1. Set Focus
Frame the inquiry with this essential question: What impacts do minor crimes have on society?
2. Read and Discuss
Have students read the debate and then answer the following questions:
- What is the issue being debated? How does it relate to current events? (The issue is whether the justice system should stop prosecuting misdemeanors. The issue is timely because some jurisdictions have decided to take this approach, and some people are wondering if more should.)
- Evaluate why these two authors might be interested in and qualified to comment on this issue. (Alexandra Natapoff is a law professor and an expert on the justice system. As a U.S. attorney, John Milhiser prosecuted cases involving federal law.)