Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
3rd Year Active Citizenship and Democratic Action
This course prepares students for the final year of the Junior Cycle by focusing on the practical application of democratic principles. Students analyze the Irish political system, human rights frameworks, and the role of the individual in creating social change through informed action.
The Machinery of Democracy
An exploration of the Irish parliamentary system and the constitutional roles of the President, Taoiseach, and Oireachtas.
Examining how a bill becomes law in Ireland and the role of the Dail and Seanad in legislative oversight.
Analyzing the constitutional powers of the President of Ireland as a guardian of the Constitution.
Investigating the functions of County Councils and the importance of local representation.
Human Rights and Global Responsibility
A deep dive into the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the challenges of protecting rights globally.
Studying the impact of the United Nations on global peace and the enforcement of human rights.
Evaluating the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child within the Irish legal system.
Profiling individuals and organizations that fight for social justice and civil liberties.
Justice and the Legal System
Understanding the court system, the role of the judiciary, and the concept of restorative justice.
Mapping the journey of a case from the District Court to the Supreme Court.
Debating the purposes of prison versus community service and restorative justice models.
Exploring how disputes between individuals are settled through the civil legal system.
The Power of the Media
Analyzing the role of a free press in a democracy and the impact of social media on political discourse.
Investigating how media ownership influences the news agenda and public opinion.
Developing skills for responsible participation in online political and social spaces.
Examining the historical and contemporary role of investigative journalism in holding power to account.
Sustainable Development and Global Justice
Connecting local actions to global environmental and economic challenges through the lens of the SDGs.
Analyzing the disproportionate impact of climate change on the Global South and the ethics of carbon emissions.
Exploring the ethics of global supply chains and the power of the consumer.
Designing community solutions for waste reduction, transport, and energy efficiency.
The Citizenship Action Project
The capstone unit where students plan, execute, and evaluate a project that addresses a social or political issue.
Selecting a community or global issue and conducting thorough research to understand its root causes.
Developing a strategy for advocacy, awareness raising, or direct service to address the chosen issue.
Critically assessing the impact of the action project and reflecting on personal learning as a citizen.