Famous Bushrangers: Beyond Ned Kelly
Investigate the stories of bushrangers such as Ben Hall, Captain Thunderbolt, and Frank Gardiner, and their impact.
Key Questions
- Differentiate the methods and legacies of various prominent bushrangers.
- Assess the extent to which bushrangers were seen as folk heroes or criminals by different groups.
- Analyze how media of the time portrayed bushrangers.
ACARA Content Descriptions
About This Topic
Ned Kelly is perhaps Australia's most famous and controversial historical figure. This topic explores his life, from his troubled upbringing in a poor Irish-migrant family to the events at Stringybark Creek and his final stand at Glenrowan. Students examine the 'Jerilderie Letter' to understand Kelly's own justifications for his actions and the social tensions of the time.
The study of Ned Kelly allows Year 5 students to engage with the concept of historical interpretation. Was he a cold-blooded killer or a victim of police harassment? By analyzing different perspectives, students learn that history is rarely black and white. This topic connects deeply to themes of justice, class struggle, and the creation of national icons.
This topic comes alive when students can participate in a mock trial or structured debate, forcing them to use evidence to support a specific viewpoint on Kelly's legacy.
Active Learning Ideas
Mock Trial: The People vs. Ned Kelly
Students take on roles as lawyers, witnesses (police, family, victims), and jurors. They must use historical evidence to argue whether Kelly's actions were justified as self-defense against a corrupt system or were simply criminal.
Think-Pair-Share: Analyzing the Jerilderie Letter
Students read excerpts from Kelly's famous letter. They discuss with a partner what his main complaints were and whether his tone makes them feel more or less sympathetic toward him.
Inquiry Circle: The Glenrowan Siege
Groups are given different 'perspectives' of the final shootout (a hostage in the inn, a police officer, a Kelly gang member). They reconstruct the events and present their version of what happened during the 'last stand'.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionNed Kelly's armor made him invincible.
What to Teach Instead
The armor was heavy, awkward, and didn't protect his legs, which is where he was eventually shot. Examining diagrams of the armor helps students understand it was a desperate and flawed invention, not a 'superhero' suit.
Common MisconceptionEveryone in Australia at the time loved Ned Kelly.
What to Teach Instead
While many poor selectors supported him, many others were terrified of his violence or remained loyal to the law. Using 'letters to the editor' from 1880 helps students see the deep divide in public opinion.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was the 'Jerilderie Letter'?
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