Stop the Coward Punch - Understanding the Impact

These resources are part of the STOP the Coward Punch Education Resources, created in collaboration with Danny Green’s STOP the Coward Punch Campaign.

This Years 7–10 Civics & Citizenship unit, Understanding the Impact, has been designed to

• explore the legal consequences of coward punches, distinguishing between criminal and civil law and examining relevant legal terminology
• analyse the stages of a criminal trial, following a case from commission through to sentencing, and identifying the roles of key participants in the justice system
• conduct a mock trial, applying legal reasoning and research skills to a coward punch scenario to understand court proceedings
• investigate the evolution of coward punch laws, discussing the role of citizens and lawmakers in advocating for legal change
• examine the principles of justice, comparing retributive and restorative justice approaches and considering the issue of recidivism in Australia
• develop critical thinking and persuasive skills, forming arguments on legal reform and evaluating the balance between punishment and rehabilitation
• promote dignity and community responsibility, encouraging students to reflect on their role in preventing violence and fostering respectful behaviours.

Through interactive discussions, legal case studies and simulated trials, students will gain a deeper understanding of the legal system, the impact of coward punches and how they, as citizens, can contribute to meaningful legal and social change.

Scroll down to explore each lesson or click the download button on the right-hand side of this unit to download the entire unit at once. ✨