This exercise is to practice rule synthesis.
There are four parts to this Exercise:
(1) review the Fact Pattern below,
(2) complete the decision chart using Past Experiences (a.k.a. Case Precedent),
(3) draft your synthesized rule, and
(4) answer the Exercise questions.
Fact Pattern:
Justice Sandra Day O’Connor wants to surprise her family by planning a vacation for them. She visits a travel agent who tells her about a great package deal for a 7–day ski trip to Vail, Colorado. Justice O’Connor must decide whether her family would enjoy such a trip.
Past Experiences (a.k.a. Case Precedent):
Aruba Case: Justice O’Connor’s family took a 7-day trip to Aruba last year. They spent much of their time at the beach – snorkeling and scuba diving. They had a great time.
Caribbean Case: The family also went on a 12-day cruise in the Caribbean. While they enjoyed the snorkeling and parasailing excursions, they did not like being on the crowded ship and thought that the trip was too long.
London Case: Last summer, Justice O’Connor’s family went on a 5-day trip to London. They went sightseeing and shopping. While Justice O’Connor had a good time, the rest of the family did not have fun.
New England Case: Two years ago, the family took a 6-day biking trip through New England to view the fall foliage. They loved the trip and are looking forward to returning.
Decision Chart:
