and learning process and we recognise that regular positive and constructive feedback is very important to help pupils progress. Pupil assessments range from short topic tests to extended written tasks, from project work to homework. Pupils are also encouraged to self-reflect and are given the opportunity throughout the year to assess their own progress and set their own targets.

All pupil assessments are routinely graded and recorded by the teacher and the results are stored centrally, these results are used by staff to track the progress of the individuals and ensure that their needs are being met. Pupils also review their own attainment and are encourage to identify ways to improve their learning. Staff report formally to parents as per the school calendar.