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Question witnesses, practice objections, and try a case in this three-week mock trial course for middle school students on Bryn Mawr College’s campus.
Course Description
A courtroom argument must connect a claim to evidence and explain why that evidence matters. Students practice that structure through the claim, warrant, data and impact model, then learn how voice, pacing, questioning and listening affect whether an argument is understood.
A scripted Goldilocks trial introduces courtroom roles and procedure. Students write openings, develop a case theory, prepare direct and cross-examinations, practice objections and compare open-ended questions with leading questions. SPAR debates require teams to argue assigned positions and respond to critique, helping students test ideas before the final trial.
The capstone turns the events of the book Holes into a child-labor case involving Camp Green Lake. Prosecution and defense teams research the text, organize admissible evidence, assign attorneys and witnesses, prepare questions and anticipate opposing claims. During the final mock trial, students deliver openings and closings, question witnesses, raise objections and perform their assigned courtroom roles.
This three-week course is part of Summer Discovery’s Institute for the Gifted program on Bryn Mawr College’s campus in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. The program is available to commuter students. Beyond class, students take part in campus activities, make new friends, and build confidence and independence in a college setting.
What Will You Do?
• Build arguments using claims, warrants, data and impacts
• Practice vocal delivery, active listening and question-based speaking games
• Perform a scripted Goldilocks trial to learn courtroom roles
• Write openings, direct examinations, cross-examinations and objections
• Present assigned positions in SPAR debates and respond to critique
• Prepare and perform a child-labor mock trial based on Holes
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
• Construct an evidence-based argument with a clear claim and supporting reasoning
• Use direct questions, leading questions and objections appropriately in a mock trial
• Perform a courtroom role and respond to opposing arguments during a complete case
Students will leave with a course completion certificate, written trial materials and experience performing two mock trials, plus a clearer sense of what they may want to explore next in law, debate or public speaking.
Why Mock Trial Skills Matter
Mock trial teaches students to slow down an argument and examine its parts. A strong claim needs evidence, a reason the evidence supports the claim and an explanation of why the point matters. Questioning a witness also requires careful listening because the next question may depend on the answer just given.
Courtroom preparation develops teamwork and communication. Students divide roles, organize a shared case theory and practice presenting under clear rules. Switching between prosecution and defense can show how the same facts support competing interpretations, strengthening perspective, reasoning and respectful disagreement.
Who Should Attend?
This course is for middle school students who have completed 6th, 7th, or 8th grade and are interested in law, debate, public speaking, literature, or solving a case from competing viewpoints. It welcomes thoughtful listeners and careful researchers as well as students who enjoy speaking in front of a group.
Students should be ready to read or view material from Holes, work closely with a legal team, accept an assigned role, and practice until the final performance feels prepared.
View the eligibility requirements for the Institute for the Gifted on our FAQ page. A completed program application is required.
Why Bryn Mawr?
Bryn Mawr gives middle-school students a welcoming place to explore challenging ideas, create, and meet peers who share their interests. Its historic, tree-lined setting near Philadelphia makes the day feel distinctly advanced while allowing students to return home each afternoon.
The commuter-day format combines active academics with a clear daily routine, shared activities, and Summer Discovery support throughout the program day. Students can test new interests, contribute to discussions and projects, and become more confident navigating a college setting without an overnight stay. For families, Bryn Mawr offers a thoughtful balance of substantive learning, friendship, guidance, and age-appropriate independence in a structured day-program environment.
Summer Discovery Certificate of Completion
After successfully finishing this course, you will be awarded a certification of completion for your accomplishment.
*This is a preview, not what you will receive