Law Studies and Court Procedures Syllabus 2013 -2014
Subject Area: Social Science
Number: 2106350/2106390
Studies Credit: 0.5/each
Teacher: Vincent Montuori
Overview
Though technically two separate half-credit courses, at Lake Minneola High School the Law Studies and
Court Procedures courses will be taught together over one semester with students receiving one credit.
This full course will follow the new Common Core Language Arts standards (see Common Core below)
and all other relevant state standards.
The course includes the study of the history, development and evolution of individual rights and laws of
the United States and Florida as well as the structure, processes and procedures of their respective
judicial systems. Content will include, but is not be limited to: histories of both English Common and
United States Constitutional law, specific areas of law including criminal, civil, military, maritime, family,
consumer and juvenile law, the Bill of Rights with specific emphasis on the freedom of expression and
the rights of the accused and the organization, structure and procedures of state and federal courts.
The course will not dwell on an overview or the general statistics of crime in the United States except
when it provides context for a specific lesson. It will not focus on the categories of crimes nor the
defenses available to the accused. Rather, the course will focus on the knowledge, critical thinking and
life skills students need to interact with our legal system.
Targeted reading, Document Based Question writing, videos, movies and classroom discussions as well
as mock trials will reinforce the concepts learned as well as assess a student’s ability to communicate
legal strategy and theory. The course will conclude with a field trip and tour of the county courthouse in
Tavares. By the end of the course, students will be further C2Ready with a greater understanding of our
legal system and appreciation of career opportunities within it.
Course Objectives
Students will explore and investigate:
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the nature of law in a free society, the fundamental values and rights underlying our justice
system, the place of law in persevering order and the specific areas of the law
how civil and criminal laws are created at the federal, state and local levels of government and
how these laws are employed in various federal and state courts
the areas of family and consumer law with an emphasis on developing practical life skills
the criminal justice system, the rights afforded individuals in these systems and the
consequences of crime
the origins, organization, structure and procedures of all our courts
the role of judges, lawyers, law enforcement officers, correction officers and court officials play
in our judicial system
career opportunities in our justice system
Common Core Standards
The Common Core State Standards provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are
expected to learn at a given grade level and in a given course. The standards are designed to be robust
and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our students need for success in
college and careers. The execution of these standards in Lake County will be in the form of a focus
calendar which overlays course curriculums, syllabi or blue prints; they are also grade specific which lend
them to classroom differentiation:
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.1 Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and
secondary sources, attending to such features as the date and origin of the information
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.2 Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary
source; provide an accurate summary of how key events or ideas develop over the course of the text.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.3 Analyze in detail a series of events described in a text; determine whether
earlier events caused later ones or simply preceded them.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.1 Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and
secondary sources, connecting insights gained from details to an understanding of the text as a whole.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.2 Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary
source; provide an accurate summary claifies the relationships among the key details and ideas.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.3 Evaluate various explanations for actions or events and determine which
explanation best accords with textual evidence, acknowledging where the text leaves matters uncertain.
Craft and Structure
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text,
including vocabulary describing political, social, or economic aspects of history/social science.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.5 Analyze how a text uses structure to emphasize key points or advance an
explanation or analysis.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.6 Compare the point of view of two or more authors for how they treat the
same or similar topics, including which details they include and emphasize in their respective accounts.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text,
including analyzing how an author uses and refines the meaning of a key term over the course of a text
(e.g., how Madison defines faction in Federalist No. 10).
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.5 Analyze in detail how a complex primary source is structured, including
how key sentences, paragraphs, and larger portions of the text contribute to the whole.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.6 Evaluate authors’ differing points of view on the same historical event or
issue by assessing the authors’ claims, reasoning, and evidence.
