The Stolen Generations: Policies and Impacts
Examine the history of forced removal policies and their devastating impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Key Questions
- Analyze the stated intentions versus the actual impacts of the Stolen Generations policies.
- Explain the long-term intergenerational trauma caused by forced removals.
- Evaluate the role of government policies in perpetuating racial discrimination.
ACARA Content Descriptions
About This Topic
Australia in the Asian Century examines the strategic, economic, and cultural pivot toward the Asia-Pacific region. This topic traces the shift from Australia's traditional reliance on 'great and powerful friends' (the UK and US) to a more integrated role within Asia. Students investigate the impact of the rise of China and Japan, the development of regional forums like APEC, and the challenges of balancing Western alliances with Asian engagement.
In the Year 12 Modern History curriculum, this is a vital study of Australia's changing place in the world. It aligns with ACARA's focus on the Asia-Pacific region and the impact of globalization on national identity. Students analyze the 'Asian Century' white paper and the ongoing debates over trade, human rights, and regional security.
This topic comes alive when students can physically model the complexities of regional diplomacy through a collaborative simulation of an APEC summit.
Active Learning Ideas
Simulation Game: An APEC Summit
Assign students roles as leaders from Australia, China, Japan, Indonesia, and the US. They must negotiate a regional trade agreement while addressing sensitive issues like environmental standards and labor rights, illustrating the difficulty of reaching consensus in a diverse region.
Inquiry Circle: The Rise of China
Groups are given data on Australia's trade with China over the last 30 years. They must research how this economic relationship has impacted Australian domestic policy and create a 'risk-benefit analysis' for the future of the relationship.
Think-Pair-Share: Is Australia an 'Asian' Nation?
Students analyze Paul Keating's famous statement that Australia is 'in' Asia but not 'of' Asia. They work in pairs to discuss what this means for Australian identity today, sharing their insights on the tension between our history and our geography.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionThe 'Asian Century' is just about selling iron ore to China.
What to Teach Instead
It involves deep cultural, educational, and diplomatic integration across the whole region. Peer discussion of the 'New Colombo Plan' helps students see the importance of 'soft power' and people-to-people links in the Asian Century.
Common MisconceptionAustralia must choose between the US and China.
What to Teach Instead
Australian foreign policy has traditionally sought to maintain both a security alliance with the US and an economic partnership with China. A collaborative investigation into 'middle power diplomacy' helps students understand the complex balancing act required.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Asian Century'?
What is APEC?
How has migration from Asia changed Australia?
How can active learning help students understand Australia's role in Asia?
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