Aboriginal studies

About this program

The Thalgarrah site has rich archaeological evidence of the Anaiwan people's occupation. In addition to examining the artefacts they used, this program attempts to study how they survived in the woodland environment.  Students spend time outside using an apparatus similar to a woomera to see if it improves their throwing strength and accuracy. Students also embark on activities to help appreciate connection to the environment around them.

Activities

• Acknowledgement of Country and a discussion about the different language groups present in Australia at the time of colonisation.
• In small groups, students examine a number of Aboriginal artefacts thinking about how they were made and what they were used for.
• Watch short videos on the use of an Australian woomera & central American atlatl (spear-throwers).
• Students draw a scar tree using colours from nature.
• Students have a go at using a woomera to improve their throwing strength. Can they be accurate as well?
• Students read through Major Mitchell’s account of Aboriginal Shelters from 1831. In small groups students build model shelters from forest resources.
• To gain an appreciation of the link between Aboriginal people and the land, students take part in a number of blindfold activities.
• Discuss Aboriginal Legends – what they were used for and any examples known by students. Using the Carpet Python retell the legend of the Rainbow Serpent.

Important information

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