Chapter 2 Horse Business

Why did young Ned Kelly receive a green sash from a local man?

• For winning a horse race

• For rescuing a boy from a flooded creek

• For helping catch a thief

• For completing school with honours

What does the story of the green sash reveal about Ned Kelly’s character as a young boy?

Answer explanation

Sample answer: The story shows that Ned Kelly was brave and selfless. He risked his own life to save another child, showing courage and a strong sense of right and wrong.

Marking Criteria (2 marks):

Identifies a key trait (e.g. bravery, selflessness) (1 mark)

Explains the trait with reference to the event (e.g. saving a boy from a creek) (1 mark)

Describe one way Ned Kelly's family was treated unfairly because of their background or reputation. Use evidence from the chapter.

Answer explanation

Sample answer: Ned’s family was often targeted by police and accused of crimes without proof. For example, they were suspected of horse stealing just because of their name and poor Irish background.

Marking criteria (2 marks):

Identifies a specific form of unfair treatment (e.g. police targeting, suspicion) (1 mark)

Includes evidence or example from the chapter (1 mark)

The chapter describes a situation as “tense” when police come to the Kelly property. What does the word “tense” mean in this context, and why is it a fitting word?

Answer explanation

Sample answer: “Tense” means full of stress, fear or nervousness. It fits the situation because everyone at the Kelly house was anxious and afraid of what the police might do.

Marking criteria (2 marks):

Provides a clear definition of “tense” in context (1 mark)

Explains why it’s appropriate to the situation described (1 mark)

Why do you think Wilkinson included the story of Ned receiving the green sash in this chapter? What effect does this have on how the reader views Ned?

Answer explanation

Sample answer: The green sash story makes the reader see Ned as more than just a bushranger—it shows he was once a heroic, kind-hearted boy. It builds sympathy for him and suggests he was shaped by his experiences.

Marking criteria (3 marks):

• Identifies an authorial purpose (e.g. show complexity, create sympathy) (1 mark)

• Explains the effect on the reader (e.g. changing perception of Ned) (1 mark)

Links answer to evidence or interpretation of the sash story (1 mark)