This term our Year 6 students explored the factors behind migration to Australia and its impact on the nation. The students researched the push and pull factors that influenced migrants to come to Australia from Federation and throughout the 20th Century.  

They examined the stories of migrants, particularly those from the Asia region, and evaluated the effects on Australian society. The students enjoyed the stories from Anh Do The Little Refugee, Deng Adut, stories about 10 Pound Poms, and other first-hand stories of migrants.  

Through analysis and inquiry, the students identified and evaluated information to understand the causes and effects of migration. They assessed various sources to determine their origin, purpose, and perspectives and used different formats to identify patterns and trends.  

As part of our study the Year 6 students worked through a variety of thinking routines, which are embedded into our teaching and learning. In our Migration Unit, we have used a range of thinking tools and graphic organisers to encourage students to become more confident problem solvers and thinkers. The thinking routines allow for the clarification, development and understanding of the processes that the students can use whenever they encounter new ideas, unfamiliar information, and problems. 

Finally, students drew conclusions by evaluating evidence and organising their findings to identify reasons people migrate and the effects on the development of Australia as a nation.