GEOGRAPHIA

CommunicationCommunication from from the the Chair Chair Australian Curriculum: It has been a busy time for AGTA since the last Geographia. update

With the Australian Curriculum: Geography almost at the publication Presently the consultation feedback stage we are !nding that the demands on AGTA have grown – which on the October 2011 draft scope and is all good for geography in Australian schools. These demands sequence of the Australian Curriculum: Geography is being considered and A have involved coordinating the consultation of the draft scope and the curriculum is being redrafted in HI response. The publication date for the GRAP eography Teachers’ Association Limited. sequence of the Australian Curriculum: Geography, establishment of Geographia is the national newsletter of the Australian G curriculum has been E !rmed up by ACARA G an on-line resource project with Educational Services (ESA), to be December 13th 2012. Maybe we work with the National Education Forum giving voice to professional should call this G Day for Geography. JULY 2012 teachers associations and continued work on the AGTA constitution. The following timeline may be useful to show where we have been and where we Occasional Newsletter of The Australian Geography Teachers’ Association Limited are going as we develop the Australian Curriculum: Geography. Education Services Australia (ESA) • May 2009: ACARA presented with the Supporting Australian Curriculum TNGC Background Paper and Position Online (SACOL) Geography Project Paper. In this issue: • October 2009: ACARA Geography Reference Group established to ver the past 8 months AGTA has The project is to: develop a draft AC: Geography Shape 1 been negotiating with ESA to be Paper. AGTA 109 the providers of on-line resources • provide an online learning model for O • June 2010: to support the implementation of the teachers to access Draft AC: Geography Communication Shape Paper released for on-line Australian Curriculum: Geography. AGTA • create a framework for professional 2 consultation. from the Chair is presently establishing the project, to learning, suitable for online and/or face to 4 be known as GEOGSPACE and will report face application • July 2010: ACARA Advisory Group Geography’s Big Week Out more about the nature of the resources appointed to produce the • aim at developing the knowledge, skills !nal AC: and format of the on-line delivery in the Geography shape paper. International and pedagogical capacity of teachers to 4 next Geographia. Geography Olympiad teach geography • January 2011: AC: Geography shape This excerpt from our submission for the paper released. • be supportive of the non-geographically National Geographic Channel project to ESA will give an idea of what trained, as well as the trained geographer • March – October 2011: Australian Geography we hope the project delivers. A group 4 teacher of writers and Advisors worked Competition AGTA is committed to the development on developing a draft scope and • cater for primary and secondary school of materials and professional learning sequence. National Geographic World implementation of the Australian 4 opportunities to support teachers to teach • October 2011: Championship Financially, AGTA continues to prosper with Curriculum: Geography Draft scope and AGTA 109 the ACARA Australian Curriculum: Geography sequence released for on-line the balance sheet as at the 13 May 2012 • integrate ICT’s throughout the curriculum in coming years. This proposal being consultation. 2012 National Geographic Canberra ACT showing AGTA’s total assets as $250,426.00 presented to ESA is an important part of relevant to the teaching of geography Channel Australian Geography and total liabilities as $6,147.87 with net what AGTA consider is required to ensure the • March – June 2012: Writer and 19-20 May 2012 • include exemplars from F-10 directly Competition Major assets of $244,278.13. successful implementation of the Australian advisors respond to feedback and draft 5 linked into the content and skills of the Prize-winners !liation fees Curriculum: Geography in the future. a new scope and sequence. alcolm McInerney, AGTA A!liates are reminded that a Australian Curriculum: Geography are payable for the year commencing after AGTA sees the ESA materials developed • July 2012: Draft goes to jurisdictions Chairman, welcomed all to the !liation fee is • employ geographical inquiry and the AGM (i.e. the 2011-2012 a and GTA’s for feedback. 5 109th AGTA Meeting held at as more than just online resources for geographical thinking approaches Resource Kit M based on the membership numbers as at 30 teachers to access, they will also provide the Canberra Grammar School on 19-20 May throughout • August-October 2012: Final rewrite 6 October 2011) and were due and payable AGTA website 2012. A special welcome was extended framework, content pedagogical knowledge, by writers and advisors. on 1 January 2012 (AGTA Constitution Item teaching approaches and resources to • be resource rich, providing teachers to Susan Bliss and guests from Canberra • 13 December 2012: 6 10). The amount payable increases annually support professional learning across with access to the plethora of quality On-line GeoCareers website including Anne Holland (Canberra Grammar publication of the Australian in accordance with the change in the CPI Australia once the curriculum is published geographical teaching resources School) and Michael da Roza (St Edmund’s Curriculum: Geography. AITSL Illustrations for the previous 12 months. in December 2012. available around the world. 6 College). of Practice Due to the changes that occur to The project has an extremely tight timeline The writing of the Australian Curriculum: AGTA acknowledges the great contribution membership numbers during the period and is due for release in March 2013. We Geography continues to be an exciting made by Stephen Cranby who has AGTA Launches liation, a notice will be sent by the look forward to this work being critical period for geography in Australia. of a! 6 resigned from AGTA Board due to family ‘Going Global’ Poster treasurer to each member association in the implementation of the Australian With the publication of the document circumstances. We wish Stephen all the 12 during the second half of the year Curriculum: Geography from 2013 we must turn our attention to the other AGTA 2013 Update best for the future. requesting an update to the association’s onwards. great needs for the implementation of Interestingly, Rebecca (AGTA Secretary) membership numbers that were supplied the curriculum: resources and is receiving an increasing number of when the tax invoice was paid. Member professional learning. calls from primary teachers questioning associations with increased membership how they can become a Geography will be sent a tax invoice for the additional

