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Resource reviews are provided for teachers to support their teaching and learning programs.
The views expressed by reviewers are not necessarily those of the NSW Department of Education and Training. Copyright for reviews is held by the NSW Department of Education and Training. Permission for reproduction of reviews in part or full for any purpose must be sought in writing. For further information contact colleen.foley@det.nsw.edu.au
Sites are listed alphabetically by title. Those reviews which note links to other sites, especially as a major part of the site, will require additional exploration time by teachers to verify specific curriculum applications relevant to their classes. The USER LEVEL descriptor, Professional, is a pertinent reminder of such issues. Please note that changes happen daily on the Internet. Sites come and go. We cannot guarantee that the following sites are permanent or are structured as they were when they were reviewed.
African American history
Alexander Palace time machine
American Friends of Lafayette: welcome to the official website of Major General Gilbert Motier de LafayetteA place to think Australian heritage directory
American memory: historical collections for the National Digital Library
Ancientscripts.com: a compendium of world-wide writing systems from prehistory to today
Australian human rights and civil rights
Australian screen
BBC News: world: Europe: country profiles
Ben’s guide to U.S. government for
kids
The conquest of Mexico
Contemporary postcolonial and postimperial literature in English
Converse: the literature website
Creating the United States
C-SPAN American writers11: the twentieth
century
Cuban Missile Crisis and aftermath
The Choices Program: teaching with the
news
D-Day Museum & Overlord Embroidery
Discover League of Nations
Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum
Edward R. Murrow: broadcasting history
eGold: electronic encyclopedia of gold in Australia
Eleanor & Harry: the correspondence of Eleanor Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman
Eyewitness to history
Fighting the fires of hate: America and the Nazi book burnings
French Revolution
Gallery of graphic design
Gallipoli 1915: the drama of the Dardanelles
The great buildings collection
Historiography: how historians do history
History (PBS history)
History and historiography
History and politics out loud
History news network
History toolkit
The Holocaust chronicle
Holocaust encyclopedia
Holocausthistory.net
Hore’s drawings: the watercolours and drawings of
Major Leslie Fraser Standish Hore
Huey Long
Internet modern history sourcebook: French Revolution
Island Ireland: Irish history
Issues and causes
JFK in history: Cuban Missile Crisis
Making the modern world: stories about the lives we've made
Mandela: an audio history
Marxists Internet Archive
Medieval English towns
Medievalhistory.net
National Heritage Museum
National Portrait Gallery
Newseum: the interactive museum of news
New York divided: slavery and the Civil War
The New York Times on the web. Learning network grades 3-12: connections for students, teachers and parents
NHK peace archives
Nobelprize.org
The Nuremberg Trials and their legacy
Pacific stories learning
Presidential recordings program
Remember me: echoes from the lost
generation
Rewind
The rise of Hitler
Royal Australian Historical Society
Shadow play
Teaching the American 20s: exploring the decade through literature and art
Ten commandments of good historical writing:
with apologies to the author of the original ten
The Black Past: remembered & reclaimed: an online guide reference to African American history
The First World War- The heritage of the Great
War 1914-1918
The Psychedelic 60s: literary tradition and social change
The state archives: State Records NSW
The tank man
Timeline: some historical events, chosen at
random
Titanic: a special exhibit from Encyclopaedia Britannica
The Vietnam Center and Archive
The Vietnam War
World cultures
World history archives
World History: HyperHistory
World War I
World War I political cartoons
World War 1 document archive
WW2 people’s war: an archive of World War Two memories
African American history 
With articles on critical events ranging from The Dred Scott case of 1857 to the School integration movement during the 1950s-1970s, this carefully constructed site provides students with an outline of key developments in African American history. Most of the site is directly relevant to Modern History Stage 6 studies of The civil rights movement, from the murder of Emmett Till in Mississippi in 1955 to the racist violence suffered by civil rights campaigners in Selma, Alabama in 1964. Although the site would benefit greatly from inclusion of primary sources in addition to the short extracts used to support Cozzens's narrative, it is useful background for the Modern History Stage 6 Case Study: The civil rights movement in the USA in the 1950s and 1960s. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: African Americans - Civil rights - History; Slavery - History; United States - History; United States - Race relations
PUBLISHER: L. Cozzens, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/09/08 [323.1196] SCIS 1380558
Alexander Palace time machine
Exploring the history of the last of the Romanov rulers, the site presents a large amount of material in a tour of the tsar's palace at Tsarskoe Selo. There are photographs, diaries, letters and online books, including Baroness Sophie Buxhoeveden's Alexandra Feodorovna and Thirteen years at the Russian court by Pierre Gilliard, French tutor to the last tsar's children. A fascinating feature of this site is a photographic travelogue of St. Petersburg in 1900, in Travel guides. The site has biographies of the Romanovs and many of their famous associates, including Rasputin. Students need to be aware that the overall tone of the site is uncritically pro-tsarist. Despite this bias, it has a huge amount to offer students of Modern History Stage 6 who are looking at the Case Study: The decline and fall of the Romanov dynasty. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Romanov dynasty;Russia - History - 1894-1917; Russia - Kings, queens and rulers
PUBLISHER: Pallasart Web Design, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/09/08 [947.08] SCIS 1380531
American Friends of Lafayette: welcome to the official website of Major General Gilbert Motier de Lafayette
One of America’s revolutionary heroes is idolised on this site. In General Lafayette, the 27 reasons why we should honor General Lafayette spell out the case for student historians. From Valley Forge to Barren Hill and back is perhaps the most useful part of the site for students. An article explains the military manoeuvre that made the young Lafayette a national hero in the early days of American democracy. The site enthusiastically shows the contribution of an individual to America’s revolutionary goals, explaining Lafayette’s personal stand on freedom and justice, and why he is revered in the USA today. This content makes the site a good source of material for the Option: The origins and early development of American democracy in HSC History Stage 6: Extension. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: HSC History Stage 6: Extension
SCIS SUBJECTS: Generals – Biography; United States – History – 1775–1783, Revolution
PUBLISHER: American Friends of Lafayette, USA
REVIEW DATE: 04/04/08 [973.3092] SCIS 1340734
American memory: historical collections for the National Digital Library
An extraordinary site, this encompasses a multitude of primary and secondary sources on American history from 1400 to the present. Topics range across advertising, African American history, Native American history, immigration, law, architecture, maps (including from the Civil War), women's history, sport, religion, military history and government. Searches may be undertaken by topic, time period, or place. Results provide background information, photographs, timelines and essays. The language style and format is suitable for senior students, with options to have live chats or ask questions of a librarian. A very informative site, this is most valuable for those studying American history and civil rights in Modern History Stage 6. A. Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Archives - United States; United States of America - History - Sources
PUBLISHER: Library of Congress, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/09/2008 [973] SCIS 1067885
Ancientscripts.com: a compendium of world-wide writing systems from prehistory to today
The comprehensive origins of Writing systems are included in the Introduction, Types, Families, Regions, Timeline and an A to Z listing on this valuable site. These menus enable students to access information on a huge range of scripts. There are also menus for Phonetics, Historical linguistics, Journal articles, Games, Downloads, Reference and Links. Go to articles archive has links to online articles on topics such as Etruscan text find and a possible Canaanite spell, transcribed in Egyptian hieroglyphs from the third millennium BCE. While Games is still being developed, Links leads to a vast array of sites dealing with writing systems, archaeology and related topics. Although Ancient History Stage 6 students are not required to have knowledge of ancient writing systems, a visit to this site will enrich a study of sources used in any of the topics in the Preliminary and HSC courses. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: Ancient History Stage 6; English 7-10; HSC History Stage 6: Extension
SCIS SUBJECTS: Writing systems - History
PUBLISHER: L. Lo, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/12/08 [411] SCIS 1391950
A place to think
The history of Australian documentaries from WWII to the present is the focus of this invaluable site. Watch – moving history presents a pictorial menu arranged in decades. Each decade contains an Overview that provides a context for specific documentaries. Selecting an image then allows access to numerous documentaries and storyboards. Radio National interviews relating to the featured documentaries are contained in Listen. Such a feature is useful in building background knowledge before viewing the documentaries. From Interact – street art, the user can listen to Interviews with artists and curators as well as viewing a Photo gallery of street art from Sydney and Melbourne. With its wealth of material, teachers would need to explore the site before classroom use to ensure that students do not deviate from the intended learning experience. Navigation of the site can be tricky for the novice. H. Gardiner
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7–10; English Stage 6; History 7–10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Art, Australian; Films, Australian; Documentary films; Street art
PUBLISHER: Australian Broadcasting Corporation
REVIEW DATE: 04/04/08 [791.43] SCIS 1353589
Australian heritage directory
Researchers of Australia’s historical inheritance will find this site of particular worth. It has a comprehensive listing of the Australian heritage resources available on the Internet. Site users can discover the heritage value of such places as the Glasshouse Mountains, Old Parliament House, and Sydney’s North Head. They can examine fact sheets on Cook’s landing and our ANZAC heritage, examine journalists’ reports from Gallipoli, and study the remarkable 2006 voyage of the Duyfken. Supporting the Historical investigation component of HSC History: Extension and the Modern History Option: Australia 1945–1983, the site provides a thorough directory of government heritage agencies and non-government organisations. Issues of funding and Australian laws protecting heritage places and objects are discussed. Databases and lists is a large collection of heritage places and Key resources links to significant publications and websites on such themes as respecting Aboriginal heritage and the histories of Australian homes. Within Key resources, the Australian dinosaur story and the Australian heritage photo library are worthy of closer inspection. A. Fisher
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; HSC History Stage 6: Extension; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Australia – Historic buildings, sites, etc – Conservation and restoration; Conservation of natural resources; Nature conservation
PUBLISHER: Dept. of the Environment and Heritage , Australia
REVIEW DATE: 18/12/06 [333.720994] SCIS 1158331
Australian human rights and civil
rights
Designed and maintained by Victor Perton MP, from Victoria,
this is a well structured web site providing access to papers
and links relating to human rights. It focuses on Australian
issues and also contains a compendium of international links.
