St Catherines College (Kilbirnie) St Catherines College (Kilbirnie)

Year 10 Ao Tangata (Social Studies)

10AT
Course Description

Teacher in Charge: Bryony Wood.

Recommended Prior Learning

Year 9 Social Studies


Tikanga-ā-Iwi (Social Studies) at SCC is the study of contemporary society.  We examine politics, human rights, social issues and movements, governments, and culture. Our intent is to approach these issues critically and we examine a range of different values and perspectives on these issues.  We have found our students love to discuss such current issues and events and to unpack what may sit behind them.  At all times we are careful to respect our duty of care for both our learners and our subjects.

As an overview of our programme there are a few themes that guide what we teach at Year 10. Overarching both junior levels is Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Whanaungatanga. At Year 10 we focus most on Manaakitanga. Perspectives is a key aspect of all our units in Tikanga-a-Iwi (Social Studies). The goal is to increase engagement and critical thinking of the content and have our rangatahi develop an understanding of their own perspectives, what influences them, as well as the perspectives and influences of others. 

At Year 10 we begin our learning from the creation of Te Tiriti in 1840 and explore events up to the present day; this includes Crown breaches of Te Tiriti, Māori responses such as Ngā Tamatoa and the occupation of Bastion Point, and the creation of the Waitangi Tribunal. 

Social Science competencies and ways of working
In the Social Sciences, ākonga explore human society and citizenship. To do this, ākonga:

  • ask questions, gather information and ideas, examine current issues
  • reflect and evaluate understanding and responses
  • explore and analyse peoples’ values and perspectives
  • consider ways people make decisions and participate in social actions.

Possible topics at Year 10 Tikanga-ā-Iwi

  • Ethics and Philosophy
  • Human Rights
  • Current Events
  • Immigration
  • Social Issues and Activism 
  • Colonisation

Learning Areas:

Social Sciences



Equipment/Stationery

Own laptop and ear buds or exercise book