Activity 2 page 2
Completion requirements
Unit 2: Section 1: Workbook 6: Canada's Justice System
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Explore
Jury duty can be traced to the ancient Athenian society of Greece more than 2500 years ago. It was based on the principle that having several people participating in decisions yields a fair decision. Jury duty has evolved greatly since ancient Athens; however, it still holds the basic principle of fairness in legal matters today.
Specifically, for youth justice in Canada, a jury can be selected when a serious crime is being dealt with in the courts.
People who are on a jury are known as jurors. In Canada, all adult Canadian citizens may be selected for jury duty. By law, if you are selected, you must participate. This is an example of one responsibility of being a citizen in Canada.
Read
Discover more about the responsibilities of a juror.
- Read "What responsibilities do jurors have?" on page 79 of your textbook, Issues for Canadians.
- Then, read "On Jury Duty" on pages 80 and 81. As you read, consider the benefit of a jury to a youth accused of a serious crime.
Use a graphic organizer of your choice to record notes as you read.
Consider using a mind map with the phrase "Jury Duty" in the middle. Place any thoughts, notes, facts, and other information that will help you understand the importance jury duty has in the justice system.
- From the textbook, determine how the jury system ensures that the accused person is treated fairly. Continue to record your thoughts in your organizer or notes.
This information will help you with your assignment.
Going Beyond
Internet Web Search
Further your understanding of jury duty by doing some research. Conduct an Internet web search.
Enter the key phrases "jury duty in Canada" or "jury duty in Alberta" in your search engine. Find government websites that explain the role of jury duty.
Save your notes to your Activities folder.
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