2014 HSC Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Section I Social Justice and Human Rights Issues

Part A A Global Perspective
Multiple-choice Answer Key
Question
1
2
3
4
5

Answer
B
D
D
A
C

Question 6
Criteria
Accurately identifies three pieces of information about imprisonment rates
with correct interpretation of the data from the table
Refers to information in the table
Attempts to provide information from the table

Marks
3
2
1

Answers could include:

Higher incidence of Aboriginal offenders compared to non-Aboriginal

Growth in the percentage rate of offenders from 19972004
The data outlines the complex nature of incarceration
The percentage rate for first time Aboriginal offenders has decreased by 1% over the time
period

BOSTES

2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 7
Criteria
Clearly outlines the reasons why Aboriginal peoples are over-represented
in the criminal justice system in Australia
Outlines the reasons why Aboriginal peoples are over-represented in the
criminal justice system in Australia
Makes general comments about Aboriginal peoples being over
represented in the criminal justice system in Australia

Marks
3
2
1

Answers could include:

Higher order of arrest for minor offences, refusal of bail, sentences of a harsher nature
Limited access to government programs such as repeat offender
Lower socioeconomic status
Lack of knowledge as to how system works especially the court system and legal jargon

Question 8
Criteria
Clearly demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the effect of the
Freedom Rides on the status of Aboriginal peoples
Clearly demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the status of
Aboriginal peoples
Demonstrates knowledge of the effect of the Freedom Rides on the status
of Aboriginal peoples
Demonstrates knowledge of the status of Aboriginal peoples
Makes general comments about the Freedom Rides and how they are
associated with the status of Aboriginal peoples
OR
Makes general comments about the status of Aboriginal peoples

Marks
4

23

Sample answer:
The Freedom Rides highlighted obstacles to Aboriginal peoples achieving social equality
within the broader society.
The Freedom Rides focused on highlighting ingrained racism and inequality in areas such as
employment, housing and access to basic services and facilities.
They brought forward citizenship rights, the 1967 Referendum and the politicisation of
Aboriginal peoples.
They aimed at improving peoples attitudes and perception of Aboriginal peoples (including
controversies over sporting personalities).

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 9
Criteria
Clearly outlines ONE Aboriginal initiative or strategy that raises the
social, or political and/or economic status of the Aboriginal peoples of
Australia
Clearly provides characteristics of the initiative or strategy
Outlines ONE Aboriginal initiative or strategy that raises the social, or
political and/or economic status of the Aboriginal peoples of Australia
Provides characteristics of the initiative or strategy
Attempts to summarise ONE Aboriginal initiative or strategy that raises
the social, or political and/or economic status of the Aboriginal peoples of
Australia
May provide characteristics of the initiative or strategy
Makes general statements relevant to the question
OR
May provide characteristics of the initiative or strategy

Marks
5

34

Answers could include:

Aboriginal initiatives to improve the social, or political and/or economic status through
political struggles and protests could include:
10 year campaign leading to the 1967 Referendum
Tent Embassy
Wave Hill.
The following dates highlight the development of Aboriginal status in terms of pride and
identity:
1971 Aboriginal flag is designed
1971 Establishment of the Black Panther Party
1971 Smash the Acts Campaign
1986 Goondiwindi Riot
1988 Survival Day
Treaty 88 Campaign
1994 Going Home Conference, Darwin

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 10
Criteria
Clearly demonstrates thorough knowledge and understanding of social
justice issues experienced by Aboriginal peoples
Makes a clear link to the role education has in addressing social justice
issues experienced by Aboriginal peoples
Makes clear reference to the source and own knowledge
Demonstrates thorough knowledge and understanding of social justice
issues experienced by Aboriginal peoples
Makes some link to the role education has in addressing social justice
issues experienced by Aboriginal peoples
Refers to the source and own knowledge
Attempts to discuss the social justice issues experienced by Aboriginal
peoples
May provide some link to the role education has in addressing social
justice issues experienced by Aboriginal peoples
May refer to the source and own knowledge
Makes general statements relevant to the question
OR
May refer to the source and/or own knowledge

Marks

34

Answers could include:

Educational outcomes for Aboriginal peoples need to be improved because the statistical data
highlights that they are still significantly lower than that of non-Aboriginal Australians.
Students may make reference to strategies and programs such as the following:

AIME
ALNF Wall of Hands
Clontarf Foundation
Aboriginal Education Officers (AEOs)
Indigenous Youth Leadership Program
School-based scholarships
Mentoring programs
School-based cultural centres
Homework centres.

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Section I Social Justice and Human Rights Issues

Part B A Comparative Study
Question 11 Health
Question 11 (a)

Criteria
Demonstrates sound knowledge of the health issues of Aboriginal people
Provides a detailed and relevant description to support response
Demonstrates some knowledge of the health issues of Aboriginal people
Provides a relevant description to support response
Makes general statement(s) about Aboriginal health issues
Provides some description

Marks
5
34
12

Sample answer:
The main health issues include those arising from Aboriginal peoples health being below that
of non-Aboriginal Australians. The life expectancy of Aboriginal people is considerably
lower with the gap for men continuing to be more than 10 years. Aboriginal Australians have
a higher incidence of smoking related illnesses, renal failure, diabetes, infant mortality and
communicable diseases.
Diabetes for instance is experienced at a rate of 800 times greater than in non-Aboriginal
Australians. There is a gap in access to health services, and barriers to participation.

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 11 (b)

Criteria
Demonstrates extensive knowledge of health programs and/or initiatives
Clearly shows how these health programs and/or initiatives address equity
gaps
Presents a sustained, logical and cohesive response integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Makes detailed reference to an Australian AND an international
Indigenous community
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of health programs and/or initiatives
and makes links between these and equity gaps
Presents a logical and cohesive response applying relevant concepts and
terms
Makes reference to an Australian AND an international Indigenous
community
Demonstrates sound knowledge of health programs and/or initiatives and
some understanding of their impact on equity gaps
Presents a structured response using some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Demonstrates knowledge of health programs and/or initiatives and/or an
understanding of gaps in equity
Uses some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Makes general statements about Aboriginal or Indigenous health programs
and/or initiatives
May refer to an Aboriginal or Indigenous community

Marks

910

78

56

34

12

Answer could include:

Employment of Aboriginal peoples in mainstream health services. Community health
initiatives. Provision of culturally appropriate access to medical care. Health care requires
consultation, trust as well as community programs to build links between service providers
and the community. Improving health outcomes links to improved socioeconomic status.
Community health initiatives in the international community can be linked through culture,
language and community to provide a comparison.
Similarities in experiences between communities include: remoteness, historical mistrust of
government, racism, cultural barriers, employment prospects as well as other socioeconomic
factors.
Statistics or other measures of the initiatives may be used to demonstrate knowledge of what
is required to close gaps. Assessing the delivery and success will support answers. Specific
mention of programs such as NCIP, Young People and Cannabis, Mothers and Babies, Quit
Smoking, AMS levels of funding, outcomes associated with the Northern Territory
Intervention, use of role models to promote health.

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 12 Education
Question 12 (a)

Criteria
Demonstrates sound knowledge of the educational issues of Aboriginal
people
Provides a detailed and relevant description to support response
Demonstrates some knowledge of the educational issues of Aboriginal
people
Provides a relevant description to support response
Makes general statement(s) about Aboriginal educational issues
Provides some description

Marks
5

34
12

Answers could include:

Historical overview of issues. 1960s: Aboriginal children could be excluded from public
schools, so many children did not attend at all. These are the grandparents of the current
generation. Despite improvements, statistical data reveals lower educational outcomes
continue to be observed. Statistics reflecting retention rates beyond Year 10, attendance,
completion of Year 12 and high levels of youth unemployment. University enrolment around
5 to 6% compared to 25% for non-Aboriginal. These figures are nationally applicable. Issues
of attendance and participation. Employment of Aboriginal educators and priorities of schools
and regions in promoting Aboriginal education. Mandatory inclusion of Aboriginal
perspectives in broader school communities and programs for Aboriginal children.

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 12 (b)

Criteria
Demonstrates extensive knowledge of education programs and/or
initiatives
Clearly shows how these education programs and/or initiatives address
equity and how success is achieved
Presents a sustained, logical and cohesive response integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Makes detailed reference to an Australian AND an international
Indigenous community
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of education programs and/or initiatives
and makes links between measures to achieve equity and success
Presents a logical and cohesive response applying relevant concepts and
terms
Makes reference to an Australian AND an international Indigenous
community
Demonstrates sound knowledge of education programs and/or initiatives
and some understanding of their impact on equity
Presents a structured response using some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Demonstrates knowledge of education programs and/or initiatives and/or
an understanding of issues in achieving equity
Uses some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Makes general statements about Indigenous education programs and/or
initiatives
May refer to an Aboriginal or Indigenous community

Marks

910

78

56

34

12

Answers could include:

Culturally appropriate strategies and their impact on the educational outcomes in Aboriginal
and Indigenous communities. Role of Elders and revitalisation of language programs. Equity
via Aboriginal Education Officers (AEOs), Norta Norta funding and the future of Naplan
(statistical evidence of Aboriginal student performance in numeracy & literacy). Indigenous
Youth leadership, scholarships, mentoring, cultural education and homework centres. Role of
media and comparisons of communities. Impact of religious teachings on Indigenous cultures.
Acceptance of Aboriginal knowledge.

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 13 Housing
Question 13 (a)

Criteria
Demonstrates sound knowledge of the housing issues of Aboriginal people
Provides a detailed and relevant description to support response
Demonstrates some knowledge of the housing issues of Aboriginal people
Provides a relevant description to support response
Makes general statement(s) about Aboriginal housing issues
Provides some description

Marks
5
34
12

Answers could include:

Lower socioeconomic status and factors such as employment, education, income levels as
well as health all link to housing. Assessing the ability of Aboriginal people to access housing
suiting their family and cultural needs.
The downturn of the Australian economy, the diminished mining boom, increases pressure on
affordable housing. With higher levels of unemployment in Aboriginal communities, the
lower income creates welfare dependence. Limited access to home ownership, especially with
levels falling for younger Australians generally places pressure on the rental market, pushing
up rents.
Government housing (eg the Gordon estate in Dubbo) and Western Sydney has been sold off
to private developers. AHA and Land Councils need greater investment beyond that for over
55s and clients with a disability. Involvement of Aboriginal people in decision-making,
design of community housing projects.

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 13 (b)

Criteria
Demonstrates extensive knowledge of housing programs and/or initiatives
Clearly shows how these housing programs and/or initiatives address
equity issues
Presents a sustained, logical and cohesive response integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Makes detailed reference to an Australian AND an international
Indigenous community
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of housing programs and/or initiatives
and makes links between these and equity issues
Presents a logical and cohesive response applying relevant concepts and
terms
Makes reference to an Australian AND an international Indigenous
community
Demonstrates sound knowledge of housing programs and/or initiatives and
some understanding of their impact on equity issues
Presents a structured response using some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Demonstrates knowledge of housing programs and/or initiatives and/or an
understanding of equity issues
Uses some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Makes general statements about Indigenous housing programs and/or
initiatives
May refer to an Indigenous community

Marks

910

78

56

34

12

Answers could include:

The role of the UN and other bodies (eg Habitat for Humanity) in developing basic housing
standards. Lakota Sioux endure well below freezing temperatures in sub-standard housing
impacting upon health and wellbeing. Low home ownership rates, reliance on government
(Department of Housing) has fractured communities as clients are moved around due to
housing shortages. Overcrowding, provision of basic services such as water and sewerage,
and isolation from other services. High rates of community unemployment also create social
problems in communities.
Rights to self-determination and autonomy. Provision of housing options arising from
community consultation. Community employment in building and maintaining homes to instil
pride and overcome social stigmas in an attempt to break the poverty cycle. Role of Land
Councils and other agencies in rental properties.
International communities have similar issues, and have other agencies other than government
involved in developing for future needs. (Philanthropy and greater involvement of religious
and social conscience groups are evident internationally.)

10

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 14 Employment
Question 14 (a)

Criteria
Demonstrates sound knowledge of the employment issues of Aboriginal
people
Provides a detailed and relevant description to support response
Demonstrates some knowledge of the employment issues of Aboriginal
people
Provides a relevant description to support response
Makes general statement(s) about Aboriginal employment issues
Provides some description

Marks
5

34
12

Answers could include:

Rate of unemployment for Aboriginal people continues to be three times the national average.
Factors such as education, criminal justice, health impact upon the participation and access of
Aboriginal people to employment. Traditional areas of trades and retail services have suffered
a downturn. The average weekly income is lower for Aboriginal people. Issues of lessening
employment opportunities in local manufacturing and the widening drought in 2014.
Programs such as CDEP (Community Development Employment Program) and Aboriginal
Employment Strategy enable local communities to provide training and offers of
employment. Issues of ongoing funding to support these and similar programs. Reliance on
government funding in a climate of reducing spending and deficit issues in the national
budget.

11

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 14 (b)

Criteria
Demonstrates extensive knowledge of employment programs and/or
initiatives
Clearly shows how these employment programs and/or initiatives address
issues such as welfare dependence and measuring success in addressing
unemployment
Presents a sustained, logical and cohesive response integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Makes detailed reference to an Australian AND an international
Indigenous community
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of employment programs and/or
initiatives and makes links between these and addressing unemployment
Presents a logical and cohesive response applying relevant concepts and
terms
Makes reference to an Australian AND an international Indigenous
community
Demonstrates sound knowledge of employment programs and/or
initiatives and some understanding of their impact on addressing
unemployment
Presents a structured response using some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Demonstrates knowledge of employment programs and/or initiatives
and/or an understanding of addressing unemployment
Uses some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Makes general statements about Indigenous employment programs and/or
initiatives
May refer to an Indigenous community

Marks

910

78

56

34

12

Answers could include:

Overcoming welfare dependence with government strategies such as CDEP aimed at reducing
reliance on social security and developing skills as well as employment opportunities,
especially in regional centres. Issues of institutional racism exacerbating the discrimination
toward Aboriginal and international Indigenous community members.
Aboriginal Employment Strategy (AES) with a focus on local community employment,
training opportunities and improving skills. The AES aims to break the welfare cycle, but is
hampered by the downturn in regional economies and lessening of employment opportunities.
Aboriginal identified positions in organisations such as all levels of government and others
such as mining, aimed at providing opportunities and a voice in these organisations.
International Indigenous communities (Maori & Lakota Sioux) have similar employment
issues. New Zealand has sought to improve employment opportunities, while the USA has
major economic considerations and priorities are different with its Native American peoples.
In Canada the Inuit have found employment opportunities in the oil industry.

12

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 15 Criminal Justice

Question 15 (a)

Criteria
Demonstrates sound knowledge of the criminal justice issues of
Aboriginal people
Provides a detailed and relevant description to support response
Demonstrates some knowledge of the criminal justice issues of Aboriginal
people
Provides a relevant description to support response
Makes general statement(s) about Aboriginal criminal justice issues
Provides some description

Marks
5

34
12

Answers could include:

Issue of over-representation. Lower socioeconomic status leading to high risk illegal activity.
Exacerbated by drug and alcohol abuse, low educational standards and high levels of
unemployment. Family and community dysfunction, cultural alienation and weakened links to
people such as Elders.
Historical mistrust of authority impacts upon the justice system. Mental illness, over-zealous
policing in some areas all contribute.

13

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 15 (b)

Criteria
Demonstrates extensive knowledge of criminal justice programs and/or
initiatives
Clearly shows how these criminal justice programs and/or initiatives
address equity
Presents a sustained, logical and cohesive response integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Makes detailed reference to an Australian AND an international
Indigenous community
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of criminal justice programs and/or
initiatives and makes links between these and addressing equity
Presents a logical and cohesive response applying relevant concepts and
terms
Makes reference to an Australian AND an international Indigenous
community
Demonstrates sound knowledge of criminal justice programs and/or
initiatives and some understanding of their impact on addressing equity
Presents a structured response using some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Demonstrates knowledge of criminal justice programs and/or initiatives
and/or an understanding of addressing equity
Uses some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Makes general statements about Indigenous criminal justice programs
and/or initiatives
May refer to an Indigenous community

Marks

910

78

56

34

12

Answers could include:

Sporting programs and role models as well as media, eg domestic violence advertisements.
IPROWD through NSW police enables Aboriginal people to train and put the Indigenous face
on the uniform in communities. Aim to improve relationships.
Support programs for families to address victimisation and dysfunction. Housing for domestic
violence victims, homeless and work of groups such as Exodus Foundation and Fr Chris Riley
(Youth off the Streets).
What is there in the international community? Conferencing, inclusion of community
members in court procedures, education programs and legal support.

14

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 16 Economic Independence

Question 16 (a)

Criteria
Demonstrates sound knowledge of the economic status issues of
Aboriginal people
Provides a detailed and relevant description to support response
Demonstrates some knowledge of the economic status issues of
Aboriginal people
Provides a relevant description to support response
Makes general statement(s) about Aboriginal economic status issues
Provides some description

Marks
5

34
12

Answers could include:

European colonisation has had a major impact on the economic status of Aboriginal people.
Issues such as exclusion from education, failure to consult, lack of self-determination, limited
training to up-skill, long-term under/unemployment.
Equal pay issues stemming from pre World War II and rejections. Aboriginal stockmen Wave
Hill 1965 walk off and award wages granted. Targeted government programs to introduce self
determination and economic enterprise. Lack of citizenship and denial of land rights also had
an impact.

15

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 16 (b)

Criteria
Demonstrates extensive knowledge of economic independence programs
and/or initiatives
Clearly shows how these economic independence programs and/or
initiatives address welfare dependence
Presents a sustained, logical and cohesive response integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Makes detailed reference to an Australian AND an international
Indigenous community
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of economic independence programs
and/or initiatives and makes links between these and welfare dependence
Presents a logical and cohesive response applying relevant concepts and
terms
Makes reference to an Australian AND an international Indigenous
community
Demonstrates sound knowledge of economic independence programs
and/or initiatives and some understanding of their impact on welfare
dependence
Presents a structured response using some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Demonstrates knowledge of economic dependence programs and/or
initiatives and/or an understanding of welfare dependence issues
Uses some relevant concepts and terms
Refers to an Australian AND/OR an international Indigenous community
Makes general statements about Indigenous economic independence
programs and/or initiatives
May refer to an Indigenous community

Marks

910

78

56

34

12

Answers could include:

Specific community initiatives such as environmentally sensitive cultural enterprises
including ecotourism, bush tucker, site management eg Uluru.
Tourism and management of natural resources (oil, mineral wealth and licenses), housing and
development, agricultural enterprises.
Aboriginal Employment Strategy and similar in all communities aim to build reliable and
steady income. Breaking the cycle of welfare dependence developed over generations of
deskilling. West Australian mining companies involving local communities.
Land Councils and housing corporations working on long-term development. Return of land
and selling of land, leasing to pastoral companies to diversify income and reinvesting into
enterprises such as cattle companies and low cost housing developments.
Similarities with international communities, and differences. For example, Lakota Sioux have
no mineral, pastoral or other means to create wealth. Inuit have oil.

16

BOSTES

2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Section I Social Justice and Human Rights Issues

Part C Global Perspective and Comparative Study

Question 17

Criteria
Demonstrates extensive knowledge of the impacts and the experiences of
racism on Indigenous peoples
Presents a sustained, logical and cohesive response with clear reference to
the Source
Makes detailed references to the Comparative Study and TWO listed
topics
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of the impacts of racism on Indigenous
peoples
Presents a well-structured response with reference to the Source
Makes references to the Comparative Study and TWO listed topics
Demonstrates knowledge of the impacts of racism on Indigenous peoples
Presents a structured response with some reference to the source (may be
inferred)
Refers to the Comparative Study and one or more of the listed topics
Attempts to describe the effects of racism
May refer to the source
Refers to the Comparative Study and/or one of the listed topics
Makes general statements about racism and/or its effects
May refer to an Indigenous community

Marks

1315

1012

79

46
13

Answers could include:

Racism can take many forms attitudinal, institutional and cultural. The effects of racism for

Australian Indigenous peoples have resulted in negative impacts that have often been long

lasting.

Racism has affected the current socioeconomic status of Aboriginal and other Indigenous

peoples. This also includes the manifestations of racism and their effects on the social justice

and human rights of Aboriginal peoples.

Racism can directly or indirectly exclude people from accessing services or participating in

employment, education, sport and social activities. At its most serious, racism can result in

acts of physical abuse and violence.

It can also occur at a systemic or institutional level through policies, conditions or practices

that disadvantage certain groups.

It can manifest itself through unconscious bias or prejudice amongst people and society.

Racism has a significant effect both on the individuals who experience it, and the wider

community. There are significant links between experiences of racism and discrimination and

poor physical and mental health, reduced productivity and reduced life expectancy.

17

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Racism can also present barriers to social and economic involvement, which can cause social
exclusion and entrench disadvantage in areas like employment and housing, sometimes for
generations.
Students should draw on the quote and specific references to the topics listed in terms of the
Comparative Study. May include Aboriginal Returned Soldiers being denied access to RSL
Clubs, levels of incarceration, access to health & education services, home rentals, the
exclusion of Aboriginal children at Moree baths etc (role of Freedom Riders highlighting
these injustices).

