We Accuse
COLORED PEOPLES of CALIFORNIA v. STATE OF CALIFORNIA

MENU
Introduction
Task
Process
Evaluation
Teacher’s Page
Conclusion
About the Author
Bibliography

TEACHER’S PAGE

First day
Time: 50-55 minutes
Resources Needed:

• Poster paper for each team
• Set of colored markers/pens
• Computer lab or room with multiple computers
  

Preparation:

• a. Bookmark webquest WE ACCUSE on all computers.
• b. Pre-assign teams. Each team should include three students.
• c. Provide each student with a copy of the first, fourth, sixth and eighth amendments from your text.
• d. Briefly review with the class the rights of each of the amendments.
• e. On poster paper have each team create a grid to collect and report their research findings and evidence in support of their client’s accusations.

SAMPLE GRID
Grievances

Procedure:
1. Read aloud the “Introduction” section of this activity to your students.
2. Review “The Process” section with the class.
3. Assign students to teams. Have team members select a client group (African Americans, Chinese, or Californio/Latino) to represent.

Second Day
Time: 50-55 minutes
Resources Needed:

• Colored markers and poster paper with grid
• Computer lab or room with multiple computers

Preparation:
a. Check team grids for accuracy and completeness.

Procedure
1. Circulate among teams to check their progress and level of individual participation.
2. Use first half of class for research; use second half of class period for consolidating the evidence found by the team members.
3. Following the “pathways” can be a little tricky. Warn students NOT to click on the hand
at the bottom of the page.

Third Day
Time: 50-55 minutes
Resources Needed:

• Poster with grid
• markers
• writing paper
• pencils/pens

Preparation:
a. Make sure all posters are hung around the classroom.
b. Have writing paper and pencils available for the writing of the team’s written arguments on behalf of their clients.

Procedure:
1. Using the information from the grid, each team should compose one written statement on behalf of the plaintiff, the colored peoples of California.
2. These statements will be presented to the entire class by one team member.
3. Based on the accumulated evidence and written statements, the class will decide whether to pursue this matter to trial.
4. Each team member will write a letter to their client group which explains the findings and decision of the class regarding a potential trial.