Activity Introduction
Quick summary: In this lesson, students will conduct a mock trial based on a coward punch scenario. They will learn about the various roles in a criminal trial and how proceedings work by conducting research and completing a comprehension fact-finding task.
We strongly recommend that this lesson be conducted after students have completed Coward Punch: On Trial – Civ & Cit – Year 9 as it contains essential background information.
The STOP the Coward Punch education package aims to spread awareness about the devastating effects of the coward punch on our community. This education package was developed by a team of experts, including a youth worker, education specialist and specialist teachers and references the latest research and laws on coward punches.
Learning intentions:
- Students will understand the roles and responsibilities of each of the participants in a criminal trial
- Students will define, explain and understand key concepts in the criminal justice system.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content descriptions:
Year 9 Civics and Citizenship:
- Identify, gather and sort information and ideas from a range of sources and reference as appropriate (ACHCS083)
- Recognise and consider multiple perspectives and ambiguities, and use strategies to negotiate and resolve contentious issues (ACHCS086)
Syllabus outcomes: N/A
General capabilities: Literacy, Critical and Creative Thinking, Ethical Understanding
Relevant parts of Year 9 achievement standards:
Students explain the key principles of Australia’s system of justice. They reflect on how groups participate and contribute to civic life. When researching, students analyse a range of questions to investigate Australia’s legal systems and critically analyse information gathered from different sources for relevance and reliability.
Topic: Social Issues
This lesson is part of the wider unit of work STOP the Coward Punch: Civics and Citizenship – Years 7 to 10.
Time required: 70 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Low – teacher will introduce students to the mock trial task and monitor/support proceedings and preparation work.
Resources required:
- Device capable of presenting a video to the class
- Student Worksheets – one copy per student.
Related professional development: Strategies for Dealing with Aggressive and Violent Behaviours
Keywords: mock trial, coward punch, law, court, criminal, defence, prosecutor, judge, jury, proceedings, defendant, attourney
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.
