| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| Students on the SJHS Mock Trial team with Mr. Hansen | 71.34 KB |
| Students on the SJHS Mock Trial team | 69.06 KB |
| Students on the SJHS Mock Trial team | 60.16 KB |
Mock Trial is an after school club that is run by Mr. Hansen, a history teacher. Many people have no clue what mock trial is all about, and it is about time they did. Mock trial is where students have a case that contains witness statements, exhibits, and other things all related to a crime. Students participating in mock trial study this case and take the positions of attorneys, bailiffs, and witnesses. They meet everyday after school where they compile evidence and do run throughs of the trial. Wesley Rey, a ninth grade student, said, “I like the way it makes you think.”
Mock Trial is open to anyone grades seventh-ninth who want to join. Many people in mock trial were recruited either by their friends, or Mr. Hansen, and some join out of initial curiosity. After many meetings of preparation it is time to compete. Mock trial has two teams, an A team and a B team. Team A competed on February 22nd and 24th. These competitions are run just like a real trial. It gives students a sense of professionalism.
Mr. Hansen said, “It teaches the court process, higher level thinking skills analysis and reasoning skills. Mock trial gives confidence in presentation, you have to think and speak on your feet. You have to work together as a team where you and all the attorneys have to work together in supporting a common idea.”
SJHS has won several mock trial competitions. One team even got to the quarterfinals. Overall mock trial provides opportunities for students, and helps them develop their skills and talents. It is a fun way to get involved with the school.
Thinking about checking it out, and want to know what it takes? Mr. Hansen said, “Having fun, experience, attorneys and witnesses who can work together, and everyone doing their part. You have to be able to think, and everyone has to know their parts, and be able to be a believable witness. You have to anticipate what the other side is going to do and counter their arguments, in the opening, closing and during the direct.” Mock trial is a challenging, educational, confidence boosting, fun program, and we look forward to it for years to come.