The Center offers schools, colleges, and the general public a number of law-related educational activities and resources. Law-Related Education (LRE) has evolved from the assumption that individuals who understand the reasons for laws and the institutions that support them are more likely to act responsibly in society. Students exposed to LRE generally have a better understanding of consequences with regard to the breaking of law and may also be more capable of resolving disputes independent of the court system. The Center is one of the few providers of LRE programs and materials in the state.
The Judiciary History Center has prepared lessons for use in the classroom and in our Restored 1913 Courtroom. The Lessons include a number of historically based activities designed to enhance the students understanding of civics and law and to aid in meeting HCPS III standards. If you choose to use any of these trials on your visit to the Center, we recommend that you assign roles beforehand and have the students read through their parts prior to your visit.
Oni v. Meek
In the second half of the 19th century, major decisions of the courts shaped and responded to the rapid changes in society. Oni v. Meek is one example of how the new laws created by the Kingdom's Legislature supported private property ownership over the old system of shared land use rights.
The Judiciary History Center has prepared these scripts and teacher's guide to use in the classroom and in our Restored 1913 courtroom during class visits:
The Judiciary History Center developed this lesson to aid teachers in meeting Social Studies standards for grade 5. Bacon's Rebellion in the Virginia Colony in 1676 is one the most intriguing events in colonial America.
Hungry as a Horse
The Judiciary History Center has prepared this teacher's guide and mock trial for use in the classroom or in our Restored 1913 Courtroom during your class visit. The lesson is designed for grades 2-3 and focuses on the values of public safety and responsibility.
The Judiciary History Center has prepared this teacher's guide and mock trial for use in the classroom as well as our Restored 1913 Courtroom during class visits. The lesson is designed for grades 2-3 and focuses on the values of public safety, courtesy/respect, and honesty.
Judges in the Classroom
Judges in the Classroom is a law-related education curriculum for judges produced by the Judiciary History Center. The curriculum offers judges either a three lesson unit that requires three consecutive classroom visits, or, one of several non-related lessons requiring just one visit. If you would like to request a judge speaker, please click here.
Who's Who in the Courtroom
This guide was prepared by the Judiciary History Century to offer a brief explanation of the various duties of those involved in courtroom proceedings.