Suitable for Years 3-10

This session explores fish traps as powerful examples of First Nations engineering, blending physical science, sustainability and cultural knowledge. Learners investigate how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples designed fish traps using natural materials to work with water flow, force and energy, while protecting fish populations and Country. Through hands-on, collaborative model-building in simulated river and coastal systems, learners predict, test, refine and explain their designs, developing engineering and problem-solving skills. The session highlights sustainability, caring for Country and the long-standing scientific knowledge embedded in cultural practices.

Science curriculum areas:

• Physical Sciences – forces, water flow, energy, movement
• Earth & Space Sciences – tides, river systems, environments
• Science Inquiry Skills – predicting, testing, refining, explaining
• Science as a Human Endeavour – Indigenous engineering knowledge, sustainability
  

Suitable for K - 10

This session explores hygiene and health science through a blend of First Nations knowledge and Western chemistry. Learners discover how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have long used plant oils for cleansing and healing, and investigate the chemistry behind soap and how it removes germs. Through a soap-making demonstration and a UV light handwashing experiment, learners develop observation, inquiry and critical thinking skills.

Science curriculum areas:

• Chemical Sciences – properties of materials, mixtures, chemical change
• Biological Sciences – hygiene, microbes, health
• Science Inquiry Skills – observation, investigation, evidence
• Science as a Human Endeavour – Indigenous innovation and applied chemistry

Suitable for Years 3-8

This session introduces geology through a First Nations lens, exploring how rocks form and how they have been used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for tools, art, shelter and cultural practices. Learners learn about the three main rock types and the rock cycle, while examining Indigenous knowledge systems as scientific, place-based and ongoing. Learners connect geological concepts to deep-time histories and living cultures by designing and carving a symbolic petroglyph using plaster.

Science curriculum areas:

• Earth & Space Sciences – rock types, rock cycle, deep time
• Science Inquiry Skills – observing, classifying, modelling
• Science as a Human Endeavour – science, culture and knowledge systems

Suitable for Years 3-8

A culturally grounded Earth science session that weaves First Nations knowledge with geology, art and storytelling. Learners explore the cultural, spiritual and scientific significance of sand and ochre, engaging in respectful, hands-on learning with microscopes that show culture and science as connected and equally valid ways of knowing.

Science curriculum areas:

• Earth & Space Sciences – natural materials, soils, sediments
• Chemical Sciences – properties of materials, mixing
• Science as a Human Endeavour – cultural knowledge, art and science
• Science Inquiry Skills – hands-on exploration and reflection

Suitable for Years 5-10

This session explores the impact of invasive species on Australia’s marine ecosystems through a blend of Western marine science and First Nations knowledge of Sea Country. Learners examine how marine pests disrupt biodiversity, threaten native species and affect cultural practices connected to the ocean. Using a fun card game, storytelling and guided discussion, learners identify native and invasive species, investigate real-world biosecurity challenges, and explore how First Nations custodial knowledge and modern science work together to care for Sea Country.

Science curriculum areas:

• Biological Sciences – ecosystems, biodiversity, invasive species
• Earth & Space Sciences – marine environments
• Science as a Human Endeavour – conservation, custodianship, biosecurity
• Science Inquiry Skills – classification, analysis, discussion