Learning Continuum of Intercultural Understanding (Version 8.4)

This element involves students identifying, observing, describing and analysing increasingly sophisticated characteristics of their own cultural identities and those of others.

Students move from their known worlds to explore new ideas and experiences related to specific cultural groups through opportunities provided in the learning areas. They compare their own knowledge and experiences with those of others, learning to recognise commonalities, acknowledging differences between their lives and recognising the need to engage in critical reflection about such differences, seeking to understand them. Students recognise and appreciate differences between people and respect another person’s point of view and their human rights. In developing and acting with intercultural understanding, students:

  • investigate culture and cultural identity
  • explore and compare cultural knowledge, beliefs and practices
  • develop respect for cultural diversity.

Level 5

Typically by the end of Year 8, students:

Investigate culture and cultural identity

explain ways that cultural groups and identities change over time and in different contexts

Explore and compare cultural knowledge beliefs and practices

analyse the dynamic nature of cultural knowledge, beliefs and practices in a range of personal, social and historical contexts

Develop respect for cultural diversity

understand the importance of maintaining and celebrating cultural traditions for the development of personal, group and national identities