Saturday, December 3, 2016

TRUMAN HIGH SCHOOL: Mock trail teaches basic legal concepts


Mrs. Hale’s Business Law students at Truman High School recently conducted a simulated mock trial.

Holding a mock trial in the classroom is a hands-on teaching technique that allows students to demonstrate the process of a trial and courtroom procedures. It challenges students higher order thinking and communication skills.

They applied the tools learned throughout the trimester to research and facilitate a criminal trial. Students participated in the trial by taking on the roles of prosecuting attorneys, defense attorneys, defendant, witnesses, court reporter, media, bailiff, judge, and jury.

They practiced opening and closing statements, giving testimony, direct and cross examination of witnesses, and finally a jury deliberation.

As a result of the students’ hard work and collaboration they gained an insight into how the legal system deals with criminal disputes. The entire project allowed for students to justify what they learned throughout the trimester and collect a real life experience that they can carry with them.


The mock trial also exposed students to a variety of careers in law along with the fundamental law concepts such as authority and fairness. The students enjoyed the process and a few students look at it as a steppingstone in their future law careers.

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