high school government assignments

Legislative Branch

Lesson Plans

These lesson plans are designed to assist teachers with using primary source materials to integrate Congress into history, government and civics classes. They are suitable for junior high and high school students.

Fundamental Principles of Government

• Teaching Six Big Ideas in the Constitution Students engage in a study of the U.S. Constitution and the significance of six big ideas contained in it: limited government; republicanism; checks and balances; federalism; separation of powers; and popular sovereignty.
• Reviewing the Preamble with Primary Sources Students review the Preamble of the United States Constitution by defining its phrases and matching them to primary source documents.
• Studying the Constitution using Primary Sources Students use primary sources to analyze the plan for the structure and powers of government embodied in the Constitution.
• Reviewing the Constitution’s Big Ideas with Primary Sources Students analyze clauses from the Constitution of the United States and analyze political cartoons to reinforce their understanding of the major principles of government embodied in the Constitution.
• Constitution Scavenger Hunt with Political Cartoons Students analyze political cartoons to learn about the outline and structure of the Constitution, as well as the content of many of its clauses.
• Inaugurating the Republic: Congress and George Washington's First Inaugural Address Students analyze excerpts from President George Washington’s First Inaugural Address, translate them into modern speech, and derive lessons from them about civic life in a republic.
• Congress and Civility by Design Students study the congressional process and analyze the rules of debate from the First Congress to shows how civility played a central role in its actions.
• Congress Creates the Bill of Rights: Completing the Constitution These activities present questions, lesson ideas, and supporting resources selected to facilitate learning with the app and eBook, Congress Creates the Bill of Rights .
• Congress and the Bill of Rights in History and Today Students use primary sources to learn how the First Congress created the Bill of Rights, and the essential role James Madison played in that process.
• Congress, the President, and the War Powers Students explore the implementation of the war-making power from the first declared war under the Constitution—the War of 1812—to the Iraq War.
• Understanding Federalism Students explore five aspects of federalism by completing the activities in this lesson.
• Discussing Equality: Who is Included within the Phrase “We the People” Students analyze primary sources to identify groups of Americans granted or denied equal rights and equal status in society at various points in history.

Congress in History

The constitution through the civil war (1789 - 1864).

• Inside the First Congress: Debating the Bill of Rights Students contrast selected proposals from state ratifying conventions with amendments as proposed in the House by James Madison and with amendments as sent to the states for ratification to better understand the Bill of Rights and the debate that shaped it.
• Congress Creates the Federal Court System Students analyze the Judiciary Act of 1789 to learn the origin of the Federal court system.
• Petitions to Congress: Grassroots Democracy, 1800–1850 Students analyze 19th-century petitions to Congress to identify the issues that people petitioned about, place the petitions in the context of their time, and understand how everyday people lobbied Congress to influence action by the government and shape the course of history.
• Congress and Human Trafficking in 1812 Students analyze documents reflecting how Quakers from Baltimore, Maryland, petitioned Congress for legislation combating human trafficking.
• 1812: Congress's First Declaration of War Under the Constitution Students examine primary sources to analyze the reasons in support of and opposed to going to war against Great Britain in 1812.
• The Rise of the Two-Party System: A Revolution in American Politics, 1824-1840 Students study the emergence of the two-party system in the United States between 1824 and 1840.
• Congress Debates the Fate of the Nation: Analyzing the Wilmot Proviso and President Polk's 1848 Map Students study the issue of sectionalism after the war with Mexico by studying primary sources.
• In Their Own Words: Women's Petitions to Congress (1830 - 1971) Students analyze women's petitions to Congress from five different eras to identify the issues women petitioned about, place the petitions in the context of their time, and understand how women have used the First Amendment right to petition to make their voices heard.

