aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	History
What age group	Year or Grade 3
What topic	Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Welcome to History: Exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures!

Introduction Activity: "Story Stones"

Objective:

To introduce students to the rich histories and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through storytelling and creative expression.

Materials Needed:

• Smooth stones (one for each student)
• Acrylic paints or permanent markers
• Water cups (for rinsing brushes, if using paint)
• Aprons or old shirts (to protect students' clothing)
• Story prompt cards with themes related to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions, such as nature, family, Dreamtime stories, or local wildlife.

---

Step 1: Introduction (10 minutes)

Gather the students in a circle.

Teacher’s Script: "Today, we are going to start our history lesson by diving into the stories of Australia’s First Peoples, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. They have rich cultures filled with stories, art, and traditions that are thousands of years old! To kick off our lesson, we will create our very own 'Story Stones' inspired by their storytelling traditions."

---

Step 2: Story Stones Creation (20 minutes)

1. Distribute Materials: Hand out one smooth stone, paints or markers, and aprons to each student.

2. Explain the Activity: "Each of you will paint or draw something on your stone that represents a story or a part of nature that is important to you. It could be a simple picture of a bird, a tree, or even a line from a Dreamtime story you know. Think about how these symbols can tell a story!"

3. Encourage Creativity: Allow students to express themselves freely while creating their stones. Walk around to provide support and ask guiding questions about their inspirations.

---

Step 3: Story Sharing (15 minutes)

After the stones are finished, have students sit back in a circle, each holding their stones.

Teacher’s Script: "Now, let’s share the stories behind our stones! Who would like to go first?"

1. Share Stories: As students share, encourage them to connect their own stories back to the broader theme of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Discuss the significance of storytelling in these cultures and how it helps pass on knowledge, traditions, and values.

---

Step 4: Conclusion (5 minutes)

Wrap up the lesson by highlighting the importance of storytelling in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander societies and draw connections to the upcoming topics they will explore.

Teacher’s Script: "Just like our stones tell a story, the stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been shared for thousands of years. They teach us about who we are, our land, and each other. I can't wait to learn more together in our next classes!"

---

By beginning the lesson this way, students engage in a hands-on, creative activity while developing an appreciation for the cultures they will study.