Students in Ashley Clark’s 7th-grade honors English class transformed into prosecutors, defense attorneys, jurors, witnesses, court reporters, a sketch artist, and a bailiff during a recent mock trial lesson.

Based on their reading and study of the book “Tangerine” by Edward Bloor, the lesson provided students with hands-on experience, offering realistic feedback and preparation for a courtroom trial. One of the main characters in the story is on trial for accessory to murder in the second degree, and the students acted out the entire courtroom scene.

The 7th graders are developing public speaking, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the legal system. Thank you to The Honorable Danielle Colón O’Sullivan, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge and SPUSD parent, for her help in determining the outcome of the trial.

Go, Tiger Cubs!

For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent, [email protected].