This manual guides volunteer attorneys through the Grand Rapids Bar Association's 3Rs Program, which brings civics education to Ottawa Hills High School students. It covers program goals, lesson plans, and classroom procedures for eight sessions from October to May.
This document is the Instructor's Manual for the Grand Rapids Bar Association's 3Rs Program, a civics education initiative for students at Ottawa Hills High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It is intended for volunteer attorneys and law students who will lead small group discussions on constitutional rights, responsibilities, and realities.
The manual begins with a program overview explaining the partnership between the Grand Rapids Bar Association, the Justice Foundation of West Michigan, and Grand Rapids Public Schools. It outlines goals such as improving understanding of the rule of law, increasing interest in civic issues, providing career counseling, and improving the pipeline of students of color into legal careers.
It includes practical instructions for volunteers on how to use the curriculum materials, with a lesson outline, student worksheets, and optional activities for each session. Volunteers are encouraged to adapt lessons to their group's needs and to incorporate current events.
Lesson 1 introduces the 3Rs program to students, with a script for the team leader to explain the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the balance of individual rights with societal good. It includes a video segment and small group discussion prompts for students to share their interests and career aspirations.
The manual also provides contact information for program coordinators and references to the GRBA website for additional resources. It emphasizes respect and creating a safe environment for student participation.