Australia · ACARA Content Descriptions
Year 12 Ancient History.
Year 12 Ancient History enables students to study the development of ancient societies, their institutions, and cultural achievements. Students analyse historical sources and archaeological evidence to evaluate interpretations of the ancient past.
01Power and Authority in the Ancient World
Students investigate the nature of power and authority in ancient societies, focusing on political structures and key conflicts.
An examination of the dual kingship, the gerousia, and the ephorate in Spartan society. Students analyse how these institutions maintained control over the helot population.
Students investigate the political, social, and economic factors that led to the collapse of the Roman Republic. The focus includes the role of the Senate and the rise of powerful generals.
A study of Akhenaten's religious reforms and their impact on Egyptian power structures. Students evaluate the shift from polytheism to the worship of the Aten.
02Ancient Societies and Cultures
Students explore the social structures, daily life, and religious beliefs of significant ancient civilisations.
An exploration of the social hierarchy in the Campanian towns before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Students examine the roles of freeborn citizens, freedmen, and slaves using archaeological evidence.
Students investigate the daily lives of ancient Greeks, focusing on housing, diet, and leisure activities. The topic highlights the differences between Athenian and Spartan lifestyles.
A detailed look at Egyptian funerary practices, the concept of the afterlife, and the role of the gods. Students analyse artefacts such as the Book of the Dead and tomb paintings.
03Significant Historical Periods
An in-depth study of specific historical periods that shaped the ancient world, focusing on key events and their consequences.
An analysis of Augustus' consolidation of power and the establishment of the Principate. Students evaluate his political, social, and moral reforms.
Students examine the causes, key events, and consequences of the conflict between Athens and Sparta. The topic includes an evaluation of Thucydides as a historical source.
A study of the expansion and administration of the Achaemenid Empire. Students explore the role of the Great King and the satrapy system.
04Significant Individuals in the Ancient Past
Students evaluate the lives, actions, and legacies of prominent individuals who significantly influenced their societies.
An investigation into Hatshepsut's assumption of the pharaonic titles and her building programmes. Students assess the reasons for the later defacement of her monuments.
Students trace Alexander's conquests from Greece to India and analyse his military strategies. The topic also covers the Hellenisation of the ancient world.
An exploration of Caesar's rise through the cursus honorum, his role in the First Triumvirate, and his assassination. Students evaluate his impact on the Roman state.
A study of the Iceni revolt led by Boudicca against Roman occupation in Britain. Students analyse the causes of the rebellion and its brutal suppression.