18

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Section II Research and Inquiry Methods

Question 18 (a)
Criteria
Provides at least two types of Aboriginal knowledge
Provides one type of Aboriginal knowledge

Marks
2
1

Answers could include:

Openly shared knowledge, fieldwork/site visits, interviews with Elders, visits to Aboriginal
organisations and enterprises eg Land Councils
Gender specific knowledge: mens/womens

Question 18 (b)
Criteria
Identifies at least two relevant methodologies and their application
Identifies one or more methodologies and makes an attempt to discuss
their application
Attempts to identify a research methodology
Answers could include:

Surveys
Interviews
Case studies
Observation
Statistical analysis
Communication techniques
Use of appropriate language
Respect and sensitivity
Building rapport
Cultural bias

19

Marks
3
2
1

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 18 (c)

Criteria
Demonstrates extensive knowledge and understanding of culturally
appropriate research practices
Demonstrates understanding of the reasons for respecting cultural
knowledge
Provides a sustained logical and cohesive response, integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Demonstrates detailed knowledge and understanding of culturally
appropriate research practices
Demonstrates knowledge of the reasons for respecting cultural knowledge
Provides a well-structured response including relevant concepts and terms
Demonstrates some knowledge and understanding of culturally
appropriate research practices
Uses some relevant concepts and terms
Makes general statements about cultural knowledge

Marks

810

57

34
12

Answers could include:

Continual consultation and involvement of an Aboriginal person or community is important
when undertaking research as it shows respect for cultural knowledge, and assists with
reliability and guarantees an Aboriginal perspective.
There are different types of Indigenous cultural knowledge, some is public and accessible and
can be shared openly, while other knowledge is secret, usually spiritual and reserved for
community members.
Therefore, it is essential that researchers include ethical research practices and protocols to
display respect for community members and their cultural knowledge and ensure the
reliability of the research that has been undertaken.

20

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Section III
Question 19 Aboriginality and the Land
Question 19 (a)

Criteria
Demonstrates extensive understanding of the importance of the Tent
Embassy for Aboriginal peoples
Presents a sustained, logical and cohesive response applying relevant
terms and concepts
Integrates information from the source material and own knowledge
Demonstrates detailed understanding of the importance of the Tent
Embassy for Aboriginal peoples
Presents a well-structured and cohesive response including relevant terms
and concepts
Makes reference to the source material and own knowledge
Demonstrates sound understanding of the importance of the Tent Embassy
for Aboriginal peoples
Presents a structured response using some relevant terms and concepts
Makes reference to the source material and/or own knowledge
Demonstrates some knowledge of the importance of the Tent Embassy for
Aboriginal peoples
Uses some relevant terms and concepts
May include information from the source
Makes general statements about the Tent Embassy
May refer to source

Marks

910

78

56

34

12

Answers could include:

The Aboriginal Tent Embassy provided an expression of land ownership and entitlement as
well as the broader issues of self-government and empowerment. During the first six months
of its life in 1972 the Embassy succeeded in uniting Aboriginal peoples throughout Australia
in demanding uniform national land rights and mobilised widespread non-Aboriginal support
for their struggle.
The original demands presented to Federal Parliament by the Tent Embassy showed the
importance placed by Aboriginal peoples on self-determination and the collective
understanding of their history and culture. The Tent Embassy was and continues to be a
symbol of struggle and protest for positive change and to unite in the struggle for equality.
Mick Gooda has recounted how the Tent Embassy maintained a presence in Canberra for the
past 40 years and still remained a powerful symbol for advocacy in Aboriginal affairs.

21

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 19 (b)

Criteria
Provides a sustained, logical and cohesive response integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Demonstrates extensive knowledge and understanding of a range of
responses by the wider Australian community to Aboriginal peoples
struggle for land rights
Clearly demonstrates the relationship between the reasons and responses
of different groups
Makes specific and detailed references to at least ONE Australian
Aboriginal community
Provides a logical and cohesive response using appropriate concepts and
terms
Demonstrates sound knowledge and understanding of a range of responses
by the wider Australian community to Aboriginal peoples struggle for
land rights
Demonstrates the relationship between the reasons and responses of
different groups
Makes references to at least ONE Australian Aboriginal community
Demonstrates some knowledge of a range of responses by the wider
Australian community to Aboriginal peoples struggle for land rights
Attempts to demonstrate the relationship between the reasons and
responses of different groups
Makes reference to ONE Australian Aboriginal community
Demonstrates limited knowledge of the responses by the wider Australian
community to Aboriginal peoples struggle for land rights
May make reference to ONE Australian Aboriginal community
Makes general statements about the community AND/OR Aboriginal
peoples struggle for land rights

Marks

1720

1316

912

58
14

Answers could include:

Land is central to Aboriginal spirituality, identity and heritage. The diversity of the land and
environment shaped the lifestyles of Aboriginal people across Australia. The various song
lines, trade routes and ceremonies were all interconnected with the land and the Dreaming.
Yet, colonisation changed these concepts. Terra Nullius was used to justify the invasion and
occupation of this country.
The struggle for land rights has always been on the political agenda for Aboriginal people.
Land rights were seen as a vehicle for claiming social justice and equity.

