Where to next?

Extend your thinking

Together, we are finding out the truth by looking at the many layers of history.

Statue of Cook with the words "discovered this territory 1770"
Captain Cook Statue, Hyde Park | Mike Bowers

Consider:

There is a statue of Captain Cook in Sydney's Hyde Park which states "Discovered this territory 1770".

  • What do you think of this statement?
  • If we could talk to James Cook right now, would he say that he had discovered our continent? Remember, he talked of sailing up the east coast of New Holland - was he the first European to reach our shores?
  • Do you think the statue should remain? Should the text remain?

Why / why not?

Acknowledgment of Country

Kamay Botany Bay is Dharawal Country.

  • Where have you heard the Acknowledgement of Country said?
  • Is there a difference between an Acknowledgement of Country and a Welcome to Country?
  • How many Aboriginal countries do you think there were before 1770?
  • Why do you think it is important to acknowledge the traditional owners of this land?
  • Who do you say thank you to in the Acknowledgement of Country? Which land is your school built upon?
Map of Aboriginal land areas in Australia

Aboriginal Land map | David R. Horton

Flag Debate Video

This video discusses where the Australian flag came from, how it is represented, and whether we should change it to be more inclusive of all Australians, including Aboriginal peoples.


Transcript available in teacher notes.

Discussion

  • What does the Australian flag represent?
  • Why do countries have flags?
  • Do you think the Australian flag should be changed? Why / why not?
  • Can you design a new flag for Australia?
  • Take a look at these examples: Are there any that you like?

Reflect: Summative Assessment Task

After discovering, learning about and understanding the Meeting, Perspectives and Landscape of what happened at Kamay, Botany Bay in 1770, show your understanding by sharing what you know and think.

  • What is something you have learned or given more thought to?
  • Have your thoughts and perspectives changed? How so?
  • Do you think what happened in 1770 impacted Aboriginal people much? Do you think that what eventually happened, after the British returned in 1788, impacted the Aboriginal people much?

Discuss with a friend

Create a video response

Write a reflection

Draw your representation