Guardian Angels

Investigations and activities (English Focus)

1. Look at the image Jangseung spirit poles and wood carvings and read the eight pieces of rollover text.
2. In the past, the Jangseung spirit poles have been objects of folk worship and were also thought to guard villagers from evil spirits and disease. All societies search for explanations in the face of tragic events or new phenomena. Read the article Heavenly generals on guard. As you read, think about any part of the text which reminds you of other texts or things you have seen. Write these ideas down. Share your thoughts in a small group.
3. Some might describe the practice of creating Jangseung as superstitious. What traditions in Australia might be described as superstitious? Survey people of differing ages and cultures to gather a range of responses. Write an informative piece analysing your findings.
4. In a creative, informative or persuasive manner, do one of the following tasks:

• respond to the topic ‘My guardian angel’
• write an informative piece on the use of talismans by various cultures
• write an investigative piece on ways in which communities have tried to work proactively to combat social ills, using the Guardian Angels website and other material.
• Create a newspaper feature story about the ways in which various cultures around the world have used architecture as a protective device to ward off evil. Consider the use of gargoyles, symbols, totems and painted designs. Include appropriate images.