Understandings+in+relation+to+the+achievement+objectives.

Understandings in relation to the achievement objectives can be developed through a range of approaches. Using a social inquiry approach, students:
 * ask questions, gather information and background ideas, and examine relevant current issues;
 * explore and analyse people's values and perspectives;
 * consider the ways in which people make decisions and participate in social action;
 * reflect on and evaluate the understandings they have developed and the responses that may be required.

Inquiry in the social sciences is also informed by approaches originating from such contributing disciplines as history, geography, and economics.

Learning based on the level 1-5 social studies achievement objectives establishes a foundation for the separate social science disciplines offered in the senior secondary school. At levels 6 - 8, students are able to specialise in one or more of these, depending on the choices offered by their schools. Achievement objectives are provided for social studies, economics, geography, and history, but the range of possible social sciences disciplines that schools can offer is much broader, including, for example, classical studies, media studies, sociology, psychology, and legal studies.