teacher. Common requirements now exist capitation fee due. The association will PAGE 2 across the nation for accreditation (AITSL then be entitled to receive additional for requirements). copies of Geographical Education PAGE 1 HIA www.agta.asn.au GEOGRAP GEOGRAPHIA Geography’s Big Week Out The 2012 Geography’s Big Week Out (GBWO) will be held on the Mornington Peninsula, from 30 September to 5 Finally AGTA would like to make special October. It will again be organised by a mention of two Board members who have committee of dedicated Victorian teachers, left and are leaving the Board in 2012. under the excellent leadership of Pat Stephen Cranby Beeson. The Competition Committee is Stephen resigned from the Board in January very appreciative of the essential work of due to personal reasons. The Board was these teachers in realising this programme. disappointed to lose Stephen because of GBWO has now been held in Queensland, his incisive, creative and energetic presence. and Victoria. In 2013 Stephen has only recently taken on the Vice it is due to shift to a new venue. The National Geographic Channel AGTA Constitution rewrite Clause 57: The AGTA Board o Chair role of AGTA after being the Chair of Competition Committee requests that !ce bearers of #ering to host GBWO Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer shall AGTA from 2002-2004. We would like to state GTAs consider o he process of rewriting the AGTA Australian Geography Competition in accordance with the Law be appointed thank Stephen for his time and work on in 2013 (and hopefully 2014). Ideally the Constitution dates back to May by the Board for such term, at such AGTA for many years and wish him all the new host can be decided in time for one School Round 2010 when several members of the T remuneration and upon such condition as it best for the future. or two representatives to participate in the This year, 79,170 students from 774 schools Board suggested that we needed to review 2012 GBWO. thinks "t; and any o! entered the Competition. The number of the constitution. Over the past two years ce bearer so appointed Emmy Terry may be removed by it. The AGTA Board may schools went up slightly and the number considerable work and advice has been Emmy has indicated that the October appoint two (2) Vice Chairs for the following International of students stayed much the same. Western undertaken on behalf of AGTA a meeting will be her last and that she will !liates to year at the AGM if they consider it warranted. Australia had record student numbers again make this happen. I would particularly like not renominate to be an AGTA Director. Geography Olympiad The decision of appointing two (2) Vice this year and Queensland had a record to thank Alan May and the GAWA Executive Emmy was also an AGTA President, doing Chairs is to be reviewed at the next AGM. number of schools entering. The 2012 school for all their work on this project. At the the job from 2004-6. For many years Nothing herein shall prevent the Board from round was held from 26 March to 4 April. See May AGTA Board meeting in Canberra the Emmy has been a Board member and the appendix for a list of the major prize- appointing a Director of the Company as an following clauses were agreed to which will the AGTA’s representative on a range of winners. o!ce bearer and any Director so appointed provide the basis of the bodies such as AFSSSE and Geography "nal constitutional shall forthwith become an o Final for under 16s AGTA at the Final. Sydney schools that rewrite. This new version of the constitution !cer of the Big Week Out. For the past four years Company and be subject to Clause 65 of the Students win a place at the Final for under entered the Competition have been invited will go to the October AGTA Board meeting Emmy has been extremely dedicated in Constitution. If the appointee is not already a 16s based on their scores in the school to attend and there is currently a waiting list for rati"cation (coincidently to be held producing Geographia, which is a valuable Director of the Board, they may be co-opted round. The Final will be held on Monday for places. in for the contribution to our association. Emmy has "rst time in many years). to the Board in accordance with Clause 38 of 18 June at Foxtel Studios in Sydney. The We look forward to have a brand new done a wonderful job keeping the doors of The 2012 International Geography The Final will be broadcast on National the Constitution. Any O programme for the prize weekend will constitution to guide the work of AGTA !ce Bearer co-opted communication open between a Olympiad will be held from 21 to 28 Geographic Channel at 10.30am AEST to the Board who is not a serving Director !liates. include a Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb and into the future. We thank her for all her dedication, time and August in Cologne, Germany. Four a behind-the-scenes tour at Taronga Zoo. Monday 16 July. shall be entitled to vote and hold o !cially represent !ce only energy on behalf of AGTA over these years. students have been selected to represent Nick Hutchinson will o Clause 34: “Thereafter the Board of Directors until the next Annual General Meeting. Australia, based on their outstanding shall consist of six (6) appointed Directors, performances at the 2011 Geography’s being the respective Presidents of each Big Week Out: of the member associations and six (6) AGTA plays a role on the • Anthony Chen, nominated Directors who shall be persons Radford College, Canberra National Geographic nominated by each of the six (6) member National Education Forum Sarah Godman, World Championship associations of AGTA. The total number The National Education Forum (NEF) is a • just talk. That is, a body which actually Cootamundra High School of Directors (appointed and nominated) is body established to provide the opportunity Australia is intending to compete at the biennial promotes in real terms the agenda of to be twelve (12), two from each member for national professional teachers association • Sarah Naco, National Geographic World Championship national professional associations in the association unless altered pursuant to to discuss the national agenda for education. Canberra Girls’ Grammar School (NGWC), to be held from 27 July to 1 August national educational landscape. Associations Clause 38 of this Constitution. A member The NEF meets three times a year and 2013 in St Petersburg, Russia. The team of three are often asked their opinion after the • Kate Parrott, association may decide to not nominate comprises 36 national professional teachers students will include the winner of the 2012 