First contacts - Barefoot Lawrence

Historical inquiry questions

• Who lived here first and how do we know?
• How has our community changed? What features have been lost and what features have been retained? 
• What is the nature of the contribution made by different groups and individuals in the community?

Outcomes

• Describes and explains how significant individuals, groups and events contributed to the changes in the local community over time HT2-2
• Applies skills of historical inquiry and communication HT2-5

Content

• The importance of Country and Place to Dharug people of the local area
• Education as an example of change and continuity over time in the local community
• The role that people of diverse backgrounds have played in the development and character of the local community

Cross Curriculum Priorities

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures
• Sustainability

Activity 1 - Bones and Bush Resource Walk

We unveil the bone that was uncovered on the Locke’s property. Students measure and identify the bone using a bone reference chart. Students then discover Jimmy’s bush knowledge and explore the forest of Brewongle. 

Activity 2 - Inside the 1878 Classroom

Students experience Lawrence’s school life in 1916 to gain an understanding and appreciation of the period. They will meet the Principal, learn about rules and consequences, partake in a lesson and unravel the missing sections of Lawrence’s diary to make new discoveries.

Activity 3 - Jimmy's Kitchen

Aboriginal artefacts, storytelling and old maps will lead students on a journey to find more amazing things. What is down the goanna track and in the slimy rock forest?

Barefooot Lawrence’s Diary

PRE-VISIT – Barefoot Lawrence Worksheet – Please have students use Lawrence’s Diary to complete the pre-visit tasks in this worksheet.

Download other supplementary pre-excursion activities.

 Barefoot Lawrence Worksheet