Honouring Our Veterans

Curriculum Area

The lesson is designed for Year 2 students, aligned with the Australian Curriculum: History. It focuses on the historical significance of individuals and groups, particularly in the context of Australian veterans. This lesson supports students in developing an understanding of historical concepts such as significance, empathy, and respect.

Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will:

• Understand who a veteran is and their role in Australian history.
• Recognise the importance of honour, respect, and recognition.
• Discuss appropriate ways to converse with veterans.
• Write a letter demonstrating these values.

Materials

• Whiteboard and markers
• Images of Australian veterans
• Australian flag and military symbols (e.g., poppy flowers)
• Pre-written letter templates with simple prompts
• Coloured pencils, crayons
• Books or stories about Australian soldiers (age-appropriate)

Lesson Outline (40 minutes)

Introduction (5 minutes)

1. Welcome and Acknowledgment

   • Begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land and paying respect to Elders past and present.
   • Introduce the topic with enthusiasm: “Today, we’re going to learn about some very special people who have helped our country – Australian veterans!”

2. Discussion Starter

   • Ask students: “Who knows what a veteran is?” Take a few answers and gently guide them to understand that veterans are people who have served in the military.

Body (25 minutes)

Part 1: Understanding Veterans (10 minutes)

1. Who Is a Veteran?

   • Show images of veterans (both historical and contemporary) and briefly explain their roles. Use age-appropriate language to describe that veterans are heroes who have helped protect and serve Australia.

2. Values of Honour and Respect

   • Discuss why honour, respect, and recognition are important when thinking about and interacting with veterans. Use simple words and examples they can relate to, such as being polite and saying thank you.

Part 2: Communicating with Veterans (5 minutes)

1. Appropriate Conversations

   • Brainstorm with students what they might say to a veteran. Encourage phrases such as “Thank you for your service” and avoid more personal questions about their experiences unless the veteran shares openly.

2. Role-Play Activity

   • Have students pair up and practice a short conversation with a partner, one pretending to be a veteran and the other using kind words to express gratitude.

Part 3: Letter Writing (10 minutes)

1. Explaining the Task

   • Tell the students they will write a letter to a veteran. Discuss what kinds of things they might want to say, such as expressing gratitude or asking a question in a polite manner.

2. Letter Writing

   • Distribute letter templates and art supplies. Give students some time to write their letters. Encourage decorating with symbols of Australia, like flags or poppies. Walk around to offer guidance.

Conclusion (10 minutes)

1. Sharing Letters

   • Invite a few students to share their letters with the class (for those who are comfortable). This allows students to hear different ways to express gratitude.

2. Reflective Discussion

   • Ask students: “What did we learn about veterans today?” and “Why is it important to say thank you?” Encourage responses that reflect understanding and empathy.

3. Close with a Thank You

   • Thank students for participating and remind them of the significance of showing respect to those who have served in the military.

Extension

For students who complete their letters early or show a deep interest, provide additional resources like picture books about Australian soldiers or let them create a small badge or card to accompany their letters.

This lesson plan aims to not only educate Year 2 students about veterans but also build skills of empathy, respect, and effective communication, fostering an understanding of the significant contributors to Australia's history and their lasting impact on contemporary society.