Getting it Together: Colonies to Federation is an online classroom resource being developed for students from years 5 to 8. A series of 7 packages, Getting it Together explores each state’s unique journey to federation. A national package brings each of the colonial stories together.

Each package is divided into three themes:

• People and places explores the way of life in each colony prior to federation;
• Road to federation examines the political issues debated by colonial parliaments in deciding whether or not to join in Federation; and
• Celebrations and Futures looks at the way Federation was celebrated in 1901 and its continuing importance today.

Using historical sources such as newspaper extracts, cartoons, speeches and biographies, the Getting it Together packages contain a series of activities for students to explore in the classroom. The packages are being produced by MoAD in conjunction with Curriculum Corporation, a leading producer of education resources. These packages will provide a fresh and unique way for students to engage with the political and social impacts of Federation.

The state based approach offers links with local communities, while social context develops students’ historical empathy. The packages target Civics and Citizenship and History learning outcomes, but also incorporate ICT skills, English, Arts and Mathematics.

The final PDFs will be available for download on this site in early August.