Western Australian Curriculum: Design and Technologies: Investigate and define the problem and requirements of a given design brief (Year 7, Investigating and defining). Properties of combined materials, features of production systems, given components, tools, and equipment for quality, safely produced products (Year 7, Materials and technologies specialisations). Social and ethical considerations for the design and development of products using specialised technologies, including ways products evolve locally to achieve designed solutions (Year 7, Materials and technologies specialisations).
Aboriginal Cultural Standards Framework (DETWA): Cultural Responsiveness Standard - Staff embed Aboriginal cultural knowledge, such as the use of natural oils and resins for finishing traditional tools like digging sticks, to reflect community values and sustainable design practices that respect cultural connections to land.
Cross-Curriculum Priority: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures - Students explore traditional Aboriginal wood finishing techniques, such as using natural dyes and oils, to understand sustainable and aesthetic design principles aligned with cultural practices.
Wood finishing is a critical process in design and technologies, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and protecting the durability of wooden surfaces. In Aboriginal cultures, traditional practices involve using natural oils derived from plants like eucalyptus to finish tools such as digging sticks. These oils not only enhance the wood’s appearance but also provide a protective barrier against moisture and wear. Modern finishes like varnish, a transparent coating made from resins and solvents, improve durability by sealing the wood against environmental damage. This extends the product’s life, ensuring it meets both functional and sustainable design needs.
Protective coatings such as polyurethane, a synthetic resin-based finish, shield wood from physical wear, scratches, and chemical damage. Aboriginal practices often use natural resins from trees like sandalwood to protect artefacts like boomerangs, reflecting a deep understanding of sustainable resource use. These coatings enhance longevity while maintaining cultural significance. Designers today prioritize eco-friendly finishes, such as water-based polyurethane, to minimize environmental impact. This aligns with Aboriginal values of respectful resource use and care for the land.
Staining alters the wood’s color to enhance aesthetic appeal and highlight natural grain patterns. Aboriginal crafts use natural dyes from ochre or plant extracts to create culturally significant patterns on tools and artefacts. Stains also offer protection against UV damage, preventing fading or cracking. By balancing functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, wood finishing meets community needs while respecting ethical and cultural considerations.
Here are 20 words from the reading for spelling practice: