- Tuesday 27 June 2017
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NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate the traditional owners of our land. It was established to increase awareness in the wider community of the status and treatment of Indigenous Australians. All Australians are encouraged to participate in celebrations and activities that raise awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements.
The theme for 2017 is 'Our languages matter'.
‘The 2017 theme—Our languages matter—aims to emphasise and celebrate the unique and essential role that Indigenous languages play in cultural identity, linking people to their land and water and in the transmission of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, spirituality and rites, through story and song.’ (Reference: 2017 NAIDOC Week theme
Including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages into your already packed teaching load can seem daunting, especially if you don’t have a lot of experience with the different dialects.
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Here are some simple steps to get you started!
1. Identify the language spoken in your local area http://tinyurl.com/ydfrjor2
2. If possible, find an online dictionary of the language spoken in your local area. For example:
• Yolgnu language (North-east Arnhem Land) http://tinyurl.com/y9rp6vo5
• Wajarri language (Central Western Australia) http://www.bundiyarra.com.au/wajarriApp/
• Database of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages http://tinyurl.com/y7pdhq7w
3. Create word walls, flashcards or posters of common words and phrases.
4. Teach students common greetings and phrases in the language and encourage them to use them daily.
5. Incorporate activities across the curriculum that incorporate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages and culture.
Food for thought
‘Before invasion more than 250 Aboriginal languages existed in Australia.
Only 60 of them are still considered healthy. Why are so many lost?’
(Reference: Creative Spirits http://tinyurl.com/yamlfysu)
(Image source: Creative Spirits and AIATSIS)
Need more ideas for #NAIDOC2017?
Check out our range of HASS resources below.
