Objective

By the end of this lesson, Jordan will have a comprehensive understanding of the factors involved in winning full custody in a court of law, especially when a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order is in place. Jordan will also develop critical thinking, logic, and life skills through engaging activities that enhance reading, spelling, and communication skills, including American Sign Language (ASL).

Materials and Prep

• Notebook and pen for notes
• Printed resources on custody laws and PFA orders (can be created by the teacher)
• ASL alphabet chart (can be created by the teacher)
• Cooking supplies for a simple recipe (ingredients and utensils)
• Logic puzzles or critical thinking games (can be created by the teacher)

Activities

1. Reading & Research:

   Jordan will read a simplified guide on custody laws and PFA orders. This will help in understanding the legal framework and requirements for obtaining full custody. After reading, Jordan will summarize the key points in their own words.

2. ASL Practice:

   Jordan will learn and practice basic ASL signs related to family and emotions, which can be useful for expressing feelings during discussions about custody. This could include signs for "mother," "father," "love," and "sad." A mini-presentation can follow where Jordan uses these signs to communicate a short message.

3. Cooking Together:

   Jordan will prepare a simple recipe, such as a sandwich or a salad. This activity will not only teach practical cooking skills but also emphasize the importance of providing a stable and nurturing environment for children.

4. Logic and Critical Thinking Games:

   Jordan will complete a series of logic puzzles or critical thinking games that challenge their reasoning skills. This will help in developing a logical approach to problem-solving, which is crucial in legal situations.

5. Writing a Mock Custody Statement:

   Jordan will write a mock statement outlining why they believe full custody should be awarded to a parent. This will encourage them to think critically about the factors that influence custody decisions and to articulate their thoughts clearly.

Talking Points

• "Understanding the law is the first step in navigating custody issues. What do you think are the most important factors a court considers?"
• "ASL can be a powerful way to communicate feelings. How do you think expressing emotions can impact a custody case?"
• "Creating a nurturing environment is key to winning custody. What are some things you think make a home feel safe and loving?"
• "Logic puzzles can help us think clearly under pressure. Why do you think it's important to stay calm and logical during difficult situations?"
• "Writing down your thoughts helps clarify your ideas. How do you feel about writing a mock statement? What points do you want to include?"