Scenario You are about to prepare the initial remarks on behalf of two poems, which are engaged in a legal battle over which of them better supports the main theme of this unit:
How can you change your perspective?
Each party is convinced that they present the better evidence of this theme and it is up to you to convince the jury.
Drafting
Your statements will each be 2–3 paragraphs (5–7 sentences each) and should each include:
Identification of the attorney (you)
“Your Honor, members of the jury, my name is (full name), representing the prosecution/defendant in this case.”
The purpose of the trial
“We are here today to…”
A central claim, including an overview of two supporting reasons
“My client clearly presents the central theme, ‘How can you change your perspective?’ as shown by…”
Identification of “key witnesses” (the evidence from the poem) and what they prove
“The text states… which shows that…”
Restatement of the central claim
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You may want to review the elements of a mock trial opening statement before you begin. Include your opening statements for both sides here. “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost, “I’m Nobody! Who Are You?” by Emily Dickinson