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Educational Activities

Work with federal judges in the distance-learning space to bring the founding fundamentals of rule of law, separation of powers, and judicial independence into real-life.

Attorney with students in courtroom

Civil Discourse and Difficult Decisions

Students practice civil discourse skills and evidence-based decision making while dealing with teen-relevant issues in realistic courtroom simulations. Judges preside and volunteer attorneys coach the students.

Attorneys working with students in a courtroom simulation at the federal courthouse in DC.

Federal Court Basics

Find Third Branch basics that touch on the origins of the federal courts, the pillars of court literacy, and some of the fundamentals of the federal court system and how it works.

Your first amendment rights as a citizen of the United States are here.

First Amendment Activities

Apply landmark Supreme Court cases to contemporary scenarios related to the five pillars of the First Amendment and your rights to freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition.

A backpack containing books and other items used by students as one of the topics discussed here.

Fourth Amendment Activities

Apply landmark Supreme Court cases to contemporary scenarios related to search and seizure issues at your school, in your car, and your home.

A woman being questioned by the police.

Fifth Amendment Activities

Apply landmark Supreme Court cases to contemporary scenarios related to your rights when you are in police custody.

A conceptual representation of jury service.

Sixth Amendment Activities

Apply landmark Supreme Court cases to contemporary scenarios related to your right to counsel and your right to a fair trial. 

Distance Learning image, zoom meeting

Distance Learning: Civics for Civic Engagement with the Federal Courts

Judges and attorneys work with high school students as they engage with interactive modules on contemporary issues that teach the relevance of the pillars of the federal Judiciary. 

Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals courtroom showing three chairs.

U.S. Courts of Appeals and Their Impact on Your Life

What are the U.S. Courts of Appeals and what is their role? These courts are the last word in the vast majority of cases heard in federal courts.  Learn more about the U.S. Courts of Appeals.

Graduation cap sitting on top of U.S. currrency.

Financial Literacy: Financial Firsts Can Be Financial Pitfalls

Financial firsts in the lives of young people can become financial pitfalls. Explore this activity to discuss life skills needed to navigate personal finances successfully.