Integration of Knowledge and Ideas
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.7 Integrate quantitative or technical analysis (e.g., charts, research data)
with qualitative analysis in print or digital text
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.8 Assess the extent to which the reasoning and evidence in a text support
the author’s claims.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.9 Compare and contrast treatments of the same topic in several primary and
secondary sources
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.7 Integrate and evaluate multiple sources of information presented in
diverse formats and media (e.g., visually, quantitatively, as well as in words) in order to address a
question or solve a problem.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.8 Evaluate an author’s premises, claims, and evidence by corroborating or
challenging them with other information
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.9 Integrate information from diverse sources, both primary and secondary,
into a coherent understanding of an idea or event, noting discrepancies among sources
Range of Reading and Level of Text Complexity
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.10 By the end of grade 10, read and comprehend history/social studies
texts in the grades 9–10 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.11-12.10 By the end of grade 12, read and comprehend history/social studies
texts in the grades 11–CCR text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Textbook
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Arbetman, Lee, P. and O’Brien, Edward L., Street Law: A Course in Practical Law, GlencoeMcGraw-Hill, 2010 (8th edition), ISBN# 97800787998
o Online edition login code: D2A7E8A65D
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Arbetman, Lee, P. and O’Brien, Edward L., Street Law: A Course in Practical Law, Student
Workbook, Glencoe-McGraw-Hill, 2010 (8th edition), ISBN# 9780078895180
Course Outline
Introduction to Law
Vocabulary
Law
Human Rights
Civil Laws
Criminal Laws
Prosecutor
Supremacy Clause
Veto
Defendant
Plaintiff
Felony
Misdemeanor
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
Preponderance of evidence
Statutes
Unconstitutional
Federalism
Key Topics
This unit will provide the definition of law and discuss the areas of laws which exist in the United
States. The unit will also examine how laws are created and related to values, human rights and
responsibility within the framework of the U.S. Constitution.
Videos
Law and Order SVU episode
Pearson: Foundations of Rights
Safari: The Constitution and the Bill of Rights
School House Rock: The Preamble
School House Rock: I’m Just a Bill
Websites
Politicalcompass.com
Individual Rights
Vocabulary
Privileges
Rights
Habeas Corpus
Writ
Indictment
Enumeration
Obscenity
Defamation
Slander
Libel
Incitement
Quartered
Censorship
Shield law
Assembly
Public forum
Petition (verb)
Due process
Segregation
Discrimination
Remedy
Affirmative action
Union
Collective bargaining
Strike
Picketing
Right-to work states
Whistle blowing
Severance pay
Unemployment Insurance
Citizenship
Naturalization
Visa
Permanent resident
Asylum
Key Topics
This unit introduces the study of constitutional law. It describes how the Constitution establishes the
basic framework of government and how the Bill of Rights protects basic individual rights.
Special focus will be given on freedom of expression and its vital importance in maintaining a
democracy. The class will investigate the scope of the government’s ability to regulate expression and,
in some instances, to prevent and punish it. The class will also explore how the establishment clause and
free exercise clause work together to ensure that the government protects religious freedoms.
The class will explore the concept of due process, which concerns both fair procedures and protection
from government interference with certain rights. We will deal with discrimination history and law and
with the rights and responsibilities in the workplace.
Finally the unit will investigate immigration law and related current events being played-out on the
national stage.
Videos
Security, Pseudo-Patriotism and the Erosion of American Liberties
BrainPop: The Bill of Rights
Time Magazine: The Bill of Rights (10 individual videos)
Safari: Understanding Prejudice
YouTube: Why Minimum Wage is NOT $22/hour; Raising the Minimum Wage (pro and con videos);
Immigration Reform and The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Websites
Newyorktimes.com
Family Law
Vocabulary
Family
Marriage
Consent
Bigamy
Polygamy
Adoption
In Vitro Fertilization
Surrogate
Prenuptial Agreement (Pre-nup)
Cohabitation Agreement
Paternity
Emancipation
Child Abuse
Child Neglect
Pedophile
Separation
Annulment
Divorce
Alimony
Custody
Foster Care
Spousal Abuse
Social Security
Medicare
Medicaid
S.N.A.P.
Key Topics
The unit explores how law affects Americans from the moment they are born until the day they die, and
after. We will investigate how the legal definition of family and marriage is evolving as a result of social,
economic and political factors. The unit will emphasize the legal issues related to marriage and living
together as a couple; examining financial responsibilities and property ownership.
The unit will investigate the legal implications of parent-child relationships including issues and
resources devoted to foster care, adoption and assisted fertility.
Additionally, the unit will cover way in which the law responds to family problems such as separation,
divorce, child custody, alimony and child support.
Finally the unit will exam what government benefits are available as well as highlights the circumstances
of spousal or child neglect and abuse and the resources available to their victims.
Videos
Safari: The Great Depression and The New Deal
YouTube: Who pays what in taxes?
Websites
Childhelp.com
Usgovernmentspending.com
Consumer Law
Vocabulary
Contract
Consideration
Competent
Cosign
Breach
Fraud
Damages
Unconscionable
Rescission
Restitution
Warranty
Remedy
Disclaimer
Credit
Creditor
Interest
APR
Usury
Bankruptcy
Default
Debtor
Principal
Collateral
Repossess
Lien
Garnishment
Attachment
Title
Lease
Mortgage
Escrow
Eviction
Key Topics
Rather than relying on the old Latin legal expression of “caveat emptor” or “let the buyer beware”, the
class will explore how consumer laws establish a variety of rights and responsibilities which strive to
make the marketplace fair for both buyers and sellers.
