ACTDEP035: The nature of materials and their properties in design and technologies, such as timbers in woodwork.
ACTDEP036: Generate, develop, test and communicate design ideas, plans and processes for various audiences using appropriate technical terms and technologies including graphical representation techniques.
ACTDEP037: Select and justify choices of materials, components, tools, equipment and techniques to effectively and safely make designed solutions.
Aboriginal Cultural Standards Framework: Cultural Responsiveness Standard - Staff embed Aboriginal cultural knowledge, such as traditional timber use in the Kimberley and Pilbara regions, to demonstrate respect for community values and environmental stewardship.
Cross-Curriculum Priority: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures - Students explore pre-contact and contemporary uses of Australian timbers to understand Indigenous innovation and adaptation in material use.
Timber technologies play a vital role in society, particularly in community design, where they provide sustainable, versatile materials for buildings, furniture, and public spaces. In Western Australia, timbers from the Kimberley and Pilbara regions are integrated into community projects, showcasing local resources and cultural heritage. For instance, Kimberley boab is used for cultural centers, promoting heritage and community pride. Bloodwood is employed for sturdy benches in public areas, offering durability and natural beauty.
In the Pilbara, mulga timber is chosen for playgrounds due to its resistance to heat and harsh conditions, ensuring safe and long-lasting structures for children. Gidgee is utilized for sculptures in parks, adding artistic elements that reflect Indigenous stories and connections to the land. These applications not only enhance the physical environment but also foster social cohesion and identity within communities.
Indigenous designs using local timbers further enrich community spaces, incorporating traditional knowledge and patterns that enhance social cohesion and cultural continuity. For example, WA jarrah is used in schools to promote education while connecting students to their natural surroundings. Society benefits from these eco-friendly practices, as timber supports the economy through local sourcing and reduces environmental impact compared to synthetic materials.
Community projects with Kimberley timbers build a sense of identity and belonging, encouraging participation and pride among residents. By reflecting on these practices, students can appreciate how timber technologies bridge past and present, ensuring sustainable and meaningful community designs. (Word count: 468)
Here are 20 words from the reading for spelling practice (click to hear the word and a longer sentence with context and meaning):