Learning about the First Australians, being nomadic people, know how they survive living off the land, and relying on the environment to survive. they make all their own tools to hunt. You will learn about aboriginal traditional musical instruments and aboriginal art materials, you will then draw and design your own boomerang or if feeling creative your own aboriginal inspired art work. / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the lifestyle of the First Australians, their nomadic way of life, survival techniques, and their reliance on the environment. You will also learn about aboriginal traditional musical instruments and art materials, and have the opportunity to create your own boomerang or aboriginal-inspired artwork.

Materials and Prep

  • Paper or sketchbook
  • Pencils, colored pencils, or markers
  • Internet access or books about the First Australians
  • Reference materials on aboriginal art and musical instruments

Before the lesson, familiarize yourself with the lifestyle and culture of the First Australians, including their hunting techniques, tools, and the significance of boomerangs in their culture.

Activities

  1. Research and Discussion: Use the provided resources to learn about the First Australians, their nomadic lifestyle, and how they survive by living off the land. Discuss the importance of the environment in their daily lives and their reliance on it for food, shelter, and resources.
  2. Exploring Aboriginal Music: Discover traditional aboriginal musical instruments such as the didgeridoo and clapsticks. Listen to recordings or watch videos of aboriginal music performances. Discuss the significance of music in aboriginal culture.
  3. Exploring Aboriginal Art: Learn about the materials and techniques used in aboriginal art, such as ochre pigments and dot painting. Study examples of aboriginal artwork and discuss the cultural and symbolic meanings behind them.
  4. Art Activity: Choose one of the following options:
    • Create Your Own Boomerang: Design and draw your own boomerang, incorporating aboriginal art elements and symbols. Research the meaning of different symbols and include them in your design.
    • Aboriginal-Inspired Artwork: Create an artwork inspired by aboriginal art using the materials of your choice. Experiment with dot painting, use earthy colors, and incorporate aboriginal symbols or motifs.
  5. Share and Reflect: Share your boomerang or artwork with others, explaining the inspiration and symbolism behind your design. Reflect on what you have learned about the First Australians and their culture.

Eighth Grade Talking Points

  • "The First Australians, also known as Aboriginal Australians, have a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years."
  • "They were nomadic people, constantly moving from place to place in search of food and resources."
  • "Living off the land was crucial for their survival. They relied on hunting, fishing, gathering, and using natural resources."
  • "The environment played a vital role in their daily lives, providing them with food, shelter, and materials for making tools and weapons."
  • "Aboriginal people made their own tools, including spears, boomerangs, and digging sticks, using materials found in their surroundings."
  • "Music was an integral part of aboriginal culture. They used instruments like the didgeridoo and clapsticks to create rhythmic and melodic sounds."
  • "Aboriginal art is known for its unique style, often featuring dot painting and using earthy colors."
  • "Symbols and motifs in aboriginal art carry cultural and spiritual meanings, representing stories, dreamtime, and connections to the land."
  • "By creating your own boomerang or aboriginal-inspired artwork, you can explore and appreciate the creativity and symbolism of aboriginal culture."