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GeoQ 02 – Comparing Indigenous and non–Indigenous population pyramids |
 | Please note: This task is designed to be completed using a computer and the Internet.
You can download this activity as a Word file (.doc) using the links at the bottom of the page. |
Data:
Source: Experimental Estimates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, June 2006 (ABS cat. no. 3238.0.55.001)
Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Population of Australia, 2006
| Non-Indigenous Population | 19,855,288 | Indigenous Population | 455,031 |
Source: Census of Population and Housing, 2006, Census QuickStats
Task:
1. Look closely at the 0–4 age groups for both population pyramids. Are there more girls than boys in this category?
2. Approximately what percentage of Indigenous males is in the 0–4 age group?
3. Approximately what percentage of Indigenous people is under 25 years of age?
4. Draw an outline around the Indigenous pyramid to show the overall shape.
5. Describe the shape of the Indigenous pyramid.
6. Give two reasons why the Indigenous pyramid is wide at the base?
7. Approximately what percentage of non-Indigenous people is under 25 years of age? How does this compare to the Indigenous pyramid?
8. Approximately what percentage of non-Indigenous people is over 60 years of age? How does this compare to the Indigenous pyramid? What does this mean?
9. Draw an outline around the non-Indigenous pyramid to show the overall shape.
10. Describe the shape of the non-Indigenous pyramid.
11. From the information provided for both populations, how might governments allocate funding to assist people in the future?
12. Why is the top bar of the non-Indigenous pyramid so long?
13. Why have percentage (%) values been used on the horizontal axis in this diagram?
14. Approximately 6.4% of non-Indigenous people were 75 and over in 2006. With the non-Indigenous population at this time of 19,855,288 calculate how many persons were in this age group.
15. It has been suggested that the word profile is a better term to use than pyramid. After studying this graphic explain whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
Extension:
Explore the population pyramids of some of Australia’s neighbouring countries e.g. New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Papua New Guinea using the US Census International Database. Select the country and the year and when the table of data appears, select the population pyramid tab.
16. Which country has a population pyramid similar to the Indigenous pyramid of Australia?
17. Use the diagram below and draw a thumbnail sketch to show the shape of the pyramid for this country. Explain why the country identified may have a population pyramid similar in shape to that of Australia’s Indigenous population.
Explanation
To provide any feedback regarding this activity, please contact ABS Education Services on 1800 623 273 or email education@abs.gov.au.
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