Woven Threads - Stories from Afar (ATOM Study Guide)

Woven Threads – Stories From Afar is a collection of animated short films presenting varied and moving refugee stories. The animations are designed to elicit empathy and understanding, to shift focus to the human, and not the central refugee experience, for a few minutes at a time. By finding this common ground, the debates, disputes and fears surrounding migrants, refugees and asylum seekers might be suspended and replaced by empathy.

The colourful and intricate tapestry of Woven Threads – Stories From Afar reminds us that regardless of creed or colour we all belong to the same human family, and as mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters, we care for each other and dare to hope for peace and a safe place to call home.

Curriculum Links:

Woven Threads – Stories From Afar provides a better understanding of the experiences and challenges faced by people who are forced to leave their homes in search of asylum and refuge. The series provides opportunities for students to discuss:

• The key concepts and facts about refugees and asylum seekers;
• The human rights issues faced by asylum seekers and refugees;
• The courage, hope, dignity and resilience of asylum seekers and refugees in the face of profound hardships;

This study guide has been written for students in Years 5–10 in the learning areas of:

• Civics and Citizenship
• English
• Geography
• Health and Physical Education
• History
• Media Arts

Woven Threads – Stories From Afar can also be used to support curriculum projects discussing the issue of asylum seekers and refugees and to address the Australian Curriculum general capabilities: Ethical Understanding and Intercultural Understanding and the Cross-Curriculum Priority: Asia and Australia’s Engagement with Asia.

For students in Years 11 and 12, Woven Threads – Stories From Afar is a valuable resource for learning in:

• English
• Geography
• Global Politics
• Health and Human Development
• Media and Physical Education