Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia is one of the Cross Curricular Priorities chosen by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. (ACARA 2013) This priority aims to ‘provides the opportunity for students to celebrate the social, cultural, political and economic links that connect Australia with Asia.’ (ACARA 2013)
One of the many reasons this is an important priority is because Asia and Australia are strongly tied together by business and trade. (Australian Government 2014) Another reason this is a priority is because students need to understand the many cultures found in Asia, in order to work towards friendship with those of different nationalities.
Geography is a subject in which it is easy to look at this priority. This is because one of the many things Geography focuses on is other countries and their societies/cultures. Specifically, I believe the first key concept for this priority would best fit; ‘The first key concept highlights the diversity within and between the countries of the Asia region, from their cultures, societies and traditions through to their diverse environments and the effects of these on the lives of people.’ (ACARA 2013)
If I were to teach a Geography class I would being to illustrate the differences between the countries in Asia by showing the class where Asia is situated (image one), and then show another map showing just how many countries make up Asia. (image two) I would hope that this would show the students just how many diverse countries are in Asia.
After this I would show the students differences between the countries cultures, for example traditional dress. (Images 3, 4) This would be just the start of all the cultural differences that could be highlighted.
By understanding the differences between the Asian countries and cultures, students can better relate to those of different heritage. This will further the future success of Australia’s relations to Asia.
References
ACARA. 2013. “Cross-curriculum Priorities.” Accessed May 25. http://www.acara.edu.au/curriculum/cross_curriculum_priorities.html
Algeria.com. “Turkish Traditional and Bridal wear.” Accessed May 20. http://www.algeria.com/forums/womens-corner/15661-turkish-traditional-bridalwear.html
Australian Government. 2014. “Address to the Asia Society, Canberra.” Accessed May 24. https://www.pm.gov.au/media/2014-03-25/address-asia-society-canberra
Beauty Will Save. “Russian Folk Costume.” Accessed May 21. http://viola.bz/russian-folk-costume/
Geoscience News and Information. “World Political/Physical Maps and Satellite Images.” Accessed May 24. http://geology.com/world/#Africa
TravelOnline. “Asia Countries and Region.” Accessed May 20. http://www.asiaonline.com.au/regions.html
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