Exploration time is required to verify the curriculum
relevance of external sites. The human rights material and
links should appeal to a wide audience. Issues raised
include: Bill of Rights; Equal
opportunity law; Parliamentary protection of
rights; and Privacy issues. This
site could be useful in a unit of work on human rights in
Australia, or helpful for investigating civil rights issues
in legal studies. C. Dorbis
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Geography Years 7-10; History
Years 7-10; Legal Studies Stage 6; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Civil rights; Human rights
KEY WORDS: Civil; human rights; Australia;
equal opportunity
PUBLISHER: Victor Perton, MP, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04
Australian screen
From The story of the Kelly gang (1906)to Kenny (2006), this site is a growing and dynamic collection of Australia’s film and television heritage. Containing over 1600 clips from media such as short films, feature films, newsreels, and advertisements, the site organises material by genre. An Indigenous page lists films with Aboriginal content. In Education there are many clips with teachers’ notes usefully categorised by topics such as values, and sport and health. Other content includes some valuable teaching resources. The site is a fine resource for film studies as the clips have curators’ notes and are cross referenced to similar resources. For a contemporary film such as Ten canoes, analytical clips from television movie shows, where the film is discussed and critiqued, support study of the film. Designed for international promotion and educational purposes, the site is a strong resource for schools. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA;English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: Aboriginal Studies 7–10; Aboriginal Studies Stage 6;English 7–10; English Stage 6; History 7–10; Modern History Stage 6; Photography, Video & Digital Editing CEC Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Film industry – Australia; Films, Australian; Television - Australia
PUBLISHER: Australian Film Commission
REVIEW DATE: 17/12/07 [791.430994] SCIS 1328716
BBC News: world: Europe: country profiles
An outstanding resource, this regularly updated site
contains profiles of all European countries, regions and
territories, the Commonwealth, European Union, the
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the North Atlantic
Treaty Organisation (NATO), the Organisation for Security and
Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the United Nations and UN
Security Council, and the World Trade Organisation. A
timeline for each country, organised as A chronology of
key events, is a useful databank for History students.
Country profiles offers current and
historical information for each country via the
Overview, Facts,
Leaders, and Media layout.
Top, side and bottom menus provide easy navigation for
students who are studying European countries in the Geography
syllabuses, and for teachers gathering background knowledge
for the HSIE K–6 syllabus. A.
Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage
6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Geography 7–10; Geography
Stage 6; History 7–10; HSIE K–6; Modern History
Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Chronology, Historical;
International organisation
PUBLISHER: BBC News, UK
REVIEW DATE: 21/08/05 [940] SCIS
1204700
Ben’s guide to U.S.
government for kids
A comprehensive and highly intuitive site, this guide
provides a very valuable resource on many aspects of America.
The site goes beyond government and can also be used to
research geography and history, especially via Our
nation. Information is graded from primary to senior
high school, with each level having appropriate topics such
as Branches of government, and How
laws are made. The site includes well designed
interactive Games and activities, and
supports cultural diversity outcomes of the HSIE syllabus.
History and Legal Studies students will appreciate the source
material in Historical documents. E.
Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: HSIE 7–10; Legal Studies
Stage 6; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: United States –
History; United States – Politics and government
PUBLISHER: U.S. Government Printing Office,
USA
REVIEW DATE: 14/06/05 [320.973] SCIS
1205675
The conquest of Mexico
An outstanding and easy to navigate site, the resource creates a virtual learning environment about the conquest of Mexico. Teacher and student materials provide detailed background information on primary and secondary sources, including identifying, defining, understanding and analysing these sources. Maps and a timeline enhance understanding of the conquest. Links to digitised sources contain a plethora of easy to read narratives and activities that detail the conquest of Mexico. The language style and format are suitable for senior students, particularly when undertaking HSC History Stage 6: Extension case study: Spain and the Aztec Empire. A. Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; HSC History Stage 6: Extension
SCIS SUBJECTS: Aztecs; Cortes, Hernando; Mexico – History
PUBLISHER: American Historical Association, USA
REVIEW DATE: 15/07/08 [972] SCIS 1357837
Converse: the literature website
An innovative resource for students aged 11–19, this
site is well worth a look by teachers. Three age sections,
roughly similar to NSW, cover poetry, Chaucer, the English language, Shakespeare, and the First World
War. There is specific material on Owen’s
Dulce et Decorum for the English Stage 6: Standard course. The war illustrated, facsimiles of an
English pictorial magazine, is a valuable primary source for
students of Modern History. Senior English students can
interactively explore the historical context of a poem, and
the ideas about practical criticism could help teachers
introduce critical theory to Year 10 or 11. The History of the English language and some of
the Shakespeare material is excellent for
younger students. In Teachers there are some
creative ideas, for example on visual literacy, found in the
handbook. H. Cobban & E. Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English K–6; English
7–10; English Stage 6: Standard; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: English literature –
History and criticism; World War, 1914-1918 in literature
PUBLISHER: Cambridge University, UK
REVIEW DATE: 01/03/06 [820.9] SCIS 1236209
Creating the United States
The site is a superb resource to support HSC History Stage 6: Extension students in exploring the origins and early development of American democracy. The Interactives section contains drafts of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and Bill of Rights. Major themes within each US document are linked to their appearance in much earlier documents, conveying the historical context and evolution of ideas. Object list provides facsimile snapshots of writings by Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, John Locke and Henry Home, with links to further reading about democracy, human rights and the movement for the abolition of slavery. Learn more provides links to relevant collections held by the Library of Congress and other institutions. There are three lesson plans to assist teachers in optimising student use of this resource. It is a fine resource in its summary of key themes, its mapping of major thinkers and the unfolding of the processes involved in developing American democracy. E. Chase
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: HSC History Stage 6: Extension
SCIS SUBJECTS: United States. Constitution; United States - Constitutional history; United States. Declaration of Independence; United States - History - Sources
PUBLISHER: Library of Congress, USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/11/08 [342.7302] SCIS 1381882
C-SPAN American
writers11: the twentieth century
The web site complements the 2002 television series,
continuing the emphasis on writers who have influenced
American history. The site covers the time period 1600-1975,
despite its subtitle, and is efficiently organised into
choices of writer, work, place or
historical period. Writers include novelists, essayists, and
journalists, with brief information on text and creator, with
more extensive research links offered. The Gettysburg
address, for example, gives users the original text,
context notes, and comprehensive links to Websites about
the work, and (1850-1865) Slavery & the
Civil War. Classroom features
excerpts, a short but useful selection of topics and ideas,
an online Crossword puzzle, and an
extensive range of videos. Registering to join the Online
book club will allow access to video clips which
accompany thematic lesson plans. This site is well worth a
look for English and history teachers. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English Stage 6; Modern History
Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Authors, American
PUBLISHER: C-SPAN, USA
REVIEW DATE: 12/06/04 [973] SCIS
1155089
The
Choices Program: teaching with the news
Concentrating on international issues from an American
perspective and heavily reliant on the print format, the site
offers limited appeal to the senior Modern History student.
Options to explore include Iraq after the war, the Cuban
crisis and the US in Vietnam, but the bulk of the information
would be of little benefit without teacher direction,
especially for students requiring support. Nevertheless, this
resource does provide a format for engaging students to think
critically and interpret the issues, both key competencies of
the HSC syllabus. An interesting study of the film
documentary The fog of war, complete with lesson
plans and its focus on current world events, is relevant for
HSC students studying Part 111: International studies in
peace and conflict. B. Kervin
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: History, Modern; World
politics
PUBLISHER: Brown University, USA
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [909] SCIS
1183913
Contemporary postcolonial and postimperial literature in English
Looking at the colonies of the British Empire and the social, historical and political influences on authors currently writing in these countries, the site is a comprehensive collection of material for English and History teachers. For English teachers, entering authors’ names into the Search tool is an efficient way to access site information. This reveals analytical material specifically useful for English Stage 6 syllabuses dealing with Keri Hulme’s The bone people, A.S. Byatt’s Possession, and David Malouf’s An imaginary life. Postcolonial theory is a detailed set of ideas which has limited application in English classrooms, but for English Stage 6: Extension 2 and professional development, this is an exceptional resource. History teachers investigating the site by country, including Australia, may find the articles and opinions in History, Political context and Religion, useful for supplementary material, as the site strongly emphasises literature in historical context. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English Stage 6: Advanced; Extension 1; Extension 2; HSC History Stage 6: Extension
SCIS SUBJECTS: English literature – History and criticism; History in literature; Imperialism in literature; Political science in literature
PUBLISHER: G. P. Landow, USA
REVIEW DATE: 30/04/07 [820.9] SCIS 1296779
Cuban Missile Crisis and aftermath
Part of the US Department of State's permanent electronic archive this huge volume now has online volumes covering US foreign relations from 1945 to 1968. Volume XI contains a vast range of sources including briefing papers, memoranda, transcripts and summaries of meetings, telegrams and messages. It provides many insights into the thinking of American political, military and intelligence leaders during the Cuban Missile Crisis. These are vital sources for Case Study 20: The nature of the presidency of John Fitzgerald Kennedy in the HSC History Stage 6: Extension course and for the Modern History Option: The Cold War 1945-1991. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: HSC History Stage 6: Extension; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Cold War; Cuba - Foreign relations - United States; Cuban Missile Crisis, 1962; United States - Foreign relations - Cuba
PUBLISHER: Department of State, USA
REVIEW DATE: 25/11/08 [327.73] SCIS 1377350
D-Day Museum & Overlord Embroidery
Although the museum has a large collection of archive material, it is only the written and photographic material that students and teachers can access on the website. These eyewitness accounts and contemporary photographs complement the background information and evoke powerful wartime images. This fascinating material is very accessible with easy to use links including Preparing for D-Day, Crossing the channel, The air forces and airborne troops and Naval memories. The site also provides glimpses into aspects of Britain's social history during the war, including the impact on children and the role of women. There is a selection of moving recollections from civilians at the time. The narrative style is conversational and informative and includes letters and descriptions of the events from perspectives as different as an American war correspondent, to merchant seamen, officers, a wireless operator and school children. It also contains a variety of typical questions a student might ask and short, concise answers. K. Bromhead
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Normandy, Attack on, 1944; Overlord Embroidery
PUBLISHER: Portsmouth City Council, UK
REVIEW DATE: 03/12/08 [940.54] SCIS 1381347
Discover League of Nations
A great resource for teachers and students undertaking the
Modern History topic A11: The failure of the League of
Nations, the site contains a table of research and
catalogued web sites which link to a superb range of primary
and secondary sources. These web site links include
Frequently asked questions about the League of Nations
archives, a photographic archive, statistics, and the
Catalogue, which assists with locating documents.
