Assign the roles to be played by the students or have students select roles.
Clearly outline the tasks to be undertaken by each student and group of students during the preparation phase.
Using the provided guide questions and resource links, students should research their specific roles.
Once the research is complete, the attorneys must meet with their witnesses to review expectations and questions they will be asked on the stand. Additionally, the attorney and witness should brainstorm potential questions that might be asked during cross-examination by the opposing legal team.
Phase 2: The Trial
Deciding how the trial will work depends upon the time allowed. A basic outline for the trial includes the following elements:
Presentation of the charges by the judge
Opening statements by the prosecution and defense attorneys
Examination and cross-examination of the prosecution witnesses
Examination and cross-examination of the defense witnesses
Closing arguments by the prosecution and defense attorneys
Allow Stalin to say some words before the jury retires
Deliberations by the jury
Presentation of the verdict
For tips or suggestions on how to set up the trial, visit the following links:
Discuss the verdict and the trial process. Pose the following questions:
What does the verdict tell us about history?
Why was Stalin not brought to trial before September 1939?
Why did the Allies ignore the actions of Stalin during the war?
Why was Stalin not brought before a tribunal even after the alliance had dissolved following World War II?
Roles Information
Judge
Before the Trial
Review all of the provided resources to gain an understanding of the arguments that may be made.
Work with the teacher to determine the flow of the trial.
During the Trial
Review the rules of the trial with the class.
Oversee the progression of the trial.
Prosecution and Defense Attorneys
Before the Trial
Review the resource links for all of the witness. Look closely for information related to the character of Stalin and the charges.
Outline a plan to either prosecute or defend Joseph Stalin, as assigned.
Develop and write an opening statement declaring Stalin’s guilt or innocence; include an outline of what evidence you will present through your witnesses.
Identify and prepare potential exhibits, including photographs and maps, that could bolster your argument.
Draft a set of questions for your witnesses. Work with each of your witnesses to ensure they are able to answer the questions.
Write questions for the opposing witnesses. These questions cannot ask for specific details but should be used to make broader arguments that support your side.
During the Trial
Follow the instructions set by the judge and teacher.
Present your opening statement to the jury.
Use the witnesses and any exhibits to lay out your case. Use the cross-examination time to discredit the opposition witnesses and gain information only they would have.
Take notes during the opposing lawyers’ statements and presentation of the evidence through witnesses and exhibits. If possible, refute arguments through cross-examination, other witnesses, or your closing statement.
Prepare and then present a closing statement to the jury.
Prosecution and Defense Witnesses
Before the Trial
Review and take notes based on the information available through the general resource links and the resource links specific to your witness.
Work with the attorneys representing your position (prosecution or defense). Attempt to anticipate and prepare for cross-examination questions.
Develop your persona as the witness and make sure you have some depth in your understanding and knowledge of the topics. You should be able to answer unanticipated questions from the perspective of your individual witness’ background.
During the Trial
Be prepared to take the stand.
Answer the questions to the best of your ability.
Witnesses are encouraged to take on the persona of the individual. While some responses may be predetermined, each should feel free to answer questions from the opposing attorney in a manner that reflects his or her attitude and knowledge of the witness.
All witnesses are considered to be under oath; therefore, they must answer the questions truthfully. With that said, some witnesses may want to craft their answers to specific questions to avoid incriminating themselves.
Joseph Stalin
Before the Trial
Review and take notes on all of the resource links, with close attention to those specific to your character.
Work with the defense attorneys to determine the best defense. Look for specific ways to discredit witnesses, including your own who may inadvertently condemn you while protecting themselves.
Develop your persona. Even when not on the stand you should continue to play your character.
Begin to prepare a final statement for the jury.
During the Trial
Listen to the arguments intently. When something pleases you, let that be known. If a witness or an attorney disparages you or provides information you deem unfair or incorrect, let your unhappiness be known.
Finish your final statement based upon the evidence presented during the trial.
Present your final statement at the appropriate time.
Judge
Before the Trial
Review and take notes on information available through the general resource links to gain an understanding of the context of the trial.
Complete any additional assignments as required by your teacher.
During the Trial
Listen carefully to the arguments made by the attorneys.
Take notes on each witness, rate the value of the information provided, and determine the reliability of the witness.
Do not discuss the evidence or the arguments made with the other members of the jury.
After the closing statements, meet with the other jury members. Select a representative to lead the discussions and present your findings to the class.
Go through the charges, discussing the evidence provided for each one. Come to a conclusion on each charge. Write a justification for your verdict.
