What was life like for children growing up in migrant families during the 1970s?

Maria’s Story
Maria is growing up in Australia during the 1970s in a family who has moved from another country. Her parents brought their language, traditions and favourite foods with them when they came to live in Australia.
At home, Maria’s family may speak a different language and enjoy meals that reflect their culture. Maria is learning English and becoming familiar with Australian customs.
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This is a short excerpt from Maria’s full classroom profile, available here as part of the Growing up in the 1970s Teaching Pack — or try a sample in the free 1970s Childhood Comparison Mini Lesson below.
Profile snapshot:
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Name: Maria
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Where she lives: Australia (migrant family)
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Time period: 1970s
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Home life: Speaking another language at home
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Culture: Family traditions, foods and celebrations
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Play: Playing with friends at school or in the neighbourhood
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Communication: Speaking more than one language at home
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Why this matters: Maria’s experiences help us understand how daily life for children in migrant families has changed over time
Free mini lesson

See how Maria’s experiences compare with other children growing up in 1970s Australia
Download a free mini lesson with sample profiles and a classroom comparison activity.
Mini lesson includes:
✔ Colourful and engaging sample profiles for four children
✔ Guided discussion prompts
✔ A classroom comparison activity
✔ Student drawing and writing tasks
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