Abrego.Jessica_blog1: 1.1 Civics and Citzenship- Teaching a controversial issue

Should the date of Australia Day be changed?

What students are learning:

This term students will develop understanding about how and why Australia day is celebrated. Students will respond to the inquiry question “Should Australia day be changed to an alternative date?” The inquiry is based upon developing your child’s perspective on a controversial topic, while also developing their understanding about how others may perceive celebrations within the community.

Civics and Citizenship is one of the key learning areas of Humanities and Social Sciences which will be used to teach your child the knowledge, skills and learning experiences required to become an active participant within society. Integration of the History strand and The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures priority will also provide students opportunities to develop deep knowledge and understanding of Australia Day.

How students are learning and why:

The Australian Curriculum is underpinned by the educational goals outlined in the Melbourne Declaration which support students understanding of Australia’s national values to become active and informed citizens.

The aim of the inquiry help students identify personal values, develop an understanding of Australian history and understand and acknowledge the values of others. These skills will be developed through questioning, critical thinking, problem solving, communication and making informed decisions and adapting to change.

Students will be shown a short video 'Australia day' (please right click link below) http://www.abc.net.au/btn/story/s1803207.htm providing an insight what Australia Day means to different people. This may challenge initial beliefs that there is only one ‘correct view’ and deepen understanding.

Students will research various sources, analyse and interpret information gathered and reflect on how and why people chose to celebrate Australia Day including alternative viewpoints. Inquiry allows students to combine prior and newly acquired knowledge to make informed judgements in Australia’s diverse society. Students will form an opinion whether or not they believe the date of Australia Day should be changed based upon significant events of the past and present as January 26th is not a day for celebration for everyone in Australia.

How you can support your child's learning:

This term we will be introducing a new app called Seasaw (http://web.seesaw.me/). Seesaw is an online app available on any digital device allowing both teachers and your child to share their work. When items are added, you will be notified and can view at a convenient time. Seesaw can be used as a platform to engage in discussions with your child at home about what they are learning. Particularly for this unit of work, engaging in positive and open discussions about Australia and its histories will help guide students learning and understanding and challenge their perspectives.

Provided below are several webpage links which can be viewed with your child about Australia Day and different viewpoints to facilitate rich discussions.