Students investigate the essential question, “What phone policy would be fair, effective, and respectful of everyone in our school community?” Through research, collaborative discussion, and a mock trial, they examine diverse perspectives, evaluate claims and evidence, and develop arguments about student rights and community needs. Teams practice active listening, ethical reasoning, constructive feedback, and public speaking as they revise their positions in response to counterarguments. Students conclude by presenting an evidence-based policy recommendation designed to improve their school community.

Students will investigate the essential question, “What phone policy would be fair, effective, and respectful of everyone in our school community?” They will write evidence-based arguments that include clear claims, relevant reasons, credible evidence, and thoughtful counterarguments. Through mock-trial roles, students will collaborate, listen actively, evaluate speakers’ reasoning and evidence, and revise their positions based on feedback. They will present coherent recommendations using audience-appropriate language, clear pronunciation, adequate volume, eye contact, and respect for diverse perspectives.

Teams will create annotated evidence files, stakeholder perspective maps, and written claims with counterclaims about school phone rules. Each student will produce a role-specific trial document, such as an opening statement, witness testimony, cross-examination questions, or a judge/juror evidence guide. Teams will present a mock trial, respond to opposing arguments, and use peer feedback to revise their reasoning and delivery. As a final product, students will publish and present an evidence-based policy recommendation answering what phone policy would be fair, effective, and respectful of everyone in the school community.

Stage a fictional school-day phone incident using a short video, mock messages, and conflicting witness statements from students, teachers, and families. Students first record what they notice, then discuss in small groups which claims are supported, unsupported, or incomplete while practicing active listening and respectful disagreement. Introduce the essential question, “What phone policy would be fair, effective, and respectful of everyone in our school community?” Conclude with each student proposing an initial policy and naming the evidence and perspectives they would need before defending it in a mock trial.

Host a public mock school board hearing where teams present evidence-based arguments, question opposing perspectives, and propose a phone policy that is fair, effective, and respectful of everyone in the school community. Invite administrators, teachers, families, and student leaders to serve as the audience and provide feedback on the relevance of evidence, soundness of reasoning, and clarity of delivery. Ensure every student contributes through a speaking, evidence, visual-design, facilitation, or audience-question role. Conclude with a moderated deliberation and publish the strongest policy recommendations, counterarguments, and revisions for school leaders to consider.