On June 12, Grade 7 students in Chelsea Zehnacker’s English classes at Marlboro Middle School put their learning on display during the school’s annual Mock Trial, an interdisciplinary project that combines literature, public speaking, critical thinking, and real-world career skills.
The project, based on the students’ final novel of the year, The Outsiders, challenged students to determine whether fictional character Johnny Cade was guilty or innocent under New York State law. Throughout the unit, students assumed a variety of courtroom and support roles, including judges, attorneys, witnesses, police officers, artists, and news reporters.
The experience began with a job interview unit, during which students learned how to write resumes and cover letters, practice interview skills, and demonstrate professional etiquette. Students then interviewed for specific positions within the trial and were selected based on their qualifications and performance.
Each role required unique responsibilities and assessments. Attorneys built cases using evidence from the novel, witness statements, and police reports. Judges studied New York State laws and courtroom procedures. Witnesses developed public speaking and acting skills, while student reporters documented the trial through articles and video coverage. Artists created visual representations supported by textual evidence.
Over the course of a month, students prepared affidavits, learned legal terminology, examined laws related to self-defense and insanity, and practiced courtroom procedures and objections. The project culminated in three mock trials attended by family members and student jurors.
Traditionally, Grade 6 students are invited to serve on the jury, giving them a preview of the Mock Trial experience that awaits them in Grade 7. This year, an Academic Prep class also participated as jurors in one of the trials.
By the conclusion of the proceedings, student juries found Johnny Cade not guilty of murder and manslaughter in all three trials, while finding him guilty of possession of a deadly weapon.
The Mock Trial provides students with an engaging opportunity to apply classroom learning in an authentic setting while building confidence, collaboration, and communication skills. According to Ms. Zehnacker, many students initially feel nervous about the public speaking component, but often leave the experience with a greater sense of confidence and accomplishment.
Students recognized by Ms. Zehnacker for their outstanding performances included Michelle Qaqish as Johnny Cade, Landon Backofen as Sgt. Hutch, and Amberley Slaughter as Cherry.
Marlboro Central School District congratulates all students involved on their hard work, dedication, and successful courtroom performances.