aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	No subject
What age group	Year or Grade 11
What topic	Land Rights and Native Title
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Engaging Introduction to Land Rights and Native Title

Lesson Idea: "Walk in Their Shoes"

Objective

To stimulate students' curiosity and empathy regarding the complex issues surrounding Land Rights and Native Title in Australia.

Materials Needed

• Large maps of Australia (preferably showing Traditional Owner boundaries)
• Art supplies (markers, paper)
• A selection of short video clips or stories from Indigenous Australians discussing their connection to land
• Sticky notes

Activity Steps

1. Set the Scene
   Begin the lesson by dimming the lights and playing a short, powerful video that highlights Indigenous Australians’ connections to their land. Choose something emotionally resonant that showcases both the beauty of the land and the struggle for land rights.

2. Discussion Prompt
   After the video, ask students to reflect silently for a moment. Then, pose the following question on the board:
   “What does land mean to you?”

   Give students a couple of minutes to jot down their thoughts on sticky notes. They can share these with a partner before discussing them in larger groups.

3. Visual Mapping
   Once the discussion flows, bring out the large maps of Australia. Group students and assign each group a specific region to explore by researching the Traditional Owners of that area. Ask them to highlight significant cultural sites and represent their research with doodles or symbols on the map.

4. Story Sharing
   Conclude the introduction by sharing some brief stories and experiences from Indigenous Australians regarding their connection to land. Encourage students to empathise with the feelings expressed in these stories and think about how the loss of land affects identity and culture.

5. Objective Setting
   Finally, explain that today’s lesson will delve into the important historical and legal frameworks surrounding Land Rights and Native Title, as well as the ongoing implications for Indigenous communities throughout Australia.

Wrap-Up

Encourage students to carry this newfound empathy and understanding throughout the lesson. Let them know that they will be learning not just facts but also stories that shape Australia’s past, present, and future.

By using this approach, students will actively engage with the topic from the outset, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to Land Rights and Native Title in Australia.