Aboriginal Art: Symbols & Stories

Year 7-8 Exploring Ancient Stories Through Symbols 30-minute Learning Journey

Learning Intention & Success Criteria

Year 7-8 Learning Intention I am learning to read and understand symbols used in Aboriginal art and the stories they tell. Success Criteria I can identify common Aboriginal symbols I can explain what a symbol means in an artwork I can connect symbols to a story or idea

What is Aboriginal Art?

Year 7-8 Exploring Ancient Stories Through Symbols 30-minute Learning Journey

Traditional vs Contemporary Aboriginal Art

{"left":"Traditional\n\n🪨 Rock art\n\n🌿 Bark paintings\n\n🎨 Body painting\n\n〰️ Sand drawings\n\n🪵 Carved objects","right":"Contemporary\n\n🖼️ Canvas paintings\n\n🎨 Acrylic paints\n\n🔧 Modern materials\n\n🏛️ Gallery exhibitions\n\n🏙️ Urban Aboriginal artists"}

Common Aboriginal Symbols & Meanings

Symbol Matching Challenge

Look at the symbols on your worksheet Match each symbol to its correct meaning Work in pairs to discuss your answers Match 7 symbols plus create one new symbol

Think & Discuss

Why do you think Aboriginal people used these particular symbols? How do symbols help tell stories without words? What symbols would you use to represent your own life or community?

Create Your Own Symbol

Year 7-8 Learn About Symbols 30-Minute Activity

Sharing Our Symbol Stories

Present your symbol to a partner or small group. Explain what it means and why you chose those shapes. Listen respectfully while others share their symbols. Celebrate how we each use symbols in different ways!

Reflection & Learning Summary

Aboriginal art is a living tradition that connects people to Country and culture Symbols are powerful tools for storytelling and communication Art helps us understand and respect different cultures We can create meaningful art using simple symbols and personal stories