What is the difference between first and second degree murder? What is felony murder? What role does the "heat of passion" play in voluntary manslaughter? We will explore all of this and more in an interactive and exciting way. We will be studying the common law version of these crimes as they may be different in every state or country (which we will also explore).

I will provide a discussion outline that has mini-case studies on it that will help students work through these concepts. I will accompany the discussion outline with a powerpoint presentation, but this is not a lecture-based class. There may be brief points where I teach on concepts, but I will engage every student individually and in groups in working through these concepts with me, and we will work in small groups from time-to-time as well.

As this is discussion based, the class schedule will be a bit fluid. Sometimes, students will bring up interesting and relevant points that we will explore because it enhances the overall experience. Sometimes, students will understand the topics clearly, and we will move through the topics quicker than expected.

But here is the general overview of the schedule:

Day 1: Homicide
- Introduction to the class and Expectations
- What is the legal definition of life? What is the legal definition of death?
- First degree murder

Day 2: 2nd Degree and Voluntary Manslaughter
- 2nd Degree murder
- Voluntary Manslaughter

Day 3: Involuntary Manslaughter, Assault and Battery, and Kidnapping
-  Involuntary Manslaughter
- Assault and Battery
- Kidnapping

Day 4: Put Your Knowledge to the Test!
- We will finish up any bit of the outline not yet completed 
- Work on fact patterns to check our understanding
- May also do research on state or country laws to see the difference between the elements

I could not be more excited about this class! I watched students get more curious, pay attention to detail better, and become better thinkers by going through this process. You will not be disappointed with the time spent learning this topic!