NCJ Number
75405
Date Published
1978
Length
108 pages
Annotation
This guide presents 26 lessons that fifth grade classroom teachers can use for developing and implementing legal education programs.
Abstract
Objectives of the program are to foster understanding of and respect for the law, help children understand why rules are necessary, and increase knowledge about the American legal system. Nine of the lessons constitute a basic program which every child should experience, and the other 17 may be used according to available time and interest. Lesson topics include fair play, the need for rules, conflict, shoplifting, graffiti, development of laws in the United States, and law in primitive society. Additional subjects include the effect of laws on everyday life, different kinds of law, trial by jury, and juvenile delinquency. For each lesson, information is presented on objectives, strategies, and activities, and background information and discussion questions are provided. Students are involved in a variety of activities, including role playing, class discussion, dramatizing situations, analyzing films, and writing short stories. In addition, they are expected to draw pictures, learn vocabulary, research topics, and interview people in the community to find out about rules and regulations governing various occupations. An appendix contains a 72-item film bibliography with brief descriptions, a 73-item student bibliography, a 14-item teacher's resource list, a list of suggested research topics, and a guide to requesting community resource visitation. (Author abstract modified)