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Unit 4
Your National Capital
National Capitals Worldwide
Activity
Setting the scene
National capitals are a symbol of unity for all citizens. The Seat of Government is often located there, along with important public buildings and institutions that symbolise aspects of a country's history, culture and future. The National Capital promotes images that reflect national identity and conveys particular qualities of the country in question.
Canberra is Australia's National Capital. It is a planned city and the conscious creation of an emerging nation. It is a city that stands proudly in the ranks of National Capitals throughout the world.
Below is a list of some countries and their National Capitals.
| United States of America | Washington, DC | New Zealand | Wellington |
| Canada | Ottawa | India | New Delhi |
| France | Paris | United Kingdom | London |
| Brazil | Brasilia | People's Republic of China | Beijing |
| Malaysia | Kuala Lumpur | Russian Federation | Moscow |
| Germany | Berlin |
What to do
- Choose a country and its national capital from the list or write down one of your own suggestions.
- Compare Australia's National Capital with the National Capital you have chosen.
- Record your comparisons in a 1000 word report.
Key points within your report should answer the following:
- When was the national capital created? Is it older or younger than Canberra?
- Why was the national capital created?
- Does this national capital contain important public buildings and institutions? Are there similarities when comparing Canberra's important public buildings and institutions? Hint - consider the architecture, the role and the purpose of each building.
- Does this national capital celebrate ceremonial occasions similar to Australia Day and Anzac Day? What is the name of the ceremony? How is it celebrated and is it celebrated in a similar way in Australia?
- Find a map of the national capital's central district and the location of government buildings. Are there any similarities between this national capital and Canberra's Parliamentary Triangle?
- List five words that you think represent Canberra as Australia's National Capital.
- List five words that you think represent the national capital you have chosen to study.
Be creative
Find a recipe that you think represents the national capital that you have been studying.
Follow the recipe and create a culinary masterpiece. You may add decorations to reinforce images of symbolism and citizenship.
Answer the following:
- Sample your masterpiece. Did you like the taste?
- Were the ingredients easy to find in Australia?
- Why did you choose this recipe?
