(1 credit of English and 1 credit of Social Studies)
Humanities I in Action is an interdisciplinary course that aims to develop students’ social conscience concerning major social issues of our time. Through literary, philosophical, psychological, and indigenous perspectives, students identify their own worldview assumptions and beliefs. Students consider, for example, our fundamental human nature, whether society is progressing or declining, and our future relationship with the natural world. In addition, numerous outings in Hong Kong, including two camping trips, offer additional reflection on course themes. In the spring, students also carry out an independent community service project. This journey of social conscience helps students contemplate and enact a life committed to the common good.
Note: Students in Humanities I in Action are expected to participate in all the experiential learning activities on a number of Saturdays, including the two camping trips, and to spend time outside of class implementing their service project. An additional course fee (approx. $5500 HKD) is needed to cover the costs of these experiences.
Students will:
- Read, analyze, and make connections between the history, literature, religion and art of the various cultures we study.
- Develop an appreciation for and at times a critique of the values and ideals of peoples in traditional societies.
- Develop an understanding of the conflicts between modern and traditional cultures.
- Understand the basic questions all humans ask and the various answers people from different cultural backgrounds give in response to these questions.
- Explore their own cultural identity, values, and ideals in relation to those that we study.
- Develop the intercultural sensitivity needed to form genuine relationships in our modern society and make contributions to our community.
- Develop an effective and unique style of thinking and writing (a voice) through the writing process.
- Develop visual literacy (visual arts, contemporary films, media creation, etc.) through critical viewing and in-class presentations.
- Improve literacy and communications skills through reading, vocabulary development and frequent opportunities to write and speak about their learning.
- Explore the great heroic stories in the cultures being studied.
- Develop skills to use various forms of technology as a tool for learning.
- Develop organizational and analytical skills needed to succeed in the High School Humanities Program.
- Participate in experiential learning and service outings, reflect on their experiences, and integrate these reflections into their understanding of the human experience.
- Develop a vision for a just and compassionate society for all and understand the role of service in contributing to this vision.
Assessments may include:
- Journal responses
- Timed writing
- Essays in a variety of genres using the writing process
- Presentations - individual, paired, and in small groups
- Role-plays, debates, and simulations
- Examinations and quizzes - both objective and essay format
- Service-selected independent service project
“Humanities I in Action is one of the most memorable and intriguing classes I’ve taken. It is a fascinating course that made me question my worldview and brought me new insight into many global and societal issues. This course is filled with creative projects, writing assignments, presentations, field trips, and so much action-based learning. It’s paced comfortably, with no prior knowledge needed. I recommend staying on top of participation, where class discussions will help you dive deeper into your thinking. This course helped build my questioning, research, and creative skills, which I will cherish for the rest of high school.”
- Catherine Suo, Class of 2025
“As a Grade 11, Humanities I in Action is still the most inspiring and engaging course that I've ever taken. It covers various studies such as sociology, philosophy, english, psychology, etc. We have many different projects throughout the year, including essays, speeches, and creative projects. One of the overarching themes of the course is human nature, which we explore by reading various texts like Lord of the Flies and Left to Tell. We also do various activities that push us to reflect on who we are, and our place in society. Overall, this course genuinely changed my life, and I could not recommend it enough."
- Yonsu Park (Class of 2024)