The Judicial Branch deals with all sorts of court cases. Depending on the type of grievance or law broken, there are different types of trials, of which civil trials and criminal trials make up the majority.
In this activity, students will be able to create a T-Chart that visualizes the differences between a civil and criminal trial in the United States court system. Students will research at least three differences between each type of case and describe each alongside a visual representation.
Students may choose to analyze the following:
Extended Activity
For an extended activity, students will create a T-Chart that summarizes a famous criminal or civil trial. Students will need to visualize and summarize the event(s) that led to the trial, the arguments for each side, and the ruling of the court with potential punishments imposed.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a T Chart comparing Civil vs Criminal Trials.
Engage students by assigning roles such as judge, lawyers, and witnesses to simulate a civil or criminal trial. This hands-on experience helps students internalize key differences and better understand the courtroom process.
Divide students into groups and let them pick or assign roles relevant to either a civil or criminal trial, such as plaintiff, defendant, prosecutor, or defense attorney. This builds collaboration and ensures each student has a unique perspective on the trial process.
Create simple case scenarios that reflect real-life disputes or crimes. Hand out scenario cards so students can analyze and prepare their arguments based on whether their case is civil or criminal.
Instruct each side to gather facts, prepare statements, and select evidence that supports their position. Encourage creativity and critical thinking as students build their cases using classroom materials.
Oversee the mock trial as students present their cases, question witnesses, and deliver verdicts. After the trial, discuss what made each case civil or criminal and reflect on the justice process as a class.
Civil trials resolve disputes between individuals or organizations, often over rights or money, while criminal trials involve the government prosecuting someone accused of breaking the law. The goal in civil cases is compensation or remedy; in criminal cases, it's punishment for a crime.
Students can make a T-Chart by dividing a page into two columns, labeling one as Civil Trials and the other as Criminal Trials. For each, they should list key differences, such as parties involved, outcomes, and who decides the case, and add illustrations for each point.
In a civil case, the parties are typically individuals or organizations (plaintiff vs. defendant). In a criminal case, the government (prosecution) brings charges against an individual or group (defendant) accused of committing a crime.
Civil trials usually end with the defendant paying damages or fulfilling obligations, while criminal trials can lead to penalties such as fines, probation, or imprisonment if the defendant is found guilty.
For civil trials, students might research Brown v. Board of Education. For criminal trials, examples include the O.J. Simpson murder trial. Each offers insights into the differences in process and outcome.