Year 10 Commerce

Topic: Law

Mock Trial Assessment Task

Date: Week 8 Term 1, 2008.

Value: 30% of course mark.

Purpose of this task: Students will gain an insight into the workings of the Australian legal system and the role of specific individuals and groups within this structure.

Outcomes Assessed:

The ability of students to:

· Distinguish between prejudice, stereotype and value judgement

· Frame and test hypotheses

· Initiate and plan investigations

· Determine the accuracy of information

· Evaluate the feasibility and consequences of alternative course of action

· Discern the rights and responsibilities of individuals, groups and institutions

· Value these rights and responsibilities

· Value responsible citizenship.

Task

1. Form a group of 4-6 students

2. Research a number of criminal trials (e.g. Internet, newspapers, TV, Electric Library newspaper archive on the Library web site.)

3. Write your own script with which to conduct your mock trial. Your class teacher will guide you in relation to this.

4. Present your scripted trial to the class.

Assessment:

You will be assessed on the groups’ ability to show understanding of:

1. The role of each of the following:

a) Judge

b) Prosecution

c) Defence

d) Jury

2. Correct procedure and use of evidence.

3. Punishment, with direct reference to:

a) Options

b) Issues, and

c) Reasons for the Judge’s decision.

4. Presentation, research, accuracy, working collaboratively, use of primary and secondary research.

Marking Criteria:

Each group should include:

1. Roles

a) Judge (3 marks):

· Ensures rules of evidence and procedures followed

· Acts as an umpire on any disputes

· Sums up the case for the jury

· Decides punishment, and

· Gives reasons for his/her decision

b) Prosecution (3 marks):

· Presents the case/argument for the Crown

· Shows evidence, and

· Disputes the case for the defence

c) Defence (3 marks):

· Disputes the Prosecution’s case, and

· Shows any relevant evidence

d) Jury (3 marks):

· Decides what to believe as facts

· Comes to decision “beyond reasonable doubt”, and

· Asks for help from the Judge

2. Procedure/Evidence (9 marks)

a) Outline why each step occurs

b) Quote enough arguments and evidence to develop a case for both the Prosecution and Defence (e.g. witnesses, defences against a charge, etc.)

c) Demonstrate an understanding of the Rules of Evidence (e.g. hearsay, subjective evidence, relevance, etc.)

3. Punishment (6 marks)

a) Options available

b) Issues relevant to the case (e.g. witnesses’ impact, age of the defendant, etc.)

c) Reasons for the decision

4. Presentation, collaborative approach, use of research is at your discretion. (3 marks)

Total 30 marks