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 investigate the role that celebrities can have in advocating for social issues and how change can occur. They will build on their understanding of role model characteristics and how the Australian of the Year Award celebrates the achievements of people who are contributing to make Australia better. Students will explore how Adam Goodes used his celebrity and fame to raise awareness of social issues and advocate for change, leading to him receiving the Australian of the Year Award. They will then be invited to imagine they are a celebrity and create their own plan to influence society for a social issue of their choice. They will have the opportunity to give and receive peer feedback.
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 understand the characteristics that Australians see as important in a role model.
- Students understand the role that celebrities can have in advocating for social issues and change.
- Students understand the way in which Australian of the Year recipients contribute to civic life.
- Students understand what factors to consider when a celebrity uses their fame to advocate for 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)
- Account for different interpretations and points of view (ACHCS085)
- Critically evaluate information and ideas from a range of sources in relation to civics and citizenship topics and issues (ACHCS084)
Syllabus outcomes: AS5.7, AS5.8, AS5.9
General capabilities: Literacy, Personal and Social Capability, Ethical Understanding, Intercultural Understanding
Cross-curriculum priority: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures (OI.9)
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: 80 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – facilitate class discussion and promote collaborative group work.
Resources required:
- Adam Goodes Profile (optional)
- Device capable of presenting a video to the class
- Student Worksheet – one per student
- You’re A Celebrity Worksheet – one per student or group.
Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, identity, racism, role model, celebrity, fame, characteristics, advocate, social change, social issues, Australian of the Year, honour roll, gallery walk, feedback, PMI, 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.