The unit will examine contracts, warranties and disclaimers and their respective elements.
With a focus on real life skills the topics of personal budgeting, credit and other financial services will be
explored including the costs and risks of managing money wisely. Additionally, the class will explore the
process and issues when financing, leasing or purchasing a car, home or rental property.
Finally the class will investigate federal, state and local laws and agencies that regulate sellers and
protect consumers.
Videos
BrainPop: Banking
Websites
Kkb.com (Kelly Blue Book)
Carfax.com
The Court System
Vocabulary
Judiciary
Precedent
Oral Arguments
Written Brief
Judicial Review
Writ of Certiorari
Jurisdiction
Amicus Curiae
Apolitical
Key Topics
The unit will explore the parallel systems of federal and state courts in the United States as well as the
international courts. The class will investigate the organization, structure and jurisdiction of trial and
appeal courts as well as the power of the Supreme Court within our system of justice.
Videos
Safari: The Judicial System
YouTube: Marbury v. Madison
Pearson: The Supreme Court and The Federal Courts
Court Personnel and Procedures
Vocabulary
Trial
Paramilitary
Evidence
Advocate
Voir Dire
Retainer
Contingency fee
Privilege
Disbarred
Probable Cause
Booking
Arraignment
Bail
Deposition
Acquittal
Indictment
Nolo Contendere
Discovery
Plea Bargain
Subpoena
Contempt of court
Immunity
Mistrial
Retribution
Deterrence
Rehabilitation
Restitution
Incapacitation
Capital punishment
Mitigating circumstances
Aggravating circumstances
Parole
Key Topics
The unit will explore the personnel and processes of our justice system – from arrest or complaint,
through trial to issues with sentencing or the awarding of damages.
The unit will also explore both careers in our justice system and how to determine when a lawyer is
needed, how to find and work with one.
Videos
BrainPop: Trials
Movies: Twelve Angry Men and To Kill a Mocking Bird
Law and Order and Boston Legal vignettes
Websites
Prelawhandbook.com
CNN Student News
In lieu of Bellwork, every class will begin with the daily report from CNN Student News. This ten-minute
video newscast is specifically targeted and edited for middle and high school students
Lab Components
In addition to traditional classroom assignments and discussions, students will participate in a:
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Mock Legislative Session where groups will prepare, debate and vote-on a series of laws.
Mock Trial where groups will assume key roles and demonstrate mastery of the stages of a trial
by conducting a criminal prosecution or defense based on a real case.
Document Based Question (DBQ) where students will construct an essay about the Supreme
Court Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas decision based on their analysis of key
documents and evidence.
Field Trip where the class will tour the county courthouse in Tavares to experience first-hand
the elements of our judicial system discussed in the classroom.
Additionally, students will be encouraged, for extra credit to attend a local town meeting, city council
session or write their congressperson about an issue of concern.
Student Evaluation
Students will be evaluated against the Course Rubric and receive grades for their performance in the
following areas: class preparation and participation (5%), vocabulary/notes (15%),
activities/projects/reports (25%) and tests (60%). A mid-term and final exam for the course each will be
weighted to count for 25% of the final grade.
Standard grade range applies to all assignments and tests: A+ = 95-100%; A = 90-94%; B = 80-89%; C =
70-79%; D = 60-69%; F = 59%. Students will never receive a grade lower than 59 on any given
assignment or test.
IMPRORTANT: Students are responsible for completing ALL course work unless otherwise excused by
the instructor (extended deadlines will be granted for specific IEP accommodations or upon reasonable
request). LMHS is a technology-driven, semi- paperless environment, consequently many assignments
and all test grades will only be available on eSembler. Therefore it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that
students and parents check eSembler weekly (since I strive to update all grades every weekend,
developing the habit of checking eSembler on Monday or Tuesday is advisable). ALL MISSING OR
INCOMPLETE ASSIGNMENTS WILL AUTOMATICALLY RECEIVE A GRADE OF 59% UNTIL THE WORK IS
SATIFACTUALLY SUBMITTED, EVEN IF THE STUDENT WAS ABSENT. Also on eSembler a grade of “T”
means the work was submitted but has not yet been graded (usually essays, which take time to assess
properly) and “X” means excused.