22

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

There have been significant events in the struggle for Aboriginal land rights:
Day of Mourning 1938

Freedom Riders 1965

Wave Hill walk off by the Gurindji people 1965

Referendum 1967

Tent Embassy 1972

Northern Territory Land Rights Act 1975

NSW Land Rights Act 1983

Mabo decision 1992

Native Title Act 1993.

The connection and responsibility with land today is as strong as ever. The return of land
rights to Aboriginal people through land rights legislation has provided Aboriginal people
with a sense of empowerment and self-determination. Through land councils and similar
organisations, Aboriginal people now have a say in the management of their land.
Land rights are the most important and fundamental issue for Aboriginal people. The denial
of access to land can be directly attributed to the social and welfare issues that exist today.
There MUST be reference to at least ONE Australian Indigenous community as per the
question.

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Marking Guidelines

Question 20 Heritage and Identity

Question 20 (a)

Criteria
Provides a sustained, logical and cohesive response integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Demonstrates clear knowledge and understanding of the importance of
heritage and identity for Aboriginal peoples
Clearly identifies examples of Aboriginal peoples heritage and identity
Integrates reference to the source material AND own knowledge
Provides a logical and cohesive response using appropriate concepts and
terms
Demonstrates sound knowledge and understanding of the importance of
heritage and identity for Aboriginal peoples
Identifies examples of Aboriginal peoples heritage and identity
Makes reference to the source material AND own knowledge
Demonstrates some knowledge of Aboriginal heritage and identity
Attempts to provide examples of the importance of Aboriginal heritage
and identity
May make reference to the source material AND/OR own knowledge
Demonstrates limited knowledge of the importance of Aboriginal heritage
and identity
Makes limited reference to source material AND/OR own knowledge
Makes general statements about Aboriginal heritage and identity

Marks

910

78

56

34
12

Sample answer:
There are different ways in which Aboriginal people demonstrate their heritage and identity in
Australian society. These may include expressions of Dreaming spirituality, autonomy and
cultural affirmation and can be seen through different modes such as sport, art, music,
business, education, dance and health. Each of these is important to cultural expression and
reinforces heritage and identity.
Music has been a part of Aboriginal heritage and identity in the past. Aboriginal performers
such as Jessica Mauboy and Collie Crew are using contemporary styles of music to express
their heritage and identity in contemporary Australian society. Gurrumuls first album,
contemporary music sung in his Yolgnu Matha language, has been very popular and has
revived interest in conserving and promoting Aboriginal languages.
Aboriginal dancers and dance groups, such as Bangarra Dance Company, are a perfect
example of Aboriginal heritage and cultural identity expressed through dance. They tell the
Dreaming expressed through dance, but also represent the spirituality of individual dancers.

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Marking Guidelines

Sport is another way that Aboriginal heritage and identity are expressed. Sam Thaiday, Chris
Sandow and Preston Campbell are all examples of Aboriginal people expressing their heritage
and identity through sport. These people are strong Aboriginal role models for young people,
who allow the Aboriginal community as a whole to feel positive about this form of expression
of culture.
Answers could include
Students can respond to any of the variety of ways that Aboriginal people express their
heritage and identity in Australian society. Examples should be drawn from the stimulus and
the student's own knowledge.

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2014 HSC

Aboriginal Studies

Marking Guidelines

Question 20 (b)

Criteria
Provides a sustained, logical and cohesive response integrating relevant
concepts and terms
Demonstrates extensive knowledge and understanding of a range of
government legislation and policies impacting on Aboriginal cultural
expression and identity
Makes an informed judgement about the impact of government legislation
and policies on Aboriginal cultural expression and identity
Makes specific and detailed references to at least ONE Aboriginal
community
Provides a logical and cohesive response using appropriate concepts and
terms
Demonstrates sound knowledge and understanding of a range of
government legislation AND/OR policies impacting on Aboriginal
cultural expression and identity
Makes a judgement about the impact of government legislation and
policies on Aboriginal cultural expression and identity
Makes references to at least ONE Aboriginal community
Demonstrates some knowledge of the impact of a range of government
legislation AND/OR policies on Aboriginal cultural expression and
identity
Makes reference to the impact of government legislation AND/OR
policies on Aboriginal cultural expression and identity
Makes reference to at least ONE Australian Aboriginal community
Demonstrates limited knowledge of the impact of government legislation
AND/OR policies on Aboriginal cultural expression and identity
May make reference to ONE Australian Aboriginal community
Makes general statements about government legislation OR policies OR
about Aboriginal cultural expression and identity