An outline history (1920-1946) provides a good
overview of the League of Nations. The site is a good
starting point for the study of this topic, and will be
useful for both class work and research tasks. A. Byron
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: International cooperation;
League of Nations – History; National Library of
Australia
PUBLISHER: National Library of Australia
REVIEW DATE: 12/06/04 [341.22] SCIS
1156140
Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum
The Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum in Hong Kong is dedicated to preserving evidence of the famous revolutionary's life, ideas and achievements while highlighting his connections with Hong Kong where he was educated. The site serves as an introduction to Dr Sun for students of the Modern History Stage 6 Option: China 1927-1949. Only a very limited amount of material from the museum's collections is available online, but it does allow students to get a feeling for the time and place, and this is enhanced by the useful graphics and photographs found in every section of the site. Several of the Links are also worth an investigatory look, especially for images. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: China - History - 1912-1949, Republic - Biography; Museums; Sun, Yat-sen
PUBLISHER: Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum, China
REVIEW DATE: 25/11/08 [951.04] SCIS 1377358
Edward R. Murrow: broadcasting
history
An
exciting resource for the study of American history or journalism, this
site explains and illustrates the impact of one of the most vibrant media
personalities of the 20th century. Biographical information and recordings
strongly support the Modern History Options: USA 1919-1941 and William
Randolph Hearst 1863-1951, and to a lesser extent, Conflict in Europe 1935-1945.
Audio reports from the heart of the conflict in WW11 Europe are very interesting,
but Murrow’s articulate denouncement of Senator McCarthy is an outstanding
piece of television history, now available online. Modern History students will
gain a fine appreciation of anti-communism and anti-unionism through the site’s
material, including some contemporary analysis of Murrow’s work. Related
stories and links offer solid avenues for History students to pursue research.
For English Stage 6: Extension 2 students, the site could inspire a Major
work on a related topic, such as history and journalism. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage
6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English Stage 6: Extension 2;
Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Journalists – Biography;
Murrow, Edward R.; Radio journalism – History
PUBLISHER: National
Public Radio, USA
REVIEW DATE: 26/05/06 [070.92] SCIS
1242053
eGold: electronic encyclopedia of gold in Australia
A veritable goldmine of facts, images and analytical commentary on events and people in the Australian gold rush, this site is laid out in 15 themes including Commerce & industry, Geology & environment, Heritage and cultural landscapes, Law & order, People and Places. Each section has a brief overview of the topic, photographs, primary sources, film clips and audio tracks. Material is cross referenced which will suit senior students pursuing an area of interest. Visually appealing, the site would be useful in the study of the Stage 3 COGs Unit (G): Traditions and heritage, although it will need teacher interpretation. Material has been researched and written by scholars and is most suitable for research by older students. R. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7-10; Modern History Stage 6; HSIE K-6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Australia - Gold discoveries; Gold - History
PUBLISHER: University of Melbourne, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 24/04/09 [994.03] SCIS 1395576
Eleanor & Harry: the correspondence of Eleanor Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman
The site contains the correspondence between the famous widow of President Roosevelt and his successor, President Truman. The letters reflect the close friendship between the two, their mutual distrust of General Douglas MacArthur during the Korean War and their shared opposition to Senator Joseph McCarthy’s anti-communist witch hunts. They also show significant differences of opinion as the Cold War developed. For the Modern History Option: The Cold War 1945–1991, the site offers some valuable insights into American foreign policy from 1945 to the late 1950s. For the Option: Eleanor Roosevelt 1884–1962, the site offers some useful insight into this intriguing woman. The site is laid out simply and effectively in chronological order, with a short biography of both personalities, and Lesson plans from which teachers may gather ideas. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: American letters; United States – Politics and government – 1945–1974; United States – Presidents
PUBLISHER: National Archives and Records Service, USA
REVIEW DATE: 04/04/08 [973.918] SCIS 1343828
Eyewitness to history
From The ancient world to the 20th century, this site is an exceptional collection of primary source material, offering an overview of significant historical events, with a strong American and British basis. The sources are participants, such as Pliny the Younger, radio reporters, photographs, Voices of 20th events, and film clips in History in motion. Snapshots is an excellent photographic history of America. The site could be used for a wide range of historical studies, especially to introduce historical events such as Gladiators 50 AD and The execution of Tsar Nicholas II and Armistice 1918.Source studies, especially on the role of film in historical investigations, are well supported by the site. Senior students will find it has limited curriculum application, but what it does have is well worth a look. B. Hull
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Ancient History Stage 6; History 7–10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: United States – History; World history
PUBLISHER: Ibis Communications, USA
REVIEW DATE: 17/12/07 [909] SCIS 1182026
Fighting the fires of hate: America and the Nazi book burnings
The website for a travelling exhibition, this outstanding resource will give students a strong understanding of German society in 1933, especially regarding the students who drove the book burning phenomenon and why this nationalism expressed itself in book destruction. The book burnings explains this, with the use of significant photographic images and primary source documents. The historical film footage is extraordinary, and Goebbels’ speech to students at a book burning, with full transcript, is horribly riveting. Each section has film clips of Curators’ conversations where historians analyse the phenomenon and the Recurring symbol of fire in Nazi Germany. The Authors and works affected is an interesting read for teachers, as is the site’s material on the impact of the burnings in America. Nicely constructed and packed with expert knowledge, the site is a fine resource for the Modern History Option: Germany 1918–1939. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Censorship; Germany – History – 1933–1949; Nazism – History
PUBLISHER: United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, USA
REVIEW DATE: 04/04/08 [943.086] SCIS 1340687
French Revolution
Eighteenth century pamphlets, books, manuscripts,
newspapers, and prints are presented here. The site takes
time to negotiate but material does support the study of The
reign of terror in France 1792–95 in the Modern History
syllabus. Reproductions of images such as cartoons and
drawings are of interest, but written texts are reproduced as
originals, in French. The collections offer an opportunity
for research into the Ancien Régime, the French
Revolution, the Napoleonic period, and the Restoration. The
Maurepas Collection, LaForte archive, Lavoisier Collection,
and Lafayette Collection provide manuscript documentation of
the years immediately preceding the Revolution. The Guide
section of the latter has excellent information and
interpretations of the period. E. Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: France – History
– 1789-1799, Revolution; France – History –
1799-1914
PUBLISHER: Cornell University, USA
REVIEW DATE: 01/03/06 [944.04] SCIS
1236254
Gallery of graphic design
An intriguing collection of printed advertisements from 1930-1969 can be viewed on this site. The site has movie and travel posters and primary source flyers for a range of products. Images and written text for such products as cigarettes and records are increasingly difficult for students of History and design to find; the site has a good selection of such images and the graphic design content is excellent for students pursuing this area of interest. The site is a stand out example of how efficient layout and search paths can work for internet users. Everything is cross referenced and tabled. It is an excellent model of site design. List gallery contents is a good place to start, users will be able to see exactly what the site offers. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: CA; HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Design & Technology 7-10; Information & Software Technology 7-10;Modern History Stage 6;Visual Design 7-10; Visual Design CEC Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Advertising - United States - History; Advertising - United States - Pictorial works; Commercial art - History; Commercial art - Pictorial works; Periodical design - History
PUBLISHER: tjs-labs.com, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/09/08 [741.6] SCIS 1374552
Gallipoli
1915: the drama of the Dardanelles
Applicable to the study of Stage 5 History and Stage 6 Modern History,
this website provides fine written and visual resources on the Conditions,
the War at sea and The air warat Gallipoli. A
useful summary of each selection aids navigation for first time users of the
site. Each topic includes a general history, a primary written source, maps,
and images, while some topics have video and audio material. Maps, and contemporary
and modern photographs are well presented and very useful. This is a good intuitive
site for junior students who are researching the topic or exploring Gallipoli
as a virtual site. For Stage 6 students the site will consolidate prior knowledge
and provide valuable extra source material. E. Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage
5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; Modern History Stage
6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Gallipoli Campaign, 1915–1916
PUBLISHER: Imperial
War Museum, UK
REVIEW DATE: 26/0506 [940.4] SCIS
1160032
The
great buildings collection
Eight hundred of the world’s best ancient and modern
structures are shown on this large and visually appealing
site. Each building has a detailed description, multiple
images, and analysis of construction that provides
information as to why and how these building were designed
and created. Insight into the innovation and history of the
built environment is enhanced by extensive and well written
profiles of Architects,
Places, and descriptions of
Architectural types. Some buildings are
further described in 3D models, and the site
has links to the program required to view the models.
