Blind Justice: Courtroom Simulations for the Classroom

Justice is supposed to be blind, although one might guess otherwise when considering some very famous and controversial court cases throughout history. Liven up your history or government class with Blind Justice, a collection of mock trials that bring four cases to life in your classroom. Students will take the lead roles in prosecuting and defending those accused and testifying for and against the defendants.

Critical thinking, problem solving, and oral presentation skills will be put to the test as each side tries to outwit the other. State standards will be met by these activities, while the trials offer a fun and engaging way to present a performance-based assessment to your students. The four trials (Sacco and Vanzetti, the Lindbergh Baby Kidnapping, the Nuremberg War Crimes trials, and Julius and Ethel Rosenberg) are designed so either side can win.

The book also includes step-by-step instructions for students and teachers, and follow-up activities about the real trials and how they compare to what played out in your classroom. Blind Justice offers an intriguing look at history, government, and the court system one that all students will enjoy.