Marks

1720

1316

912

58
14

Sample answer:
Maintaining Aboriginal cultural expressions is important to improving the socioeconomic
status of Aboriginal peoples. This can be seen in the promotion and understanding of
reconciliation, developing and enhancing cultural pride and self-determination.
However, Aboriginal cultural expression has been adversely impacted upon in the past by
various government policies and legislation including Terra Nullius and subsequent
dispossession. There have been various attempts to merge Aboriginal people into mainstream
Australian society with negative impacts upon cultural expression with policies such as those
that resulted in the Stolen Generations.
Such government policies and legislation saw Eurocentric values placed upon the worth and
intrinsic value of Aboriginal culture. Governments sought to control Aboriginal people and
their identity with few exceptions. Aboriginal people could grow up in ignorance of their own
culture and in many cases sought to hide it. In the National Inquiry into the Separation of
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from their Families Bringing Them Home

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Marking Guidelines

Report, it was found that between 1 in 3 and 1 in 10 Indigenous children were forcibly
removed from their families. This had a profound impact upon them growing up and learning
their culture, heritage and identity.
Cultural expression is now taken seriously by governments. This is not motivated simply by
economic reasons. There is increasing recognition that a strong, creative and inclusive
Aboriginal cultural expression strengthens our values and is an essential component to being
in charge of our own destiny; that a creative nation is a productive nation. Indeed Aboriginal
art is now one of our biggest cultural exports.
Today, the impact of the Australian Governments role in supporting cultural expression is
most positive and visible in the major cultural organisations it funds. This includes things like
national galleries and museums, collecting and training institutions, the Australia Council,
Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Screen Australia and the Special Broadcasting Service.
These organisations are the principal mediums of Aboriginal cultural expression and its
contemporary manifestations and create new cultural products and expressions.
State and territory, as well as local governments, invest their own resources, and directly
support the construction of Aboriginal cultural institutions, including galleries, museums, and
performing arts venues. They also fund touring programs and festivals such as in National
Parks.

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Marking Guidelines

Aboriginal Studies
2014 HSC Examination Mapping Grid
Section I
Part A
Question

Marks

Content

Syllabus outcomes

Historical investigation/culture

H1.2

Socioeconomic status of Indigenous peoples

H1.2

Initiatives to promote social, economic and

political independence

H1.2

Initiatives to promote social, economic and

political independence

H4.3

Initiatives to promote social, economic and

political independence

H3.3

Analysis of stimulus of socioeconomic

status of indigenous peoples

H1.2, H3.2

Socioeconomic status of Indigenous peoples

H1.2

Addressing racism/discrimination and status

H3.2, H3.1, H1.3

Aboriginal responses and initiatives

H3.3

10

Social justice issues

H3.2

Section I
Part B
Question

Marks

11 (a)

Health

H1.2

11 (b)

10

Health

H1.2, H3.3, H3.1, H4.1

12 (a)

Education

H1.2

12 (b)

10

Education

H1.2, H3.1, H3.3, H4.1

13 (a)

Housing

H1.2

13 (b)

10

Housing

H1.2, H3.1, H3.3, H4.1

14 (a)

Employment

H 1.2

14 (b)

10

Employment

H1.2, H3.1, H3.3, H4.1

15 (a)

Criminal Justice

H1.2

15 (b)

10

Criminal Justice

H1.2, H3.1, H3.3, H4.1

16 (a)

Economic Independence

H1.2

16 (b)

10

Economic Independence

H1.2, H3.1, H3.3, H4.1

Content

Syllabus outcomes

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Marking Guidelines

Section I
Part C
Question

Marks

17

15

Content

Syllabus outcomes

Global perspective and comparative study

H1.2, H3.1, H3.3, H4.3

Section II
Question

Marks

Content

Syllabus outcomes

18 (a)

Research and Inquiry

H4.1, H4.2

18 (b)

Research and Inquiry

H4.1, H4.2

18 (c)

10

Research and Inquiry

H4.1, H4.2

Section III
Question

Marks

Content

Syllabus outcomes

19 (a)

10

Aboriginality and the land. Symbols of the

land rights struggle

H2.2

19 (b)

20

Land rights

H2.2, H3.2

20 (a)

10

Heritage and Identity

H2.1

20 (b)

20

Heritage and Identity

H2.1, H2.2

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