Learn about justice online
Where to find it: Our courts
– www.ourcourts.org
Who runs the site: The spokesperson for the site is Supreme
Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, but it is maintained by
Georgetown University and Arizona State University.
Who is likely to use the site: The site is perfect for teachers
looking to incorporate lessons on civics into their classroom or
for kids who want a fun way to learn more about how the justice
system works.
Learn about justice online
Where to find it: Our courts – www.ourcourts.org
Who runs the site: The spokesperson for the site is Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, but it is maintained by Georgetown University and Arizona State University.
Who is likely to use the site: The site is perfect for teachers looking to incorporate lessons on civics into their classroom or for kids who want a fun way to learn more about how the justice system works.
Pros: The site is set up so that it is accessible to both students and teachers. The developers of the site wanted to create a way to teach kids about law that would be appealing to them. They do that by creating a game in which children enter a virtual world where they are guardians of the law. Other games will be available for the 2009-2010 school year. The link learn about civics also allows students to learn by reading about topics related to civics.
The site also includes a link for teachers to build a curriculum. It includes lesson plans for such civics topics as state government, the three branches of the federal government and on the Supreme Court.
One of the cool features on the site is “Talk to the Justice” where students can submit questions or comment on a topic of the month. This month’s question is about what President Barack Obama should look for when he chooses people to nominate to the Supreme Court. O’Connor submitted her thoughts on it and then students can leave their comments on the site as well.
Cons: Some students looking at the games section may be disappointed that there is only one game on the site, though there is a promise to bring two more online by the next school year.
