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 importance of diversity in the media with a focus on the presentation of social issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. They will use their understanding of television programming to explore the diversity of people who present information to camera. Students will then evaluate the attitudes and views of a range of media outlets and the presenters shown in The Final Quarter. They will then have an opportunity to investigate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices in the media today so they can see the possibilities for gathering diverse perspectives.
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 importance of having diversity in who presents information on TV.
- Students understand some of the problems associated with the lack of representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in mainstream Australian media.
- Students understand how media outlets and TV presenters share attitudes and views about social issues.
- Students understand how TV presenters’ attitudes and views differ.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Year 9 Civics & Citizenship:
- The influence of a range of media, including social media, in shaping identities and attitudes to diversity (ACHCK080)
- Critically evaluate information and ideas from a range of sources in relation to civics and citizenship topics and issues (ACHCS084)
- 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: AS5.7, 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.5, 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. When planning for action, students take into account multiple perspectives, use democratic processes, and negotiate solutions to an issue. Students develop and present evidence-based arguments on civics and citizenship issues using appropriate texts, subject-specific language and concepts. They analyse 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 – Media And Influence – Civ & Cit – Year 9
Time required: 100 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – facilitate class discussion and promote collaborative group work.
Resources required:
- Device capable of presenting a video to the class
- Shannan Dodson Article – one copy per student
- Student Worksheets – one copy per student.
Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, identity, racism, media representation, media, NITV, Marngrook Footy Show, 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.
