Criminal Minds Scheme of Work: Unraveling Mysteries and Justice in Victorian and Modern Eras

This comprehensive scheme of work for Year 9 explores the fascinating topic of crime through historical and modern lenses. It is designed to engage students with a variety of activities, media, and collaborative projects, ensuring a rich and immersive learning experience.

Overview and Activities:

Week 1: Victorian Crime - A Study in Scarlet (Abridged Version)

• Objective: Explore character introduction and tension-building techniques.
• Activity: Students read and analyse the abridged version of Arthur Conan Doyle’s A Study in Scarlet, focusing on how characters are introduced and how the author creates tension and highlights important clues.
• Resources: Printed copies of A Study in Scarlet.

Week 2: Victorian Crime - Modern Adaptation

• Objective: Compare and contrast the original story with its modern adaptation.
• Activity: Watch the BBC adaptation A Study in Pink and discuss how the essence of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson is captured for a modern audience. Analyse similar skills and techniques used in both versions.
• Resources: BBC’s A Study in Pink video.

Week 3: Victorian Crime - Jack the Ripper

• Objective: Understand the impact of Jack the Ripper’s letters on public fear and perception.
• Activity: Study the infamous Jack the Ripper letters to explore the creation of fear and the portrayal of a disturbed character. Students create a speech aimed at reassuring the Victorian public about their safety.
• Assessment: AO5 and AO6 (speech writing and spoken language skills).

Week 4: Victorian Crime - Sir Robert Peel

• Objective: Evaluate the legacy of Sir Robert Peel.
• Activity: Discuss and debate the statement, “Sir Robert Peel was a man to be admired.” Students will use evidence and historical context to form their arguments.
• Assessment: AO4 (evaluation skills).

Week 5: Sensationalist Criminals - The Krays and The Real Peaky Blinders

• Objective: Critique the glamorisation of violence in media.
• Activity: Read about the Krays and the Peaky Blinders, focusing on how writers persuade readers that glamorising violence is irresponsible.
• Assessment: AO2 (analytical skills).