development has been undertaken on Hobart College a nominated Director. In such a case, the association. The NEF is not a decision making Final for under 16s. initiatives. Members of the NEF think that as AGTA Board are to determine the number of body but does play an important role in The team will be accompanied by bodies representing thousands of classroom Directors required pursuant to Clause 38 of ‘getting the ear’ of key players in education Competition Coordinator Kath Berg and teachers around Australian we should be part AGTA Director Margaret McIvor. Kath is this Constitution. The Chair, Deputy Chair/s, in Australia. Over the past year the NEF has of the decision making in some way. The currently Secretary of the International Secretary and Treasurer of the Board are to be met with Minister Garret (twice, Margery creation of such a body, whether the NEF in Geographical Union Olympiad Task Force. appointed by the Board from the appointed Evans (AITSL CEO), Susan Mann (ESA CEO) its current form or another body with more The Olympiad International Board has and nominated Directors unless requiring and Professor Alan Reid (ACE) address the representational power, could ensure that elected her co-chair of the Task Force for the provision outlined in Clause 57.” forum. The opportunity to communicate our happens in the future. 2012-2016, an appointment still to be Clause 38: The Board shall have power at concerns and aspirations directly to such rati"ed by the IGU Congress in August. any time, and from time to time, to co-opt entities is particular valuable for associations. A group of NEF delegates met in June in Canberra to work through these issues. any person to the Board, as an addition As a member of the NEF management A report will be in the next Geographia PAGE 4 to the existing Directors of the Board. Any committee, AGTA Chair Malcolm McInerney informing a!liates of any progress on the person so co-opted shall be entitled to vote has been closely involved in getting the initiative to increase the voice of national and shall hold o!ce only until the next NEF to consider the possibility of creating professional teachers association in the following Annual General Meeting. a body similar to the NEF to do more than national educational agenda.

PAGE 3 AGffiEOliateGRAP NewsHIA GEOGRAPHIA GEOGRAPHIA 2012 National Geographic Channel Australian Geography Competition Major Prize-winners GEOGRAPHIA Geography Teachers Association

State/ Territory of Queensland (GTAQ) seventy teachers attending. Teachers Junior Winner AGTA is supportive of this project and will travelled from as far as Mackay and A forum was held on the Draft Australian NSW the capacity to undertake the development * Jacob Howe, Mulwaree High School, Intermediate Winner teacher events. There is recognition by the be guided by the GTAV in relation to AGTA Bundaberg with the majority from South Curriculum Geography on 9 February at Senior Winner of such a resource. The sequential skills Goulburn Yianni Van Gelder, Newington School Winner Spatial Industry that there is a need to foster endorsement of the project. East Queensland. RGSQ where 30 geographers gathered Oscar Fawkes, Sydney would be embedded into the new Australian There are currently 180 College * Sydney Grammar the development of spatial skills throughout !nancial members, to discuss and respond to the Draft. Grammar School AITSL Illustrations Curriculum with online free resource Trish Douglas and growing steadily compared to the same The !rst Primary teachers Geography School all levels of education which would in turn Simultaneously Gold Coast GeoNet and National Runner-up/Finalist: Jamie developed in a number of phases across an period last year. GTAQ has demonstrated Day (5 hours) was hosted at St Margaret’s. Qld develop an awareness of career pathways GTAV President Wide bay teachers also reviewed the Draft William Snell, St Stephen’s Catholic Abel, Shore School 18-24 month time frame. growth in State and Private School Forty teachers attended this workshop of Practice in the spatial industry sector. This would curriculum and sent feedback to us. Other College, Mareeba William Snell, St Stephen’s Catholic Institutional membership while individual and were provided with a copy of Tom Hayward, provide the underpinning link from the "ed a number of possible Keys to regions such as Townsville and Sunshine College, Mareeba Brisbane Grammar DS has identi membership has remained steady. The Geography. The workshops aimed to provide SA Brisbane State High attending to obtain feedback regarding school sector to courses o!ered at the Coast gave responses that were collated. Charlie Dubois, Blackfriars Priory he Australian Institute for School funding opportunities for this resource increase at this early stage could be professional development opportunities School the e"ectiveness of the strategies used "cate level. Individual teachers were also encouraged Timothy Moy, Concordia College School Teaching and Leadership (AITSL) diploma and certi and the GTAV has developed a preliminary attributed to a number of factors including to members at a minimal cost. From School and subsequent application in teaching. to respond to the survey as well as the Baden Gilbert, commenced the development of outline of the submission which has been early Professional Development, interest the positive feedback received, this was Tara Mutze, Westminster School Finalist: Phoebe Smith, Walford Pembroke School T DS wishes to support the development collective voice of GTAQ. University Senior Tas support material for the National Professional 2. Exemplar 2 is also a dynamic illustration well received by the spatial industry and in National Curriculum for Geography and achieved. Matthew Behrens, The Hutchins Anglican School for Girls of a sequential standalone spatial skills College Standards for Teachers (the Standards) in the and relating to Standard 2 — Professional tertiary sector. following up on member renewals. GTAQ encouraged schools to participate Thomas Foster, Launceston resource and recognises that the GTAV has Other planned professional development School second half of 2011 with work continuing knowledge at the pro!cient level. in the annual Australian Geography Church Grammar School Joshua Argent, There are no new members on our State for the 2012 includes: Annual Conference Launceston Church in 2012 and 2013. AGTA was successful in This exemplar illustrates how teachers Competition through journal advertising/ Territories 1 Launceston Church Council this year however there have been 27/28 July where a new logo will be Kirsten Butt, Lyneham High School Grammar School receiving funding from AITSL to develop can integrate ICT including spatial articles, emails