Frontline Brisbane WWII is a half-day program, using drama, image, artefacts and story. Theatre moments present diverse aspects of life in Brisbane as experienced by Australians during the year 1942. Through drama, students are exposed to broader events taking place across the world and the effect this is having on humanity itself. Conducted within the heritage structures of Fort Lytton, this program challenges students to connect intellectually and emotionally with a number of themes:
the human side of war;
changing motivations and methods of defending both land and ideals;
changing social attitudes and cultural understandings, especially in relation to women; and
changing alliances - Australia as part of the British Empire; relations between Australians and their American allies.
Frontline Brisbane WWII requires students to interrogate primary and secondary sources to deepen their understanding of the local and global impact of WWII. Throughout the program students are invited to engage with the actors as fellow learners and contribute personal insights into the theatre moments and discussions as they unfold.
Curriculum Intent
History
Historical Knowledge and Understanding - World War II
Students investigate wartime experiences through a study of World War II in depth. This includes a study of the causes, events, outcome and broader impact of the conflict as an episode in world history, and the nature of Australia’s involvement.
An overview of the causes and course of World War II. (ACDSEH024)
An examination of significant events of World War II, including the Holocaust and use of the atomic bomb. (ACDSEH107)
The experiences of Australians during World War II—such as Prisoners of War (POWs), the Battle of Britain, Kokoda, the Fall of Singapore. (ACDSEH108)
The impact of World War II, with a particular emphasis on the Australian home front, including the changing roles of women and use of wartime government controls (conscription, manpower controls, rationing and censorship). (ACDSEH109)
The significance of World War II to Australia’s international relationships in the twentieth century, with particular reference to the United Nations, Britain, the USA and Asia. (ACDSEH110)
Historical Skills
Chronology, terms and concepts
- Use chronological sequencing to demonstrate the relationship between events and developments in different periods and places (ACHHS182)
Analysis and use of sources
- Process and synthesise information from a range of sources for use as evidence in a historical argument (ACHHS188)
Perspectives and interpretations
Explanation and Communication
General Capabilities
Critical and creative thinking
Analysing, synthesising and evaluating reasoning and procedures
Ethical Understandings
Understanding ethical concepts and issues
Reasoning in decision making and actions
Exploring values, rights and responsibilities
Personal and social capability