Reconstruction through the Great Depression (1864 - 1933)

• Reviewing the Civil War and Reconstruction Students analyze primary sources to review major issues related to the Civil War, Reconstruction, and Civil Rights.
• Was Reconstruction a Revolution? Students examine primary sources from the Reconstruction era to determine whether the Reconstruction period of American history should or should not be viewed as a revolution.
• Congress and Harriet Tubman's Claim for a Pension Students explore records from the U.S. House of Representatives to discover the story of Harriet Tubman’s Civil War service to the government and her petition to Congress for compensation.
• Congress Celebrates the Industrial Revolution Students study the impact of the Industrial Revolution by analyzing nineteenth-century depictions of technological innovation.
• Exploring the Western Frontier with the Records of Congress Students use primary sources to investigate whether the frontier shaped America or if America—through Congress—shaped the Western frontier.
• Hetch Hetchy: Congress and the Environment Students use primary sources to study the Hetch Hetchy Valley environmental debate in Congress, and analyze how those positions inform today’s environmental debates.
• Kids at Work: Congress and Child Labor Students analyze petitions and letters sent to Congress to discuss whether Congress should change regulating child labor from a state to a Federal responsibility.
• Woman’s Place in America: Congress and Woman Suffrage Students explore petitions, correspondence, and legislative records sent to Congress as it debated suffrage prior to passage of the 19th Amendment.
• Studying U.S. Foreign Policy through Political Cartoons, 1898 - 1940 Students analyze political cartoons drawn by Clifford K. Berryman between 1898 and 1948 to learn about topics and major events in U.S. foreign policy.
• Studying 4 Major Issues of the Post-World War I and 1920s Era with Primary Sources Students analyze primary source documents from the National Archives and political cartoons drawn by Clifford K. Berryman to learn about topics and major events in U.S. History from 1919 - 1930.
• Congress and the Money Trust Students study key evidence from the Progressive Era's Pujo Committee investigation of the Money Trust that led Congress to pass the Clayton Anti-trust Act, the Federal Trade Commission Act, and the Federal Reserve Act.
• Congress Investigates: The Senate Investigation of the Stock Exchange during the Great Depression (Pecora Investigation) Students learn about Congress’ power to investigate by reading a brief summary of the Pecora Investigation. They will also learn about Great-Depression-era public opinion of Wall Street abuses and increased government regulation by analyzing examples of correspondence received by the Committee.

The New Deal to Today (1933 - Present)

• Seeing the Big Picture: U.S. Foreign Policy 1920-2020 Students analyze primary source documents and a timeline of foreign affairs and domestic events to understand the role of U.S. foreign policy in world events and its impact on events in the U.S.
• Launching the New Deal: FDR and Congress Respond to the Great Depression Students use primary sources to examining how President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Congress responded to the Great Depression, and how the role of the Federal government changed as a result of the New Deal.
• Reviewing Major Topics in U.S. History from 1940 – 1963 with Political Cartoons Students analyze political cartoons by Clifford and Jim Berryman to review seven major topics in U.S. History from 1940 to 1963.
• The Impact of Racial Discrimination on Black American Lives in the Jim Crow Era (1944 – 1960) Students analyze primary source documents to assess the impact of legalized racial segregation on the lives of Black Americans from 1944 – 1960.
• The Cold War in Political Cartoons, 1946 - 1963 Students analyze political cartoons from the Cold War Era to learn about five important issues and to understand the relationship of the United States to the world in this era of fundamental changes in foreign policy.
• From the Cold War to Camp David: Reviewing U.S. Foreign Policy in Post-World War II Era (1948 – 1979) Students analyze primary source documents to review four major topics in U.S. History from 1948 - 1979.
• Congress Investigates: The Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Juvenile Delinquency Investigates Comic Books in the 1950s Students learn about 1950s fears of juvenile delinquency and Congress’s power to investigate by reviewing evidence considered by the subcommittee and analyzing a summary of the investigation.
• Congress Protects the Right to Vote: The Voting Rights Act of 1965 Students use primary sources from the House Committee on the Judiciary to explore the constitutional issues that the committee encountered as it deliberated the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
• The Great Society: Extending the New Deal? Students analyze historical information to compare and contrast the New Deal and the Great Society.
• Congress, the Great Society, and Today Students use primary sources from an online exhibit to study legislation passed in response to President Lyndon Baines Johnson's call for America to become a "Great Society."

