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 the concept of racism using historical and contemporary examples in Australian society. They will complete a timeline activity to highlight significant events that have shaped attitudes towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures and histories. Students will read and evaluate an opinion article that challenges the audience to make connections between historical events and racism in Australia. Students will be given an opportunity to research contemporary examples of racism in the media and contemporary injustices that many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have challenged or are currently challenging.
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 define racism and provide examples in an Australian context.
- Students understand why positive race relations is important to reconciliation in Australia.
- Students identify historical events that have made it necessary for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to fight for human rights, equality and equity.
- Students discuss historical and intergenerational injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples since European colonisation of Australia.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Year 10 Civics & Citizenship:
- The challenges to and ways of sustaining a resilient democracy and cohesive society (ACHCK094)
- Critically evaluate information and ideas from a range of sources in relation to civics and citizenship topics and issues (ACHCS097)
- Account for different interpretations and points of view (ACHCS098)
- Reflect on their role as a citizen in Australian, regional and global contexts (ACHCS102)
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.6)
Relevant parts of Year 10 achievement standards:
Students evaluate a range of factors that sustain democratic societies. They account for and evaluate different interpretations and points of view on civics and citizenship issues. They evaluate ways they can be active and informed citizens in different contexts.
Topic: Social Issues, Indigenous Education, Learning Through Film
This lesson is part of the wider unit of work: The Final Quarter – Racism, Rights And Reconciliation – Civ & Cit – Year 10
Time required: 90 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – facilitate class discussion and promote collaborative group work.
Resources required:
- Adam Goodes Utopia Article – one copy per student
- Device capable of presenting a video to the class
- Different Forms Of Racism (optional)
- Significant Events Activity – one set printed and cut up per group
- Student Worksheets – one copy per student.
Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, racism, injustice, equity, equality, recognition, perspective, emotions, empathy, Utopia, 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.
Teacher Preparation
