All crimes are not equal. If someone is caught stealing a few inexpensive items from a convenience store, then the perpetrator would likely be prosecuted and pay the consequence for committing the crime; however, the consequence for that act would be much less severe than for someone who stole a car. Other factors, such as whether the perpetrator used a firearm to steal those items, affect the consequences as well. To judge crimes as fairly and evenly as possible, crimes must be classified.

 classify types of crimes, describe the elements of and punishments associated with crimes, and consider how law functions in criminal cases.

responses to the following prompts  

1. Explain the terms felony and misdemeanor. Specifically:

2.  Describe elements of felonies and misdemeanors.

3. Provide at least three examples of each of these types of crimes.

4. Identify punishments typically associated with felonies versus misdemeanors.