| Full lesson | Create for a teacher a set of content for giving a lesson, beginning with the lesson plan. Each new block of materials must begin with an H1 heading (other subheaders must be H2, H3, etc). When you describe required pictures, write those descriptions in curly brackets, for example: {A picture of a triangle} |
| Which subject | Criminology |
| What topic | wrongful convictions australia |
| What length (min) | 90 |
| What age group | Year or Grade 10 |
| Class size | 20 |
| What curriculum | HASS Civics Australia |
| Include full script | |
| Check previous homework | |
| Ask some students to presents their homework | |
| Add a physical break | |
| Add group activities | |
| Include homework | |
| Show correct answers | |
| Prepare slide templates | |
| Number of slides | 5 |
| Create fill-in cards for students | |
| Create creative backup tasks for unexpected moments |
Wrongful Convictions in Australia
Year 10
Criminology
90 minutes
20 students
HASS Civics Australia
| Step Number | Step Title | Length (mins) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Wrongful Convictions | 15 | Introduce the topic, define wrongful convictions, and discuss their occurrence in Australia. Use real-life examples to engage students. |
| 2 | Case Studies | 25 | Divide students into small groups. Provide each group with a different wrongful conviction case to research and discuss. |
| 3 | Group Presentations | 15 | Each group briefly presents their case findings. (Note: Presentations should be informal and concern their understanding rather than polished delivery.) |
| 4 | Physical Activity Break | 10 | Short physical activity session to refresh students. Incorporate team-based games like 'Avoid the Ball' or quick stretches. |
| 5 | Legal and Social Implications | 15 | Discuss the broader implications of wrongful convictions on the justice system and potential reforms. Engage students in a guided group discussion. |
| 6 | Reflection and Homework | 10 | Provide students with a reflective writing prompt regarding what they learned about wrongful convictions. Assign as homework to submit, ensuring they will not be presented in class. |
“Good morning, everyone! Today, we are going to explore a very important topic: wrongful convictions in Australia.
Let’s start by defining what a wrongful conviction is. A wrongful conviction occurs when an innocent person is found guilty of a crime they did not commit. This can happen for various reasons, including mistaken identity, unreliable witness testimonies, and flawed evidence.
To illustrate this, let me share a real-life example: the case of Derek Percy, who was wrongfully incarcerated. His story highlights the severe consequences of such errors in our justice system.
Now, with that in mind, can anyone think of other instances where wrongful convictions might occur? Feel free to share your thoughts!”
“Great discussion, everyone! Now, we’ll move into a more hands-on activity. I will divide you into small groups, and each group will receive a different case study of a wrongful conviction in Australia.
Take a look at these case study handouts. Your task is to research your specific case and discuss the details with your group. Think about the reasons behind the wrongful conviction and the outcome for the individual involved. You will have 25 minutes for this research, so make sure everyone participates in the discussion. Ready? Let's get started!”
“Okay, time’s up! Now, it’s time for each group to share what they learned about their case. You’ll each have a couple of minutes to give us a summary of your findings. Remember, this isn’t about giving a perfect presentation; it’s about sharing your understanding of the case and the issues around it.
Let’s begin with Group 1. Take it away!”
“Fantastic presentations, everyone! Now let’s take a quick break to refresh our minds and bodies. We’re going to play a fun game called 'Avoid the Ball'.
Here’s how it works: I’ll throw the ball to one of you at random. If you catch it, you need to answer a question related to wrongful convictions or toss it to someone else. If you drop it, you do a quick stretch before rejoining!
Let’s have some fun and get some energy flowing for the next part of our lesson!”
“I hope everyone enjoyed that quick break! Now, let’s discuss the broader implications of wrongful convictions.
Why do you think it’s important to understand the impact of wrongful convictions not only on individuals but also on society as a whole?
I’d like to hear your insights, so let’s engage in a guided discussion. Consider factors like the public’s trust in the justice system, the emotional toll on families, and what potential reforms could help prevent wrongful convictions.
Let’s talk about it!”
“As we wrap up today’s lesson, I want to provide you with a reflective writing prompt for your homework. I’d like you to write about what you learned regarding wrongful convictions and share your thoughts on potential reforms needed in the criminal justice system in Australia.
Remember, this is a personal reflection, so focus on your own insights and opinions. Please submit your reflections next class, and ensure they are not presented during the lesson.
Thank you for your engagement today—this is an important issue, and your voices matter. Have a great day!”
| Slide Number | Image | Slide Content |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | {Image: A gavel and scales of justice} | - Introduction to wrongful convictions in Australia |
| - Definition: Innocent person found guilty | ||
| - Causes: Mistaken identity, unreliable testimonies, flawed evidence | ||
| - Example: Derek Percy’s wrongful incarceration | ||
| 2 | {Image: A group of people collaborating} | - Case studies on wrongful convictions |
| - Divide into small groups | ||
| - Research group-specific case study | ||
| - Discussion points: Reasons for wrongful conviction, outcomes | ||
| 3 | {Image: Group presentations in action} | - Group presentation time |
| - Share findings on case studies | ||
| - Focus on understanding the issues | ||
| 4 | {Image: Students playing a game outdoors} | - Physical activity break: "Avoid the Ball" |
| - Game rules: Catch the ball, answer questions, or stretch | ||
| - Purpose: Refresh minds and bodies | ||
| 5 | {Image: A thought-provoking discussion} | - Legal and social implications of wrongful convictions |
| - Importance of understanding broader impacts | ||
| - Discussion: Trust in justice system, emotional toll, potential reforms | ||
| 6 | {Image: A student writing in a notebook} | - Homework: Reflective writing prompt |
| - Write about learning on wrongful convictions | ||
| - Share thoughts on potential reforms | ||
| - Submit next class, no presentations |
Here’s a list of simple physical exercises that can be incorporated into your lesson plan for a physical activity break:
Jump, jump, up and down,
Twist your body, turn around.
Stretch your arms, reach for the sky,
Wiggle your fingers, let’s all try!
March in place, one, two, three,
Kick your legs, feeling free!
Side to side, let’s all sway,
Shake it out, hip-hip-hooray!
Touch your toes, then stand up tall,
Balance on your feet, don’t let yourself fall.
Take a deep breath, fill your lungs with air,
Smile wide, show that you care!
Run in place, go, go, go!
Now slow down, nice and slow.
Clap your hands, give a cheer,
Great job, everyone, let’s persevere!
Feel free to modify or mix these exercises based on the energy and engagement level of your class!