NORTH SHORE 5TH GRADE MOCK TRIALTEAMS

NS 5th Graders Attend Western-Suffolk BOCES Mock Trial Tournament at Suffolk County Community College

For months, our North Shore Schools elementary Mock Trial Clubs at Glenwood Landing, Glen Head, and Sea Cliff diligently prepared for their criminal case, the State of NY v. Marcus Willaby. A complex case of assault and robbery in the first degree. Under the direction of the North Shore School-Wide Enrichment Services (SWES), the fifth graders had the opportunity to participate in Mock Trial Club and explore courtroom procedures and trial law in preparation for the Western-Suffolk BOCES Mock Trial Tournament.

Congratulations to each of the North Shore elementary Mock Trial Clubs under the direction of Ms. Audra Marcantonio (Glenwood Landing School), Ms. Janet Goldberg (Glen Head School) and Ms. Diane Krupin (Sea Cliff School). The 5th grade prosecution and defense teams were victorious in their performance as they demonstrated perseverance, communication skills, and quick-thinking to outperform neighboring districts including opposing middle school teams.

Whether assigned to the prosecution or the defense team, participation in the Mock Trial Club requires students to communicate, collaborate, and cooperate with one another in exploring legal solutions to the complex cases. The students developed trial strategy, formulated questions for direct examination and cross examination, and drafted opening statements and closing arguments. The dedicated students worked collaboratively to craft and practice questioning strategies, revised theories, learned and rehearse trial testimony and etiquette (including making and responding to objections)

Additionally, they needed to understand and apply complex relevant legal standards to the facts of the case and communicate and interact cohesively to be successful. Not an easy task, and quite authentic to a real courtroom. Congrats to all!

Article and photos submitted by Ms. Diane Krupin, Ms. Audra Marcantonio, and Ms. Janet Goldberg