Introduction to Argument Writing - Interactive session with community partner Shelly Alvey, who introduces the basics of argument writing and trial structure. Students participate in a role-playing activity, exploring essential questions through lively debate. (45 min)

Research Topic Exploration - Students research the historical context of Christopher Columbus using approved resources, focusing on evidence evaluation and perspective analysis. (25 min)

Collaborative Discussion - In small groups, students discuss their research findings, sharing insights and building relationships as productive collaborators. (20 min)

Developing Argument Frameworks - Students draft initial argument frameworks based on their research, outlining key points and evidence. (25 min)

Peer Review Session - Students exchange drafts with peers for feedback, practicing effective communication and critical thinking skills. (20 min)

Refining Arguments - Using peer feedback, students refine their argument frameworks, enhancing clarity and supporting evidence. (25 min)

Mock Trial Role Assignment - Students are assigned roles for the mock trial and begin brainstorming strategies for their respective positions. (20 min)

Trial Strategy Development - Students work in groups based on assigned roles to develop trial strategies, considering different perspectives and biases. (25 min)

Reflection Circle - Students share insights gained during the week, discussing how their understanding of the essential questions evolved. (20 min)

Argument Writing Workshop - Students refine argument writing skills through guided practice, focusing on structure, clarity, and evidence integration. (25 min)

Group Strategy Session - Students collaborate in groups to discuss and develop strategies for presenting their arguments in the mock trial, considering persuasive techniques. (20 min)

Role Play Rehearsal - Students engage in role-playing exercises to practice their assigned roles in the mock trial, enhancing their understanding of courtroom dynamics. (25 min)

Evidence Evaluation Activity - Students critically analyze evidence related to Columbus and discuss how it supports or challenges their arguments. (20 min)

Mock Trial Simulation - Students participate in a simulated mock trial, practicing the presentation of their arguments and receiving feedback on performance. (30 min)

Reflection and Feedback - Students engage in a reflection circle, sharing insights and receiving feedback from peers on their mock trial performance. (15 min)

Feedback Integration - Students incorporate received feedback into their argument writing, revising and enhancing clarity and evidence support. (25 min)

Collaborative Strategy Refinement - Students work in groups to refine trial strategies, considering different perspectives and biases. (20 min)

Portfolio Development - Students compile drafts, research notes, and final versions of argument pieces into a portfolio, showcasing their learning progress. (25 min)

Reflection Circle - Students share insights from the week, discussing how their understanding of the essential questions has evolved. (20 min)

Advanced Argument Writing - Students enhance their argument writing by integrating feedback and focusing on using persuasive techniques effectively. (25 min)

Mock Trial Strategy Session - Groups refine their trial strategies, ensuring all roles are aligned with evidence and argumentation goals. (20 min)

Courtroom Dynamics Practice - Students engage in role-play exercises to deepen their understanding of courtroom procedures and improve their public speaking skills. (25 min)

Evidence and Counterarguments - Groups analyze opposing arguments, preparing counterarguments to strengthen their case. (20 min)

Mock Trial Dress Rehearsal - Conduct a full mock trial rehearsal, allowing students to practice timing, presentation, and teamwork in a realistic setting. (30 min)

Feedback and Reflection - Students reflect on the dress rehearsal, discussing strengths and areas for improvement with peers. (15 min)

Refining Final Arguments - Students incorporate feedback from the rehearsal to refine and polish their final arguments, focusing on clarity and evidence. (25 min)

Trial Visual Aids Development - Groups create visual aids to support their arguments during the trial, ensuring they are clear and persuasive. (20 min)

Final Portfolio Preparation - Students finalize their portfolios, organizing drafts, research notes, and final argument versions for presentation. (25 min)

Reflection Circle - Students discuss their learning journey, sharing insights on argument writing and trial preparation, and how their perspectives have evolved. (20 min)

Mock Trial Final Preparation - Students finalize their trial strategies, rehearsing key arguments and ensuring clarity and evidence are well-integrated. (25 min)

Role Play Practice - Students engage in role-playing exercises to refine their courtroom presence and delivery, focusing on effective communication. (20 min)

Mock Trial Execution - Students perform their roles in the mock trial, showcasing their argumentation skills and understanding of differing perspectives. Community partner Shelly Alvey observes and provides feedback. (45 min)

Reflection Circle - Students participate in a reflection circle to share insights from the mock trial, discussing how their views on the essential questions evolved. (25 min)

Portfolio Completion - Students finalize their portfolios, organizing drafts, research notes, and final argument pieces to present their learning journey. (20 min)

Exhibition Rehearsal - Students practice the live re-enactment and Q&A session for the exhibition, ensuring they can effectively communicate their findings and reflections. (25 min)

Creative Presentation Design - Students collaborate to create visual presentations that highlight different perspectives and biases in trials, preparing for the exhibition. (20 min)

Exhibition to Principal Anne Gipson - Students present their portfolios and reflections, engage in a live trial re-enactment, and participate in a Q&A session with Principal Anne Gipson and community partner Shelly Alvey. (45 min)