Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will have a comprehensive understanding of the role of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in maintaining law and order, the historical context of policing in Australia, and the scientific principles involved in forensic investigation. The student will also explore the impact of federal law enforcement on society and develop critical thinking skills through engaging activities.

Materials and Prep

• Notebook and pen for note-taking
• Access to online resources for research (if available)
• Printed articles about the AFP and its history (can be created beforehand)
• Art supplies (markers, paper) for creative activities
• Access to a timer for timed activities

Activities

• Research and Presentation:

  The student will research the history of the Australian Federal Police, focusing on its establishment in 1979, key milestones, and its evolving roles. After gathering information, the student will create a short presentation to share findings.

• Forensic Science Experiment:

  The student will conduct a simple forensic investigation simulation. Using household items, they will create a mock crime scene and then analyze 'evidence' (like fingerprints or footprints) to solve the case.

• Role-Playing Scenario:

  The student will engage in a role-playing activity where they act as a federal agent. They will respond to a fictional scenario involving a crime, discussing how they would investigate and what tools they would use.

• Creative Poster Creation:

  The student will create a poster that highlights the functions of the AFP, including crime prevention, investigation, and community engagement. The poster should be colorful and informative.

Talking Points

• "The Australian Federal Police was established to address crime that crosses state borders and to uphold federal laws. Can you think of a crime that might involve more than one state?"
• "Forensic science plays a crucial role in modern policing. How do you think forensic evidence can help solve crimes?"
• "The AFP not only investigates crimes but also works on preventing them. What do you think are some effective crime prevention strategies?"
• "Understanding the history of the AFP helps us appreciate the evolution of policing in Australia. Why is it important to learn about the past?"
• "Role-playing as a federal agent can give us insight into the challenges they face. What qualities do you think make a good police officer?"
• "Community engagement is a key part of the AFP's work. How can police build trust within the communities they serve?"