Year 10 History Students Undertake a Passion Project
At the start of Term 2, Year 10 History students were given the opportunity to undertake a passion project. It is a problem-solving task that requires students to develop and apply the research skills of a historian to an interesting topic that they choose. The passion project allowed all students to further develop relevant investigative, research and presentation skills that are the core of the historical inquiry process.
Pursuing a passion project can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience that fosters personal growth and personal awareness. It can boost confidence and encourage students to take ownership of their own learning and personal development.
Selecting a topic of interest was essential to the success to the passion project and students developed a specific research question around their chosen topic area. Students started by identifying a general area of interest and were then able to narrow it down to a specific area of investigation. We were so pleased to see students choosing topics that they have always been interested in but have not have the opportunity to investigate. The topics selected by students were varied and fascinating! Many students chose to focus on topics around the Second World War and the Cold War period, while others were more interested in American and Asian historical events.
Below are some testimonials from students who have described their thoughts on the passion project:
‘Overall, the passion project was a success because I was able to easily conduct the required research due to the intriguing topic. The aspect I liked the best was learning about Albert Einstein’s life and his accomplishments. I have always been interested in German and European history, which is what motivated me to learn more about Albert Einstein and his attempts to free Nazi Germany. In general, my interest in learning more was piqued by my investigation into primary sources and the information around Albert and the escape’.
– Aleeza Asif (Year 10)
‘My experience for the passion project has been fun and exciting. I have been able to learn more about history and strengthen my understanding on the topic I love. This passion project was a wonderful opportunity for me explore different topics and develop a deeper understanding’.
– Rebecca Wang (Year 10)
Some of the most interesting focus questions included:
- Analyse the reasons behind Margaret Thatcher’s controversial title ‘The Iron Lady’?
- Analyse the significance of the Diamond necklace affair and its impact on Marie Antoinette’s reputation?
- To what extent did the Opium Wars impact China’s relationship with Western powers in the 19th Century?
- To what extent was international pressure responsible for the end of apartheid?
- Evaluate the treatment of women and religious minorities in post-revolutionary Iran.
- Analyse the main causes of the 1972 Munich Olympics terrorist attack.
– Antonella Accurso
Teacher – History