U.S. Government | Judicial Branch | Article III | Federal versus State Courts

In this 10 page activity, students will be learning about Article III of the US Constitution: The American Judicial System and how it is actually made up of two separate court systems: the federal court system and state court system. They will also learn the differences in jurisdiction between federal courts and state courts and how cases are either criminal or civil. Appropriate for grades 8-12!

Students will:

1) Watch a short introductory video on the Judicial system (Federal V. State Courts) (free public access) and complete a corresponding worksheet as a warm-up activity.

2) Complete notes using a creative graphic organizer on the differences between Federal and State Courts and their areas of jurisdiction.

3) Work in small groups or pairs to complete a card sort, matching activity in which their must identify the jurisdiction of each sample court case.

All materials are provided!

***Includes a GOOGLE and Traditional version for your use!