How Congress Works

• The Presidential Veto and Congressional Veto Override Process Students use primary sources to illustrate the veto and veto override process.
• The Legislative Process Students analyze primary sources to learn the process of a bill becoming a law.
• The Legislative Race Students explore a simplified version of the legislative process in the U.S. Congress
• What Congress Does and Why it Matters Students use primary sources to learn the concepts of representation, separation of powers, and the constitutional role of Congress.
• Congress Represented in Political Cartoons Students analyze political cartoons drawn between 1898 and 1948 to learn about Congress and its constitutional role in government.
• Reviewing Big Civics Ideas through Political Cartoons Students analyze political cartoons drawn by Clifford K. Berryman between 1898 and 1948 to learn about the Constitution and constitutional institutions of government and politics.
• Studying U.S. Elections with Political Cartoons Students analyze historic political cartoons to learn about timeless features of elections within the two-party system.

Visit the National Archives without leaving your classroom! Our free, interactive programs feature primary sources from our holdings. Each program aligns with National Social Studies Standards and Common Core State Standards. We also provide teacher guides with pre- and post-program lessons.

We Rule: Civics for All of US  is a new education initiative from the National Archives that promotes civic literacy and engagement.  Learn more about these K-5 civics distance learning programs available by request .

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Interactive Teaching Unit: How to Use the 3 Branches of Government Materials

There are 5 main focal areas to these teaching materials:

Our Three Branches of Government and Balance of Power

Legislative Branch

Executive Branch

Judicial Branch

Each area has background information, activities and projects. Each area provides Internet links to other sites where information may be obtained for student research. We have provided two formats for teaching using these materials. The first is a DAILY SCHEDULE FORMAT and the second is PROJECT FOCUS FORMAT.

DAILY SCHEDULE FORMAT:

The entire unit could be taught as a 3 week (15 days) government focus, or separated into sections that fit areas of your curriculum as needed. A suggested schedule is listed below for the 3 week course including the Cabinet project. Suggest having students do the  How a Bill Becomes a Law  file folder game as an ongoing review activity.

DAY 1:  Students use the computer lab and access the site. Read  3 Branches of Our Government . Print off the accompanying worksheet and fill in the blanks as individuals or partners. Discuss in class together the main points and have students check their own worksheets and correct them. Keep these for review.

DAY 2 : Students use the computer lab and access the site. Read  The Legislative Branch  and  The House of Representatives  and complete the tasks as individuals or partners using the suggested web sites. Print off the  The Legislative Branch  worksheet and have students fill in the blanks.

DAY 3 : Review the Legislative Branch worksheet. Students check and correct their own work. Save this sheet for review. Review responses to House of Representatives tasks. Students use the computer lab and access the site. Students work in partners to read and complete tasks on  The Senate--Voice of the States . Print off  Questions for the Senate--Voice of the States . Students complete activities together. However, each student writes a report in his/her own words on one of the five famous senators listed.

DAY 4:  Review work from Day 3. Students keep corrected pages for review and read their senator report to a partner. Students spend time in the computer lab reviewing the sites suggested on  United States Capitol . Students then access the site  How A Bill Becomes a Law  and complete activities. Play in partners the folder game How a Bill Becomes a Law ( see games and puzzles section)  Print off the following as homework assignments:  Congress - Courts--Keeping the Balance ;  Congress - President--Keeping the Balance .

DAY 5:  Check homework. Print off  The Executive Branch  and run off copies for class. Print  What a President Can and Cannot Do  and make this a transparency.

Brainstorm with students about what they think a President's powers are. List these on board or overhead. Pass out the  The Executive Branch . Read together and discuss. Use the transparency you have made and have students compare this list with what is on the chart. Students come to the front to mark off the chart duties listed there that are not correct. Print off both the information sheet and worksheet  The Judicial Branch  and use as a homework assignment. Print off  Government Crossword Puzzle  and have students complete this at home.

DAY 6:  Check homework. Print off both the information sheet and worksheet  The Balance of Government  and do this in class. Review together in groups the worksheets they have saved and quiz each other over the material. Homework assignment: Each student writes a fill in the blank test of fifteen questions and a separate answer sheet. Answers -  https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/education/three-branches/balance-of-government-answers

DAY 7:  Students trade quizzes and answer them. Return to author and have them graded. Collect. Students get points for level of test questions submitted and their answers on the other test.

