Design Technology - International School of Duesseldorf

HUMANITIES
PHILOSOPHY
Humanities investigates the past, present and potential future interactions of people
with each other and with the environment. Students examine local and international
communities as well as their own cultures. Emphasis on global interdependence
highlights individual differences and responsibilities, fostering tolerance and
understanding. Our ultimate aim is to teach relevant knowledge and skills, which
promote the social, intellectual and emotional development of each student
PROGRAM
The aim of the program is to encourage students to gain and develop knowledge,
conceptual understanding, research skills, analytical and interpretive skills, and
communication skills, as well as contributing to the development of the student as a
whole. The program aims to encourage a respect for and understanding of the world
around them, and provide a skills base for further study. This is achieved through the
study of individuals, societies, and environments in a wide context, integrating
historical, geographical, political, social, economic, religious, technological, cultural,
and current perspectives.
Key concepts include time, place and space, change, systems, and internationalism.
Fundamental skills to be developed over the five years of the MYP include technical,
analytical, problem-solving, and investigative skills.
Aims: to encourage and enable the student to develop:
• an enquiring mind
• a sense of time and place
• a respect and understanding of others’ perspectives, values, attitudes
• awareness and understanding of people and cultures in a variety of places at
different times
• an understanding of the interactions and interdependence of individuals,
societies, and their environments
• an understanding of the causes and consequences of change through physical
and human actions and processes
• the skills necessary for the effective study of humanities
• an understanding of contemporary humanities issues
• a sense of internationalism and a desire to be proactive as a responsible global
citizen
• an awareness of the links with other subjects
• a lifelong interest in, and enjoyment of, humanities.
The objectives of the humanities program relate directly to four assessment criteria:
knowledge of the subject matter, application and understanding of the key
concepts, the development of skills, and the organization and presentation of
the material. Assessment is both summative and formative. Students will be
assessed against criteria that clearly outline the learning objectives. Types of
assessment will include: unit tests, source analysis, essays, oral presentations,
homework assignments and individual/group projects.
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