'Law and Order' (pt 1/8) - Truanting
Description
An explanation of some of the severe punishments inflicted on criminals in the past, such as imprisonment or transportation to Australia for stealing food. This sets the scene for a modern drama about crime and punishment. Two characters, Craig and Dan, are on their way to school, until they decide to play truant rather than face the consequences of not having completed their homework.
NOTE: this series of clips was factually accurate when originally broadcast.
Classroom Ideas
Students could consider the effects of peer pressure and possible methods for dealing with it. We hear that Dan is Craig’s only friend. Students could map out the sequence of events in this clip as a cartoon strip, using thought and speech bubbles to depict what Dan and Craig are thinking and feeling. Why do students think Craig decided to follow Dan? What was he worried about? Was it more than one thing - for example, losing his only friend in addition to getting in trouble with the teacher? This could lead to discussions on peer pressure and the development of strategies to avoid this.
This clip is also useful for a discussion about road safety. Before watching the clip, students could be asked to write down everything which the boys do with regards to road safety. Were they demonstrating responsible behaviour? What else could they have done?
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