Chapter 10 Silenced

What was the final outcome for Ned Kelly in this chapter?

• He was released from prison

• He was sentenced to life in prison

• He escaped and disappeared

• He was put on trial and executed

How did the public react to Ned Kelly’s sentencing and execution?

Answer explanation

Sample answer: Many people were upset and signed petitions asking for Ned Kelly to be spared. Some saw him as a symbol of resistance, while others agreed with the punishment.

Marking Criteria (2 marks):

Mentions public petitions or protests (1 mark)

Shows understanding of divided public opinion (1 mark)

What arguments were made by people who believed Ned Kelly should not have been executed?

Answer explanation

Sample answer: Supporters argued that Ned had been treated unfairly by police, that he stood up for poor people, and that he should have been shown mercy because he didn’t kill anyone at Glenrowan.

Marking criteria (2 marks):

Gives at least one clear reason against execution (1 mark)

Supports with relevant detail or example (1 mark)

The chapter is titled Silenced. What does this word suggest about the way Ned Kelly’s story ended, and why might the author have chosen this title?

Answer explanation

Sample answer: “Silenced” suggests that Ned Kelly was permanently stopped from speaking or telling his side of the story. The author may have chosen it to show how his voice was lost after execution.

Marking criteria (2 marks):

Defines the word in the context of the chapter (1 mark)

Explains the author’s choice of title (1 mark)

Do you think the author wants readers to feel sympathy for Ned Kelly? Use evidence from the chapter to support your answer.

Answer explanation

Sample answer: Yes, the author seems to want readers to feel sympathy. She shows how people tried to save Ned and includes details of his calmness before execution, which makes him seem brave and human.

Marking criteria (3 marks):

States a clear opinion (1 mark)

Gives text-based evidence or reasoning (1 mark)

Explains the effect on the reader (1 mark)