The Cookie Jar Case: A Role-Play Mock Trial

Program Outline

Based on the investigation that intrigued the imaginations of thousands of American students in The Cookie Jar Mystery, The Cookie Jar Case: A Role Play Mock Trial extends the fun, builds more skills, and keeps the excitement going in this 5-lesson hands-on set of activities.

Grades 5-8

Lesson One: How a Courtroom Works
Introducing students to the American criminal legal system and courtroom procedure is the focus of Lesson One. In three initial activities, students get up close and personal with the roles and responsibilities of courtroom personnel from the judge to the bailiff. The adversarial relationship that characterizes attorneys working on behalf of defendants and the prosecution is explored next. Finally, the somber responsibility of civic duty is discussed as learners delve into the jury selection process.

Lesson Two: Opening Statements
Preparing hair and fiber samples, DNA, and perhaps even footprints may just finger the perpetrator of the Cookie Jar crime as learners prepare the evidence for trial in Lesson Two. Clarence Darrow may have met his match as our student lawyers turn next to the preparation of their opening statements. A challenging activity provides guiding templates to help students get a feel for the appropriate language for constructing a legal argument.

Lesson Three: Questioning Witnesses
In Lesson Three, there will be few objections when students find their courtroom procedure supported by a keen and simple understanding of the appropriate form of questions necessary to interrogate their witnesses. Introducing key pieces of evidence—especially evidence that is uniquely linked to particular witnesses—can help students tell compelling stories of their own “theories of the crime” as they believe it may have happened.

Lesson Four: Closing Remarks
Preparing a short and sweet closing argument that will sway the jury and win the case is the key activity in Lesson Four. Students also review their evidence, rehearse their witnesses, and try to anticipate their opponent’s strategy. A quick review of court procedures builds confidence and helps students feel ready to litigate. Opening arguments are just around the corner!

Lesson Five: The Mock Trial
The jury’s been seated and the court comes to order in Lesson Five as our mock trial finally gets underway. The audience and attorneys take their places, open their files and take a deep breath in preparation for opening statements. Just as in a real court setting, learners call witnesses, introduce evidence, object, confer with the judge and listen to testimony. All the participants will be on the edge of their seats as they wait for the jury to deliberate and deliver the verdict. When the trial is finally over, all of the players will be able to celebrate that justice has been served!