Background:

Before Captain Cook and  later, the First Fleet, arrived in Australia, many European Nations sent out Explorers to discover new lands. These countries were hoping to establish new trade routes and colonies. At this time much of the world was unknown and there was no accurate map available to show the world as it is today. The race was on  to see which country would  be the first to complete the map of the world!

Task:

You have been time travelled back to the 1600's as a reporter.
Your first assignment is to sail the seas with:                       

• Abel Tasman
• Willem Janszoon
• William Dampier
• Dirk Hartog                                            

You have to prepare a report on the  Explorer who you believe should be recognised as placing Australia on the  world map. You will need to explain your choice.

Points to consider: Was he an experienced sailor? What was his most important discovery? What were the outcomes of his voyages? You must research the four Explorers and complete the worksheets.

Step 1:

Print the worksheet.  View a copy of the worksheet online here

Research  the Explorers and complete the worksheet.

Step 2:

Where can I find the information?

Web sites:

			Hartog's Pewter Plate
Dampier William Dampier William Dampier - Map	Tasman  Abel Tasman Abel Tasman -Map  Abel Tasman -NZ  Abel Janszoon Tasman	Janszoon Willem Janszoon JANSZOON WILLEM	Hartog Dirk Hartog  Dirk Hartog

Other web sites of interest
Early Dutch Explorers   Explorers of Australia   Try this quiz

     Other Resources

• school library
• local library     

   Step 3:  Presentation

You can present your report as either:

• a slide show ( Kid Pix , Power Point)
• an oral presentation with appropriate props where necessary
• as a video presentation

Your presentation must include a map of their exploration of Australia and the reasons for your choice.