Give essay quiz over material presented. (Allow students to use their notes.) Essay possibilities are suggested below:

• Describe how a Congress can check a President.
• Describe why the job of a Supreme Court Justice is so important and powerful.
• Describe in detail which job you would prefer and why: President, Senator, Representative, or Supreme Court Justice. Use facts from your information sheets.
• Draw a diagram or picture showing the three branches of government and the main focus of what each one does.

DAY 8:  Cabinet Focus: Students use the computer lab. Access site and go to part called  Why Does the President Need a Cabinet? . Students read and complete activities. Then have students go to:  The President's Cabinet-Who are the Secretaries? . Have them read the list and access the listed web site to complete activity. Compare and report on answers.

DAY 9:  Cabinet Focus: Student use the computer lab. Go to web site and access  Cabinet Web Sites  information page. Divide into partners. Each partner group will prepare a report on one Cabinet department. See guidelines under  Cabinet Department Presentation . Suggest giving 2 days to complete.

DAY 10 & 11:  Students work on project.

DAY 12 & 13:  Project presentations. Students watching take notes on fellow classmates' presentations. Homework assignment: Study notes.

DAY 14:  Quick quiz over departments. Suggest writing role or area of focus and having student write the name of the department next to it. Do twenty questions so some departments have more than one blank.

DAY 15:  May do  "A Cabinet Meeting"  activity.

PROJECT FOCUS FORMAT: (15 days)

Students are given 4 days to complete all the activity pages and on-line tasks for each of the three branches and balance of power plus Legislative, Executive and Judicial Branch activity pages. Students may work in partners or individually. Students are given lab time and the teacher serves as the advisor and facilitator. However, students are expected to do some sections as homework. Students keep all work in an electronic or paper copy portfolio for future checking and presentation.

On the fifth day, questions and activities are checked in groups of four. Teacher roams around meeting with each group discussing their questions and which answers were being debated. Students make corrections so that they will have accurate information for the upcoming project. Introduce the "Teach Another Class Project" and decide on scoring guide.

Projects and Presentations:

Teach Another Class About What They Have Learned: (3 days preparation + 1 day presentation)

Students are divided into six groups (four each), two groups are assigned the Legislative Branch, two groups are assigned the Executive Branch, and two groups are assigned the Judicial Branch. Each group summarizes materials studied the first 5 days and conducts additional research on-line. Then each group designs a chart, backboard, PowerPoint presentation, a series of colorful overheads, or other format to teach another class about their subject. Arrange for students to make presentations to two classes. One set of three groups (Legislative, Executive, Judicial) presents to each class. Each group must time their presentation and keep it to ten minutes. Develop a scoring guide as a class to determine criteria for presentation. Students do a trial run for teacher before going "on the road" with their presentation.

Cabinet Project: (3 days preparation = 2 days presentation)

Students divide into partners for the Cabinet Project (see above). They are given 3 days to complete the project and 2 days are provided for presentations.

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905 search results for:

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Midterm Elections: How 1994 Midterms Set Off an Era of Divisive Politics

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The Constitution EXPLAINED series

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-constitution-explained-series/.

By the Center for Civic Education in partnership with iCivics and constitutional scholar Linda R. Monk Key aspects of the U.S. Constitution are explained in Read More

Detention Centers and Juvenile Courts

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/detention-centers-and-juvenile-courts/.

From Law For Kids Virtually tour Arizona Detention Centers & Juvenile Courts. Detention Center Tours Maricopa County Durango Detention Center Tour  Mohave County Detention Tour  Read More

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The Constitution in American Life videos

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The Minneapolis Bridge Collapse that Sounded the Alarm on US Infrastructure

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From Retro Report On August 1, 2007 the I-35W bridge over the Mississippi River suddenly collapsed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, sending vehicles plunging into the water. Read More

Teaching 9/11 and the War on Terror Beyond the Twentieth Anniversary

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From the University of Wisconsin-Madison A Resource Guide for Teachers and Educators – “This site is designed for educators and anyone else interested in engaging with Read More

What is Inquiry-Based Learning?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-is-inquiry-based-learning/.

