These lessons provide a basic introduction to the three branches of government, and the role of a judge.
Embedded Files
No Animals Allowed
No Animals Allowed
Grades 3–5
This was the most requested lesson in the past 2 years! Invite a judge to introduce to your students the 3 branches of government, and test their interpretation of a law.
No Vehicles Allowed
No Vehicles Allowed
Grades 5–8
Similar to No Animals but programmed for older learners. This lesson prompts students to consider the intent of lawmakers when creating a law. Through case scenarios, students analyze the application of a law banning vehicles from a public park.
Sleepy Lagoon Zoot Suit Trial
Sleepy Lagoon Zoot Suit Trial
14th Amendment
Grades 6–12
Take students back to the 1940s when the style of dress brought 21 young men to court facing murder charges in People v. Zammora. This lesson promotes a better understanding of the 14th Amendment's right to due process, as well as the state court system, the three branches of government, and the role of a judge.
Languages: English and Spanish
Riley vs. California
Riley vs. California
4th Amendment
4th Amendment
Grades 9–12
In the "Cellphone Case," The Supreme Court of California ruled that the warrantless search and seizure of the digital contents of a cell phone during an arrest is unconstitutional under the Fourth Amendment.
The Constitution Grades 5-6
The Constitution Grades 5-6
Designed as an engaging starting point for students in 5th grade, the presentation helps them understand why the Constitution was created, how it works, and the intentions of its framers.
The Constitution Grades 6-12
The Constitution Grades 6-12
Taken up a level for grades 6-12, students will receive much of the same information but with more opportunity to think critically about the founding of our nation.
Salem Witch Trials
Salem Witch Trials
6th and 7th Amendments
6th and 7th Amendments
Grades 5–8
Reenactment | Courtroom or Classroom
A lesson on the 3 branches of government and the Bill of Rights.
This lesson comes with scripts for students to reenact the trials.
Students' Rights
Students' Rights
First Amendment Grades 5–8
First Amendment Grades 5–8
This lesson introduces students to the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, exploring its five key freedoms: religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition. Students will examine how students have fought for these rights in groundbreaking cases decided by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Voter Rights
Voter Rights
Grades 6–12
This lesson examines how voting rights expanded following the ratification of the Constitution. Students will learn about the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, also known as the Reconstruction Amendments, and more recent attempts to bring voting rights to all.
When You Turn 18
When You Turn 18
Grades 11–12
The When You Turn 18: A Legal Survival Guide helps California teens understand the real-world laws that come with adulthood—everything from signing leases and driving to voting, digital privacy, and relationships.
Languages: English
Si Se Puede!
Si Se Puede!
4th Amendment
4th Amendment
Grades 3-5, 6–12
Help commemorate two of California's most celebrated rights advocates. By studying the movement, your students will gain a deeper understanding of the First Amendment, the state court system, the Three Branches of Government, and the role of a judicial officer.
"I Am a Judge"
"I Am a Judge"
Grades 3-12
Step into the Robes of Justice! The "I Am a Judge" lesson is designed to help students understand the judicial system, the work of the courts, while considering the qualities of a judge related to impartiality and fairness.
This program is supporting by the Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative under the leadership of California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero. Learn more at www.powerofdemocracy.org .
Question? Contact judicialoutreach@jud.ca.gov
Question? Contact judicialoutreach@jud.ca.gov
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