Ned Kelly, the infamous Australian bushranger, has long been a symbol of Australia’s heritage and history. Born in 1854, Kelly’s life was filled with crime, adventure, and folklore that still captures the imagination of people around the world. Therefore, it is essential for educators to teach their students about his life and the impact it had on Australian society. This article provides a comprehensive guide for teaching students about Ned Kelly.
1. Start with a captivating introduction
Begin your lesson with an engaging story that introduces Ned Kelly and his life. This can be done by showing videos or using visual aids to deliver the information in an exciting way. Educators can also use excerpts from well-known books or articles about Ned Kelly to captivate their students’ attention and spark interest.
2. Discuss the early life of Ned Kelly
Provide context to Ned Kelly’s upbringing by explaining his family’s circumstances and how they influenced his path in life. Educators should highlight the tough living conditions faced by Irish immigrants in rural Australia during the mid-1800s. Mentioning key events such as his father’s death when he was only 12 years old and how this event forced him to become the primary breadwinner for his family will help students understand the challenges he faced.
3. Dive into Ned Kelly’s criminal history
To fully understand the impact of Ned Kelly’s life on society during that era, it is vital to discuss his criminal activities. Teachers should outline various crimes committed by Kelly and his gang members such as horse theft, bank robberies, and confrontations with police officers which eventually led to his capture in 1880. It’s also essential to mention the victims of these crimes and their families for a fair representation of these events.
4. Analyze public opinion on Ned Kelly
After providing detailed information on Ned Kelly’s life, educators should engage in a discussion about the public opinion of Ned Kelly both during his time and now. It’s crucial to address how he came to symbolize different things for different people, such as an anti-establishment figure or a heartless criminal.
5. Explore the impact of Ned Kelly on Australian culture
A crucial aspect of understanding Ned Kelly’s importance is analyzing how he has influenced Australian culture. Have students discuss various books, movies, and songs that have been inspired by Kelly to gain a deeper understanding of his lasting influence. Also, explore artistic representations of Ned Kelly, such as Sidney Nolan’s iconic paintings that contributed to making him an Australian legend.
6. Engage in a debate or presentation
Encourage critical thinking and self-expression among students by holding a debate or asking them to give powerful presentations on various aspects of Ned Kelly’s life and legacy. Topics could include whether he should be considered a hero or a criminal, and what lessons his life story can teach modern society.
Teaching students about Ned Kelly can provide valuable insights into Australia’s colorful past and encourage discussions about ethics, crime, and society. By following this guide, educators can ensure students gain a well-rounded understanding and appreciation for this infamous Australian figure.
