NESA Annual report 2019

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pursuit. i.e. Physics of boiling water – heat and thermodynamics. The perception that boiling point is 100C can be somewhat incorrect as it is not fixed but quite variable, as the type of water used makes a difference and why it takes longer to boil water in Johannesburg than in Cape Town. 

STEAM – STEM and ARTS has allowed students to experiment with ethical issues as technology comes with many impacts and questions. Students discuss morals and values, whilst developing empathy to strive for solutions in today’s challenging society.

HSIE 9 Highlight the ways the study of Humanities develops critical thinking and ethical conduct at St Spyridon College The teaching of Legal Studies at St. Spyridon College aims to cultivate student critical thinking and ethical conduct in diverse ways. Legal Studies develops students’ knowledge, understanding and critical thinking skills in relation to the legal system and its effectiveness in promoting a just and fair society. In turn, its purpose is to empower students to participate effectively as ethical citizens at local and global levels. For this to be achieved however, students are encouraged to make an informed judgement of the effectiveness of the law. This can only be accomplished via an analysis of legislation, case-law, media, documents and/or international instruments as well as a consideration of the themes and challenges that are incorporated throughout the topics. In the topic of Crime for example, students learn that in order for the criminal justice system to meet the needs of society, it must be reflective of society’s moral and ethical standards. To reach this conclusion however, students are encouraged to use their critical thinking skills to examine a number of key aspects of the criminal justice system including the protections afforded to young offenders; the way that remand is increasingly used as a pre-emptive punishment; and the controversial use of provocation as a defence which trivialises the lethal perpetration of domestic violence against women. An analysis of such however, does not merely aim to cultivate critical thinking in our students, it allows them to consider the ethical and moral implications of their decisions and conduct as citizens living and functioning in a local and global arena. The teaching of Business Studies and Commerce at St. Spyridon College aims to have students develop general and specific skills, including research, analysis, problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking and communication. These skills enhance their confidence and ability to participate effectively, not only as members of the business, commercial, financial, legal and employment world, but also as citizens dealing with issues emanating from business activity. Corporate Social responsibility is ingrained into the fabric of both subjects as a driving force in regards to expectations of contemporary individuals and society. Students develop critical thinking, reflective learning and the opportunity to participate in the community. Students develop greater competence in problem solving and decision-making by evaluating a range of consumer, financial, economic, business, legal, political and employment strategies. In examining these, students have the opportunity to develop values and attitudes that promote ethical behaviour and social responsibility and a commitment to contribute to a more just and equitable society. Students through their learning journey learn how unacceptable sheer profit motive is to society. For eg. Year Commerce Market Day encourages the exploration and adoption of the triple bottom line within their business plan. Year 11 Business Studies has Hypothetical Business Plans formulated by students that must include business practice that returns financial, societal and environmental benefits back to the world. The teaching of Geography at St. Spyridon College aims to have students understand the ever precious and at risk relationship they have with their local and global environment. It is a rich and complex discipline that

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Educational & Financial Reporting\NESA Annual Report 2019


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