Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will have a better understanding of the Supreme Court and its role in the government.

Materials and Prep

• Internet access
• Pen and paper

Activities

1. Research: Use the internet to find information about the Supreme Court. Take notes on its purpose, structure, and key responsibilities.

2. Case Study: Select a famous Supreme Court case, such as Brown v. Board of Education or Roe v. Wade. Read about the case and write a brief summary of the issue, the arguments presented, and the Court's decision.

3. Mock Trial: Pretend you are a Supreme Court justice. Choose a controversial topic, such as freedom of speech or privacy rights, and write a short opinion explaining your stance on the issue. Consider the Constitution and previous Court decisions in your argument.

Seventh Grade Talking Points

• "The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States and plays a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution."
• "The Court consists of nine justices, who are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. They serve for life or until retirement."
• "The Supreme Court has the power of judicial review, which means it can declare laws or actions unconstitutional."
• "Landmark Supreme Court cases have shaped our nation's history and protected individual rights. For example, Brown v. Board of Education ended segregation in schools."
• "When the Court makes a decision, it becomes a precedent that lower courts must follow."
• "Justices may have different interpretations of the Constitution, leading to different opinions and dissenting views."
• "The Supreme Court's decisions have a lasting impact on our society, influencing laws and shaping our understanding of justice."
• "It is important for citizens to understand the role of the Supreme Court and stay informed about its decisions, as they affect our rights and freedoms."