When punishment is given in a society when a member breaks its rules, what is it meant to accomplish? After summarizing the significant categories of punishment (rehabilitation, restitution, incapacitation, deterrence, and retribution), your learners will discuss these categories and write a letter to a local newspaper discussing which type they believe would be most effective for reducing crime rates.

Concepts

capital punishment, the death penalty, justice, the justice system, societies, the criminal justice system, crime

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Additional Tags

capital punishment, death penalty, social studies

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Classroom Considerations

• Some information is specific to North Carolina and cannot be edited, but the assignment as a whole can be adapted for your class in any state

Pros

• It can also serve as a great discussion prompt on the purpose and philosophy of government
• Quotes a document by the Constitutional Rights Foundation

Cons

Common Core

RH.11-12.1 RH.11-12.2 WHST.11-12.1.a RH.9-10.1 RH.9-10.2 WHST.9-10.1.a