The curriculum begins with a look at who we are as a nation and our personal ethnic roots and ancestry. With an emphasis on how the past affects our future, students then look at various myths, legends, and tales to see their historic and archeological origins. Research and oral presentation skills are emphasized.
Students also undertake an extensive study of the law.
Speakers from the community and law enforcement agencies bring the legal system into focus for a mock trial at the end of the unit. Seventh graders are served with notices of jury duty and are chosen through the Voir Dire process. Trials are held in courtrooms within the community. After research and creative exercises, each team takes a test to determine which boat reaches Ellis Island first. Those students become the inspectors as the others are processed through Ellis Island.