In this lesson, students are asked which of two chocolate bars – one with nuts, one without – they prefer. A single representative is taken from each preference group. These representatives are given the chocolate bar that they prefer less, motivating a contractual trade. One student unknowingly has an empty wrapper, eliciting debate after the trade is completed. The class concludes by discussing possible equitable solutions.
Civics Lessons
Understanding Contracts
Perdante v. Dalton Academy
Case developed for the 2013 Michigan High School Mock Trial Tournament: Civil Case
The plaintiff, a member of an up-and-coming high-school mock-trial team, alleges that the defendant, a rival school, made defamatory statements about the plaintiff in the defendant’s online newspaper.
Jamie Anderson v. Taylor Williams
Case developed for the 2011 Michigan High School Mock Trial Tournament
Civil Case-Cyber-stalking
Sidney Young vs. Riley Gardner
Case developed for the 2009 Michigan High School Mock Trial Tournament
Civil Case-negligence, texting while driving
Brooks v. Lawrence and the Clearwater Police Department
Case developed for the 2007 Michigan High School Mock Trial Tournament
Civil Case-unnecessary force
Mable vs. Clearwater Sheep and Cattle Company
Case developed for the 2005 Michigan High School Mock Trial Tournament
Civil Case-Liabilty, water pollution
In the Matter of Shelby Withers vs. Clearwater School District
Case developed for the 2003 Michigan High School Mock Trial Tournament
Civil Case-student whose disability may have manifested itself in the form of behavior that is arguably dangerous to others
Jamie R. Killian v. R.A.G.E. Enterprises & Chris Schultz
Case developed for the 2001 Michigan High School Mock Trial Tournament
Civil Case-Negligence, paint ball injury
Goldilocks vs. the Three Bears
This scripted mock trial includes ideas for pre and post mock trial activities.
Krabbs v. Plankton Mock Trial
Students learn about the different roles and responsibilities in a court by participating in a mock trial.