Applications Open! Enroll for Summer 2027 at 2026 Tuition Pricing Until Sept 30
Practice courtroom roles in a mock trial in this 2-week program for middle school students on Georgetown University’s campus.
Course Description
What happens between the start of a case and a jury’s decision? Students explore the basic roles of attorneys, defendants, witnesses, judges, and jurors. They review a mock-trial packet and learn how jury selection, evidence, testimony, and argument fit together.
Teams begin by writing opening and closing statements. They then prepare direct questions that help a witness tell a clear story and cross-examination questions that test another account. Short lessons and small-group practice introduce common objections and the steps for presenting evidence properly.
The class brings those pieces together in an intensive, age-appropriate mock trial. Students take assigned roles, listen for what happens in the moment, and use prepared materials to respond. The experience develops speaking confidence, careful reading, teamwork, and a stronger understanding of how courtroom rules support a fair process. Discussion, practice, and feedback help students check their reasoning and improve how they communicate the work.
This two-week course takes place at Georgetown University. The course is available to residential and commuter students. Beyond class, students connect focused academic exploration with campus life, growing confidence and independence, and clearer direction about interests students may want to explore next. The program is developed by Georgetown University and offered in partnership with Summer Discovery.
What Will You Do?
• Identify the responsibilities of courtroom participants
• Review a case packet and organize relevant facts
• Write and present opening and closing statements
• Prepare direct and cross-examination questions
• Practice introducing evidence and making objections
• Take an assigned role in a final mock trial
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
• Describe the major roles and stages in a trial
• Prepare questions and statements that support a case position
• Participate effectively in a structured mock-trial role
Students leave with courtroom materials, speaking practice, and a clearer understanding of evidence-based legal argument.
Why Mock Trial Skills Matter?
Legal argument asks students to explain a position with facts, not simply state an opinion. Building an opening, questioning a witness, and preparing a closing show how each part of a case must support a coherent theory.
Mock trial also makes listening essential. Students must follow testimony, recognize when a question or piece of evidence raises a problem, and adjust their next move. These habits strengthen middle school writing, speaking, collaboration, and critical thinking. Together, the work reinforces careful reasoning and the ability to revise a conclusion when new evidence changes the picture.
Who Should Attend?
This course is for middle school students who have completed 6th, 7th, or 8th grade and are interested in courtroom stories, law, debate, acting, or public speaking. It fits students who want an active introduction to how a case is prepared and presented.
Why Georgetown University?
Studying on Georgetown University’s campus gives middle-school students a memorable place to learn, have fun, and experience campus life in Washington, D.C. The historic campus sits near embassies, institutions, and public conversations that make the wider world feel close, even when the course itself is not connected to government or policy.
The program combines active academics with friendships, campus activities, clear routines, and support as students navigate a new environment. Students can try unfamiliar subjects, share ideas with peers, and build confidence through a structured summer experience. For families, the program offers an engaging balance of learning and fun, with the community and guidance younger students need as they develop independence and discover what they may want to explore next.
Summer Discovery Certificate of Completion
After successfully finishing this course, you will be awarded a certification completion for your accomplishment.
*This is a preview, not what you will receive