Indigenous Symbol Story Squares

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Create your very own story using these colourful Story Squares! They could also be used as a memory game if you create two of each symbol. This idea has been created by Indigenous Artist Michelle Napanangka Earl, a proud Darkinjung woman with Wonnarua ties.

This activity highlights the significance of Indigenous and Aboriginal symbols while teaching creative thinking. Research Aboriginal symbols, draw them on the stones and remember what each represents as you build your story!

Symbols are a fundamental part of Aboriginal art and used to share culture and tradition. Symbols are used to tell stories without the need for words and often depict animals, plants, nature and ancestral beings. (ART ARK, 2025)

CleverPatch™ recommends educators, teachers and event organisers work in consultation with their local Aboriginal Communities (start locally and extend out geographically) when planning activities & learning experiences. Any creative or art making activity that mirrors or replicates Aboriginal cultural experiences should always be undertaken in consultation with the appropriate owners of that cultural property.

Some materials and products may contain terms that reflect authors' views, both current or past. These views may not be considered appropriate today and are provided in a historical context. These views are not necessarily the views of CleverPatch.

Step 1Research Aboriginal symbols that are used in storytelling and artworks. Some of these symbols may include animals and their tracks, tools (e.g. Spears, Boomerangs, Coolamons), natural elements (e.g. waterholes and sandhills) or people. You can download the provided Activity Template to use Michelle’s drawings as a guide.
Step 2Use paint markers to draw a different symbol onto each coconut shell square. Allow to dry.
Step 3Using one shell square at a time, create your very own story. You might like to research Dreamtime stories for inspiration. Try to remember what each symbol represents as you build your story. If you are having trouble remembering, create your own guide to explain what each symbol represents. This could be a solo activity or a story for the whole class!

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NAIDOC Week & Reconciliation

Celebrate indigenous culture with our NAIDOC Week craft ideas.

Indigenous Symbol Story Squares

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NAIDOC Week & Reconciliation

Celebrate indigenous culture with our NAIDOC Week craft ideas.

Indigenous Symbol Story Squares

Get ready to craft! This Idea uses:

Materials used in this activity