Literacy Across the Curriculum

Literacy Learning During Reconciliation Week

This year, we celebrated Reconciliation Week from Monday 1st – Friday 5th July. The Koorie Perspectives School Improvement Team did a fantastic job planning a week-long series of engaging and thought-provoking lessons for students across all year levels.

Throughout the week, students explored a range of rich literacy texts and discussions to deepen their understanding of Australia's history, cultures and communities. Through our literacy lessons, students learned about the significance of National Sorry Day and why reconciliation is important.

A highlight of the week was the use of Yarning Circles, where students shared text-to-text and text-to-self connections while listening to stories. These discussions helped them build empathy, deepen their understanding of First Nations perspectives, and learn from one another's experiences and insights. Students also explored ways they can contribute to reconciliation and what it means to be "All In" by demonstrating respect, understanding and inclusion in their everyday actions.

As part of Reconciliation Week, students also learned about the meaning and symbolism of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags and the significance of wearing yellow on National Sorry Day. These learning experiences sparked thoughtful conversations and encouraged students to reflect on how we can all contribute to a more respectful and inclusive community.

Through these literacy experiences, students developed their comprehension, vocabulary, critical thinking and communication skills while engaging with important stories and perspectives that help shape our shared Australian identity.

Reconciliation Week provided a valuable opportunity for students to learn, reflect and engage in meaningful conversations. By listening to and learning from First Nations voices and stories, our students are developing a deeper appreciation of Australia's rich cultural heritage and their role in helping build a more inclusive and respectful community for all.

Here are some of the books we explored during Reconciliation Week:

• Found by Bruce Pascoe 
• Heartbeat of the Land by Cathy Freeman and Coral Vass
• Walk With Us by Adam Goodes and Ellie Laing
• Open Your Heart to Country by Jasmine Seymour
• Our Home, Our Heartbeat by Adam Briggs
• Sorry Day by Coral Vass
• Stolen Girl by Trina Saffioti

Binh Hoang

Literacy Leading teacher