Activity: Exploring the Evolution of Criminal Justice Systems

Desired Outcome: I can express an informed view about the changing nature of conflict over time, appreciate its impact, and empathize with the experiences of those involved.

Introduction: 1. Begin the activity by discussing the concept of conflict and its different forms throughout history. 2. Explain that conflict often leads to the need for a criminal justice system to maintain order and ensure justice is served. 3. Emphasize the importance of understanding the changing nature of conflict and its impact on societies over time.

Activity Steps:

Step 1: Historical Context 1. Divide the students into small groups and assign each group a specific time period in Scottish history (e.g., medieval, industrial revolution, modern era). 2. Provide each group with relevant resources (books, articles, online sources) to research and gather information about the criminal justice system during their assigned time period. 3. Instruct the groups to create a timeline highlighting key events, laws, and practices related to criminal justice during their assigned time period.

Step 2: Comparative Analysis 1. Once the groups have completed their research and timeline, bring them back together as a whole class. 2. Facilitate a discussion comparing and contrasting the different criminal justice systems throughout history. 3. Encourage students to identify commonalities and differences in terms of laws, punishments, and societal attitudes towards crime and justice. 4. Prompt students to consider the impact of these systems on individuals involved, including victims, offenders, and society as a whole.

Step 3: Empathy and Reflection 1. Distribute case studies or real-life stories of individuals involved in the criminal justice system during different time periods. 2. Instruct students to read and analyze the case studies, focusing on the experiences and perspectives of those involved. 3. Facilitate a class discussion where students share their reflections and empathize with the experiences of the individuals in the case studies. 4. Encourage students to consider how the changing nature of conflict and the criminal justice system have impacted these individuals’ lives.

Step 4: Expressing an Informed View 1. Provide students with an opportunity to express their informed views on the changing nature of conflict and its impact on criminal justice systems. 2. In small groups, ask students to create a presentation or poster that highlights their understanding of the topic. 3. Each group should present their findings, including their reflections on the case studies and their informed views on the topic. 4. Encourage respectful discussion and debate among the groups, allowing students to challenge and support each other’s viewpoints.

Conclusion: 1. Summarize the key points discussed during the activity, emphasizing the changing nature of conflict and its impact on criminal justice systems. 2. Reinforce the importance of empathy and understanding when considering the experiences of those involved in the criminal justice system. 3. Encourage students to continue exploring and questioning the topic, as it is an ongoing and evolving aspect of society.