In this unit we study the rich symbolic painting tradition of Australia's aboriginal peoples. This artistic heritage is one of the oldest in the known world, stretching back more than 40,000 years. The mythological roots of the aboriginal peoples in Australia include stories of their ancient ancestors singing the world into existence while journeying along "songlines" in the mystical world known as "Dreamtime." These creation myths led to the development of a modern "dot painting" style that symbolizes "Dreamtime." Students create their own story using some of the symbols used in this painting style and depict their own symbolic journey across the landscape on simulated tree bark.