Research into architectural styles, design processes,
construction materials, and historical structures, are some
of many activities that students could undertake within this
inspiring site. B. Maher
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
Professional
KLA: HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Ancient History Stage 6; Design
& Technology 7–10; Engineering Studies Stage 6;
History 7–10; Modern History Stage 6; Technology
(Mandatory) 7–8
PUBLISHER: Artifice, USA
REVIEW DATE: 16/03/05 [720] SCIS
1158372
Historiography: how historians do
history
As a means of introducing some of the approaches and
thinkers who have shaped how history is interpreted, this is
a brief and readable resource. Students can learn how to
think like an historian. Those starting their Project for the
HSC History Extension course would find this site useful for
tuning into the notion that any historical event or idea can
be interpreted in various ways. A key phrase, followed by a
concise explanation of their main impact on history is
included for Plutarch; Toynbee; Hegel; Darwin; Marx; and
others. Such a listing would be useful as a springboard for
basic research into these and other influences that shape how
history is viewed. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History Extension Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Historiography
KEYWORDS: Historiography
PUBLISHER: Pleasant Valley High School, USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 [907] SCIS 1093867
History (PBS history)
The Public Broadcasting Service, of the USA provides a
wealth of supplementary information related to content,
research, background and production of their programs. Under
major headings including: Ancient world;
Biographies; United States;
War and espionage; and
World, links to specific topics are
provided. These sites display interactive timelines; primary
sources of past and present; quotes and interviews related to
events; and brief facts about historians consulted on the
productions. Interviews with producers demonstrate why and
how they pursued and applied their interests in history. The
unique variety and depth of information available will do
much to encourage students’ active involvement in
appreciating history. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Ancient History Stage 6; History
Extension Stage 6; History Years 7-10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: History
KEYWORDS: Ancient world; biography;
espionage; history; United States; war
PUBLISHER: Public Broadcasting Service, USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 [900] SCIS 1093848
History and historiography
Access to unique primary sources and what appear to be
individual historian’s ideas about a variety of topics
are offered through this web directory, compiled in the early
1990s. Samples are provided of research articles, such as
Aragonese historiography; opinion papers,
like Ballots and bullets; compilations,
including a Eurocentric timeline; ideas
exchanges, such as Environmentalism,
racism; and useful lists, like
Feudal terms. While each separate entry must
be scrolled through, with no sub links available, this
listing is useful to demonstrate historians’ sharing of
ideas, as with History at your fingertips
through a listserve. It could easily serve to stimulate
further research from more dynamic sites, especially for
students choosing a topic for the HSC History Extension
research project. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History Extension Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Historiography; History
KEYWORDS: Historiography; history
PUBLISHER: University of Washington, USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 [900] SCIS 1093844
History and politics out loud
An archive of audio materials related to American in the 20th century, the site includes recordings and transcripts of some extraordinary speeches. Content includes Martin Luther King on civil rights, John F. Kennedy's discussions during the Cuban missile crisis and Lyndon B. Johnson's conversations on Vietnam in 1964. Students can browse by date, speaker and title. These sources include many that are useful for the HSC History Stage 6: Extension Case Study: The nature of the presidency of John Fitzgerald Kennedy and for several Modern History Topics, including: The civil rights movement in the USA in the 1950s and 1960s; Conflict in Indochina 1954-1979; and The Cold War 1945-1991. Audio files are streamed, giving quick and easy access. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6; HSC History Stage 6: Extension
SCIS SUBJECTS: Oral history; United States - History - Sources; United States - Politics and government - 20th century
PUBLISHER: Northwestern University, USA
REVIEW DATE: 25/11/08 [973.9] SCIS 1377771
History news
network
A very useful resource for History teachers, this site
provides much more than the news. Updated weekly, it has an
intriguing collection of information under the topics of
Culture watch,
Historians/history, and Fact &
fiction. Archived material goes back several years
and comments on a range of events, including several
interesting articles regarding the interpretation of history
by Hollywood. The emphasis for English teachers is on social
and political history, and it is USA focused. The
Teachers’ lounge has wider news and
background information such as Guide to the history
of Saudi Arabia, and interesting articles on the
process of Teaching history, with advice
including writing an online course, involving reluctant
students, and combining history and citizenship. The
site’s extensive quotation list and audio tapes are
well worth teacher investigation. The latter includes an
interview with historian Niall Fergusson on the
Gallipoli campaign. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7–10; History
7–10; History Stage 6: Extension; Modern
History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Current events; History
PUBLISHER: History News Network, USA
REVIEW DATE: 21/08/05 [900] SCIS
1219671
History toolkit
Although part of a larger site documenting an innovative
local history project, this online toolkit is sure to
convince students of the value and interest of carrying out
historical research. Excellent explanations of historical
investigation techniques including: Stages of a
historical research project; Using primary
sources; Step by step guide to oral
history; and How to make a
timeline, are provided. Students are urged to
evaluate both the process and the information gained from
each method. Hints and questions on how to use these
approaches are clearly set out, practical, and should be
encouraging and invaluable for historians beginning major
projects, including the project required for the History
Extension: Stage 6 syllabus. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History Extension Stage 6;
History Years 7-10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Historiography; History
KEYWORDS: Historical research; oral
history; timeline
PUBLISHER: Film Study Center, Harvard
University, USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 [907] SCIS 1093854
The Holocaust chronicle
The site is the full text of The Holocaust chronicle, a book written by a distinguished team of American scholars. Users can go directly to the chronologically organised chapters. Alternatively, research can be streamlined by topic, using the site’s excellent keyword, index or date search engines. Appendices has precise lists of data for student researchers. The site has an extensive bibliography and a large number of annotated web links. Over 1800 images are shown, incorporated into the chapters and presented as a slide show of photographs in Special features. These include a selection of stark images aptly titled Horrors of Dachau. The site would be very useful for students undertaking the Modern History Content: National studies: Germany 1918–1939; Personalities in the twentieth century: Albert Speer 1905-1981; and International studies in peace and conflict: Conflict in Europe 1935–1945. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Germany – History – 1939-1945; Germany – Politics and government – 1933-1949; Holocaust, Jewish, 1939-1945; Nazism – History
PUBLISHER: Publications International, USA
REVIEW DATE: 30/04/07 [940.53] SCIS 1049663
Holocaust
encyclopedia
Comprehensive information about the Holocaust is provided by
this site. Entries in Articles A–Z are
an excellent and detailed collection. They often include
historical film and audio material. The site is large and
inclusive of every group which suffered under the Nazis. For
example, Mosaic of victims, includes the
Roma, Homosexuals,
Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the
Poles. Also here is graphic information on
the Celmno prison, which English Stage 6
students reading Briar Rose should investigate. The
site provides animated maps of The Holocaust
and World War Two, and Personal
histories from the Holocaust Memorial Museum. The
site has credence for History students and teachers
researching this time, with exceptional material onsite and a
huge number of annotated links. It has special relevance to
National studies: Germany
1918–1945 and International studies in
peace and conflict: Conflict in Europe
1935–1945 in Modern History. E. Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English Stage 6; Modern History
Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Holocaust, Jewish, 1939
– 1945 – Encyclopaedias
PUBLISHER: United States Holocaust memorial
Museum, USA
REVIEW DATE: 21/08/05 [940.53] SCIS
1217329
www.holocausthistory.net/
An introductory guide written for students, the site
provides basic information about the Holocaust and WW11. It
focuses on the lives of people affected by the Holocaust
through the use of photographs, documents, film footage,
audio tapes, and personal stories. Using a slide show
presentation, sections include What is the
Holocaust?,
Antisemitism,The Third
Reich, and The final solution. Each
section is brief and only provides an overview. The site
provides a WW11 interactive timeline and a useful glossary of
Holocaust terms. The primary sources are the most useful
aspect of the site, making it a valuable research tool for
Modern History students. The resource particularly addresses
Modern History outcomes in National studies: Germany
1918–1945, and International studies in peace
and conflict: Conflict in Europe 1935–1945. E.
Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; Modern
History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Antisemitism; Concentration
camps; Holocaust, Jewish, 1939–1945 – History;
Germany – History – 1933–1949; Judaism
PUBLISHER: Beth Shalom, USA
REVIEW DATE: 21/08/05 [940.53] SCIS
1218292
Hore’s
drawings: the watercolours and drawings of Major Leslie Fraser Standish
Hore
Part of a magnificent research site for Stage 5 History and Stage 6 Modern
History, these clearly reproduced primary source images are a visual record
of the Gallipoli landscape and military movements during WW1. The sketches
of Major Hore are, along with contemporary photographs, the basis for our
visual understanding of the Gallipoli Campaign. These 25 images, shown
here in a clever and appropriate slide show format, depict our imaginative
understanding of the ANZAC legend. The artworks have detailed captions,
with precise data about time and place and context. Some are supported
by quotations, and each is an expressive personal record of one man’s
experience at Gallipoli. E. Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage
5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; Modern History Stage
6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Gallipoli Campaign, 1915–1916
in art; Gallipoli Campaign, 1915–1916 – Pictorial works; Gallipoli
(Turkey) – Pictorial works; Hore, Leslie Fraser Standish
PUBLISHER: Board
of Studies NSW, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 26/05/06 [940.4] SCIS
1251379
Huey Long
Huey Long was a Governor of Louisiana and American senator during the Great Depression. The site extols his virtues as builder and consolidator, a radical reformer who championed the interests of the poor, opposed racism and broke the hold of the southern aristocracy on political power in his home state. In Life & times and Programs, the site carefully explains Long's ideas and their outcomes. Written material is well laid out, very readable, and illustrated with many photographs and some contemporary cartoons. The site is a fine political biography and an excellent resource for understanding how America thought and worked during the Great Depression. It strongly supports the Modern History Option: USA 1919-1941. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Long, Huey Pierce; Louisiana - Governors; Reformers - Biography; United States - Politics and government - 1919-1933; United States - Politics and government -1933-1945
PUBLISHER: Long Legacy Project, USA
REVIEW DATE: 25/11/08 [976.3] SCIS 1377784
Internet modern history sourcebook: French Revolution
The revolutionary Saint-Just's unpublished notes are part of the selection of primary sources that make this site valuable for anyone attempting to understand the French Revolution's radical stage, August 1792 to July 1794. Sources are displayed in an easy to use linear view and they include information on the Reign of Terror and the earlier part of the radical phase, including decrees and proclamations of the National Convention, the Levee en Masse, Robespierre's writings on political morality and the use of terror, and the words, in French and English, of La Marseilles. The site is an indispensable resource for the Modern History Stage 6 Case Study: The Reign of Terror in France, 1792-1795. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: France - History - 1789-1799; History, Modern
PUBLISHER: Fordham University, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/09/08 [944.04] SCIS 1034442
Island Ireland: Irish history
There are very few websites providing resources for studies of the Easter Rebellion and this site goes some of the distance towards filling that gap. It is a broad directory of Irish history made up of annotated links and its best content for senior students is a collection of 24 Easter 1916 postcards. With scenes of Sackville Street, Dublin, in flames following the British bombardment, the ruins of the General Post Office, British soldiers in the wreckage of Church Street and the surrender document of 29 April 1916, these photographs are excellent primary sources for the Modern History Case Study: The 1916 Easter Rebellion in Ireland and its consequences. The site provides links to a range of other sites, including the National archives of Ireland and the Fianna guide to Irish genealogy, which has the full text of the Proclamation of the Republic and a timeline of Irish history with short biographies of major participants in the uprising. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Ireland - History
PUBLISHER: Island Ireland Marketplace, Ireland
REVIEW DATE: 02/09/08 [941.5] SCIS 1380539
Issues and causes
Offering a range of viewpoints through an alphabetical
listing by topics, these interpretations of history are sure
to move some readers out of their comfort zone. Many of the
accounts include sceptical questioning, hints of conspiracy,
personal opinion essays, and calls for reevaluations of
traditional interpretations of particular events. They are
useful as examples to promote critical evaluation of a source
and of the facts that are selected to represent history.
Topics range from ancient to modern times. As an alternative
to the usual resources encountered in the case studies and
individual project choices for HSC History Extension:
Stage 6 syllabus , this is sure to maintain the interest
of teachers. The authority of information and curriculum
relevance would need to be checked for individual listings.
J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History Extension Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Historiography; World
history
KEYWORDS: Historiography
PUBLISHER: Yahoo Inc., USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 [909] SCIS 1093859
JFK in history: Cuban Missile Crisis
The site provides primary sources on the Cuban Missile Crisis, from the American perspective, and it neatly summarises the event. From its main page, students can access multimedia material, including presidential recordings from October 16 and October 18, 1962. These tapes of briefings have been edited, allegedly for reasons of national security. Kennedy’s report to the American people on October 22 can also be heard. There is a short slide show and an online exhibit with images and documents from each day of the crisis. Modern History students undertaking the Option: The Cold War 1945–1991 will view relevant sources. They will, however, find nothing new, and there is no background information on the reasons and results of American actions. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Cold War; Cuba – History; Cuban Missile Crisis, 1962; Soviet Union – History – 1953–1991; United States – History – 1945–1974
PUBLISHER: John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum, USA
REVIEW DATE: 04/04/08 [972.9106] SCIS 1343843
Making the modern world: stories about the lives we've made
An outstanding example of the educational uses of internet technology, the site has information on the development of modern society since the mid 1800s, with a timeline facilitating understanding. Icons of invention in scientific, technological and medical concepts are explored in images, sound and words. How technology and science have impacted on Everyday life is discussed. Guided tours focus on a variety of topics, including transport, women, conflict, health and employment. Learning modules currently feature demonstrations and activities using a variety of media on Biology, History and Psychology. Especially useful for science and technology topics, the site has extraordinary breadth and capacity for cross curriculum student engagement, from Urban sustainability essays to a creative audio visual using Kennedy's moon landing speech. The site is designed for older students and is well worthy investigation by educators. A. Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE; Science; TAS
SYLLABUS: Biology Stage 6; Design & Technology Stage 6; Geography Stage 6; HSC History Stage 6: Extension; Science 7-10; Textiles Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: History, Modern; Science and civilisation
PUBLISHER: Science Museum, UK
REVIEW DATE: 16/11/08 [303.48] SCIS 1391894
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Mandela: an audio history
The attraction of this site is its atypical approach in telling about The stories and The people in Nelson Mandela’s history. Examining Mandela’s life in the context of South African history from 1944, the site provides extensive primary source material in the form of audio files with written transcripts. With the large amount of visual materials available on the internet, the use of audio files provides a different challenge for students of History in the use of primary sources. A highlight of the site is the Audio timeline which students will enjoy using. A. Byron
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Apartheid – History; Political prisoners – Biography; South Africa – History – Sources; South Africa – Politics and government – 20th century; Statesmen and stateswomen, African – Biography
PUBLISHER: Radio Diaries, USA
REVIEW DATE: 15/07/08 [968.06] SCIS 1364225
Marxists Internet Archive
In the last 150 years Marxists have played a profound role in shaping the course of world history. Using this huge site, students can access a truly international collection of the writings of leading Marxists and many other revolutionaries, and find well researched articles about them. Searches can be made by Selected Marxists, historical documents, subjects and an online Encyclopedia of Marxism. History is an extensive archive of material, with interesting written pieces and graphics from Australian history. There is an enormous amount of material here, including almost everything written by Lenin, Trotsky, Stalin, Mao Zedong and Ho Chi Minh. This makes the site a valuable resource for many Modern History topics on places and personalities, national studies and conflict in the 20th century. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 5Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7-10;Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Communism
PUBLISHER: Marxists Internet Archive, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/09/08 [335.4] SCIS 1380549
Medieval English towns
Few websites can match this one for quantity and variety of information on almost every aspect of urban life in medieval England. It has a slide show, an excellent glossary, articles on multiple English cities and towns, plus links to medieval sources, including the Domesday Book. The site’s research and articles have an academic style and tone, making the resource most useful for teachers and able students. Material supports the History Stage 4 Topic: Societies and civilisations of the past and the History Stage 5 Elective Topic: Medieval and early modern Europe. Senior students who are interested in medieval England for the History project will find this detailed resource extremely useful. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; HSC History Stage 6: Extension
SCIS SUBJECTS: Cities and towns – England – History; Great Britain – History – 1066-1485
PUBLISHER: S. Alsford, Canada
REVIEW DATE: 30/04/07 [942.03] SCIS 1300619
Medievalhistory.
