ACTF News

Typically held in July, NAIDOC Week is being celebrated from 8 – 15 November this year. Teachers looking for new ways to engage with Aboriginal language, culture, stories and traditions may like to visit our recently updated Language of Belonging website.

The Language of Belonging website is an education resource based on the ground-breaking Indigenous animation Wadu Matyidi. This animated short film tells, in Adnyamathanha language, the story of three adventurous kids who set out for a day of exploration, playing games and spooking one another with tales of ancient creatures, until they see unusual tracks that get their hearts and imaginations racing. Then, unexpectedly they make a discovery that changes their lives forever.

Designed for primary students, the site contains the original Wadu Matyidi animation and five behind-the-scenes mini documentaries. Five comprehensive units of work (My Mob, My Country, My Story, My Heritage and My Project) are aligned to the Australian Curriculum areas of English, The Arts, Languages, with the cross-curriculum priority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures. The website also includes an interactive language game, Speaking Deadly, in which students can explore and learn Adnyamathanha language and culture. See sample tasks taken from the ‘My Mob’ unit here.

Tasks relate to Adnyamathanha language, culture, stories and traditions, and encourage students to develop their cultural understanding. All teaching and learning materials were developed using the 8 Ways framework, a pedagogical approach that allows teachers to include Aboriginal perspectives by using Aboriginal learning techniques.

Website access for Language of Belonging is now available through the ACTF Shop for $5.

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