By John Spencer Objective: Develop a foundational understanding of inquiry. As you watch this video (4:37) about Inquiry-Based Learning, what new ideas, impressions, or wonderings do you have Read More

Thinking Routine Toolbox

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/thinking-routine-toolbox/.

From Project Zero, Harvard Graduate School of Education – A thinking routine is a set of questions or a brief sequence of steps used to Read More

ABA Supreme Court PREVIEW – Featured Cases 2020-2021

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/aba-supreme-court-preview-featured-cases-2020-2021/.

Scroll down to “Past Cases” to find modified case studies and focus questions for classroom use. Featured Cases from the Supreme Court’s 2020-2021 session-  Caniglia Read More

ABA Supreme Court PREVIEW – Featured Cases 2019-2020

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/aba-supreme-court-preview-featured-cases-2019-2020/.

Scroll down to “Past Cases” to find modified case studies and focus questions for classroom use. Featured Cases from the Supreme Court’s 2019-2020 session-  McGirt Read More

How Watergate and Citizens United Shaped Campaign Finance Law

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From Retro Report “The Watergate campaign finance scandals led to a landmark law designed to limit the influence of money in politics. Decades later, some Read More

How the U.S. Has Treated Wartime Refugees

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From Retro Report in the Classroom   This ten-minute video compares the recent U.S. settlement of Afghan and Ukrainian migrants to the 1975 United States evacuation Read More

Building Democracy: The Story of Legislatures

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/building-democracy-the-story-of-legislatures/.

A National Conference of State Legislatures Podcast A six-part series that covers the history, characters and stories of state legislatures in America. Episode 1 (30:43) – Virginia: Read More

Daylight Saving Time – State Legislation

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From The National Conference of State Legislatures Each year, on the second Sunday in March, clocks are set forward by one hour in the United States Read More

Bell Ringer: What is an Omnibus Bill?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/bell-ringer-what-is-an-omnibus-bill/.

From C-Span Classroom “Steve Ellis of Taxpayers for Common Sense explains the meaning of an omnibus bill, including the process of how the bills that Read More

Seven Ways to Find What You Want on the Internet

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/seven-ways-to-find-what-you-want-on-the-internet/.

Strategies for Internet searches: Explore seven steps that you can take to pinpoint specific information online.

Digital Hacks

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/digital-hacks/.

Resources from Sam Wineburg, Stanford History Education Group “This advice does not guarantee foolproof web searching. It does make the promise that if you follow it, Read More

Throughline: NPR – Pirates of the Senate

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/throughline-npr-pirates-of-the-senate/.

“In this episode, we look at how the ongoing battle over the filibuster’s future is in some ways a battle over its past.” Podcast (52 Read More

State of the Union Addresses

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-state-of-the-union-addresses/.

By The Choices Program Students read Article II, Section III of the Constitution to identify words or phrases they don’t understand. Next, students (in small Read More

Super Civics Toolbox

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/super-civics-toolbox/.

The Super Civics Toolbox is a collection of lessons aligned to the Minnesota K-8 Citizenship and Government standards (2011). Super Civics Toolbox For video instructions on how Read More

We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution, Level 3 – Educating for American Democracy (EAD) Roadmap Correlation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/we-the-people-the-citizen-and-the-constitution-level-3-educating-for-american-democracy-ead-roadmap-correlation/.

From the Center for Civic Education “This correlation guide offers a crosswalk between the EAD themes for the grades 9–12 driving questions and the Level Read More

We the People Resource Center

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/we-the-people-resource-center/.

From the Center for Civic Education Students and teachers – use this companion website for the We the People: The Citizen & the Constitution Level 3 Read More

We the People Open Course

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/we-the-people-open-course/.

From the Center for Civic Education “This course takes you from the philosophical foundations of the U.S. Constitution through the modern interpretation and application of Read More

Program: Current Events

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/program-current-events/.

From Classroom Law Project Rely upon teacher-vetted current events! Included are stories that present multiple views, additional resources to learn more, definitions of relevant vocabulary, insightful Read More

Principles of Democracy: Current Issues – Thinglink poster idea

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/principles-of-democracy-current-issues-thinglink-poster-idea/.