net
Students can read Anglo Saxon stories and listen to
Gregorian chants and a Monty Python and the Holy
Grail excerpton this excellent site. Material is
organised to present characters in time frames and settings,
which promotes a better understanding of often confusing
historical events and legends. The oral traditions of epic
poetry are continued by Germanic tribes, preserving history
and legend until the Anglo-Saxon chronicles. Fine images of
Medieval coins, The true tale of
Macbeth, The Crusades, and a range
of structures within Medieval construction,
give fascinating insights into this age. Combining primary
sources with modern scholarship, this text heavy site will
support the study of Topic 2 in the History Years 7-10
syllabus, and Option 10: The Crusades –
campaigns of the cross?, in the History Extension
Stage 6 syllabus. C. Keane & A. Byron
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7-10; English Stage 6;
History 7-10; History Stage 6: Extension
SCIS SUBJECTS: Middle Ages
PUBLISHER: Medievalhistory.net, Netherlands
REVIEW DATE: 02/06/04 [940.1] SCIS
1156051
National Heritage Museum
Much of the material in these collections is related to the history of American Freemasonry. However, the museum's website has two online exhibitions relevant to Modern History Stage 6. Journey out of darkness features the stories of 20 American servicemen who were held in Nazi POW camps. It should interest students undertaking the Modern History Options: International studies in peace and conflict and Conflict in Europe 1935-1945. The other exhibition, Teenage hoboes in the Great Depression, contains sources that provide fresh insights into the experiences of the many thousands of young Americans who took to the roads and railroads during the 1930s. This makes it an excellent resource for Modern History students undertaking National studies: USA 1919-1941. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Freemasons - History;United States - Civilisation; United States - History
PUBLISHER: National Heritage Museum, USA
REVIEW DATE: 25/09/08 [973.074] SCIS 1377760
National Portrait Gallery
The website, and the gallery itself, are wonderful new resources. The site is beautifully presented, showing touches of historic Australia merging with modern and trendy technology. The site allows students to explore Australian lives and art, and the concept of Australian citizenship, through engagement with the inspiring lives of the Australians who have shaped our history, culture and identity. The site's Education section has a variety of useful Resources and Downloads, including an online portrait collection that uses video, multimedia, animations, interviews and film footage to present the stories surrounding the lives of the artists and subjects in the National Portrait Gallery's collection. In Downloads, Portraits in the history classroom is specifically tailored for History 7-10 students. This excellent site supports the L4L laptop project, use within a connected environment, and teachers planning an excursion to Canberra. D. Giorgi
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; HSIE
SYLLABUS: Creative Arts K-6; History 7-10; Modern History Stage 6; Visual Arts 7-10; Visual Arts Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Portraits
PUBLISHER: National Portrait Gallery, Australia
REVIEW DATE: 30/04/09 [704.9] SCIS 1037747
Newseum: the interactive museum of news
An interactive museum, this excellent site also has plenty of contemporary information, images, and analysis of recent news, including Today’s front pages from 37 countries. International papers begin on page 6, with four Australian papers cited. In the Cybernewseum, History students can research stories of the century in News history, and view the vibrant online exhibition and discussion of Stalin’s media manipulations in The commissar vanishes. Use the Cybernewseum’s bottom toolbar word choices to highlight icons containing some interesting educational resources, such as the news trivia competition in Games. Choices display quickly once navigation is mastered. In Photojournalism, the site has articles and images, Pulitzer winners with the photographer’s short explanation of the image, and profiles of photojournalists. History and photography students in particular will gain valuable understandings of the media on these pages.C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: CA; English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7–10; HSC History Stage 6: Extension; Modern History Stage 6; Photographic & Digital Media 7–10; Photography, Video & Digital Imaging CEC Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Museums; News services
PUBLISHER: Newseum, USA
REVIEW DATE: 18/12/06 [070] SCIS 1170107
New York divided: slavery and the Civil War
Containing an enormous collection of material, the site is a virtual exhibition exploring how the issue of slavery and the Civil War divided New York. Overwhelming in its sheer detail and not especially exciting visually, the material is aimed squarely at an American audience. Nevertheless, it is worth a look for students investigating the history of race relations in the United States. Artefacts on the site include newspapers, posters, art works, and diaries. The classroom support materials are more thorough than engaging, but there are some good work sheets about the analysis of documents and images, which may be of more general application. P. Gilchrist
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: New York (State) – History; Slavery – History; United States – History – 1861-1865, Civil War
PUBLISHER: New York Historical Society, USA
REVIEW DATE: 17/12/07 [973.7] SCIS 1331332
The New York Times on the web. Learning network grades 3-12: connections for students, teachers and parents
A collection of learning material from one of the world's most respected newspapers should have some solidly well written and serious content, and this resource does. There are ideas for teachers about what to do with news material, and users will find much of interest, beginning with a browse through the news quiz, the Word of the day, the Science Q&A, and the themed crosswords. Issues in depth does indeed go deeper and wider, and topics here will be especially pertinent for students working with American history and novels, and for students researching contemporary scientific issues. The Lesson plan archive has some gems, including units of work on the role of the arts in times of economic crisis, developing innovative maps with technology, and playing the Japanese maths puzzle KenKen. The site is an up-to-date and useful resource, with particular connection to the three KLAs referenced. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE; Science
SYLLABUS: Biology Stage 6; English 7-10; Geography 7-10; Modern History Stage 6; Science 7-10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Classroom activities; Current events; Newspapers - United States
PUBLISHER: New York Times Company, USA
REVIEW DATE: 24/04/09 [070.1] SCIS 1066268
NHK peace archives
The site aims to keep memories alive in relation to the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, and to focus on peace. The Further information section leads to websites for the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and the Hiroshima Library. These sites provide interesting information in English. The museum websites are particularly fascinating as they include a virtual tour of main exhibits, drawings, damage caused by the explosion, photographs, videos, eye witness accounts, and peace education. There is information on the atomic bomb, events leading up to the bombing and before and after pictures. On the library website an English version of the annual Peace Memorial Ceremony held in Hiroshima can be found. S. Richards
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Atomic bomb - History; Hiroshima - Bombardment, 1945; Nagasaki - Bombardment, 1945; Peace
PUBLISHER: NHK peace archives, Japan
REVIEW DATE: 02/09/08 [940.54] SCIS 1375775
Nobelprize.org
Visually appealing and very informative, this dynamic site is a well-constructed resource, especially for History and Science students. Simulation activities in Educational games have excellent learning materials on lasers, polymers, the ear, international trade, and the novel Lord of the flies. Each activity is based on a Nobel prize winning achievement and each has distinct syllabus connections. The site has a wealth of biographical primary source material in Nobel prizes, including Nobel laureate images, interviews, articles and speeches such as Max Planck’s 1918 Nobel lecture. Women Nobel laureates is a solid resource for junior students investigating female scientists, and Modern History students can imbibe the acceptance transcripts of syllabus personalities Gorbachev, Mandela, and Woodrow Wilson. The Nobel museum has some fine material for schools, and Alfred Nobel contains biographical data and a slide show of Nobel’s will and the major events leading to the first awards in 1901. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE; Science
SYLLABUS: Chemistry Stage 6; Economics Stage 6;English 7–10; Modern History Stage 6; Physics Stage 6; Science 7–10; Senior Science Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Nobel prizes – Biography; Nobel prizes – History
PUBLISHER: Nobel Foundation, Sweden
REVIEW DATE: 30/04/07 [001.4] SCIS 1073437
The Nuremberg Trials and their legacy
The site is devoted to the trial of German war criminals at Nuremberg. It is a reminder of postwar Europe and the effect of the International Military Tribunal. The resource highlights the trial as a major historical landmark. The site features photographs, the testimony of an investigator who gathered evidence for the trials, and pages from the tribunal’s program. Students can research Holocaust encyclopaedia articleson the tribunal, the trials and the search for perpetrators. The site has much of value for the study of Germany in this time period for students of Modern History, including animated maps of the Holocaust, personal histories, multimedia interactive tasks, original film footage and resources for teachers and students. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Holocaust, Jewish, 1939-1945; Nuremberg Trial of Major War Criminals, 1945-1946
PUBLISHER: United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, USA
REVIEW DATE: 30/04/07 [940.53] SCIS 1300624
Pacific stories learning
Visually attractive and easy to navigate, this wonderful site is packed with information and features for students and teachers. Videos, maps and classroom activities focus on Pacific and Melanesian regions, including Papua, Tonga and Vanuatu. Site users can view and download short clips of interviews with journalists and indigenous people, use an engaging Interactive map which has material on Shipwrecks, History, Trade and Marine life, and access lesson plans and work sheets directly linked to NSW syllabuses. In the Teachers guide, the interview with a journalist in Bougainville would be useful for the study of Frontline in Stage 6 English. The site has a wealth of material for Modern History. Links to further resources and films are an added bonus. H. Cobban
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English Stage 6: Advanced; Geography 7–10; History 7–10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Pacific Islands
PUBLISHER: Film Australia
REVIEW DATE: 17/12/07 [990] SCIS 1324641
Presidential recordings program
Between 1940 and 1973, US presidents from Roosevelt to Nixon secretly recorded almost 5000 hours of their telephone conversations and meetings. These audio recordings and transcripts are now publicly accessible. The site can be searched by specific presidents or by topics such as Cuba, nuclear weapons, and Vietnam. It also has virtual exhibits and classroom activities on several events, including the Vietnam War. This is an excellent resource for the HSC History Stage 6: Extension Case Study: The nature of the presidency of John Fitzgerald Kennedy and for several Options in Modern History, especially: Conflict in Europe 1935-1945; Conflict in Indochina 1954-1979; Conflict in the Pacific 1937-1951 and The Cold War 1945-1991. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6; HSC History Stage 6: Extension
SCIS SUBJECTS: United States - Politics and governments - 20th century;United States - Presidents - Quotations
PUBLISHER: Miller Center of Public Affairs, USA
REVIEW DATE: 25/11/08 [973.9] SCIS 1377721
Remember me: echoes
from the lost generation
A well resourced and interactive site, this resource
encourages students to actively reflect on the social impact
of WW1 and WW11. Requiem provides
information about composers, with photographs and lists of
their works. One boy is a dramatised
documentary about the life and death of a 16 year old soldier
in WW1, intended for use at Remembrance Day services in
Britain. Who cares? encourages students to
reflect on vandalism and propose creative solutions.
Truth-the first casualty? examines opposing
arguments regarding the use of gas in WW1. The site’s
excellent collection of primary sources, such as photographs
and letters, is used to show students how to assess material
as historians. There are ample teaching notes and student
activities, many of which are relevant to the Australian
context. E. Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage
6
KLA: CA; HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; HSIE
K–6; Modern History Stage 6; Music 7–10
SCIS SUBJECTS: Cemeteries – History;
War – Social aspects; World War, 1914-1918; World War,
1939-1945
PUBLISHER: CWGC, UK
REVIEW DATE: 21/08/05 [940.3] SCIS
1217387
Rewind [videorecording]
Film Australia, 1997 (130 min.)
ISBN none [306.0994]
Visual snapshots of twentieth century Australia are
chronologically depicted in 26 clips, of five minutes
duration each, on this set of two videos. Themes include:
school; transport; immigration; law; the land; women;
Indigenous issues; workers; urbanisation; war; fashion; and
entertainment. The format is excellent for classroom use and
likely to appeal to students. The series also documents
changes in media style and the presentation of Australian
identity. Its source material ranges from silent film and
early sound stock, through to propaganda and more recent
sophisticated media approaches. The linking narrative is
often supplemented by the original commentaries, which reveal
attitudinal change more than the visuals. The resource is
accompanied by a study guide and features vocabulary,
discussion ideas, and activities. This valuable source
material can be applied to many curriculum areas. G.
