Review the Academic Content Standards related to this lesson. Argue their positions on capital punishment and clemency in a journal entry and in class discussion. Evaluate, in round-table discussion format, the issues of clemency, capital punishment, and politics that underlie the ideas discussed in the featured article. Support their views about whether or not governors should have the right to grant clemency to death row inmates and about situations that they feel would be appropriate causes for clemency in a brief position paper.
Students then share their answers.
In round-table discussion format, analyze and evaluate some of the issues underlying the featured article. Students names can be added to list by raising their hands, and names are added to the bottom of the list to maintain the order in which students volunteer to speak. Students will be evaluated based on written journal response, participation in class discussions, and thoughtful and thorough position paper about clemency. Research the text that is the source of the right of governors to grant clemency to convicts. Examine your state s current elected representatives' and political leaders positions on clemency and the death penalty.