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 what ‘freedom of expression’ means and make connections to real world examples in the media. To activate prior knowledge, they will identify key terms in a definition jumble activity and use these terms to help develop their own definition of freedom of expression. Students will watch a clip from the feature documentary The Final Quarter and reflect on how they feel and what they think about Adam Goodes’ 2015 ‘war cry’ goal celebration. Students will then be given an opportunity to work in groups to analyse a range of media commentaries about the war cry and form their own conclusions about freedom of expression in Australia.
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 will define key terms relevant to understanding freedom of expression in Australia (E.g. democracy, constitutional recognition, discrimination, vilification, racism).
- Students can explain what ‘freedom of expression’ means in Australia.
- Students understand the importance of actively listening to the voices and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- Students understand the importance of freedom of expression in supporting people to feel a sense of belonging and empowerment.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Year 8 Civics & Citizenship:
- The freedoms that enable active participation in Australia’s democracy within the bounds of law, including freedom of speech, association, assembly, religion and movement (ACHCK061)
- Critically analyse information and ideas from a range of sources in relation to civics and citizenship topics and issues (ACHCS070)
- Reflect on their role as a citizen in Australia’s democracy (ACHCS074)
Syllabus outcomes: AS4.8, AS4.9
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.6)
Relevant parts of Year 8 achievement standards:
Students analyse features of Australian democracy, and explain features of Australia’s democracy that enable active participation. They explain different 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 – Being Australian – Civ & Cit – Year 8
Time required: 100 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – facilitate class discussion and promote collaborative group work.
Resources required:
- Butcher’s paper and markers (optional)
- Definition Jumble Activity – one set printed and cut up per group
- Device capable of presenting a video to the class
- Student Worksheets – one copy per student
- Handling Sensitive Topics and Issues.
Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, identity, diversity, belonging, freedom of expression, freedom of speech, democracy, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, UDHR, United National Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, UNDRIP, recognition, 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.
