Week 11: 4/26/18

Last week we discussed Amendments 6, 7 and 8, which touch on the rights of the accused and due process. Fortunately, the founders had the good sense to write these amendments with the idea that a citizen accused of a crime should be innocent until proven guilty, not the other way around. Here's a quick review:

• Amendment 6:
• Right to a speedy and public trial
• Right to be tried by an impartial jury
• Right to have an explanation of the nature of the crime
• Right to be confront by your accusers and to cross-examine witnesses
• Right to obtain witnesses on your behalf
• Right to the protection of an attorney
• Amendment 7:
• Right to a jury when the amount in question is over $20
• Jury has the right to have its facts as found remain unchanged during appeal
• Amendment 8:
• No excessive fines or bail
• No cruel and unusual punishments

Here are a couple of interesting (but short) videos about these amendments:

 

 

HOMEWORK THIS WEEK:

 

DEVOTIONAL: Elsa

 

HERO REPORTS: Elliot on Benjamin Franklin & Sariah on her Dad

 

OPINION PAPER #10: Should a murderer be sentenced to die by the same means as his victim? TIP: You might want to think about the different classifications of "murder" as you form your opinion. Also, Mrs. Maxwell will send out an email with the opinion paper tracking sheet so you can see if you have your 10 papers completed for the semester.

 

DEBATE: Should the death penalty be deemed a "cruel and unusual punishment?" Remember to bring printed notes with facts, not feelings, to the debate! Is there suffering involved in this? Does the punishment fit the crime? What methods are used to execute prisoners? What crimes are capital crimes? Who should have to perform the executions? These are all questions you should be able to answer during debate. I might try to get a guest judge to come in to determine a winner...

 

AGAINST (NO) TEAM:

Corban, Gwen, Elliot, Elsa

 

FOR (YES) TEAM:

Athen, Lilli, Madeline, Sariah

 

 

READING: Book Discussion on The Proper Role of Government by Ezra Taft Benson will be on May 10th. EVERYONE needs to prepare something to discuss!!!

 

Let me know if you need help or have questions, and I'll see everyone on Thursday! -Mrs. Hellyer