Help students to connect the Principles of Democracy to current events through an interactive poster utilizing a Thinglink platform. It provides an engaging and easy way for Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/taxation/

From iCivics “This lesson teaches the basics of taxes: what they are, who pays them, what kinds exist, and what they’re used for. Students learn Read More

Supreme Court Nominations

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-nominations/.

From iCivics “This lesson teaches the fundamentals of Supreme Court Justice nominations and helps students understand the politics behind the nominations. It challenges students to Read More

Appellate Courts: Let’s Take It Up

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/appellate-courts-lets-take-it-up/.

From iCivics What happens in appellate-level courts? “By following the case of a real middle school girl who was strip searched at school, students find Read More

James Bond in a Honda: Trial Simulation Lesson

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/james-bond-in-a-honda-trial-simulation-lesson/.

From iCivics “Students participate in a scripted fictional trial based on a real case in which the producers of James Bond films sued Honda for Read More

Building Democracy for All: Interactive Explorations of Government and Civic Life

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/building-democracy-for-all/.

By Robert W. Maloy & Torrey Trust Building Democracy for All is an interactive, multimodal, multicultural, open access (digital, online, free of charge) eBook for teaching and learning key Read More

Today’s Vote in the Classroom

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/todays-vote-in-the-classroom/.

Real-world policy in your classroom.

Sesame Street: Monster President | Elmo the Musical

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/sesame-street-monster-president-elmo-the-musical/.

Explore “first, second, and third” with Elmo, the first monster president, as he works to keep the country in order. The video (6:56) features the Read More

Sesame Street: Usher – Volunteer

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/sesame-street-usher-volunteer/.

In this video (1:20), Usher explains the word “volunteer” to Elmo, and together they see various examples of volunteers on Sesame Street.

Teaching About Controversial Topics Led by Dr. Diana Hess

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-about-controversial-topics-led-by-dr-diana-hess/.

This hour-long virtual professional development session (recorded) for social studies educators addresses the following questions  - and more: What is the relationship between controversial topics, problems, Read More

Digital Civics Toolkit

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/digital-civics-toolkit/.

“The Digital Civics Toolkit is a collection of resources for educators to support youth to explore, recognize, and take seriously the civic potentials of digital life… The Read More

Advanced Placement Supreme Court Cases organized by Era of History

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/advanced-placement-supreme-court-cases-organized-by-era-of-history/.

Useful for studying/review, or Each One Teach One, Texas Law-Related Education provides summaries of select landmark Supreme Court Cases from the Early Republic to Contemporary America.

Throughline: NPR – Vaccination

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/throughline-npr-vaccination/.

“It’s a longstanding fight in the U.S., whether people can opt out of vaccination if that means jeopardizing the greater public’s health. In this episode, Read More

Throughline: NPR – Presidential Power

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/throughline-npr-presidential-power/.

“What can and can’t the president do, and how do we know? When the framers of the U.S. constitution left vague the powers of the Read More

Lesson Plans: 2020 Election & Beyond

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/lesson-plans-2020-election-beyond/.

A variety of lesson plans that utilize ProCon.org’s Presidential Election site. tags: distance/ online learning  

The Challenge of Democracy Series

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-challenge-of-democracy-series/.

The Constitutional Rights Foundation (CRF) A series of lessons with carefully researched, non-partisan readings to navigate issues on the themes of Information, Diversity, Governance, and Read More

Freedom of Speech and Press: Exceptions to the First Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-speech-and-press-exceptions-to-the-first-amendment/.

Congressional Research Service This report (September 2014) provides an overview of the major exceptions to the First Amendment – of the ways that the Supreme Court Read More

DC Residents—Taxation With Some Representation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/dc-residents-taxation-with-some-representation/.

New Jersey State Bar Foundation The federal government in Washington, D.C. is under federal control and not dependent upon any state for protection. Article I, Section 8, Clause Read More

Impeachment: It’s Complicated

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/impeachment-its-complicated/.

