Convict Punishments Reading & Comprehension

Overview:

This reading and comprehension activity explores the punishments faced by convicts during Australia’s colonial period, providing students with an understanding of the harsh treatment they endured. Suitable for middle and upper years students.

Learning Objectives:

• Gain insight into the forms of punishment convicts faced in colonial Australia.
• Develop reading comprehension skills through historical text analysis.
• Think critically about the purpose and impact of convict punishment.

How the Activity Works:

Students read a passage detailing the various forms of punishment imposed on convicts, such as flogging, chain gangs, solitary confinement and the treadmill. The passage explains the reasons behind these punishments and how they were carried out. After reading, students answer a series of comprehension questions that test their understanding of the text. This activity encourages reflection on the ethical and social implications of the punishments, while strengthening reading and analytical skills.

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