The Globalising World · Term 4

The Science of Climate Change

Students will explore the scientific consensus on global warming, its causes, and observable impacts on the planet.

About This Topic

The future of global governance is a critical debate in a world where rising nationalism often conflicts with the need for international cooperation. This topic explores the effectiveness of institutions like the United Nations (UN), the G20, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in addressing 21st-century challenges like climate change, economic instability, and the rise of new global powers like China.

For Year 10 students, this unit is a study in the evolution of the global order. It highlights the tension between national sovereignty and global responsibility. Students grasp these complex issues through active learning strategies like debating the reform of the UN Security Council, simulating a G20 summit, and investigating how international agreements influence Australian domestic policy.

Active Learning Ideas

Simulation Game: G20 Summit

Students represent the leaders of the world's largest economies. They are given a specific global problem (e.g., a financial crisis or a pandemic) and must negotiate a joint communique. This highlights the power dynamics and the difficulty of achieving consensus among nations with very different economic systems.

⏱ 60 min·Whole Class

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Formal Debate: Reforming the UN Security Council

Divide the class to represent current permanent members, aspiring members (like India or Japan), and those who want to abolish the veto. They debate whether the Security Council is still 'fit for purpose' in the 21st century. This helps students understand the historical and political reasons for the current UN structure.

⏱ 45 min·Whole Class

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Inquiry Circle: The Rise of China

In small groups, students research how the economic and political rise of China is challenging the existing 'rules-based order' led by the US. They create a 'power shift' infographic showing how global influence is changing. Groups present their findings on what this means for Australia's regional security.

⏱ 50 min·Small Groups

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

International organisations like the UN can make laws that Australia must follow.

What to Teach Instead

Australia is a sovereign nation; international treaties only become part of Australian law if the Australian Parliament passes legislation to adopt them. Peer analysis of the 'treaty-making process' in Australia helps clarify this relationship between global and domestic law.

Common Misconception

The G20 is a formal government with the power to tax and spend.

What to Teach Instead

The G20 is an informal forum for international cooperation; it doesn't have a permanent staff or legal power. Its influence comes from the fact that its members represent 80% of global GDP. Using a 'compare and contrast' activity with the UN helps students see the different types of global governance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the United Nations still effective today?

This is a major topic of debate. While the UN has been successful in areas like health, education, and humanitarian aid, it often struggles to prevent conflict due to the veto power of the 'Big Five' on the Security Council. Students can evaluate the UN's performance in a recent global crisis to form their own informed opinion.

What is the G20 and why does it matter?

The G20 is a forum for the world's largest economies to discuss global economic and financial issues. It became particularly important during the 2008 Global Financial Crisis. In class, students can investigate why Australia is a member and what we gain from participating in these high-level meetings.

How does the rise of China change global governance?

As China's economic and military power grows, it is seeking a greater role in international institutions and creating new ones (like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank). This challenges the traditional dominance of the US and Europe. Students can map these new 'spheres of influence' to see the changing global landscape.

How can active learning help students understand global governance?

Active learning strategies like G20 simulations or debates on UN reform help students see global governance as a 'work in progress' rather than a fixed system. By taking on the roles of world leaders, students experience the diplomatic friction and the necessity of compromise. This approach makes the abstract concepts of sovereignty and international law tangible and relevant to their future as global citizens.

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