The Judicial Branch, Day 5 - Class Recap

The ceiling in the Library of Congress, which is right next to the Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C. Photo taken in 2010.

Dear class,

Another week in the books! Only three more weeks for seniors and four more weeks for everyone else! Here's what happened today in class:

Learning Targets:
SS.HS.CR.ALT.03: I can apply understanding of ideas and concepts to a new context or problem.
SS.HS.RE.ALT.05: I can effectively conduct and apply research.
SS.HS.KN.ALT.02: I can demonstrate an understanding of the role of governments in current issues.
SS.HS.CO.ALT.05: I can communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Soundtrack: “Dance With Me" by 112. Selected because of the group name and the connection with the 12 jurors in the film we finished today. Lyrics here.

AGENDA 5/15/14:
News Brief
Finish 12 Angry Men
Review Landmark Cases
5 Things About SCOTUS

Homework: Read the blog. Study judiciary branch for upcoming test. Read article from class (see bottom). Next news brief: Olivia (just an article).

News Brief: Maria was absent today, so Jesse rescued the section with this article: NYTimes.com - F.C.C. Votes to Move Ahead on Net Neutrality Plan. A very interesting story about the intersection of government with the future of the internet!

Finish 12 Angry Men: We started this last class and finished it today. As I pointed out, this is one of the most critically acclaimed films ever, and is currently at #8 in the IMDb Top 250. If you missed class, here is a link to a version with subtitles in another language.

The questions the class answered with the film are:

1. What are the facts of the case?
2. What assumptions do the jurors make about the boy?
3. What biased perspectives or experiences influence the jury?
4. What was your reaction to the film?
5. What responsibilities to the jurors have?
6. How would you vote? Explain why.

Review Landmark Cases: This was a short, fill in the blank, sheet that was trying to help you become more familiar with the landmark cases we went over in previous classes.

5 Things About SCOTUS: To end class, I passed out this article from the New York Times Upfront Magazine: 5 Things You Need To Know About The Supreme Court. Please read it and come prepared for next class to discuss and know what it is about! Thanks!