Let’s discuss the controversial Trayvon Martin case. Here is a summary with this racially charged case:

Trayvon Martin was a 17 year-old African American teenager. He was unarmed and was shot by George Zimmerman in February of 2012. George Zimmerman was a 28 year-old Hispanic American who was the neighborhood watchperson in his Florida community. Zimmerman was driving around the neighborhood and saw Martin walking around the neighborhood and felt that he looked suspicious (there was no evidence that Martin was committing a crime). Zimmerman left his vehicle and approached Martin. A fight ensued and Zimmerman fatally shot Martin in the chest at close range.

I want you to use your critical thinking skills to evaluate the media and the information that they divulge to the public. Choose a question below. Try to make a logical case for your argument. Provide facts to support your opinion.

1. Do you believe George Zimmerman acted in self-defense? Why or why not?

2. Do you believe that Trayvon acting suspiciously is grounds to act? Why do you think he “looked suspicious”?

3. Do you believe that this is a case about racism? Why or why not?

4. Do you think George Zimmerman used critical thinking skills in that situation? Why or why not?

5. Did you use trusted sources in the media to find information to support your opinions? What do you think qualifies as a trusted source?