Activity Introduction
Quick summary: What is the link between health and poverty? In this lesson, students explore the underlying non-medical factors, known as the social determinants of health, and how they influence health outcomes. Utilising statistical information, the class explores the interconnected nature of poverty, health, and social determinants while identifying some of the main drivers of poverty. Students comprehend how factors such as improved social security payments, employment opportunities, and affordable housing can reduce poverty and improve health outcomes. The lesson culminates in a social action task where students use their voices to advocate for better government policies for those experiencing poverty.
Learning intentions:
- Students understand that when people are experiencing poverty, their health may be affected
- Students can explain how the social determinants of health are influenced by poverty
- Students can propose ways to support others who face financial hardship.
21st-century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Years 7 & 8 HPE:
- Evaluate health information and communicate their own and others’ health concerns (ACPPS076)
- Plan and use health practices, behaviours and resources to enhance health, safety and wellbeing of their communities (ACPPS077)
Syllabus outcomes: PD4-1, PD4-2, PD4-7
General capabilities: Literacy, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Capability, Critical and Creative Thinking, Personal and Social Capabilities, Ethical Understanding.
Cross-curriculum priority: Sustainability
Relevant parts of Year 7 & 8 achievement standards:
By the end of Year 8, students evaluate the impact on wellbeing of relationships and valuing diversity. They analyse factors that influence emotional responses. They investigate strategies and practices that enhance their own, others’ and community health, safety and wellbeing. They examine the cultural and historical significance of physical activities and examine how connecting to the environment can enhance health and wellbeing.
Students apply personal and social skills to establish and maintain respectful relationships and promote safety, fair play and inclusivity. They demonstrate skills to make informed decisions and propose and implement actions that promote their own and others’ health, safety and wellbeing.
Topic: Poverty and Inequality in Australia
Time required: 100 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – facilitate class discussion, lead students in activities.
Resources required:
- A device capable of presenting a video to the class
- A device that allows students to conduct research in a safe manner
- Student Worksheets – one copy per student.
Keywords: health, human development, income, poverty, social action, social determinants, social housing, socioeconomic status, welfare.
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.
Teacher Preparation
