During the month of May, we were able to take all the learning we have been doing in our debates, and extend it to run a mock trial in our classroom. We are so lucky to have a solicitor among the parents at our school. Rory Staines met with us (via Zoom) to teach us all about the Irish justice system. We had dozens of questions for him, which he answered very patiently.
We also had some lessons around the types of consequences that can follow when somebody breaks the law, and on the importance of considering all available evidence before making any decisions.
Then last week, we were ready to get down to business.
We also had some lessons around the types of consequences that can follow when somebody breaks the law, and on the importance of considering all available evidence before making any decisions.
Then last week, we were ready to get down to business.
After figuring out who would play what roles, everybody had something to prepare for homework. The speaking roles are outlined above. Everyone else in the class was a member of the jury.
The trial went off without a hitch, and Rory told us he was very impressed with the work we had put into it. It was a fantastic learning experience!