Year 9 Commerce – Superannuation

In Year 9 Commerce, the topic of superannuation is explored. As you can imagine, engaging teenage students in learning about superannuation is not always easy. Commerce teacher, Vikki Cummins, increased engagement by pitting students against each other, developing an inquiry‑based debate activity. This required students to not only engage with the superannuation content, but also refine their presentation, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The debates helped students unpack the real‑world financial issue of superannuation in a meaningful way, and the affirmative/negative structure kept everyone engaged. The task was scaffolded to support the learning of all students. Students completed Exit Tickets as they left the classroom with their positive responses indicative of classroom success.

Exit Tickets

‘Everyone stepped out of their comfort zone. This was something different, a fun way of putting learning into something that is interactive.’

‘I liked this lesson because it gave me courage to experience something new and stand up in front of the class. I had to learn how to adapt my debate based on listening to what others argue.’

‘I liked everyone involved.’

‘I learnt by listening to others’ arguments.’

‘Fun and interactive.’

‘I had to think and respond on the spot. I learnt a lot.’

‘I always wanted to try debating so this experience has helped me learn how debates work.’

Richard Crittenden
Acting Head of Department – HSIE