The Big Idea

The Big Idea is an idea that is continuously ‘unpacked’ through areas of the Curriculum. It allows students to explore concepts in a real world context and think critically and creatively about the world around them. 

As we unpack the above statement, through History, Geography and the Capabilities (ethical, social, cultural and interpersonal) of the Victorian Curriculum, we will:

• Explorethe role that people of diverse backgrounds have played in the development and character of the local community / other societies
• Explore the diversity and longevity of Australia’s first peoples and the significant ways Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are connected to Country and Place and, the effects on their daily lives. To examine the similarities and differences between individuals and groups based on factors such as sex, age, ability, language, culture and religion.

Through this unit, we will explore the key questions:

• Where is Australia located in the world?
• What does it mean to live in a multicultural society?
• How do people’s beliefs, customs or traditions influence and impact us?
• How can we contribute to promoting harmony?

These questions drive our inquiry. 

What do we know about our students as we go into this Unit?

Students come from a range of cultural and religious backgrounds. Students demonstrate some understandings of Australian history and cultural diversity. 

Students have expressed that they value relationships as part of learning.

What do the students bring to this Unit? (Prior knowledge)

Students have explored the cultural backgrounds of their peers.

Students have some understanding of how our cultures and beliefs can influence and impact our relationships and interactions with others.

What do we want students to Know and Understand?

• How to become active and informed citizens who participate in and sustain Australia’s harmony
• Exploring the nature of cultural diversity and identity in contemporary society
• Build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills necessary to question, understand and contribute to the world in which they live

What do we want students to be able to Do?

• Explore the ways citizens can participate in society
• Investigate multiculturalism (diverse groups within society)
• Investigate how people with shared beliefs and values work together to achieve their goals and plan for action

What ways of Being do we want them to develop?

• Articulate thinking (express and describe)
• To reflect on what they have learnt about themselves and others
• Critical thinkers (make choices after considering personal preferences)
• Respect ways in which others learn
• To be informed and accepting of other cultures and beliefs
• Developing tolerance for all
• Developing understanding and empathy

Throughout the unit of inquiry, we will also develop our wonderings and understandings around The Big Idea, to undertake our Educational Research Project (ERP). More information on this in upcoming issues.