Year 7 Theory Lesson: Sally Morgan - Aboriginal Author and Artist

Reading: Sally Morgan's Life and Contributions

Sally Morgan is an acclaimed Aboriginal author and artist from Western Australia, known for her influential book "My Place," published in 1987. Born in 1951, she grew up in Perth, unaware of her Aboriginal heritage until her teens, due to societal pressures that hid Indigenous identity. Her journey of self-discovery led to "My Place," which explores her family's history, culture, and the impact of colonisation. This work celebrates Aboriginal resilience and identity, aligning with ethical storytelling that respects cultural connections to Country.

Morgan's artwork reflects her Palku and Nyamal heritage, using vibrant colours and patterns to depict Indigenous stories and landscapes. Her visual art complements her writing, promoting cultural awareness and social understanding through creative expression. Her books, like "Wanjoo Wanjoo" and "Sister Heart," focus on children's literature, making Aboriginal perspectives accessible to younger audiences. By sharing her heritage, Morgan encourages reconciliation and respect for Indigenous knowledge systems.

Through her contributions, Sally Morgan has inspired generations to value Aboriginal culture and address social issues like identity and belonging. Her work highlights the importance of ethical representation in art and literature, ensuring Indigenous voices are heard. Her legacy supports the Cultural Standards Framework by fostering community engagement and cultural pride, making her a significant figure in Australian history.

Spelling Bank

Here are 20 words from the reading for spelling practice:

  • Aboriginal
  • author
  • artist
  • heritage
  • identity
  • colonisation
  • resilience
  • culture
  • ethical
  • storytelling
  • Palku
  • Nyamal
  • vibrant
  • patterns
  • reconciliation
  • perspectives
  • literature
  • community
  • engagement
  • legacy

Example Sentences

  1. Sally Morgan's book "My Place" explores her Aboriginal heritage and identity.
  2. Her artwork uses vibrant patterns to depict Indigenous culture.
  3. Ethical storytelling respects Aboriginal connections to Country.
  4. Reconciliation is promoted through Morgan's literature and art.
  5. Her legacy fosters community engagement and cultural pride.
Fill in the Blanks (Using words from the reading)
1. Sally Morgan is an acclaimed Aboriginal __________ and artist from Western Australia.
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2. Her book "My Place" explores her family's history, culture, and the impact of __________.
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3. Morgan's artwork reflects her Palku and __________ heritage, using vibrant colours and patterns.
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4. Her books, like "Wanjoo Wanjoo" and "Sister Heart," focus on children's __________.
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5. Her legacy supports the Cultural Standards Framework by fostering community __________ and cultural pride.
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Multiple Choice Questions
1. What is Sally Morgan best known for?
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2. Why was Sally Morgan unaware of her Aboriginal heritage until her teens?
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3. What themes does "My Place" explore?
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4. How does Morgan's artwork contribute to cultural awareness?
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5. What is a key impact of Morgan's legacy?
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Extension Activities

Videos

Activities

Explore Sally Morgan's Work
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