Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to describe significant events and people that contributed to Australia becoming a federated nation on January 1, 1901. The student will use various sources to gather evidence and present their findings in a creative format.

Materials and Prep

• Access to the internet for research
• Art supplies (colored pencils, markers, paper, etc.)
• Notebook or digital document for notes
• Access to books or articles about Australian history
• Printable timeline template

Before the lesson, ensure that the student has access to reliable sources about Australian history, specifically focusing on the Federation. Prepare a timeline template for the student to fill out during the lesson.

Activities

1. Research and Notes:

   The student will spend time researching key events and figures in Australian history that led to Federation. They will take notes on important dates, people, and events.

2. Create a Timeline:

   Using the notes gathered, the student will create a visual timeline that highlights the significant events leading up to January 1, 1901. They can illustrate the timeline with drawings or images.

3. Character Sketch:

   The student will choose one significant person involved in the Federation, such as Sir Henry Parkes or Edmund Barton, and create a character sketch. This will include a drawing and key facts about their contributions.

4. Presentation:

   Finally, the student will present their timeline and character sketch to a family member or friend, explaining the significance of each event and person they studied.

Talking Points

• What is Federation?

  "Federation is when separate colonies come together to form one nation. In Australia, this happened on January 1, 1901!"

• Why did the colonies want to unite?

  "The colonies wanted to unite for better defense, to create a stronger economy, and to make laws that worked for everyone!"

• Who were some key figures?

  "People like Sir Henry Parkes, who is known as the 'Father of Federation,' and Edmund Barton, who became the first Prime Minister, played big roles in this process!"

• What events led to Federation?

  "Important events like the 1891 National Australasian Convention and the 1898 referendums helped pave the way for Federation!"

• What challenges did they face?

  "There were disagreements about how the new government should work and what powers the states should have. It took time to find a solution!"

• How did Federation change Australia?

  "Federation allowed for a unified government, which helped Australia grow and develop as a nation!"