Learning about Aboriginal Symbols in the Classroom

Aboriginal symbols are a really versatile learning topic for the classroom, especially in the early childhood space. They can be used as an art activity, in storytelling, mathematics and more.

Throughout history and today, Aboriginal people use symbols in artwork to convey and share important cultural stories through the generations.  Symbols can vary greatly from region to region, both in terms of their form, but also their meanings. Symbols are not only used in artwork mediums, but also in body painting; the ceremonial use of symbols on the body, painted on from ochres made from rocks and clay and mixed with water, is a cultural tradition that has been used for thousands and thousands of years.  

Some symbols may be easily recognisable as to their meanings; others may be much more complex and elaborate, and their meaning may be hidden to the everyday eye.

Children can be engaged in learning about symbols through artworks, and they are also a great tool to use in storytelling. When paired with Aboriginal stories for example, one activity might be in having children tell back the story to you using symbols.

They can be also used in mathematics exercises; animals and birds for example, can be used to symbolise individual numbers. Dr.Chris Matthews of the Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Maths Alliance describes how Aboriginal children turned the equation 4 x 2 = 8 (4 twos is equivalent in value to 8 in total) into a dance about flying brolgas. A group of two children, acting as brolgas, flew together, and then linked up with another group of two, and then two more groups of two to become a collection of eight in total. (see here for more info).

We have a range of educational resources that can be used to assist educators in sharing about Aboriginal symbols with their class. As always, the best way to learn about local Aboriginal symbols is to engage with your local Aboriginal community!