Spindler
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage
6
KLA: CA; English; HSIE; TAS
SYLLABUS: Aboriginal Studies 7-10; Design
& Technology 7-10; English 7-10; HSIE K-6; History Years
7-10; Modern History Stage 6; Society & Culture Stage 6;
Citizenship & Society Life Skills Stage 6 SCIS 961129
The Black Past: remembered & reclaimed: an online guide reference to African American history
Organised by the University of Washington, this online guide to African American history is a marvellous resource. It has an extensive Bibliography of articles that provide a range of perspectives, plus Digital archives; timelines; major speeches; primary sources; and significant museums. It also provides a research guide with links to reputable websites. The site’s best feature is the Online encyclopedia which includes hundreds of interesting figures in African American history. Students can search the encyclopedia using such headings as: People; Places; Institutions; Events; Groups and organizations. The work of an independent, non-profit organisation, the site relies on the contributions of a vast number of American academics. It provides valuable insights for Stage 6 Modern History students, particularly in relation to The trans-Atlantic slave trade and The civil rights movement in the USA in the 1950s and 1960s in the Preliminary course, and National Studies: USA 1919-1941 for HSC candidates. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: African American – history; United States – Race relations – History
PUBLISHER: BlackPast.org, USA
REVIEW DATE: 04/04/08 [305.896] SCIS 1353168
The Psychedelic 60s: literary tradition and social change
The seventh decade of the 20th century will be remembered as a time of dramatic social, cultural and political change. This comprehensive site explores the revolutionary 1960s. A question and answer format used in the Introduction highlights the impact of the decade and provides a context to the exhibits that are presented on the site. By accessing the menu, users can view a plethora of materials. 19th century precursors and 20th century precursors offer information about figures such as Walt Whitman and Ralph Waldo Emerson, who influenced the writers and musicians of the beat generation. Changes in music are also documented in Rock music and Woodstock. Civil rights and Four radical groups present detailed accounts of the fight for equality and the formation of political groups, including the Black Panther party. Especially helpful for a decade study or for examining historical and social contexts, this superb website is a great source of material. H. Gardiner
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7–10; English Stage 6; History 7–10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: American literature – 20th century; Popular culture – History – 20th century; United States – History – 1945–1974; United States – Social life and customs – 1945–1974
PUBLISHER: University of Virginia, USA
REVIEW DATE: 04/04/08 [306.0973] SCIS 1353581
The rise of Hitler
Adolf Hitler’s life is recounted in clear, accessible
prose on this web site, written by an American historian for
lovers of history. He provides a detailed account of
Hitler’s early life, education, talents, influences,
and his rise to power, with some photographs of the period.
The site is organised into many sections, for example
Hitler fails art exam and The beer
hall putsch, and traces Hitler’s life to 1939.
Students will find some very interesting details, for
example, young Adolf’s fascination for religion and the
priesthood. This would be an excellent resource for students
of the Modern History Option: Germany
1918–1945. E. Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Germany – Politics and
government – 1918–1933; Germany – Politics
and government – 1933–1949; Hitler, Adolf; Nazism
– Biography
PUBLISHER: History Place, USA
REVIEW DATE: 14/06/05 [943.086] SCIS
1205633
The tank man
A fine
opportunity for in-depth understanding of the origins, events and legacy
of the Tiananmen Square incident, this website is an informed analysis of the
confrontation between the Chinese people and their government in 1989. Based
on a compelling film which investigates the solitary protestor who stood in front
of the advancing tanks, the site includes online access to the film and those
extraordinary images of defiance. The site will strongly support discussion on
the progress of democratic change in China, from both historical and critical
literacy viewpoints. Its excellent primary and secondary source material includes
photographs, interviews with academics, journalists and eyewitnesses, a virtual
tour of Tiananmen Square, and links to an online discussion forum. It is an outstanding
resource for the Modern History Case Study: The Chinese government and Tiananmen
Square, and for English units on media manipulation. D. Giorgi
USER LEVEL: Stage
6 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7–10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: China – Politics and government – 1976-;
China – Politics and government – 21st century; Documentary films;
Government, Resistance to – History; Television documentaries
PUBLISHER: Public
Broadcasting Service, USA
REVIEW DATE: 01/11/06 [320.951] SCIS
1280074
Royal Australian Historical
Society
The RAHS maintains an extensive database of collections from
Australia’s history, some of which can be accessed from
this web site. Of most use to schools are
Cornucopia, which includes Images of
Federation; a RAHS history quiz on
events, people, and places,and Memorable quotations
about history, which would be useful for class
discussion. The site lays particular emphasis on Sydney and
New South Wales history, although Australia’s main
events, people, and places are mentioned. The site is
primarily a tool to access the RAHS, rather than to showcase
history per se. Using the online library services requires
library skills and some subject information. F. Campbell
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7-10; Modern History
Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Royal Australian Historical
Society
PUBLISHER: Royal Australian Historical
Society
REVIEW DATE: 11/06/04 [994.006] SCIS
1074450
Shadow play
Developed as a resource to support a documentary film of the same name, this site provides extensive information about Indonesia’s geography and history, and the violence against communists under President Suharto’s rule. It provides extensive primary and secondary sources of information, making use of a range of multimedia slideshows, video clips, photographs, and maps. There is an education section with a series of lessons plans with resources, however they are limited in scope and fail to make full use of the information on the site, focusing more on culture than politics. The site also has a profile of the changing Indonesia with Sukarnoputri as leader. The slick design will appeal to students and teachers, and its interactivity makes using the site both enjoyable and educational. A. Byron
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Geography Stage 6; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Indonesia – History – 20th century; Indonesia – Politics and government – 20th century; Indonesia – Social life and customs; Television documentaries
PUBLISHER: Thirteen/WNET, USA
REVIEW DATE: 15/0708 [791.45] SCIS 1364218
Teaching the American 20s: exploring the decade through literature and art
As a resource for examining the 1920s, this comprehensive site provides a wealth of reference material. Navigation is straightforward with information organised into four main themes. Big debates contains material that focuses on the social issues of the time. Small town, big city considers the shifting nature of urban life. Forms of creative expression are explored in America encounters the modern and cultural identity is investigated in Defining American culture. An excellent Image gallery is also organised according to the themes with a wide variety of posters, novel extracts, postcards and magazine covers that exemplify the fashion and politics of the decade. Particularly interesting are the Lesson plans that cover literature and history. Aimed at American secondary students, a number of lessons are available for The great Gatsby and the poetry of Langston Hughes. This impressive site is a worthy reference. H. Gardiner
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7-10; English Stage 6; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: American literature - Study and teaching;Arts, American - Study and teaching; United States - History - 1919-1933 - Study and teaching; United States - Social life and customs - 1919-1933 - Study and teaching
PUBLISHER: Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/09/08 [973.91] SCIS 1380653
Ten commandments of good historical writing:
with apologies to the author of the original ten / Theron F.
Schlabach
A hint of humour is used in the title of this web site to
interest students in these valuable suggestions for writing
up historical research. The concise listing gives advice for:
maintaining writing clarity; providing a context of people,
places and events to support the topic; using a structure of
thesis and subtheses to convey main and related ideas;
avoiding plagarism; and communicating in a clear and
interesting manner. All of this is essential to apply, not
only to the Project in the History Extension: Stage 6
syllabus, but also to effective reading and writing of
historical accounts for the Ancient History: Stage 6
syllabus and the Modern History: Stage 6
syllabus. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Ancient History Stage 6; History
Extension Stage 6; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Essay; History; Writing
(Authorship)
KEYWORDS: Historical research; Schlabach
PUBLISHER: Gerald W. Schlabach, USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 [907] SCIS 1093861
The First World War- The heritage of the
Great War 1914-1918
This English/Dutch site is useful for the Modern
History: Stage 6 syllabus providing extension research
and primary source study for students after they have
completed their initial study of World War 1 and its
aftermath. It includes a series of internal links
containing essays, pictures, music and primary source
material. Much of the primary material is rare and the
secondary material open to critical assessment. Some of the
internal links that could be of value are War Pictures,
>examining propaganda and censorship; letters; fiction
excerpts; quotations and many articles including
Trouble with undisciplined Australians, an
essay examining through primary material the issues of
Australian morale and discipline. This site could have some
application for Stage 5 history, but teachers need to
approach this with sensitivity, as some illustrations are
graphic and confronting. P. Myers
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: World War, 1914-1918; World
War, 1914-1918 - Australia
KEYWORDS: The Great War
PUBLISHER: Rob Ruggenberg
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04
The
state archives: State Records NSW
Teachers and students of history will find this site of particular worth
as it offers access to a vast collection of written records, documentation
and historical information on Australia’s past from 1788. School
teachers & studentsfeatures Archives
in brief, Digital gallery, Indexes online,
and Photo investigator for a diversity of themes and subject
matter. Of particular interest are convict records, state records relating to
Aboriginal people, histories of the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge,
migration records, Tracing your family history,
Ned Kelly, Sydney’s Rocks area, Federation, the bubonic plague and our
sporting heritage. It offers a wealth of source material to promote further investigation,
discussion and analysis and has particular relevance for Modern History students
undertaking a Historical investigation, through the development of investigative,
research and presentation skills. A. Fisher
USER LEVEL: Stage
5 Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; HSC
History Stage 6: Extension; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Australian
History
PUBLISHER: State
Records NSW, Australian
REVIEW DATE: 26/05/06
[994.4] SCIS 1251501
Timeline: some historical events, chosen at
random
Listing events dating from 30 000 BC to 1990, this
Eurocentric timeline includes both trivial and traditionally
significant incidents. It provides a broad view of history
with many aspects mentioned, such as: health, with the
introduction of tobacco to Spain; politics, on the fall of
Saigon; geography, focussing on the eruption of Mount St.
