<p> Of Mice and Men – Mock Trials</p><p>As a culminating exercise to the Of Mice and Men unit, the class will be separated into two legal teams (one prosecution and one defense). These teams will compete against their opposing teams from Mrs. Baker’s English classes. One case will be the trial of George Milton for the murder of Lennie Small. The other trial is of Lennie Small (assuming he’s captured rather than killed) for the murder of Curley’s wife. </p><p>Each team will be responsible for having all members involved in the various aspects of the trial. Each team is responsible for preparing and presenting:  Opening Arguments  Witnesses and their Testimony  Cross-examination of Opposition Witnesses  Closing Arguments</p><p>Each team needs to fill the positions listed below. It is important to put popularity issues aside and choose the most qualified people for the key leadership roles – remember, your goal is to win your case! The number of people needed for each position is listed in parentheses.</p><p>Lead Lawyer (1) –Asks all of the questions to witnesses at the trial. Develops the “script” for the trial. Assistant Lawyers (2) – One presents the opening argument and directs the Advisory council. The other presents the closing argument and organizes the team’s witnesses. Witnesses (5 - ?) – Students who act as characters from the book and give testimony during the trial. Advisory Council (5 - ?) – Students that research the opposition’s case, are book experts, and prepare for cross examinations of both teams’ witnesses.</p><p>Once the groups decide on roles, list the names on the sign up sheet in the group folder. The trials will take place over three days in LGR 12. The jury will consist of the two halves of the classes that are not trying a particular case. For example, when the trial of George is being presented, the defense and prosecution teams for the Lennie trial will make up the jury to decide the George case. Likewise, the George teams will decide the Lennie case. Please remember that the book is the only source of information and page numbers will be needed to verify information. Information that is made up and/or incorrect will be deemed inadmissible by the court. Your teachers will be the judges for each of the cases. Do not make us hold you in contempt of court!</p>