The lesson plans in Decide expand on students’ existing knowledge of current community issues. In groups, they choose one that they care about and want to change. Before deciding, they are supported to understand the complex notions of issues, communities, power and influence, rights, government, responsibility and point of view.
Students must select their own issue, rather than teacher providing suggestions or steering student projects. If you are delivering course content in upper primary or lower secondary we suggest, as a starting point, focusing on school-based issues; in middle secondary school on Queensland state-based issues; and in senior classes on either national or global issues. Students contacting their local representative (either MP or local councillor) works really well.
Instructions:
A ‘red’ button signifies that this lesson is essential for active citizenship learning.
Lesson 1: People and Democracy
This lesson explores students' understanding of values and rights, and how they influence, contribute to, and participate in community based issues.
Lesson 1 activity sheets 65.50 KB
Lesson 2: What's the problem?
Identifying and selecting an issue or challenge is the main objective of this lesson. The emphasis is on students expressing how they feel about a range of issues or challenges in our community.
Lesson 2 activity sheets 65.50 KBLesson 3: Who is responsible?
Who is responsible for what? Is it the government or the citizen? Students will explore the responsibilities of each when it comes to a range of community issues or challenges. Prior to or at the end of this lesson students should complete the Who Decides? activity.
Lesson 3 activity sheets 84.00 KBLesson 4: Getting your way
Who is a decision maker and how can you influence them? What are other key questions that need to be considered?
Lesson 4 activity sheets 828.50 KB
