Year 10 Health Socratic Seminar: Exploring the issue of racism through the lens of Adam Goodes' experience

In Week 9, our Year 10 students engaged in a thought-provoking Socratic Seminar centered around the question: 'Does the experience of Adam Goodes in the AFL indicate a broader, societal issue of racism in Australia?'

This seminar, as part of the Health curriculum, aimed to foster critical thinking by encouraging students to examine possible biases, blind spots and assumptions in media texts, as well as their own. Students learn to show respect for one another by listening actively, acknowledging one another’s input, and sharing their diverse perspectives.

The discussion began with students viewing the documentary The Final Quarter, which explores an incident of racial abuse Adam Goodes faced from a spectator, and the events that followed. Students also read a variety of media articles expressing diverse perspectives on this event. They then analysed the documentary and one article, and participated in the Socratic Seminar to learn from others and express their own opinions.

It was especially pleasing to see students engage empathetically and critically with the issue of racism. The conversation around Goodes’ experience underscored the need for ongoing dialogue and action to address racism, both in sports and the broader Australian society.

Overall, the seminar was a valuable exercise, and we commend our Year 10 students for their thoughtful contributions.