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Course Description:
Introduction to Law is a semester course open to all grade levels. Law is the foundation of our
society; this course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and
procedures of the state and federal legal system. While studying the courts, law enforcement as
a career, and the corrections system, students will become familiar with the terminology,
concepts, and procedures in the areas of criminal law. Landmark cases, case law, current
events, and simulations are used to examine the legal system from a social science point of
view.
Course Units/Pacing Guide
Unit
The Legal Process
Criminal Law
Court System
Levels
Functions
Appeals
Law Making
Federalism
Separation of powers
Trial Process
Plea bargain
Jury selection
Steps in a trial
Settling Disputes
Informal Talk
Mediation
Negotiation
Arbitration
Assessment
Assessment development will be ongoing.
Other forms of assessment include class discussion, homework assignments, individual and
group activities, quizzes
Criminal Law
Standards
LRE 1.3 Students can understand the adversarial nature of legal systems, law
enforcement, and mechanisms for resolving disputes and conflicts in society.
LRE 1.5 Students can understand how laws provide for consequences and provide
punishments for crimes and other transgressions.
Understandings
Crime has a significant impact on society.
People commit crimes for various reasons.
Multiple factors must be considered when
deciding on the appropriate and legally
defensible punishment for crimes.
Essential Questions
Laws
Influence conduct, Regulate behavior
Reflect values
Consequences
Court System
Levels
Functions
Appeals
Law Making
Federalism
Separation of powers
Checks and balances
Legislative intent
Trial Process
Plea bargain
Jury selection
Steps in a trial
Settling Disputes
Informal Talk
Mediation
Negotiation
Arbitration
Assessment
Assessment development will be ongoing.
Other forms of assessment include class discussion, homework assignments, individual and
group activities, quizzes