This presentation helps schools introduce the significance of Australia’s service in the Vietnam War. The variety of experiences of Australian service personnel is outlined. It explains why it is important for Australians to commemorate the service of veterans of this conflict.
Adapt and use this presentation to:
- prepare students for a commemorative service or assembly for Vietnam Veterans’ Day, Anzac Day or Remembrance Day
- broaden their understanding of Australia’s involvement in war, conflict and peace operations
- hold a service that honours Vietnam veterans.
As a guide, plan your service with our Vietnam War Kitbag host resources for a commemorative event.
Teacher notes
Learning intentions
This educational resource will introduce students to Australian service in the Vietnam War and why Australians should commemorate this significant day.
By the end of the presentation, students should be able to:
- identify why and how Australians were first involved in the Vietnam War
- describe the conditions and experiences of service personnel who served in the Vietnam War
- understand outcomes for those who served
- recognise ways that they and their community can commemorate Vietnam veterans and service in the Vietnam War.
Lesson resources
- Presentation slides in PowerPoint and Google Slides.
- Links to online education resources and further reading throughout the presentation.
Teaching ideas
The information in this presentation is suitable for primary school to high school students. It is ideal for highlighting Australian service in the Vietnam War during a school assembly, or a school-led commemorative service for Anzac Day, Remembrance Day or Vietnam Veterans’ Day (on 18 August). It could also be presented to a class or year level.
Feel free to adapt the presentation to meet your students' needs or your specific education environment.
Teaching sensitivities
Teachers are advised to be sensitive to students' perspectives and emotions while using this resource. When working through the content, teachers will need to consider their students’ religious and cultural beliefs, any experiences of war or conflict, or parents serving in the defence forces. It is the responsibility of teachers to consider whether it is appropriate to use this resource with their students.
Copyright
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
