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 * Learning Sequence 1: Original Inhabitants – What Was Life Like for Aboriginal People Before British Colonisation?**


 * -** Explain to students that the Australian continent has always been multicultural. Before 1788, there were approximately 500 different language groups or nations. Current scientific understandings indicate that Aboriginal occupation dates back to between 50 000 and possibly 100 000 years before present (BP). Many Aboriginal people believe that they have always been here.

- Explain to students that, over thousands of years of careful observation, Aboriginal people acquired an intimate knowledge of physical features of the land, animals, plants and people, and their interconnectedness. They managed the environment according to ancient laws and customs that are recorded in Dreaming stories. These stories describe ways of caring for the land as well as changes to the continent that have occurred over thousands of years, such as climatic and sea-level changes, volcanic eruptions and megafauna. Locally developed practices, such as construction of fish traps in rivers and the use of fire to increase new growth, increased biodiversity and maintained the food supply for small and sustainable populations of Aboriginal peoples throughout Australia.

- Have students investigate Aboriginal place names and food sources in the local area.


 * Learning Sequence 2: Explorers before the British:**

- Before commencing this sequence students will need to be aware of the context of European colonisation. During the 17th and 18th centuries, sea-going European countries were expanding their power and wealth through the creation of colonies. This process, called colonisation, created new markets and provided resources for European economies.

- Have students, in groups, research early explorers of Australia and produce an information report on each, eg Jansz, Torres, Hartog, Tasman.


 * Learning Sequence 3: The British Arrival:**

- Jointly view videos, paintings or pictures that depict conditions in England before the First Fleet. Discuss why convicts were transported to Australia.

- Discuss and jointly map the journey of the First Fleet to Sydney Cove. What were conditions like for the various groups on board? What did they bring with them?