Helens; and the everyday, with the patent of the thimble.
While there is a North American perspective, this does not
detract from the potential for this site to be an interesting
stimulus to encourage further research into the stories
behind the dates, or to devise an alternative timeline from
perhaps a wider world perspective. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History Extension Stage 6;
History Years 7-10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Chronology, Historical;
World history
KEYWORDS: Historical timeline
PUBLISHER: University of Washington, USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 [909] SCIS 1093840
Titanic: a special exhibit from Encyclopaedia Britannica
The site is slide show exhibit of the luxury passenger liner, Titanic, lost on its maiden voyage in 1912. Annotated slides include images of the Titanic under construction in Belfast, poor Irish emigrants waiting to board the ship, facsimiles, close-ups of construction details, the ship's lifeboats, the lavish fittings of the first class staterooms, parlour suites, lounge and dining rooms. Photographs of passengers, and profiles of some first class passengers such as Astor and Strauss, make the site an interesting visual resource for the study of rich and poor in European society in the Modern History Stage 6 Core Study: The world at the beginning of the twentieth century. Historically, the event caused a societal shift in thinking about wealth and excess. Underwater images of the wreck and some scientific images dramatically illustrate the effect of the sea for students of the Chemistry Option: Shipwrecks, corrosion and conservation. For students pursuing an interest in this famous ship, Titanic on the web and the site's reading notes will prove useful resources. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE; Science
SYLLABUS: Chemistry Stage 6;Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Titanic (Ship); Shipwrecks - Atlantic Ocean
PUBLISHER: Encyclopaedia Britannica, USA
REVIEW DATE: 25/11/08 [910.9163] SCIS 1377768
The Vietnam Center and Archive
The site is a virtual archive of over 2.7 million pages of scanned materials, including documents, photographs, letters, oral histories, artefacts, sound recordings, moving images, slides, negatives and maps. Centring on the American experience in the Vietnam War, this outstanding website has a terrific collection of digitised personal records, and fascinating art and language records, some explicit, within the Vietnam graffiti project. The site contains a wealth of information on the conflict and it employs a variety of comprehensive search strategies. A search for Australian records is productive and reveals a large number of political and military and personal records from the 1960s to the present. Resources are available in digital format for a small cost. This detailed resource supports the Modern History Option: Conflict in Indochina 1954-1979 and the History 7-10 Topic: Australia in the Vietnam War era. A. Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7-10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Vietnam War, 1961-1975
PUBLISHER: Texas Tech University, USA
REVIEW DATE: 19/12/08 [959.704] SCIS 1391844
The Vietnam War
Describing America’s involvement in Vietnam is the
brief of this site. Using the sections of Seeds of
conflict 1945–1960, America commits
1961–1964, The jungle war
1965–1968, and The bitter end
1969–1975, the site presents information as a
detailed chronology with a Slide show of the
war. The material is from the American point of view, and
seems to be focussed substantially on events, with little
interpretation attempted by the writer. It is a very useful
adjunct to the Modern History Option: Conflict in
Indochina 1954–1979, and the History Stage 5
Topic: Australia in the Vietnam War era, and would
be especially useful for teachers and students who wish to
address historiographical issues outcomes. E. Searle
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; Modern
History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Vietnam War, 1961-1975
– United States
PUBLISHER: The History Place, USA
REVIEW DATE: 14/06/05 [959.704] SCIS
1205672
World cultures
Designed for online learning, each of the units found here
includes substantial historical context from the author,
selected academic readings, and a structured assignment.
Useful parameters are provided for critical evaluation of web
sites. Topics range from ancient societies, particularly
Asian ones, to the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and modern
subjects such as democracy and fascism, examining the meaning
of culture. Of particular note is Two perspectives:
the slave trade. A simple layout, with glossaries
and anthologies, provides easy navigation. This site is
relevant to the curriculum in ancient and modern history. C.
Helps
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6
Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History Years 7-10; Ancient
History Stage 6; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Civilisations; Social life
and customs; World history
KEYWORDS: Civil rights; communism; culture;
democracy; fascism; Minoan society; Mycenaean society
PUBLISHER: Washington State University, USA
AUTHOR: Richard Hooker
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 SCIS 1030585
World history archives
The working class perspective, which permeates the articles
available throughout this site, provides useful examples to
promote the analysis of different perspectives and
interpretations of history that is central to the HSC
History Extension: Stage 6 syllabus. Geographical
locations of countries provide major headings to access
diverse articles related to political, social, cultural and
economic movements in individual countries. Many listings
have brief annotations. Topics of inclusions are not always
politically significant, but are varied, brief and worth
browsing for a particular view of the world, and could
stimulate an interest for further research from other sites.
World historiography provides some useful
comment on various approaches to history. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History Extension Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Historiography; World
history
KEYWORDS: Historiography
PUBLISHER: Hartford Web Publishing, USA
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 [909] SCIS 1093858
World History: HyperHistory
A comprehensive history of the world through the use of
graphical timelines, lifelines, charts, and maps, this site
is divided into four main sections: People;
History; Events; and
Maps. The People and
Events sections are colour coded to enable
easy recognition of which area they represent. For example,
all references to the science, technology, economy, and
discovery are colour coded green. The text is clear and
concise, appearing in a separate frame and maintaining the
graphical reference in a central frame. The help pages
provide a useful overview of the site. Time is needed to
explore the site thoroughly, but it presents a valuable
educational resource. N. Cooper
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage
6
KLA: CA; HSIE; Science; ST
SYLLABUS: Ancient History Stage 6; History
Years 7-10; HSIE K-6; Modern History Stage 6; Music 7-10;
Science & Technology K-6; Science Years 7-10; Visual Arts
7-10
SCIS SUBJECTS: History, Ancient; History,
Modern
KEYWORDS: History; world history
PUBLISHER: HyperHistory Online, USA
AUTHOR: Andreas Nothinger
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04
World War I
Providing primary sources from American popular culture, this site includes General images of WWI, Political speeches (audio recordings), Patriotic warfare: the music of WWI (audio recordings), WWI sheet music, WWI posters, Political cartoons and Political cartoons: the League of Nations. This extensive collection includes postcards, a rare speech by General Pershing and such contrasting songs as 'I didn't raise my boy to be a soldier' and the fiercely patriotic 'It's a long way to Berlin but we'll get there'. The cartoons are artistically crude and the sheet music covers are often as colourful and emotive as the posters, which are remarkably similar to those produced in Britain. This is a good resource for studies of changing attitudes, wartime propaganda and the impact of the American entry into the war in the Modern History Stage 6 Core: World War I 1914-1919. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Political satire - Cartoons and caricatures; Propaganda - History; Speeches, addresses, etc - History and criticism; World War, 1914-1918 - Cartoons and caricatures; World War, 1914-1918 - Propaganda; World War, 1914-1918 - Songs and music; World War, 1914-1918 - Sources
PUBLISHER: Authentic History Center, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/12/08 [940.3] SCIS 1391966
World War 1 document archive
An extensive and varied collection of resources for World
War 1 is found here. Some of the sections include: a
biographical dictionary; official documents such as the
provisions of the armistice; photographs; and a list of
documents year by year. There are also a large number of both
contemporary and modern commentaries, where students could,
for example, investigate the debate on General Haig or the
truth of the German atrocities in Belgium. Such an abundance
of information will enrich the study of World War 1, but will
also require student skills to recognise the relevance and
usefulness of the material encountered. D. Pook
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: World War, 1914-1918
KEYWORDS: World War 1
PUBLISHER: The Great War Primary Document
Archive, Inc., USA
AUTHOR: Jane Plotke
REVIEW DATE: 10/5/04 SCIS 1030601
World War I political cartoons
Created by a teacher, this small collection of mainly American political cartoons from 1915 and 1916 provides some insight into wartime propaganda and the American entry into the war. The collection includes a cartoon on the Zimmerman note and five cartoons on the U-boat war. They include cartoons critical of the British blockade of German maritime trade and the practice of the British merchant navy of flying neutral flags. The site also provides brief background notes and questions to guide students' analysis. As these cartoons provide different perspectives to the many readily available British and German wartime cartoons, the site is a useful resource for studies of wartime propaganda in the Modern History Core: World War I 1914-1919. R. Darlington
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: Cartoons and caricatures - History; Political satire - Cartoons and caricatures; Propaganda - History; World War, 1914-1918 - Cartoons and caricatures; World War, 1914-1918 - Propaganda
PUBLISHER: J. Peterson, USA
REVIEW DATE: 02/12/08 [940.302] SCIS 1391957
WW2 people’s war: an archive of World War Two memories
When the BBC asked for contributions from the British public regarding their experience of WWII, they were inundated with 47 000 stories and 15 000 images. Considering the volume of documentation they have included, the site is efficiently laid out and easy to navigate. Documents can be searched via categories of Home front, Armed forces, Internment and Occupation. Especially handy is the timeline, which gives fact files for over 140 major events and provides links to stories and images. The Learning zone has an enormous amount of teaching ideas. The site is a fantastic way to explore Britain in wartime through primary sources. P. Gilchrist
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; Modern History Stage 6
SCIS SUBJECTS: World War, 1939-1945
PUBLISHER: BBC, UK
REVIEW DATE: 17/12/07 [940.54] SCIS 1331326
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