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 media literacy lesson, students learn how the media characterises real people. With a focus on Adam Goodes, students analyse media constructions and reflect on what is included and excluded about his character. Then, modelling media-literate practices such as seeking out further, and credible, information, students are guided to websites to gain more information about Adam Goodes. They work collaboratively to gain a fuller picture of Adam Goodes and then reflect on what they have learnt about being media-savvy consumers.
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 how language can influence perceptions of character.
- Students understand how the media shapes characters and how aspects of a well-rounded person are presented in simplified forms in order to present a point of view or maintain audience engagement.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Year 7 English:
- Compare the ways that language and images are used to create character, and to influence emotions and opinions in different types of texts (ACELT1621)
Syllabus outcomes: EN4-1A
General capabilities: Literacy, Intercultural Understanding, Personal and Social Capability, Critical and Creative Thinking
Cross-curriculum priority: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures (OI.6, OI,9)
Relevant parts of Year 7 achievement standards: Students demonstrate understanding of how the choice of language features, images and vocabulary affects meaning. Students understand how the selection of a variety of language features can influence an audience.
Topic: Learning Through Film, Social Issues, Indigenous Education
This lesson is part of the wider unit of work: The Final Quarter – Media Constructions – English – Year 7
Time required: 60 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – scaffold student discussion
Resources required:
- Device capable of presenting a video to the class
- Student Worksheets – one copy per student.
Keywords: media literacy, characterisation, characters, media, news, analysis, The Final Quarter, documentary, Adam Goodes.
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.
