This project forces the students to take ownership of their learning, using problem solving skills and collaborating with their peers.. As teachers, we provide them with a couple of resources to get them started. From that point, the students are encouraged to find additional resources to help them understand the trial process. We support them when necessary, but the bulk of the project is student led. They work in their teams to build strong arguments, find evidence, and build their case. Students are given about a week to prepare, and three day to practice. We bring in other classes to sit as the jury for each mock trial.

Overall, by being "hands off" the students are forced to rise to the occasion. When the trial is over, they feel accomplished and truly understand "The Outsiders" on a deeper level.