This year we developed units of work around war and remembrance themed literature to integrate the learning areas of History and English.
Our Kindy and Foundation students shared and heard stories about family members and people they know who have been involved in wars and peacekeeping. Students across the school learned about conflicts over time including Gallipoli, The Western Front, Korea, Vietnam and recent peacekeeping efforts in Afghanistan. We were very privileged to have Daniel Keighran, Victoria Cross recipient speak to our students and share his experiences.
Introducing and investigating the topic of war through Literature
- allows students to interact with history on an emotional and intellectual level
- encourages critical thinking
- promotes discussion, debate and questioning of motives and decisions behind historical facts
- encourages the development of attitudes that lead to caring for and appreciation of others unlike themselves
- gives rise to the questioning of the way certain characters have been portrayed and the language decisions around this.
(Acknowledgement of Di Rees and Vicki Briggs of Statewide Services for the above list).
Please follow the link below to access a unit of work for Year 2 based on the book 'Do Not Forget Australia' by Sally Murphy and Sonia Kretschmar.
