A look at careers in the FBI

 

Overview: What is the FBI? What does it take to be a special agent for this law enforcement organization? What is the role of the FBI in law enforcement? Use these questions and activities to help students learn more about the FBI, its history and other careers in the field of law enforcement.

Have students view the story, "Career focus: FBI special agent."

What is the FBI? Who is C. W. Saari? For how long has he been with the FBI? How did he become interested in the FBI? What is his current job within the organization?

What does it take to be a special agent? Explain how behavior when you are young can affect you later in life if you are interested in a career with the FBI. What subject areas and skills does Saari suggest for students who are interested in working for the bureau? Where is the FBI's training academy? What kinds of instruction do agent trainees receive there? Does a career with the FBI appeal to you? Why or why not?

When and how was the Federal Bureau of Investigation established? In what famous cases has this agency been involved? Divide the class into small groups. Direct groups to the FBI Web site and other resources to learn more about cases in which the bureau has been involved. Have each group select one case, conduct research to learn more about it, and determine the role of the FBI in solving it. If the case is unsolved, ask the group to examine the ongoing role of the FBI in bringing it to resolution. Have each group make a formal presentation of its findings.

Direct students to the first two Web sites below and other resources to learn more about the history of the FBI and share their findings. Generate a class discussion about the role of a national law enforcement agency in a democratic society: To whom is this agency accountable? What are the limits of its authority? What is its role in promoting freedom? What unique challenges does the FBI face as it enforces the law within the framework of the U.S. Constitution? Expand classroom discussion to include the specific challenges presented by the War on Terrorism.

Challenge students to learn more about careers in law enforcement. Invite professionals in this field to talk to students about careers as special agents, police officers, communications officers, prosecuting attorneys, crime lab technicians, etc. Encourage students to research law enforcement careers and share their information with the class. Have students answer the following questions in their journals: Are you interested in a career in law enforcement? Why or why not? Support your answer by identifying the skills and/or interests you would bring to this career.