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 what values are and find examples of common Australian values within Australian social and cultural groups. Working in small groups, they will then use this understanding to find examples of when these values are demonstrated at home, at school, in their local community, by institutions and government. Students will be given an opportunity to discuss the similarities and differences in the interpretation of values and the idea that values are not set, rather a reflection of society at the time. They will then explore the concept of being ‘un-Australian’ and use a clip from The Final Quarter documentary to investigate ways in which values can be interpreted and help shape Australian society.
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 what values are and identify common Australian values.
- Students understand that different social and cultural groups reflect a range of social values.
- Students understand what is meant by the term ‘un-Australian’ and why people use this term.
- Students understand that experiences shape people’s values.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Year 7 Civics & Citizenship:
- How values, including freedom, respect, inclusion, civility, responsibility, compassion, equality and a ‘fair go’, can promote cohesion within Australian society (ACHCK052)
- How groups, such as religious and cultural groups, express their particular identities; and how this influences their perceptions of others and vice versa (ACHCK053)
- Critically analyse information and ideas from a range of sources in relation to civics and citizenship topics and issues (ACHCS056)
- Reflect on their role as a citizen in Australia’s democracy (ACHCS060)
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.6, OI.9)
Relevant parts of Year 7 achievement standards: Students explain the diverse nature of Australian society and identify the importance of shared values in promoting a cohesive society. They consider 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 – Australian Values – Civ & Cit – Year 7
Time required: 60 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 Worksheets – one per student
- Values in Society Worksheet – one copy per small group.
Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, identity, racism, Australian values, values, freedom, respect, inclusion, fair go, tolerance, equality, un-Australian, 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.
