Activity Introduction
Quick summary: Retired AFL star Adam Goodes is known to many for his resilient journey in the face of detrimental treatment by AFL spectators and the media beginning in 2013.
In this lesson, students will explore how different social structures influence their understanding of social issues. In groups, they will brainstorm ways in which people receive information and messages about social issues and reflect on how effective these methods are. Students will watch the trailer for the documentary The Final Quarter and explore the purpose and intended impact of the film. They will then investigate how effective the film has been in changing racist attitudes and behaviours using a range of sources. Students will be given an opportunity to workshop ideas to develop that could be effective in challenging racist attitudes and behaviours in Australia through the Arts. They will finish the lesson by reflecting on the influences that impact their understanding of social issues.
Using only archival footage aired at the time, The Final Quarter holds a mirror to Australia and is an opportunity to reconsider what happened on and off the football field. Learn more about the film here.
We highly recommend that students view the film in its entirety before participating in subsequent lessons. Our Watching the Film lessons are designed to support you in facilitating this process. Given the content, it is also important for teachers to communicate with parents and guardians of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students before playing the film and/or engaging with the teaching and learning resources.
Note: This film may not be suitable for viewing by all young people. Teachers are advised to use their discretion when deciding whether to show this film. If teaching in a context with a high proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, it is imperative that guidance is sought from the Principal and Aboriginal Education Officer (or equivalent) prior to screening the film.
Learning intentions:
- Students identify a range of ways in which people learn and receive messages about social issues.
- Students understand that feature films can be an effective tool to challenge and change attitudes and behaviour.
- Students understand that The Final Quarter provoked different reactions and perspectives on racism in Australia.
- Students understand the importance of challenging racist attitudes and behaviours to create social change.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Year 9 Civics & Citizenship:
- How and why individuals and groups, including religious groups, participate in and contribute to civic life (ACHCK079)
- The influence of a range of media, including social media, in shaping identities and attitudes to diversity (ACHCK080)
- Account for different interpretations and points of view (ACHCS085)
- Recognise and consider multiple perspectives and ambiguities, and use strategies to negotiate and resolve contentious issues (ACHCS086)
Syllabus outcomes: AS5.9
General capabilities: Literacy, Personal and Social Capability, Ethical Understanding, Intercultural Understanding
Cross-curriculum priority: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures
Relevant parts of Year 9 achievement standards: Students analyse a range of factors that influence identities and attitudes to diversity. They reflect on how groups participate and contribute to civic life. They compare and account for different interpretations and points of view on civics and citizenship issues.
Topic: Social Issues, Indigenous Education, Learning Through Film
This lesson is part of the wider unit of work: The Final Quarter – Media And Influence – Civ & Cit – Year 9
Time required: 60 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – facilitate class discussion and promote collaborative group work.
Resources required:
- Butcher’s paper and marker (one per group)
- Device capable of presenting a video to the class
- The Final Quarter Directors Statement (optional)
- Student Worksheets – one per student.
Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, identity, racism, social messages, media, social media, attitudes and behaviours, perspective, emotions, empathy, AFL, Adam Goodes, documentary, The Final Quarter.
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.
