True Crime for Teens!
In this 6-week live course, students will learn about the criminal justice system through age-appropriate true crime cases, engaging activities, and real-world examples. This class emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving.
Rick Hudgel, B.S., M.S., M.Ed.
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(23)
What's included
6 live meetings
6 in-class hoursMastery Evaluation
1 hour per week. Evidence of MasteryGrading
Evidence of MasteryClass Experience
US Grade 10 - 12
Beginner Level
What will be taught? Students will learn how crime scene investigations, forensic science, and the broader justice system work together to solve crimes and ensure accountability. They will gain critical thinking skills and an understanding of how evidence and legal processes contribute to justice. What topics will you cover? The course will cover: Crime scene investigation techniques and tools. The role of police, courts, and corrections in the justice system. Forensic science and its applications. Real-world case studies like the Lindbergh baby kidnapping. Ethical questions and challenges within the justice system. How is your class structured? The course is divided into six weekly live sessions, each focusing on a specific theme. Lessons will include interactive activities, discussions, and guided assignments to deepen understanding. How will you teach? I will use a mix of engaging lectures, interactive slides, real-world case studies, and thought-provoking discussions. Supplemental resources, such as videos and guided notes, will help reinforce the material. What's your teaching style? My teaching style is conversational, engaging, and tailored to young adult learners. I focus on making complex topics relatable and encourage critical thinking through questions and activities. Humor and real-world connections are used to keep the learning experience enjoyable and memorable. How much will learners get to interact with you? Learners will have frequent opportunities for interaction through: Class discussions and Q&A sessions. Group activities, like creating investigation plans or courtroom role-plays. One-on-one guidance during assignments and activities. Regular feedback on their progress and participation.
Learning Goals
Learners will develop a comprehensive understanding of the roles and processes within the criminal justice system, including crime scene investigation, forensic science, courtroom proceedings, and corrections.Learners will enhance their critical thinking skills by analyzing real-world case studies, constructing investigative plans, and evaluating the ethical and procedural challenges of the justice system.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum6 Lessons
over 6 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to True Crime and the Justice System
Overview of the criminal justice system (police, courts, corrections). 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Crime Scene Investigation
How investigators approach a crime scene.
Evidence collection: Fingerprints, DNA, and more. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Forensic Science in Action
Tools of the trade: Forensic labs and their role in solving cases.
Famous breakthroughs using forensic evidence. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
The Role of the Courts
What happens after the arrest: Trials, judges, and juries.
An introduction to legal rights and defense strategies. 60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
This class can accommodate most learning needs using technological interventions.
Parental Guidance
As this is a course about crime, criminals, and the justice system, there may be some mature themes. If this course were a movie, I'd rate it PG-13. As always, parents are welcome to view the materials and provide feedback to the instructor if necessary.
Supply List
Writing utensil. Elements to draw and/or create. Handouts posted. Ability to watch and/or submit video.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
FindLaw. (n.d.). How the criminal justice system works. Retrieved January 2, 2025, from https://www.findlaw.com
National Institute of Justice. (n.d.). Forensic evidence and crime scene investigations. Retrieved January 2, 2025, from https://nij.ojp.gov
Federal Bureau of Investigation. (n.d.). CSI basics: How evidence is processed. Retrieved January 2, 2025, from https://www.fbi.gov
Smithsonian Magazine. (2012). The Lindbergh baby case and the evolution of crime scene investigation. Retrieved January 2, 2025, from https://www.smithsonianmag.com
Crime Scene Investigator Network. (n.d.). Golden rules of crime scene processing. Retrieved January 2, 2025, from https://www.crime-scene-investigator.net
The Sentencing Project. (n.d.). Understanding the justice system’s impact. Retrieved January 2, 2025, from https://www.sentencingproject.org
CrashCourse. (2018). Introduction to the criminal justice system [Video]. YouTube. Retrieved January 2, 2025, from https://www.youtube.com/user/crashcourse
National Center for State Courts. (n.d.). How courts work: A step-by-step overview. Retrieved January 2, 2025, from https://www.ncsc.org
Joined August, 2024
5.0
23reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Teaching Certificates
Ohio Teaching Certificate
Ohio Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Bachelor's degree in Integrated Social Studies
Master's degree in Educational Leadership and Administration
Master's degree in Criminal Justice and Homeland SecurityReviews
Live Group Course
$21
weekly1x per week, 6 weeks
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 15-18
1-18 learners per class
