An Australian Republic? Introductory Activities

Gauging opinion

  1. With other members of your class, or on your own, create a concept map of the terms 'republic' and 'constitutional monarchy'. The following article might assist in this endeavour: Constitutional monarchy or Republic? The November 1999 referendum.
  1. In a 'Pair and Share' activity or whole-of-class exercise, brainstorm what changing to a republic might mean for Australia. Use an affinity diagram with the following headings: Australian Identity, The Constitution, Democracy, Citizenship, Institutions (Parliament, Prime Minister, Governor-General).
  2. Take a poll among your fellow students, asking their opinion on Australia becoming a republic. You may chose to design and use a survey form for this exercise. Record the percentage for and against. You will return to this record later in the unit.