MODELLESSONPLAN.docVIP

MODEL LESSON PLAN Steve Liday LESSON: Conducting Direct and Cross-Examinations TIME: 100 minutes GOALS - By participating in the class the students will: Understand the purpose of a direct and cross-examination. Know how to choose the subject material for a direct and cross-examination. Be able to write a direct and cross-examination. Understand how to conduct a direct and cross-examination. Realize that trial lawyers must be cognizant of the presence of the jury at all times. OBJECTIVES Knowledge Objectives – As a result of this lesson, the students will know: That a direct examination is meant to tell the story of your case. That the witness should be the star of the direct examination. That a cross-examination is meant to show bias or weakness in the witness’s testimony. That the lawyer is the star of the cross-examination. Skills Objectives – As a result of this lesson, the students will be better able to: Write set of questions for a direct and cross examination. Conduct a direct examination by: Using transition/sign-post sentences; Asking open questions; Maintaining a likable demeanor; Handling the witness’s weaknesses before they are attacked on cross. Conduct a cross examination by: Asking short, leading and pointed questions; Asking build-up questions that paint the witness into a corner. Walking the fine line between effective challenging of the witness without alienating the jury. Attitude Objectives – As a result of this lesson, students will feel: That effective examination of witnesses has a large impact on the outcome of every trial. Confident in their ability to conduct a witness examination during the mock trial. Better prepared to participate in the mock trial. CLASSROOM METHODS: Introduction Start the class by telling the students that today they will be learning about how to conduct examination of witnesses during a trial. Inform them that they will have the opportunity as a class and in small groups to practice the techniq