Community Helpers: The Justice System
Students learn about the roles of judges, lawyers, police, and juries in keeping communities safe and fair.
🌍 Why This Lesson Matters
Children often see police, firefighters, and doctors, but the roles of judges, lawyers, and juries are less visible. This lesson demystifies the justice system by introducing these "helpers" who ensure fairness and protect rights.
🎓 Learning Goals
Objectives
- Name 4 community helpers in the justice system.
- Explain what a judge, lawyer, and jury do.
- Understand that the justice system helps solve problems fairly.
Essential Questions
- "Who helps us when there is a problem in our community?"
- "What does a judge do?"
- "Why is it important to be fair?"
📋 Lesson Procedure
Introduction
5 minAsk students to name community helpers they know. Introduce that today we'll learn about helpers who work in courts.
Meet the Helpers
15 minUse puppets or pictures to introduce Judge, Lawyer, Police Officer, and Jury. Explain each role simply.
Mini Mock Trial
20 minRole-play a simple scenario (e.g., who ate the cookies?). Assign roles and practice fairness.
Reflection
5 minDiscuss: "Was the trial fair? Why is it important to listen to both sides?"
✅ Assessment
Students draw their favorite justice system helper and write one sentence about what they do.