Activities:

Before viewing
Establish what students know about the following:

a) possession of an illicit substance
b) legal classification of: amphetamine (speed) and heroin
c) sentences for possession of each, and dealing in each.

The film focuses on how the criminal justice system currently operates in relation to illicit drugs in two socially very different locations. Ask students to look out for similarities and differences in:

1) the drug culture
2) the referral schemes currently operated by the police in the two locations.

See programme outline for specific areas of focus and timings.

After viewing
In groups, or as a class, build up a profile of the two areas on large sheets of paper or board. Use the following questions to help.

• What are the geographical and social differences?
• How does this impact on illegal drug use?
• How does the police referral system work in each location?
• What are the similarities? What are the differences? What do they reflect?

Key questions
Did the film make students aware of something they hadn’t thought about before?
Did they see anything in a different light after watching the film?

Activities

1) Ask students to discuss what they think the similarities and differences might be between Danny’s job in the city and Frank’s job in the country town. How did each approach their job? Do they think the referral system in operation affected motivation? What is student reaction to illicit drug users as consumers?
2) Discuss what has brought about a change in Sam’s attitude to working with the referral system, and how she should manage her court appearance.