Program overview
Program inquiry question:
What can historical sources tell us about Moreton Bay Penal Colony and the people who lived in and around the settlement?
‘Convict Clues’ is an engaging full day excursion that immerses students in the rich convict history of our city. Through the exploration of authentic primary historical sources, they build a picture of Moreton Bay Penal Colony and what daily life may have been like for its inhabitants.
The day begins at the Centre where students assume the
role of archaeologist and take part in a simulated dig. In this hands-on
activity, they uncover and examine primary historical artefacts and consider
who may have used them and for what purpose. Next, they interrogate the
contents of character boxes to discover more about the groups who inhabited the
area prior to and after European settlement, together with the influence of
significant individuals on the development of the penal colony itself. The
differing points of view of each of these is explored to gain an empathic
understanding of the hardships endured and challenges faced by all.
In the second part of the day, the students adopt the role of a convict from the first group to arrive at Moreton Bay. They demonstrate their understanding of the use of historical inquiry skills developed in the morning to interpret clues and uncover the importance of five convict sites around modern-day Brisbane. The integration of engaging stories, innovative use of digital technology and use of place transports the learners back in time to bring the city's rich convict past to life.
By the end of the day, all learners have developed a
vivid picture of what everyday life was like for the inhabitants of Moreton Bay
Penal Colony together with a firm understanding of the impact of the arrival of
the Europeans on the Indigenous inhabitants of the area and the physical
landscape.
Curriculum links
Risk Assessment - Year 5 - Convict clues
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