Learning the Noongar seasons

Art

• The First-grade child learned about different art techniques used by the Noongar people, such as dot painting and cross-hatching.
• They explored using earthy tones and natural materials to create their own artwork inspired by the Noongar seasons.
• The child learned to appreciate the connection between art and culture, as they expressed their understanding of the Noongar seasons through their artwork.
• They gained an understanding of the importance of storytelling through art, as they learned about the significance of the Noongar seasons in the Noongar culture.

English Language Arts

• The First-grade child practiced their reading skills as they read and listened to stories about the Noongar seasons.
• They developed their vocabulary by learning new words related to the Noongar seasons and the natural world.
• The child enhanced their comprehension skills as they discussed and reflected upon the stories they read, connecting them to their own experiences.
• They learned about the importance of oral storytelling in the Noongar culture and how it preserves their knowledge of the seasons.

Foreign Language

• The First-grade child learned some Noongar words and phrases associated with the different seasons.
• They practiced pronunciation and intonation while repeating and imitating the Noongar language.
• The child gained an appreciation for different cultures and languages by learning about the Noongar language and its connection to the seasons.
• They developed an understanding of the importance of language in preserving cultural traditions and knowledge.

Science

• The First-grade child learned about the natural phenomena and changes in the environment that occur during each Noongar season.
• They explored the concept of seasonal cycles and how they affect plants, animals, and the overall ecosystem.
• The child gained an understanding of the interdependence between living organisms and their environment through the study of the Noongar seasons.
• They learned about the traditional ecological knowledge of the Noongar people and how they observed and adapted to their surroundings.

Continued development can include incorporating hands-on experiments or observations related to seasonal changes in the local environment. Encourage the child to create their own nature journals, where they can document and sketch the changes they observe throughout the different seasons. This will further deepen their understanding of the Noongar seasons and their connection to the natural world.

Book Recommendations

• The Noongar Seasons by Kim Scott and Hazel Brown: This book introduces the Noongar seasons through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling.
• Our Seasons by Warlukurlangu Artists: A beautifully illustrated book that explores the seasons from an Indigenous perspective, including the Noongar seasons.
• Seasons of Joy by Michael J. Rosen: This book celebrates the changing seasons and encourages children to appreciate the beauty of nature around them, making connections to the Noongar seasons.