Introduction

This web site outlines the Australian Government Quality Teacher Programme (AGQTP) Literacy in Aboriginal Languages project and provides some answers for schools starting Aboriginal language programs.

The AGQTP Literacy in Aboriginal Languages project is a response to the need to support teachers of Aboriginal languages in planning and teaching the new NSW Aboriginal languages K-10 syllabus (2003). It recognises that students need to engage in the learning of Aboriginal languages to strengthen and maintain Aboriginal identity and culture.

Nine schools participated in the project. The project requires schools to value and draw upon the knowledge and understandings within their local Aboriginal community.

The site includes sample teaching and learning units developed and trialled by the participating schools, student work samples, photographs and video and audio interviews.

Teaching and learning units to support the NSW Aboriginal Languages K-10 syllabus (2003) were developed by: Albert Park Public School, Boggabilla Central School, Bonalbo Central School, Coonabarabran High School, Goonellabah Public School, Green Hill Public School, Lismore Public School, Nambucca Heads High School and Toomelah Public School.

The units were based on the local languages of each of the schools. The languages were: Bundjalung, Gamilaraay, Gumbayngirr and Thunghutti/Dunghutti).