Seventh graders read about the three branches, the balance of power an the system of checks and balances. They analyze current events in terms of which vranch of government is responsible for addressing issues. Students create a poster...

Students use a primary source of a political cartoon to set the context for a lesson plan. They answer key questions in writing or orally. Students conduct a class discussion about the issue to stimulate higher order thinking skills like...

Students discuss the statement "All Men Are Created Equal". Using the internet, they research events in history in which this statement has been ignored and supported by the government. They use this information to write an essay about...

Third graders use a hypothetical story in order to create a context for the lesson plan. The story presents a problem that needs to be solved. They write a letter to a government official as part of the lesson plan.

Eighth graders examine the current amendments and discuss any change they would like to make. With a partner, they develop a proposal and an advertisement to redo at least two amendments. They also compare and contrast the amendments...

Students are introduced to the functions of state and local government. In groups, they research Michigan as their home state and one other state given to them and answer questions given to them in a packet. They discuss their answers...

Middle schoolers explore the concept of democracy. They define and describe democracy and choose an issue they believe the government should care about for its people. They write a persuasive essay about their issue.

Students discuss that governments exist for many purposes. They describe that governments maintain social order, provide public services, provide national security, manage conflict, establish justice, and manage resources.

Pupils identify the type of data contained in a spreadsheet. They manipulate a spreadsheet of presidential election returns. Students develop the skills to use the Microsoft Excel program.

Fourth graders conduct an investigation about the subject of voting. They attempt to answer the essential question of, "Why should someone vote in the first place?" The information is used to help students to develop critical thinking...

Students view a PowerPoint presentation to explore the three branches of government. Using this infromation, they identify the people, buildings and responsiblities of each branch. They complete a worksheet using the internet and take a...

Students use a leading question in order to create context for the lesson. The use of media helps to engage students with the integration of technology. Students consider major problems of society.

Ninth graders explore how legislation is introduced to the House of Representatives with special emphasis on how issues of national importance arise and how bills move through the chamber. Students debate an urgent bill and direct...

Students discuss the line "all men are created equal" in a time of slavery. They discover how equaliy and liberty changed over time in America. Role-playing different scenerios, they analyze the experiences of real-people coming to...

High schoolers make an investigation into the Constitution of 1819, Article IV, Section II, gave the Governor of Alabama the power to grant reprieves and pardons in all criminal and penal cases, except those of treason and impeachment,...

High schoolers compare and contrast two Presidents and how viewed the government in times of difficulty. They examine what role each President handled the role of philanthropy during their years in office. They identify acts of...

Young scholars research all of the candidates running in an upcoming election. They interview them if possible and state their platforms. They organize a forum for the candidates to come and speak at their school.

Tenth graders examine the powers of each branch of the government. They analyze the causes and effects of relationships within the government. They participate in activities to help them comprehend the material.

Pupils explore tax incentives that are available for businesses to locate or expand their operations. They discuss reasons entrepreneurs should be aware of the governmental incentives that are available.

Students research the Judiciary Act of 1789 including why it was needed and what it provided. They write a paper using all steps of the writing process outlining their findings.

Middle schoolers view a short play and explore the United States constitution relating it to the importance of rules in the classroom and in the community.

Students engage in a problem-solving activity examining some of the considerations involved in determining common welfare in creating a republican government.