CIVICS

Unit 3: Judicial Branch

Unit Overview: This unit provides an overview of the powers and limitations of the federal judicial branch.  Concepts covered include the powers of the Supreme Court and Federal Courts as prescribed by the Constitution, as well as other branches’ checks on its power. Students will identify current SCOTUS members and leadership, examine the process in which a case comes before the Supreme Court and understand the process of Supreme Court decisions.  This unit also includes an examination of some of the most important Supreme Court cases, and how their precedent has directed future cases.

Essential Questions:  

What powers does the Constitution give the Judicial Branch?
How are the powers of the judicial branch unique among the three branches of government?

Essential Content: 

Precedents, jurisdiction, district courts, courts of appeals, circuits, Justice, precedent, majority opinion, minority/dissenting opinion, and judicial review.

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Summative Assessments:

Supreme Court Case Assessment

DBQ on SCOTUS decisions

Political Cartoon Analysis
Supreme Court Test

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Supporting Videos:

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Lessons