Was SpongeBob SquarePants guilty of the murder of Mr. Krabs? That is what a jury had to decide during a Mock Trial that took place during Chelsea Wolfert’s Grade 7 English class on October 3. Weeks ago, the Marlboro Middle School students were divided into two teams—the prosecution and defense. Team members had to work together to analyze a crime scene, collect evidence, and develop their case. During the trial, the two sides argued their cases before the jury, wrote on-the-fly rebuttals, and presented closing arguments. The entire exercise taught the students skills related to public speaking, critical thinking, and the art of forming a persuasive, cohesive argument.