This lesson supports teaching about the history of Torres Strait Islanders through the documentary series Blue Water Empire. It contains background information about the Torres Strait Islander people and their country to support you in viewing this episode and exploring the topics with your students.
Episode 2 explores how the pearling boom brought thousands of strangers to the region and had a profound economic and cultural impact on the Torres Strait. Missionaries introduced Christianity, which influenced the spiritual lives of many Torres Strait Islanders and affected traditional language, dance, and other traditions. The episode also highlights the role of Torres Strait Islanders in serving Australia in World War 2.
Many of these resources and activities have been developed in consultation with NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) to ensure that the program meets NSW curriculum outcomes for Stages 3, 4 & 5.
Reconciliation NSW aims to create a reconciled, just and equitable community for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians. We work to inform, support and inspire people to engage in reconciliation.
E: schools@reconciliationnsw.org.au
T: 02 8095 9600
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