Essential Question

Prior to Federation, how have the everyday and working experiences of First Nations people and non-European migrants shaped the nation?

Warning — First Nations teachers and students are advised that this curriculum resource may contain images, voices or names of deceased people.

Unit details

Y9 History
Lesson Time: 40 minutes
Lessons: 12
Duration: 3 to 4 weeks
Australian Curriculum
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures cross-curriculum priority.

Unit overview

In this unit, students will:

  • examine the everyday and working experiences of First Nations people and non-European migrants
  • explore the ways this nation has been shaped by First Nations Peoples and non-European migrants
  • consider the circumstances that drew people to this continent
  • identify the origin, purpose and context of a range of sources
  • understand the use of people as slaves by the British and other colonial empires
  • develop and use research skills to select appropriate sources.

The duration of this unit will vary depending on the skill sets of your students and the pace of your lessons.

Prior to starting this unit, students should have a solid understanding of the British colonisation this continent, however some references and resources will expand on these ideas. A general understanding of colonialism, imperialism and the associated ideologies would also be beneficial.

While the Chinese goldminers and Japanese pearl divers aren’t covered in significant detail in this unit, they’re two of many groups that students could focus on in their research and assessment. Some relevant resources will be provided.

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