Bushfires in Australia - the Impact on humans and the environment

This 5-lesson plan looks at natural hazards and disasters, the conditions where bushfires occur, spreading factors, bushfire attack, fire danger ratings, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander use of fire, and bushfire survival. It also includes information and worksheets to accompany 2 books: Nerida McMullan’s ‘Fabish, the horse that braved a bushfire’ and Jackie French’s ‘Fire’. The resource has been created by the Geography Teachers Association (GTA).

Structure and features

‘Bushfire hazards in Australia’ enables students to explore the impact bushfires have on Australian people, places and environments. It outlines how people can reduce the impact of bushfires in the future. Detailed and highly relevant information can be located by opening each lesson’s worksheet.
The ‘2019/20 Australian bushfires recap’ Behind The News (BTN) video provides many examples of the impact bushfires have on humans and the environment.
The ‘Bushfires and wildlife’ BTN video highlights the impact of bushfires on native animals (koala, kangaroo, spiders and bees from Kangaroo Island in South Australia) and introduced species like sheep and cattle. It concludes with how charities raise money to help feed and treat these creatures.
In ‘Bushfire rookie reporters’ BTN video we meet young people around Australia (including Kangaroo Island resident) affected by bushfire who share their personal stories.

For teachers

Start with student prior learning and present understanding about the 2019 to 2020 Australian bushfires. Proceed to their questions for research. The GTA worksheet information is extremely useful and age-appropriate for students. The Aboriginal perspective is clearly presented with an accompanying primary source painting by Joseph Lycett found in the National Library of Australia. This perspective has a very important part to play in the management of bushfires in Australia in the future.
The 2 English texts provide an opportunity for students to engage in a reading task.
All 3 BTN videos provide numerous examples of the impact of bushfires on humans and the environment.
Be clear about assessment support and requirements.