Year 9 

Voices for the Planet

Jordan Rozanski

Head of Learning Humanities

As part of their enhanced Biomes Unit studies, Year 9 Humanities students participated in a Climate Summit - a democratic forum designed as a reportable learning task. Each student took on a key role, presenting their research and engaging in thoughtful discussion around global climate issues.

The summit was a true team effort, with every class member contributing to a respectful and collaborative environment. Students posed insightful questions and offered constructive reflections, sparking meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities different countries face in addressing climate change.

Using multimedia presentations, students explored the geographical context, environmental concerns and climate goals of their chosen countries, along with potential solutions. Participation, peer feedback, and reflection were all integral to this engaging and relevant learning experience.

The students' presentations were excellent - here are just some examples:

Owen Hughes

Year 9

The speeches inspired me to consider new ideas related to climate action. As an Australian, I generally only think of climate action regarding Australia, but now after listening to the targets and solutions from a range of countries, I am considering new ideas that are specific to challenges related to climate change in ways that may have less prevalence in Australia.

Joe Symonds

Year 9

Iceland's speech inspired me to take action. By reaching nearly 100% renewables and fast approaching carbon neutrality, even carbon negativity, Iceland proves that it is possible to significantly reduce climate impacts. Thus it acts as an inspiration to other countries, and rallies us to action.

Abby Oates

Year 9

The standout messages for me were China's large hydro power dam projects, Brazil's plan to balance agriculture with the Amazon rainforest, Iceland's electric vehicle shift, and India's solar power initiatives. The well researched solutions and presentations from my peers gave me hope about our planets climate future.

Coming next, Year 9 Humanities students will be exploring a History Unit with a focus on Australia 1750–1918, including Indigenous, colonial and migrant perspectives.