and GTAQ website. As Sebastian Summersby-Mitchell, Grammar School changes in Executive positions held. Current launched; and, during Term 4 an Australian three exemplars or Illustrations of practice technologies into learning and teaching a result, Queensland demonstrated an Dominic Behrens, Canberra Grammar Canberra Grammar School Michael Skene, committee members are - President: Lerece Curriculum Geography Workshop will be Canberra Grammar related to the Professional Standards. programs that make selected content increase in schools participating. School Narrabundah College Roberts, Vice President: Anne-Marie Gerlach, held providing professional development in School relevant and meaningful. It uses video Geography Teachers Association AGTA’s exemplars are being prepared by Secretary: Shane Albertson, Treasurer: Kaye regional centres in a cost e GTAQ website is updated regularly and has Hugh Douglas, Canberra Grammar recordings of teachers’ use of ICT during of New South Wales (GTANSW) "ective manner Roger Smith and Rob Berry. Two of the Schwede, Membership Secretary: Sandy remains an issue. links to UQ Geography Careers Day, AGTA School a professional learning day held on exemplars will be ‘dynamic’ in that they will Frismanis and Journal Editor: Mick Law. Conference 2013 and other resources. The 7 May 2012 in Adelaide. It is anticipated that the journal “Queensland Elise Keleher, Telopea Park School be based on video recordings and the other NSW Other committee members include Jackie AGTA conference has been promoted at Vic "nancial Geographer” will be distributed to members Alec Barber, Scotch College one will be a ‘static illustration’ using print 3. Exemplar 3 relates to Standard 3 — Currently GTANSW has 408 Dunk, Margaret McIvor, Russell Smerdon, recent Professional Development activities !cient AGTA Launches in the last Queensland school calendar Benjamin Siow, Highvale documents. Professional practice at the pro members Terri Burke and Rebecca Nicholas. and the Journal will continue to support the Nicholas Ibrahim, Penleigh and Secondary College * Marcus Young, week of each term, with each journal having Essendon Grammar School (Boys) Melbourne High level. It is a static illustration based ‘Going Global’ Poster conference including sending o Glenvale School Work completed to date has been as follows. !eldwork Professional development activities GTAQ is endeavouring to support teachers a theme. Much discussion has occurred #cial $yers. Finalist: Rebecca Li, Methodist School on teaching resources for (Hamilton Campus) To mark the 2012-13 launch of the included HSC examination reviews in with curriculum change and assessment over the pros and cons of producing the Lerece Roberts 1. Exemplar 1 is a dynamic illustration undertaken in Melbourne’s Docklands Ladies’ College Australian Curriculum: Geography, AGTA development. A three hour journal in an electronic format. At this GTAQ President relating to Standard 6 — Engage in and demonstrates the selection and Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle (online Senior WA !cient has released a poster highlighting the documents available http://www.gtansw. Geography Assessment Workshop stage no change is envisaged but further Kyle Bartlett, Perth Modern School professional learning at the pro use of teaching strategies that develop Curriculum’s key concepts. State-based was held at Global Learning Centre. The investigation will be conducted on issues Jonathon Grigg, Frederick Irwin level. It is based on teachers’ participation knowledge, skills, problem solving, critical org.au/), and the 2011 HSC Awards Samuel Clements, a#liates will organise the distribution of response was tremendous with over such as electronic copyright, access, style Anglican School, Shenton College in a range of group activities during a and creative thinking. ceremony; Arthur Phillip Awards Ceremony. 1 Guildford Grammar the posters to member schools in and demand. ACT, NT, Christmas Island and Cocos Keeling professional learning day held on 7 March School It is anticipated that AGTA’s project will be coming months. During July the GTANSW Annual * 1st in Australia 2012 in Melbourne. Interviews have been completed by the end of June 2012. recorded with presenters and teachers Conference, will be held at the university of http://www.gtansw. Australian Capital Territory Western Sydney (refer org.au/). - Sub Branch of GTANSW • ACT resources to support the Australian Curriculum Geography was tabled. participated in the formal trial of the Online sales of AGTA’s Exploring 21st Century GeoCareers website curriculum during the consultation phase. GTANSW has awarded TWO BURSARIES for • The ANU organised a forum for teachers Australian Alps Geography DVD have continued to be teachers to attend the AGTA Conference ACT As the ACT is a Lead jurisdiction some linking this resource to current curriculum, AGTA website Some new content and revisions to Membership includes a core of 6-11 people of , supported with purchasers able to complete teachers are choosing to trial aspects of the see the Teacher’s notes at existing information have been made to in Perth in 2013. Congratulations to Luke materials required to successfully facilitate from Act public and non-government & Geography to determine how they Resource Kit http://www. new section devoted to the AGTA payment by credit card, a school order form The GTANSW Geography Bulletin is edited curriculum in an informal way – ready for australianalps.environment.gov.au/ the GeoCareers website. Thanks to the Naivasha and Penny Spreitzer who have this event in their school including: schools and NSW schools. could best support ACT teachers. Great 2013 Conference in Perth has or cheque. by Grant Kleeman and Susan Bliss. GTANSW implementation. The Australian Alps Education Kit is learn/index.html suggestions of people to be included been awarded bursaries by GTANSW opportunities were discussed. There is been created and additions will Members can access VOLUME 44, No. 1 & A professional development half day was designed for students, teachers and anyone A The Chairperson’s annual report provides in the pro!le section being forwarded covering their registration fees and • a Schools Action Kit packed with ideas, further work to do in this area. The ACT region sub branch is proposing The Australian Alps - in all their richness, be made to this throughout the coming held on Friday 18 May at Stirling ACT. It else keen to learn about this spectacular much useful information for members to Rob Berry. Members are invited to attendance at the conference dinner at the No. 2 — 2012 issues online. activities, a step-by-step event guide and to organise a Geography Conference in complexity and power to engage - are year. Online registration and payment for was attended by teachers from all three • The sub-branch has moved forward region of Australia. These educational about the achievements of AGTA. The send recommendations of people to be AGTA 2013 conference in Perth. tools for students to take the lead and 2013 to commemorate the Centenary of presented as a resource for secondary the conference will be a key feature of the Action for Promotion of Geography sectors. Malcolm McInerney, Susan Bliss and in its work on developing a resources materials form an organised resource ‘Geography discussions’ section provides approached with a view to providing a run the activities; Canberra. students and their teachers who are website. Expressions of interest in presenting GTANSW encouraged teachers/schools/ Rebecca Nichols presented on aspects of for ACT teachers around focusing on iconic, awe-inspiring and links to Web 2.0 geography websites pro!le for publication as there are still The IAG’s 2012 Conference is being held at !eldwork and studying... a workshop at the conference have been students to participate In The World the Australian Curriculum. excursions. Karen Tuhan accessible areas within the Australian Alps. and a portal to a number of useful blogs, many career areas we would like to include. Macquarie University, Sydney, on 2–4 July. • classroom and assembly resources handled online and the number of people Meteorological Day, Close the Gap Day Secretary of ACT/ region The contents range from the resilient yet • Aboriginal Studies wikis, nings, forums, discussions and other Please send the person’s name, their email This is a great opportunity for Geography including video stories, photos, Action for Promotion of Geography Curriculum Developments in ACT registering to receive conference newsletters and Australia’s Population Challenge: What – sub branch of NSWGTA fragile plant communities that grow in the • Geography participatory web applications that support address and current area of employment Teachers to engage with Australia’s leading factsheets and a copy of the National • The 2013 AGTA Conference was Teachers from each sector provided has been most encouraging. Really Counts. harsh alpine environment, to the cultural • Australian History geography teaching both in Australia and to Rob Berry ([email protected]). Rob will academic geographers. The Conference Close the Gap Day DVD. discussed and members have expressed feedback into the draft Australian impact of the Hydro- • Biology The AGTA 2011 Conference section is still overseas. Other changes to the website then contact each person nominated and program is designed to encouraging interest in attending. Curriculum: Geography paper. Three Schools and the broader community Nick Hutchinson electricity Scheme; and from the First • Outdoor and Environmental Science, attracting a considerable number of online include updates to the news section (eg provide them with a standard proforma and wide participation from secondary schools (two secondary and one primary) around Australia were asked to show their People’s connection with the mountain and visitors particularly to the keynote video latest issue of Geographia), Board members, agreement sheet. geography teachers. It will feature a GTANSW President support to Close the Gap in life expectancy landscape to the Alps’ cycles of weather and • Tourism presentations by Rita Gardner, Duncan a#liate details and resources. Updates have number of education-focused sessions. between Indigenous and non-Indigenous climate. Take a look - there is so much to Chessell and Tim Costello. The AGTA also been made to the national geography ...with resources grouped within a series of -bird registration will close April 27, and full learn from the Australian Alps. Facebook page has been set up with both curriculum website, standards for geography Australians. On registering, participants facts sheets on soils, climate, vegetation, conference registration will close June 25. general comments and this will extend to an teaching and details of a #liate conferences. received the learning resources and For more detailed information for teachers, fauna, !re, Aboriginal people, mining, AGTA 2013 conference wall. A full listing of The listing of state conferences has been including content and suggestions on grazing, water catchment, recreation and the AGTA Award winners can also be viewed updated where such details are known. tourism, conservation. at the AGTA website.

PAGE 10 PAGE 9 PAGE 5 HIA GEOGRAPHIA GEOGRAP Affiliate News PAGE 6 GEOGRAPHIA Geographical Teachers Association very well. These resources are o !ered in both The National Geographic Channel Australian of Western Australia (GAWA) hardcopy and/or email copies for semester Geography Competition was conducted in GEOGRAPHIA one and two. March. WA The School Curriculum and Standards Curriculum Developments Tasmanian Geography Teachers to attend the 2013 AGTA Conference in government schools. Association (TGTA) Perth. GAWA Currently has 221 members from 117 Authority (SCSA) have not provided access GAWA continues to have a strong TGTA has continued to maintain good !er to the #nal Year 12 WACE Exam Broadsheets Course Advisory Geography Teachers Association The Government Post Year 10 sector is schools. Most schools in the state that o representation on the SCSA • Global Education Project (GEP) links with the School of Geography and Geography are members. for the past 2 years. GAWA has taken up the Committee. With our own courses, GAWA of Victoria (GTAV) function at the Melbourne Museum will still transitioning back to the Department This project includes a number of sta TAS at UTAS, especially Swan Valley Winery: Perth Convention Bureau mantle of producing copies for sale at cost continues to have a strong input and has # bring together members of the Victorian Membership currently stands at 23 active of Education. All schools in Tasmania are Professional Development as well as three sessional contractors in the curriculum area with the Australian to members and teachers. In 2012 this has righted some of the concerns expressed by Geography community - teachers, tertiary, members, with 17 of these teachers actually working with a reduced budget due to Professional Development for 2012 who assist the project during times of Curriculum: Geography and co-operation proved to be very problematic as determining VIC teaching Geography in 2012. Two successful members. The issue of the life members, publishers, spatial industry. a !scal shortage in Tasmania, which is commenced in early March with the New and Membership of GTAV is currently 525 – heavy demand. Resources produced/in with !eldwork. AGTA 2013 Update who owns the copyright