3/18/15BR – If you were on trial for murder would you want a jury? Why (or why not?)

Today: Preparing for the Writing Assignment – “Is the jury system the best way to provide justice?”

Writing Prompt

Consider the events in the film 12 Angry Men. Is the American Justice System of using 12 regular people the best? Is the jury system the best way to provide justice?

In an essay of approximately 2 pages answer the question in a well organized essay. Be sure your thesis is clear and supported with explanation including references to the film.

The essay along with any notes are due on Monday, 23.

Writing Details

12 point font

Double spaced

1 inch margins

Arial, Calibri, or Times font

Cover page with name and title

Credit given for including a draft.

Juries around the world..

TASK: get together in groups of 3

Pick up a reading for each member.

Chose a recorder (for notes, answer to questions, or questions the group has)

Chose a time-keeper (to keep the group on task!)

Choose a speaker (who will speak for the group)

Read the article silently (5 minutes) –

Discuss the article (10 Minutes) –

Answer the Questions (see next) – 1 paper per person

Juries around the world

Each person should answer the questions below. For each answer ALSO include the paragraph number you used to get your answer. (for some questions there may be more than 1 number)

1. In what other countries is a jury system used?

2. What reasons do some countries give for not using juries (or restricting them?)

3. What reason do some countries give for using juries or expanding their use?

4. Look the circumstances and types of trials where juries are used. What conclusions can you draw regarding the use of juries in some countries?

Socratic Seminar

Get out your responses from the questions from yesterday

Use this discussion among yourselves to help come up with ideas and to test your reasoning for your essay.

You should record ideas and thoughts as notes (these notes will be handed in with your essay)

The essential question we can start with is “Is the jury system the best way to provide justice?”

Socratic Seminar (prompters)

What were some potential problems with the jury in the film? How did those problems affect what went on?

In spite of these problems the boy was still acquitted? What does that say about the jury system

Other Questions

Why can’t they just declare themselves a hung jury? Is passing a tough decision as bad as making a bad decision?

Who is the best person in the room? Why?

Who is the worst person in the room? Why?

Who are you?

Other?

More questions about the film?

Check out the link below to see more questions (and answers!) about the film “12 Angry Men”

http://www.gradesaver.com/12-angry-men/q-and-a