In this lesson, discussion of modern day piracy begins with a cartoon depicting a 17th century pirate ship pulling a large 21st century ship through the sea. Then, the instructor can lead a conversation about piracy – What is piracy? Who are pirates? What motivates them? The lesson introduces students to issues involving international law in the context of globalization.
Judicial Nominations
Conversation starter using a political cartoon, which compares the public’s interest in judicial nominations with contestants on the television show “American Idol.”
Qualities of Judges
Students brainstorm qualities that judges might possess, then discuss why those qualities are important.
What Makes a Good Judge?
This lesson focuses on the costs and benefits of various judicial selection methods. Students will list characteristics they think essential or valuable to being a good judge, and then see which system of judicial selection – appointment, merit, or election – obtains the highest quality judges. In discussing each method, students will understand the tradeoffs between accountability and independence in judicial selection.
What is Justice?
These activities provide excerpts from the Constitution and quotes from influential figures in history which help to define the concept of justice. By discussing these ideas, students will develop an understanding of justice, and articulate how the Constitution aims to promote justice.
Case of Gerry Gault
In this lesson, students will learn about the events that led to the case In re Gault, and will recognize this case’s importance to juvenile rights and juvenile court proceedings. Students will list those parts of the case that they believe were carried out fairly, and those that they believe were unfair to Gault. Students’ concerns about the case are compared to the actual reasons given by the Supreme Court. The lesson leads naturally into a discussion of due process.
Right to Counsel
In this lesson, students will look at the various dimensions of right to counsel. They will study how the meaning of this right has evolved over time with reference to specific landmark United States Supreme Court cases. Students will develop lists of reasons why such a right is important to the functioning of the adversary process. The lesson ends with an examination of the role of the criminal attorney.
“American Skin” Song Analysis
Students will explore their ideas about fairness in the American criminal justice system and the role of race and ethnicity by analyzing the depiction of the Amadou Diallo shooting in Bruce Springsteen’s song “American Skin (41 Shots).” They will apply newly acquired knowledge about the protections and limits of the Fourth and 14th Amendment and law enforcement challenges to a reevaluation of their ideas about fair and equal treatment by the police.
Conversations with Leaders in Law
This guide provides resources and potential discussion topics to help bring together law-related community leaders and students.
It’s My Life
In this lesson, students will think critically about the legitimacy of government intervention in their lives. They will compare individual rights with the public good, and identify some justifications for government intervention.