for various images Dipole and ‘climate cycles and variations’ state-wide PD days were held in 2011. adversely a"ecting all government services. Beginning Teachers Day held at the Claremont approximately the same numbers as production using GEP funds include: Wayne Sutton used and then trying to gain copyright highlighted in our October report has been Curriculum Developments Yacht Club. Approximately 30 teachers May 2011. Teachers in schools and colleges across State-wide, the number of schools and TGTA President permissions has been a tedious process. resolved in the positive at the May CAC GTAV is providing teachers with information Keynote Speakers attended. It is surprising how many ‘new’ • “Water for life: investigating water as Tasmania were actively encouraged to colleges with viable Geography classes is Whilst we will see this through in 2012 we meeting. Our Stage 3B course, (second A successful Strategic Planning Day about the Australian Curriculum via GTAV Our 4 keynote speakers have now been teachers to Geography we attract to these a global issue” based on the Global participate in The National Geographic slightly down in 2012 from 18 to 16 but the are more than likely going to call the SCSA to semester year 12), will be reviewed in 2013, facilitated by GTAV Patron Rob Gell was News, website and professional learning con!rmed. As you may already know sessions every year. The day was facilitated Education learning emphases and Australian Geography Competition and number of students studying Geography Sun downer and one evening will be free to account in 2013 and let them know that it is depending on progress and timelines held in March 2012. Steve Latham has opportunities e.g. VCE Conference provided renowned international Geographical by the PD Committee who coordinated the Geography skills and knowledge and we hope that there was an increase in the in Year 11/12 is similar to the previous four enjoy the local cuisine at discounted prices their responsibility to produce this resource. associated with the Australian Curriculum a workshop session facilitated by Monica educators Professor Simon Catling, from Fieldtrips collection of a range of teaching resources been employed as the fulltime number of students participating from at selected venues. Members of the Course Advisory Committee, understandings – complete at end of May years with about 220 students. There are Oxford Brookes University, and Professor Our !eldtrips have been designed to get you to support each stage and Year 11 and 12 Senior School geography units. GAWA also Education O!cer for GTAV. Bini (VCAA) and EO Terry McMeekin in which SCSA, have endorsed this position. 2012 Tasmania. also many students who study Geography David Lambert, Geographical Association out and about in Perth and the surrounding Pre Conference Tour units. The volume and quality of resources submitted a thorough critique of the 2011 over 100 attendees provided feedback. Teachers are also being actively encouraged in high school at private schools and two Chief Executive and University of London, will hinterland as well as give you some great An outstanding program of activities and visits contributed by GAWA members was Action to Promote Geography WACE exam. 2011 was the second year our In the "rst half of 2012, the GTAV has • “Global well-being” - a resource for Terry McMeekin/Steve Latham (Education be two of our keynote presenters sharing their ideas about teaching good Geography. We have been organised for a pre conference outstanding! Each delegate received their A new initiative for our term 2 Bulletin this new WACE courses have been examined at o#ered/will o#er professional leaning to Year 10, Unit 2 in the draft Australian O!cers) and Trish Douglas (President) have Year 12 level for graduation and university expertise in F – 12 Geography education and are encouraging all delegates to choose the tour through the South West corner of resources electronically, and reports from our year is a special supplement on ‘ Promoting experienced and inexperienced teachers Curriculum: Geography (AusAID funded) also provided information and feedback as entry purposes. GAWA remains active in its curriculum development. Professor Peter trip as one of their 2 choices. WA. With one night in the tall timber town new teachers were very positive. This year we Geography’ aimed at year 10 students and of Geography including: VCE for new – in production requested when required. feedback to the SCSA in relation to the senior Newman will also be a Keynote speaker. Peter Rottnest is Perth’s aquatic playground with of Pemberton and two in the heart of the also o!ered a session on the re"ections of a teachers. With students choosing their teachers of Geography; Help! How do I teach Geography Teachers Association and many sessions matched upper primary school courses. In collaboration with VCAA, the GTAV Curriculum Developments: is the Professor of Sustainability at Curtin beautiful clear bays fed by warm tropical famous Margaret River wine growing region new Geography teacher, which helped the Senior School subjects at the end of term 2/ Geography for inexperienced teachers; Actions to Promote Geography of South Australia (GTASA) and lower middle school curriculum in an provided the opportunity for primary and University and Director of the Curtin University ocean currents, which result in corals growing participants will experience a feast of visual delegates see that there is light at the end of beginning of term 3 this edition contains In terms of the Australian Curriculum both WA Meet the examiners and increasing your GTAV continues to have an active endeavour to attract more primary teachers. • AC geography is the main focus for most !eld trip will also Sustainability Policy Institute. He has recently o" the coast of Perth! This and culinary delights. Likely PCT fee, $650 the tunnel! information on; what is geography, careers members of the Advisory Group are on the VCE Geography student numbers; Using involvement with Destination Spatial – the secondary teachers to provide feedback on people. Keen to see the !nal structure. linked to geography, all the tertiary course in the Draft Australian Curriculum Geography. SA In terms of promoting Geography the been appointed as Chief Writer – Transport start with a cruise down the Swan River to CAC and are GAWA stalwarts, keeping us well web-based technologies in the classroom; Education Committee which includes !eld trips will include bush Accommodation PD Sessions have been/will be conducted Current membership is 85 to date but • The SACE program in its second year for the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Fremantle. Other Western Australia with a link to geography informed of the most recent developments. 