video programs “ criminal trial ” H u m a n i t i e s

Effective testimony should impart accurate and unbiased information to the trier of fact (either a judge or jury) in a manner that can be readily understood. At times, this may include not only what is said, but how it is said. Both verbal and nonverbal communication is integral in the courtroom and must be effective in order to ensure that the correct understanding is derived by the trier(s) of fact. In this Assignment, you hone your skills in recognizing effective communication skills in the courtroom.

To prepare for this assignment:

• Review Chapter 6 of your course text Writing and Communicating for Criminal Justice. Consider the various elements of effective verbal communication.
• Review the articles listed in this week’s Learning Resources, and focus on elements of effective and ineffective communication in the courtroom.
• Review the assigned chapters in your course text Coping With Cross-Examination and Other Pathways to Effective Testimony, and focus on both verbal and nonverbal methods of effective communication. Think about how verbal and non-verbal communication contributes to the effectiveness of a witness.
• Review the course media “Criminal Trial” and “ Civil Trial,” and focus on effective examples of the following communication strategies in the courtroom:
  • Impression management
  • Persuasion skills
  • Appearing credible
  • Style of dress
  • Powerful speech
  • Reflections based on careful and accurate listening

Notice how these strategies contribute to the effectiveness of communication in the courtroom.

The assignment: (1–3 pages)

• Provide examples from the video programs “ Criminal Trial” and “Civil Trial” of the following communication strategies:
  • Impression management
  • Persuasion skills
  • Appearing credible
  • Style of dress
  • Powerful speech
  • Reflections based on careful and accurate listening
• Analyze and explain how and why each strategy contributed to or was an example of effective courtroom communication.
• Be specific and use references from this week’s Learning Resources.

Support your Assignment with specific references to all resources used in its preparation. You are asked to provide a reference list only for those resources not included in the Learning Resources for this course.