Water Sources and Distribution
Students will investigate different sources of fresh water and how it is distributed globally and locally.
Key Questions
- Differentiate between surface water and groundwater sources.
- Analyze the factors that influence the uneven distribution of fresh water across the globe.
- Evaluate the challenges of providing clean water to remote communities.
ACARA Content Descriptions
About This Topic
Indigenous Australian Art is an exploration of the world's oldest continuous living culture. In this topic, Year 7 students learn that First Nations art is not just 'decoration' but a sophisticated system of maps, legal documents, and spiritual narratives. This aligns with ACARA's emphasis on understanding the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art practices and their deep connection to Country.
Students investigate regional styles, from the x-ray art of Arnhem Land to the dot painting of the Western Desert. They learn about the significance of natural pigments (ochre) and the protocols surrounding certain symbols and stories. This topic is handled with care, acknowledging the impact of colonisation while celebrating the resilience and innovation of contemporary Indigenous artists. It comes alive through collaborative investigations of 'visual storytelling' and respectful engagement with First Nations perspectives.
Active Learning Ideas
Inquiry Circle: Regional Style Map
Groups are assigned a specific region of Australia (e.g., Tiwi Islands, Kimberley, Central Desert). They research the unique artistic techniques and materials of that region and create a visual 'fact sheet' to share with the class.
Gallery Walk: Contemporary Voices
Display works by modern Indigenous artists like Lin Onus or Tracey Moffatt. Students move in pairs to discuss how these artists use 'modern' materials (like acrylics or photography) to tell 'ancient' stories about Country and identity.
Think-Pair-Share: Art as a Map
Show an aerial view of a landscape alongside an Indigenous painting of the same area. Students discuss with a partner how the painting acts as a 'map' of water sources, food, and sacred sites.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionAll Indigenous art is 'dot painting.'
What to Teach Instead
Dot painting is specific to certain regions (like the Western Desert) and became popular in the 1970s. Active research into regional styles helps students see the incredible diversity of First Nations art, including weaving, carving, and bark painting.
Common MisconceptionIndigenous art is 'primitive' or 'simple.'
What to Teach Instead
Indigenous art is highly sophisticated, often containing multiple layers of meaning (some of which are 'secret/sacred'). Active 'decoding' exercises help students appreciate the complex social and legal functions of these works.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Country' in Indigenous art?
Is it okay for non-Indigenous students to make 'dot paintings'?
How can active learning help students understand Indigenous art?
What is ochre?
Planning templates for Science
5E Model
The 5E Model structures lessons through five phases (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate), guiding students from curiosity to deep understanding through inquiry-based learning.
unit plannerThematic Unit
Organize a multi-week unit around a central theme or essential question that cuts across topics, texts, and disciplines, helping students see connections and build deeper understanding.
rubricSingle-Point Rubric
Build a single-point rubric that defines only the "meets standard" level, leaving space for teachers to document what exceeded and what fell short. Simple to create, easy for students to understand.
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