2005 School Magazine

Social & Environmental Studies

Social & Environmental Studies

Some words from the students

Geography and the wonder of Peru

Learning Geography at senior level has been a major educational experience that has contributed to enriching life outside the classroom. During the Year 11 Geography course, we learnt about developing countries and the problems and solutions connected with these countries. At the end of the year I was lucky enough to go to Peru in association with Antipodeans Abroad and Brisbane Girls Grammar School to build a shower block for an underprivileged community on the outskirts of Cuzco. It was here, when playing with the children, building the shower block and visiting the community’s homes, that the course work I had been learning took on an extra dimension. Once I was there and was able to actually see how these people live, with no electricity and running water, I realised how fortunate I was. It also made me understand how much a shower block would be appreciated in this community, helping to enhance what I had been learning in Geography by allowing me to come to the realisation that making the lives of people in developing countries better, is to start on the little things. By giving them running water, a school for their children to go to, support groups for mothers and good meal once in a while these people lead a greater and more fulfilled life in a way that does not change their world completely. Because of Geography and the background information it gave me, I appreciated the experience of travelling overseas and helping another community as it gave an extra dimension to the

A United Nations Perspective

In our past two years of senior study of the humanities, we have had the opportunity to learn about the issues, events and philosophies that have shaped and continue to shape the world we live in.

The theories behind these subjects are intriguing and of great relevance to our perception and understanding of society, but sometimes in order to see the full practical application of these ideas, you have to step outside the classroom. Through the United Nations Youth Association, we have participated in activities ranging from mock UN sittings to national youth forums, seeing just how

important those things we learn at school can be in everything from the resolution of an argument, to the major diplomatic decisions that most students could not even imagine being a part of. To disregard the lessons that can be learned through subjects such as Modern and Ancient History, Economics and Study of Religion is to disregard the crucial concepts that influence our lives, our nation and our future.

course I had been studying. Katherine Inglis (12L)

Jemima Cowderoy (12E) Elizabeth Talbot (12R)

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Brisbane Girls Grammar School

School Magazine 2005