Teacher Manual (Digital)

This curriculum will walk you step-by-step through the process of preparing students for a mock trial. Every page from the Student Worktext is actually shown in grayscale so that you can easily follow along during preparation and presentation. Answers, activity ideas, tips for class discussion and additional resources are found in this Teacher Manual. 
 
While preparing in advance will help you enjoy your class even more, it is possible to use this curriculum with little preparation.
 
Homeschool Court can also be used in a civics or government class to teach the judicial branch of the U.S. government. It is also a fun and effective way to increase public speaking, logic and critical thinking skills.
 
Finally, if you are not able to or do not want to hold a mock trial at the end of a course, Case Summaries could also be used to hold a debate or to write a paper.
 
Table of Contents:
Preface to the Teacher
The preface explains coordination with the Student Worktext, adaptations for different kinds of students and circumstances, logistics, sample schedules and a list of supplies and resources.
Chapter 1: The Basics
Start off on the right foot by learning about mock trials, why we have laws, and some basic legal vocabulary.
Chapter 2: A Biblical View of the Law
Understand the Biblical foundation upon which our country's legal system was founded and apply Biblical principles to legal issues. Also explore some important people and events in American legal history.
Chapter 3: Who's Who in the Court System?
Discover the participants in the court system and the differences between various types of witnesses.
Chapter 4: Our Judicial System
Learn the differences between state and federal courts, trial and appellate courts, and civil and criminal courts--and how to decide in which jurisdiction to file a case.
Chapter 5: Types of Cases
Explore the variety of the law while getting a taste of criminal, civil and constitutional law. (Some areas touched on are burglary, robbery, assault, battery, murder, manslaughter, torts, contracts, and the Bill of Rights.)
Chapter 6: Steps in a Trial of an Appellate Case
Distinguish between the step-by-step processes involved in trials and appeals, as well as the physical set-up for each. 
Chapter 7: Persuasive Arguments
Practice your skills of persuasion while crafting witness questions, opening and closing statements, and a strong strategy for your trial or appellate case.
Chapter 8: Preparing for the Mock Trial
Use a team approach to prepare diligently for the mock trial or appeal.
Chapter 9: The Mock Trial
Enjoy the fruits of your labor during the mock trial and celebrate with family and friends. A Certificate of Completion and Grading Rubrics are provided.