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11–12Ancient History 11–12 Syllabus

Record of changes
Implementation from 2027
Expand for detailed implementation advice

Content

Year 12

Core study: Cities of Vesuvius – Pompeii and Herculaneum

Through an analysis of archaeological and written sources, students investigate features of life in the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. They explore archaeological practices of the 20th and 21st centuries and related contemporary issues.

In investigating content in the Source analysis content group, students analyse and interpret a range of sources as evidence for life in Pompeii and Herculaneum.

The historical concepts and skills content is to be integrated as appropriate.

Context
  • The geographical setting and natural features of Campania

  • The impact of the eruption of 79 CE on Pompeii and Herculaneum

Source analysis: interpreting the evidence for life in Pompeii and Herculaneum
  • The nature, range, value and limitations of sources about Pompeii and Herculaneum, including art, buildings, organic remains and writing

  • Social organisation, including men, women, freedmen, freedwomen and enslaved people

  • Local political life, including magistrates and elections

  • Economic activities, including commerce, industries and occupations

  • Features and functions of houses

  • Leisure activities, including entertainment and baths

  • Health, including diet, water supply and sanitation

  • Public and private religion

Archaeology at Pompeii and Herculaneum
  • The practices and challenges of excavation and conservation at the sites in the 20th and 21st centuries

  • Changing interpretations of the sites, including the contribution of recent technology

  • 21st-century archaeological issues, including the ethics of the study of human remains and the impact of tourism

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