The S1 course reflects the Experiences and Outcomes from Curriculum for Excellence in Social Studies; People in society, economy and business.  The course is designed to promote active learning, thinking skills and problem solving in relevant contemporary contexts.

The S1 Course includes the following units:

• Rights and Racism : an introduction to rights and responsibilities plus overview of groups that face inequalities in society.  A specific focus is made on issues around racism and government strategies to tackle it.
• Scottish Parliament: an introduction to the work of the Scottish Parliament and the role of MSP’s.
• Topic: World Powers (North Korea)- an examination of what it’s like to live in a country which is not a democracy.

Modern Studies is a very dynamic course and when a significant event occurs, pupils get the opportunity to learn about it (recent examples include the Ukraine conflict and changes of PM and First Minister)

Learning and teaching approaches are:

• Focused on the learner
• Enjoyable, relevant and inclusive – enhancing the
  experience, achievement and attainment of all
  young people
• Active, allowing young people to become
  problem solvers in a supportive and stimulating
• Flexible and creative, allowing for personalisation of
  learning
• Allow for choice and challenge
• Collaborative and co-operative, promoting quality
  social interaction between young people.
• Using ICT to support digital literacy whilst enhancing the curriculum

We use a variety of assessment approaches to allow learners to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding, skills, attributes and capabilities in each subject:

• Observing day-to-day learning within the classroom.
• Coursework, including end of unit tests.
• Project work where pupils lead their learning.
• Teams’ submissions including homework and quizzes.
• Peer and self-evaluation.

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. As a result, learners receive high-quality feedback to support their understanding of their progress in learning and what they need to do to improve.

iPads are used thoughtfully in lessons to enhance learning and raise attainment.

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 received written feedback and next seps as well as verbal feedback. Staff report formally to parents via Tracking Reports and at parent consultations as per the school calendar.