Creating an engaging classroom
Students developed their learning about Ancient Greece from the previous unit of work and created columns after researching the types of columns the Greeks are famous for; ionic, doric and Corinthian. They related this learning to the design we see in courtrooms around the world and then we created a courtroom in the classroom.
We talked about the hierarchy in courts and what a courtroom looks. A roster was created for 'Judge for the Day' so that students could experience the feeling of sitting apart and above the rest of the classroom like a courtroom.
We talked about the hierarchy in courts and what a courtroom looks. A roster was created for 'Judge for the Day' so that students could experience the feeling of sitting apart and above the rest of the classroom like a courtroom.
KWH Chart
| what_is_justice.pdf |
PMI (positive/minus/interesting)
'Parents are responsible for the actions of their children'
Venn Diagram
Comparing the levels of courts
Y chart
What would you expect to hear, feel and see in a court?
Timeline
In this activity students researched the Native Title Act and in particular the life and legacy of Eddie Mabo. In small groups they created a timeline of significant events in Australian History that had an impact on the Mabo decision. Each group presented their ideas to the whole class to develop a class timeline.
This activity connects to the key term underpinning the unit of work Access to Justice and the meaning of Pro Bono.
This activity connects to the key term underpinning the unit of work Access to Justice and the meaning of Pro Bono.
Mapping
Students researched where courts can be found in South Australia and discussed reasons for their locations.
Excursion to the Adelaide Law courts
Pivotal to the success of this unit of work is the excursion to the Adelaide law Courts. The students experienced a range of activities including travelling to the city, which for some was a first, workshopping laws with specialist teacher Peter Cavouras, sitting in on real cases and then wearing the appropriate robes and wigs to role play a case.
Comments from the students:
'Going to the Magistrates Court was fun and interesting to learn about the people and the rules of the law courts.' Mia
'Going inside the courts was really intense seeing the real cases and thinking it might happen to me one day.' Aaron
'I thought it was amazing for younger people. I think older children would enjoy it because it teaches you about the laws you need to know and prepares you for life.' Skylah
'It was fun and energetic with education involved and I think it's a great experience for everyone to have.' Dale
'It was interesting to learn new stuff about the Law Courts and it was fun dressing up.' Arozu
Comments from the students:
'Going to the Magistrates Court was fun and interesting to learn about the people and the rules of the law courts.' Mia
'Going inside the courts was really intense seeing the real cases and thinking it might happen to me one day.' Aaron
'I thought it was amazing for younger people. I think older children would enjoy it because it teaches you about the laws you need to know and prepares you for life.' Skylah
'It was fun and energetic with education involved and I think it's a great experience for everyone to have.' Dale
'It was interesting to learn new stuff about the Law Courts and it was fun dressing up.' Arozu
Court designs using google sketch up 8
Crime scene boards for Who Killed Eddie Echidna?
Mock trials
Examples of Statement of Facts - year 6 and 7 students
| statement_of_facts.docx |
Examples of Prosecution and Defense opening statements
| prosecution_1.docx |
Example of a closing argument - year 7 student
| goldilocks.docx |
Artwork reflecting the theme: What is Justice? - year 6 student
Outreach Presentation of student work
We visited the Special Small class and a student who has special needs explained to the class how she needed adjustments made to her day at school to help her learn.
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Assessment
Examples of year 6/7 student reflections from the back page of the 'Anecdotal Journal Checklist'
