Commemorating Anzac Day
On the morning of the 25th April, 1915, our Anzac’s landed on the Gallipoli peninsula with the aim of capturing Constantinople (now Istanbul in Turkey). After eight months of conflict with their Turkish opponent that included heavy casualties and hardship, the allied forces were eventually evacuated by the end of 1915. Over 8,000 Australian soldiers were killed. The Anzac’s left a powerful legacy and we commemorate ANZAC Day to remember to sacrifices made by those who died fighting for their country. You can read more about Anzac Day here.
Capturing the spirit of our ANZAC’s at this current time in History is more important than ever. The Australian and New Zealand Army Corps stands for many things that keep us united as a community through the Covid-19 crisis, particularly mateship and courage. Although we may not be able to come together and hold services at our schools, we have put together resources and ideas that you can share with your students. We hope the diverse range of activities will provide invaluable insight and reflection to mark this day in unprecedented times.
You can download Remote Teaching Anzac Day worksheet for free here.
The worksheet contains the hyperlinks to all of the resources listed below.
1. Bake Cookies:
Commemorate ANZAC Day by baking ANZAC Day cookies for the whole family. It has been claimed that these cookies were sent from friends and families to those on the front-line. The ingredients were used because they wouldn’t spoil on the long journey and the cookies would remain edible. We like the chewy variety - you can access a recipe from Taste.com here.
2. Watch a documentary or two:
Youtube: ANZACS in the Face of War: This documentary explores Australia’s connection with the British Empire and the relationship we share with New Zealand. It uses personal stories to reflect on the impact of war.
Netlifx: They Shall Not Grow Old: This documentary uses restored colour footage and eye witness accounts to bring WWI to life.
3. Draw and colour poppies
Take some time to reflect on the sacrifices made as you colour or draw some poppies. Although Poppies are traditionally used to commemorate Remembrance Day on November 11th, the poppy ultimately represents sacrifice. You can read about their meaning here it here and download templates here. You may like to put these up in your window.
4. Listen to a podcast:
The Australian War Memorial recommends three podcasts here. Another great podcast is Dan Carlin’s ‘Hardcore History’ series which gives us 3 hour episodes on WWI in his ‘Blue Print for Armageddon’ - there are five parts, so plenty to listen to as you get out for walks and exercise.
5. Read and research:
ABC has a collection of short videos and primary sources which focus on Gallipoli. On this website, you can look at timelines, hear eyewitness accounts, and get an overview of the Gallipoli campaign.
6. Light a candle and attend a dawn service from your living room.
Rise before dawn on Saturday 25th April and attend a safe and socially distant ANZAC service in your living room or front yard. Light a candle and listen to live stream of the service from the Australian War Memorial via their Facebook or Youtube channel. Find out more here.