245 primary and secondary teachers of GTASA has: Budget accommodation at the Perth College in: Geography in Action 3A Professional Up-skilling in Geography; 21st Century representatives from the spatial industries, GTASA are currently registering for their continues to be re!ned. walking in the Perth hills, participation in or a geographical perspective, the faculties Geography in Victoria provided feedback Climate Change. Our 4th keynote will be Development Titled Urban Planning – Systems A strong round of Australian Curriculum: Geography and Getting to grips with GIS; tertiary institutions and education – to Publications and Projects Boarding House, across the road from #les of conference which is when memberships Professor Lyn Beasley. Lyn is the Western various aspects of local indigenous culture, involved and their contact details, pro and, hosted a VCE student topic lecture promote career pathways into the spatial via 8 face-to-face consultation sessions held Issues and Concerns: conference venue, including breakfast Thinking; Geography in Action 2A Professional Geography feedback workshops were held are traditionally renewed. GTASA is Australia Chief Scientist and patron of the a visit to a bauxite mine, a visit to Mandurah, geographers and web links. We hope this will across metropolitan Melbourne and regional • Year 12 Study guide – updated - $40 pp/pn. Development will take place in August on the by the various systems and sectors in Western in March – attendance 400 (20% increase industry. A similar relationship has been contemplating changing the e • New SACE review being undertaken by a provide a useful guide to teachers, course "ective dates and published to support students Australian Sustainable Schools Initiative – WA, (Perth’s other aquatic playground), and ½ star CBD topic Sustainable Forestry in the ; a Australia. Many of the GAWA councillors and compared with 2011). A Topic lecture is developed with the Planning industry. Victoria and one online forum. 32 Teachers for membership renewals to make it match group appointed by the SA Government. counsellors and to students thinking about undertaking the year 12 SACE. Thanks to (AuSSTI-WA). She recently addressed the the canal developments, a walking tour of Packages with Rydges Perth – 4 whole day event in November to look at the members attended one or more of these also scheduled in August and VCE revision also responded to the GTAV survey on the with conference dates. It is anticipated that Due to report back in early July. Schools future options. Sandy Stuart, Andrew Penny and John Royal Geographical Society, at the invite of Perth, a look at one of Australia’s biggest hotel $155 pr/pn. City Stay Apartments GTAV has been pro-active in developing GTAV website. The Education O Australian Curriculum: Geography. sessions thus strongly contributing to the lectures in October. !cers and this will have a positive impact on numbers Coop. and associations have submitted their President – Michael Palin, on the topic Urban Renewal projects, a visit to the state #c 2 Bedroom - $175 pn, 1 Bedroom - $155 pn. The GAWA website continues to be the relationships with media and other the Director of Projects provided a written AGTA National Conference January 2013 - various submissions. GAWA also submitted a each year. responses. of, Western Australia; Exploring The Secrets governments transport hub to see how tra Details on website . public face for our association. All members submission to AGTA and ACARA on behalf of GTAV has collaborated with Global Education organisations / associations including: submission on behalf of the GTAV which • Inquiring into Pandas – a resource to in Australia’s fastest growing city is kept on the The GAWA AGTA conference committee and The Executive remains fairly unchanged. As • Ongoing issues with change in of an Ancient Land. She received a standing Website have access to a password protected area its members. Project and the GEP has independently submitting articles to “Inspire”, “Australian encompassed feedback from all consultation support the teaching of geographical move and our own very own Amazing Race. Darryl Michie are continuing work on the with other Associations there is an ongoing assessment in SACE. ovation from the 700 members present. All To enhance your chances of getting your in which countless resources reside, like the provided information/workshop sessions Teacher Magazine”, “VCAA”, consulting with modes. skills in upper primary and lower middle !eld trips you will 2013 AGTA Conference. With over 70 pre- Issues and Concerns concern regarding succession planning due who have heard Lyn speak are amazed by her preferred workshops and presentations of our keynote speakers from to pre-service teachers at the University The Age in relation to the content of The Age school focusing around the Giant Panda. • Declining student numbers a"ecting our registrations received and on line registrations • GAWA’s main concerns have been to demands of fulltime teaching loads and energy and passion. Social Program previous year’s conference. of Melbourne, LaTrobe University, Monash Natural Disasters posters published in 2012, Geography Big Week Out Thanks to Rita Shepherd and Alexandra membership although we think there need to register early. Likely registration fees, about to open the anticipation is rising. A highlighted above as the wheels appear to the ability of being able to commit time to AGTA conferences are always a lot of FUN as Early Bird $550, Full $650. In October GAWA will present its annual University, Deakin University, University of collaborating with other subject associations The GTAV would like the Board members Piggott. has been a slight increase there is still Primary Geography stream will be held on the turn slowly when it comes to dealing with conduct GTASA business. GTASA has a new Workshops you meet new people and take part in new revision seminar at UWA for WACE Stage 3 Ballarat, RMIT Bundoora, Victoria University to provide professional learning for teachers, of AGTA to consider the role of the State less than half of the 2010 enrolment. We are really looking forward to meeting you Thursday with dedicated workshops. course changes and re#nements. President who was elected at the AGM in Action for Promotion of Geography We have secured over 50 workshop experiences. Optional events will include a Geography students. This year we will revisit and ACU Ballarat. GEP has also undertaken hosting a Facebook page with approximately Program Coordinator of the Big Week and sharing together in what is shaping up as Publications and Projects May –Greg Way is an experienced teacher of Alex Piggott presentations covering a wide range of topics. Swan Valley Winery Tour on the Sunday before the possibility of holding student revision • As the ‘half year cohort’ moves into year 11 workshops at a number of primary schools. 