Rationale
Points to I would discuss with the mother and son:
The Commerce subject falls under the Studies of Society and the Environment (SOSE) learning area of the Curriculum and Standards Framework (CSF). "SOSE is a study of human progress and how people have organized themselves into societies over time, and how they have interacted with their physical environments" (CSF). I believe the knowledge students gain from exploring these issues is invaluable because helps them to better understand the world they live in. It also encourages students to understand the values that strengthen Australian society; which is one of the goals of Civics and Citizenship education.
In Victoria, Civics and Citizenship crosses …show more content…
In years 7 to 10 the CSF outline for SOSE comprises the strands of History, Geography and also Economy and society, which is what the schools Commerce subject is based on.
"The Economy and society strand introduces students to the structure and management of the economy and its resources, the world of work and business, and Australia 's political and legal systems. It promotes the development of enterprise skills and attributes, and draws on past and contemporary issues and a range of perspectives, particularly those related to the future and technology" (CSF).
The major concepts developed in the Economy and society strand include: Civics and social organization, Citizenship, Economic management and decision-making, Employment, Enterprise, Business and financial organization and …show more content…
Having knowledge about these concepts and how to apply them is beneficial for young adults to learn early. "With changing times, the need to give young people a grip on money management has increased... More than a third of school students work, and two-thirds of 15 to 19-year-olds earn up to $200 a week. Not all know how to handle that income" (Russell, 2004; Age). Commerce provides students with "an understanding of the relationships between consumers, businesses and governments in the overall economy" (Board of Studies, NSW, 2003). These are issues that they may not necessarily think about, even though they already earning and spending money.
The schools Commerce subject also aims to create awareness of the values and attitudes associated with being a responsible citizen. It encourages them to "value and appreciate ethical and socially responsible behaviour in relation to personal decision-making, business practices, employment and legal issues" (Board of Studies, NSW, 2003). It also informs students of the "fundamental rights, rules and laws that promote fairness, justice and equity in our society through responsible and active citizenship" (Board of Students, NSW,