Visited Old Dubbo Gaol and listened to a performer tell true stories of prisoners escape attempts

Art

• The student learned about visual storytelling through the performer's narration of the prisoners' escape attempts, which can inspire them to create artworks depicting these stories.
• Exploring the architecture and environment of the old gaol could have sparked interest in historical art styles and techniques that can be incorporated into their own artwork.
• Observing the performers' costumes and props may have introduced the student to costume design and prop-making as art forms.

English

• The student practiced listening comprehension skills by following the performer's storytelling and understanding the sequence of events in the prisoners' escape attempts.
• They were exposed to authentic storytelling, which can encourage them to develop their own narrative writing skills by creating stories inspired by what they heard at the gaol.
• Engaging with the historical context of the prison may have enhanced their vocabulary by introducing new terms related to the justice system and prison life.

History

• The visit to the old gaol provided the student with a tangible connection to Australian history, specifically the penal system and the lives of prisoners in the past.
• Listening to true stories of escape attempts offered a glimpse into the challenges and motivations of prisoners, giving the student a deeper understanding of the social and economic conditions of the time.
• Exploring the gaol may have sparked curiosity about different historical periods and societal norms, prompting the student to inquire further into the broader historical context of Australia.

For continued development, encourage the student to create their own artistic interpretation of a historical escape attempt, blending elements of art, English, and history. They could write a narrative based on their artwork and present it to others, combining storytelling with visual representation for a holistic learning experience.

Book Recommendations

• Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool: A historical fiction novel that weaves together mystery, history, and storytelling.
• Escape from Alcatraz: The Mystery of the Three Men Who Escaped From The Rock by Eric Braun: A non-fiction book that delves into real-life prison escape attempts.
• The Night Gardener by Jonathan Auxier: A spooky and mysterious tale set in Victorian England, perfect for young readers interested in historical fiction with a touch of suspense.