*Note to teachers: Please use the first 1:47 of this video for the exercise.
Demonstrators gathered outside the Seminole County Courthouse in Sanford, Fla., in the latest local outcry over the shooting death of an unarmed black teenager.
On Feb. 26, 17-year-old Trayvon Martin left a home in a gated community where he and his father were visiting family. On his way back from a convenience store, Martin was shot and killed by a neighborhood watch member, George Zimmerman.
The 28-year-old Zimmerman said he acted in self defense, but Sanford police found Martin lying face down unarmed.
So far, Zimmerman has not been charged with any crime, and the police maintain they cannot act without factual evidence and not on suspicion alone. That decision has fueled racial tensions.
Martin's parents have asked the FBI to investigate. They say their son was targeted because of the color of his skin, and they said the police are protecting the killer.
The case has also raised questions about Florida's so-called 'Stand Your Ground' law, which allows the use of deadly force if an individual has a reasonable fear of being killed or seriously injured.
Quotes
"I don't think he would have even been followed if he was a white kid," - Tracy Martin, father of victim.
Warm Up Questions
1. What does the word 'unarmed' mean?
2. What does the term 'self-defense' mean?
3. What is the purpose of a neighborhood watch group?
4. Prior to watching this video, how much did you know about this case? How do you feel about the case?
Discussion Questions
1. After watching this video, do you think Zimmerman should be charged with a crime, or do you think he was acting in self-defense? Discuss.
2. Why has this incident set off a national outcry?
3. Why has the shooting raised new questions about Florida's 'Stand Your Ground' law?
Additional Resources
Roommate Found Guilty of Hate Crimes in Online Bullying Case
