1.1 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture

What is your child learning: 

This term, our 1/2 class is starting a History and Social Sciences unit on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander [ATSI] culture and history. We are learning about ways which ATSI people maintain their special connection to country/place (Australian, Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority [ACARA], 2016a).  I am introducing a controversial slant to the unit by comparing how ATSI people maintained their special connection to country/place before the colonisation/invasion, and afterwards. 

I am approaching this topic with a controversial slant because children’s engagement in such topics strengthens their listening, debate, and problem-solving skills, whilst also further developing their empathy and understanding (Global Education, 2012).

Why is your child learning this:

The Australian Curriculum (ACARA, 2016b) is used in the classroom to help me to give your children a quality education, so that they are best prepared for life outside of school. A significant part of that education is the integration of the general capabilities.

There are many general capabilities that will be developed throughout this unit. One skill that is developed consistently is literacy, as your children are reading, speaking, and listening constantly. 

How they are learning this:

Throughout this unit, your child will be engaging in the following activities that are designed to solidify their knowledge:

• ·         Your child will brainstorm, draw, and describe a place that is special to them. They will share these thoughts with a partner and listen to their point of view as well.
• ·         Your child will be asked the question “What do you think can be a special place for Aboriginal people?” They will be given time to brainstorm their ideas with a partner. They will be shown different photos of landscapes around Australia, along with the explanation that the land, in general, is their special place; it is the place where they hunted, gathered food, and held ceremonies many years ago (Creative Spirits, 2016).
• ·         “Do you think the special place for Aboriginal people has changed from many years ago to today?” will be the next question posed to the class. As each child answers, I will ask them why they think that.  
• ·         I will read a story to the children called “The Rainbow Serpent”. This story highlights the sacred relationship between land, animals, and people (Australian Government, 2015). As I am reading, your child will have a piece of paper in front of them and they will draw what they feel using pictures and symbols.

How you can support your child’s learning:

We recognise that parent/carer support is a critical part of each child’s development and progress. To maximise your child’s learning, learning must also take place at home.

This can be done simply reading them a story, or to challenge your child’s thinking when they are stating an opinion. Ask them to give you a reason as to why that is their opinion. This is an excellent way to develop their critical thinking skills.