LAW SYLLABUS
“Common
sense often makes good law.” William O Douglas “In law,
nothing is certain but the expense.” Samuel Butler Law 1.
Course
overview a. Law helps students understand their legal rights and
responsibilities. After an
introduction to the judicial system, the course centers on law students will
encounter in everyday life such as making contracts, borrowing, writing
wills, consumer protection and family law. b. Areas of Study A. Introduction to the legal system 1. What is Law? 2. Lawmaking 3. Advocacy 4. Settling Disputes 5. The Court System 6. Lawyers B. Criminal justice and juvenile justice C. Torts D. Consumer and housing law E. Family law F. Individual rights and liberties 1.
Materials A. Spiral notebook for notes and personal reactions to
class discussions B. A pocket folder for handouts and other materials C. Textbook Street
Law: A Course in Practical Law will be distributed D. On test days please have a pencil and pen 2.
Grading
policy A. Tests and quizzes will be given on a regular basis
i.
There will be
regular unit tests (4-5)
ii.
Quizzes
(including occasional pop quizzes) will be given over readings, lectures, or
individual chapters B. Homework
i.
Late homework
is inexcusable and will be penalized as such: 10% off for each day late
(i.e., if two days late, the highest possible grade is an 80%) until five
days, after five days homework will not be accepted barring exceptional
circumstances
ii.
Homework will
be collected and graded regularly but not always C. Two or three in-depth research projects will be
assigned.
i.
Smaller
research assignments will be given throughout the year. D. A final exam will be given. 3.
Class
expectations Law
is an elective course for WHS students.
This course is designed for upperclassmen who are willing to
participate constructively and regularly.
Please consider yourself part of a learning community and adhere to the
following: A. ATTENDANCE – tardiness and unexcused absences will
not be tolerated. B. Be responsible and adhere to school rules C. Commit to your learning experience – COME PREPARED
for class with all materials, homework and assignments. D. Be polite I can be found in the
social studies office during 3rd, 6th and 8th
periods. |