Seventh-grade students at Gates Chili Middle School recently put their historical knowledge and critical thinking skills to the test in a hands-on mock trial experience that challenged them to think like lawyers, historians, and jurors.
After weeks of preparation, students stepped into the courtroom on December 4, taking on the roles of attorneys, witnesses, and jury members to argue three cases based on events from the Age of Exploration. One class served as the prosecution, while the other acted as the defense. Each team worked together to analyze primary and secondary sources, craft opening and closing statements, and prepare cross-examinations—all while following real courtroom procedures.
Divided into three trials—The State of the Americas vs. the King and Queen of Spain, The State of the Americas vs. the Men of Columbus, and The State of the Americas vs. Christopher Columbus—students debated the actions and accountability of key historical figures. After presenting their cases, student jurors weighed the evidence and made their decisions, reinforcing the importance of fact-based arguments and multiple perspectives in history.
The experience was designed to push students beyond traditional learning methods, encouraging them to evaluate historical evidence, recognize bias and form well-reasoned arguments. Social studies teacher Kim Venezio-Pulliam structured the project to simulate a real trial, assigning students to teams based on their strengths in research, public speaking, and collaboration. Each student had a defined role in preparing arguments, drafting witness scripts, and anticipating counterpoints from the opposing side.
“This experience challenges students to go beyond memorization and actively engage with history,” said Venezio-Pulliam. “They aren’t just reading about these events; they are interpreting evidence, making connections, and forming arguments.”
For many students, the trial was both exciting and nerve-wracking.
“I liked that it was like a real court, but it was nerve-racking,” said seventh-grader Maddox I.
“I loved how I got to socialize with people I never talked to before, and how the trial felt so professional,” added Dante C.
Beyond the excitement of debating in a courtroom setting, the project aligned with New York State Social Studies Standards, reinforcing students’ ability to analyze historical events from multiple perspectives. It also supported the district’s emphasis on civic engagement and critical thinking, giving students a firsthand look at how evidence and argument shape history and justice.
By stepping into the shoes of lawyers and historians, Gates Chili students walked away from the experience with a deeper understanding of history, the legal system and the power of well-reasoned debate.
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