Fighting Chance
Unit Description:
In this problem students must decide, as first-year associates at a law firm, whether to take a case heading for the Supreme Court. Claiming unfair discrimination, a qualified woman wants to join the U.S. Army Special Forces but cannot because the Army bans women from such roles. Students analyze the strength of her case based on the equal protection and due process clauses of the 5th and 14th Amendments, precedent cases, and the security needs of the nation. In the process, they learn about the U.S. judicial system and how the Supreme Court works - and reflect on the meaning of equal rights.
Time required:
7-10 days (45-60 minute periods)