250 members, initiating a Twitter account @ Out. The Coordinator of the Mornington • Ran the AC Geography consultation a great AGTA Conference. 4 Bulletins are produced each year that geography from Cabra College. GTASA President Implementing the Australian Curriculum the conference and the conference dinner!nal at seminars in the southwest in Bunbury and in in 2013 this will impact on senior school Most events have online registration for 2012 GeographyVic, developing partnerships with Peninsula program spent hundreds of hours meeting. Over 40 teachers attended and provide relevant and topical articles, classroom is a theme that runs through many with the Western Australia Golf Club on the www.agta.asn.au/conf2013/index.htm the mid-west at Geraldton. Geography course enrolments in general preparing and executing the week long Professional Development submitted their feedback to the draft. !cally aimed at teaching resources and the publication of – more successful than in 2011. other SPP funded organisations – including workshops in this area speci night of the conference. The WAGC is on plus resource sales for GAWA. "eldwork event – an essential component The annual conference was conducted For further information contact: useful websites and events. This journal is now The Joseph Gentilli Memorial Award for Melbourne Museum, Sovereign Hill, MCG, the • Ran the GTASA 75 year anniversary both Secondary and Primary teachers. (So the highest point of the Swan Coastal The following resources are in production Excellence in Geographical Education is • GAWA will be seeking to service the needs National Trust, Australian Children’s Television of the National Geographic Competition. from 24-25 May with the theme being dinner. Prof Nick Harvey presented. Thanks and o"ers beautiful views of the Perth CBD. in electronic form for most members. tell all your Primary Teacher friends to come Darryl Michie awarded to a GAWA member who has made and increase the GAWA membership or have been produced: Geography Foundation, collaborated with Channel 31 As such, the GTAV proposed that the AGTA Sustainable Geography. The conference to Roger Smith, Mark Manuel and Margaret Events included as part of your Conference GAWA text books are now available for all WA along)! The cross-curricular foci of Asia, AGTA 2013 Conference Convenor an outstanding contribution to Geographical of primary teachers as the Australian Environments : VCE Units 1 & 2 –completed; in production of “Why Study Geography” – a Board consider the plausibility of the notion convener Ian Johnson completed a great Calder who organised the dinner and fees include a welcome BBQ on the Sunday courses and continue to enjoy good sales. The Sustainability and Indigenous Australia will [email protected] Education. In recognition of its importance, Curriculum is released. This will be a Resources and Perspectives : VCE Units 3 short segment in the series ‘Today’s schools’ that the state BWO Coordinator should be job in rounding up presenters and generally thanks to Leonie Brown and Rob Berry who evening, The AGTA Awards and canapés GAWA WACE Revision Guide continues to sell also be well represented at the conference. the award comes with prize money of $2000. challenging endeavour. & 4 – completed; 2012 VCE Trial Exam – in – shown in May 2012. This is available for use provided with the o# organizing the two days. Workshops ranged attended from Victoria. function and the AGTA Cup games, (State vs well since the format was changed from an er to be one of those Workshops on curriculum, pedagogy, • General busyness seems to be putting production; Full-colour resource catalogue accompanying the winners of the BWO to from Cool Australia to Y12 Folio workshop State – Barefoot Bowls and BBQ). Each day exam review text to a study skills and course The John Forrest Award is a competition at careers/subject selection events, being technology in and out of the classroom plus everyone under pressure and the GAWA – produced for 2012; Full-colour Interaction the International Competition. of the conference program will include a review text. This change was forced upon us for students undertaking Geography. The actively represented on the Committee of useful resources for the Geography teacher committee has not been immune from X four editions in 2012– 1 published; June due to the School Curriculum and Standards competition is designed so that the activities Management of CPTAV – the Council of will be highlighted. this. edition in production; GTAV News X 8 Destination Spatial Project Postal Address Authority, SCSA, no longer releasing the involved can be incorporated into the Professional Teaching Associations of Victoria, Registered Address editions (online in 2012 on a trial basis); GTAV has for 18 months been a partner in PO Box 2066 copyright permissions for the #nal exams to assessment programs of the students. In this Darryl Michie and hosting ‘Big Week Out’ in October 2012. 503 Burke Road Camberwell West Borneo multimedia game – based on forest Destination Spatial (DS). The Committee way it is not an extra burden on the normal GAWA President Camberwell South VIC 3124 publishers. which includes representatives from the school program. Entries are due the end of and cultural sustainability – in production; In addition the Patron of the GTAV, Rob Gell, VIC 3124 The GAWA Stage 2 and Stage 3 WACE Exam spatial industry, tertiary institutions and Next Meeting: term 2 for senior students and the end of term “Bush"res : A Geography resource for has played an active role within and for the papers and answer guides continue to sell www.agta.asn.au 2 for middle school. Australian students” in conjunction with Association through facilitating the GTAV education aims to promote career pathways Date: 27 – 28 October 2012 Country Fire Authority – completed and Strategic Planning Day and being the Master into the spatial industry. Within this role PAGE 7 available in late May 2012 ; and Geography of Ceremonies at the Patrons’ Function GTAV has assisted in developing marketing careers brochure in production. that will be combined with the AGM. This material and facilitated the distribution of the material at appropriate student and PAGE 11 PAGE 8

Acknowledgements

Hutchinson, N. (2012). Inquiry: the heart of geography or just another blind alley? Queensland Geographer 47. 3. 7–12. Reproduced with permission of the Geography Teachers Association Queensland. © The Geography Teachers Association Queensland.

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