"I Am a Judge"
Grade Level:
Grades 3-12
Language:
English
Format:
Presentation
Source:
INTRODUCTION
Power of Democracy
Focused on the 4th Amendment, this "grab and go" lesson from the Court Briefs series centers on discussion and Q&A, giving students a chance to hear directly from a visiting judge about their career, career pathway, and day-to-day work. Adaptable for any grade level, it's a flexible, conversation-driven option — and can also be paired as an introduction to another lesson, such as "No Animals Allowed."
OBJECTIVES
Students will:
- Define what a judge is and identify the judicial branch's role within the U.S. Constitution
- Explain the roles of a judge
- Distinguish between a bench trial and a jury trial
- Identify the basic qualities and standards a judge must uphold (non-partisanship, recusal, considering all outcomes, serving the public).
- Describe where judges work in California's court system and the paths to becoming a judge.
RESOURCES FOR TEACHERS
Focused on the 4th Amendment, this "grab and go" lesson from the Court Briefs series centers on discussion and Q&A, giving students a chance to hear directly from a visiting judge about their career, career pathway, and day-to-day work. Adaptable for any grade level, it's a flexible, conversation-driven option — and can also be paired as an introduction to another lesson, such as "No Animals Allowed."