Home/Curriculum resources/Physical fitness in communities /Activity 1 – Sport and culture, past and present
Learning Area:
Health and Physical Education
Year levels:
Level 9, Level 10
Suggested timing:
One lesson
Activity 1 – Sport and culture, past and present
This activity is a part of the Physical fitness in communities resource.
Vernon Japaljarri Dickson (left) and Simon Japanangka Fisher Jr. at Yuendumu oval football ground 2017. Yuendumu, Warlpiri. Source: Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0
Step-by-step guide
Step 1: Investigation and Research
Investigate and research the way Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People incorporated physical activity into daily life prior to colonisation.
Either as a class or individually, make a list or a mind-map of activities. Include hunting and everyday living activities, and sports or cultural activities.
Step 2: Inquiry-based question discussion
Discuss the following inquiry-based questions as a class:
How did each of these activities contribute to people’s identity and connection with community?
How was food interrelated to other aspects of life/culture? How are things different and/or the same in contemporary society?
In what ways is modern life less healthy than a traditional one? Is it healthier in some ways?
How is physical activity important in people’s mental health and well-being?
What activities do people in your community today participate in for fitness, identity, and connection with community? (Both Indigenous and non-Indigenous)? Where do these traditions originate from? What does this add to their community or cultural value?