New Jersey State Bar Foundation This reading about impeachment (What the Constitution Says, The Process, First Presidential Impeachment, Not Just for Presidents) includes writing/ discussion Read More

Miranda v. Arizona (1966) -iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/miranda-v-arizona-1966-icivics/.

From iCivics’ Landmark Library Students will: Describe the 5th Amendment right to silence and the 6th Amendment right to a lawyer. Identify the main arguments put forth Read More

Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) – iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/plessy-v-ferguson-1896-icivics/.

From iCivics’ Landmark Library This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court’s decision that it was constitutional to keep black and white people segregated as Read More

An Independent Judiciary: Cherokee Nation v. Georgia and Cooper v. Aaron

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/an-independent-judiciary-cherokee-nation-v-georgia-and-cooper-v-aaron/.

From Annenberg Classroom This documentary (34 minutes) about the importance of an independent judiciary features Justice Stephen G. Breyer and chronicles Cherokee Nation v. Georgia(1831) Read More

The Supremacy Clause: McCulloch v. Maryland

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-supremacy-clause-mcculloch-v-maryland/.

From Annenberg Classroom This video (24 minutes) explores the supremacy clause in Article VI of the Constitution and key moments in the power struggle, including Read More

Iowa Caucus History

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/iowa-caucus-history/.

This 2-hour segment from Iowa Public Television’s Caucus Iowa: Journey to the Presidency documentary explores how Iowa became the political epicenter and first major electoral event Read More

Lesson Plan: What are the Primaries and Caucuses?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/lesson-plan-what-are-the-primaries-and-caucuses/.

From PBS Newshour Extra Students will identify and understand differences between primaries and caucuses and key terms related to the primary season. Videos, readings, graphic Read More

How Voters Decide: Crash Course Government and Politics #38

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-voters-decide-crash-course-government-and-politics-38/.

From CrashCourse What factors influence voter decisions? This video (7:35) focuses on party loyalty, the issues involved in an election, and candidate characteristics. tags: voting, distance/ online Read More

Lesson Plan: To Vote or Not to Vote

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/lesson-plan-to-vote-or-not-to-vote/.

From PBS Newshour Extra Students view three short films that explore the importance of voting. Each film/activity examines the topic from a different perspective. Handouts Read More

So You Think You Can Vote?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/so-you-think-you-can-vote/.

Video (5:23) - “With 50 states, 5 territories, and over 7,000 voting districts, our elections can get pretty chaotic. A quick look at the history of Read More

American Party Animals

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/american-party-animals/.

Why are there only two major parties? This animated film (3:25) looks at the pros and cons of America’s two-party system. tags: elections, multi-party systems

Black Lives Matter, The Killing of George Floyd, and the Long Fight for Racial Justice

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/black-lives-matter-the-killing-of-george-floyd-and-the-long-fight-for-racial-justice/.

From: The Choices Program Students will: Review an interactive timeline of black activism in the United States from the 1950s to today (includes videos, images, Read More

Let’s Start a Petition Lesson Plan

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/lets-start-a-petition-lesson-plan/.

“This lesson discusses the constitutional right to petition, and how petitions have been used in American history… Students will review historical and contemporary petitions and Read More

State-by-State Race to Ratification of the 19th Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/state-by-state-race-to-ratification-of-the-19th-amendment/.

Follow the state by state stories and timeline of the ratification of the Nineteenth (19th) Amendment.

StoryMap: Places of Women’s Suffrage

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/storymap-places-of-womens-suffrage/.

Explore this StoryMap to discover places associated with the ratification of the 19th Amendment. This StoryMap features places related to women’s suffrage (the right to Read More

The 19th Amendment by State

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-19th-amendment-by-state/.

Explore the state histories of the ratification of the Nineteenth (19th) and women’s right to vote. tags: suffrage, voting

African American Women and the Nineteenth Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/african-american-women-and-the-nineteenth-amendment/.

By Sharon Harley, National Parks Service Read this article to learn about the important role of African American women in the struggle for the Nineteenth Read More

ABA Supreme Court PREVIEW – Featured Cases 2018-2019

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/aba-supreme-court-preview-featured-cases-2018-2019/.

  Scroll down to “Past Cases” to find modified case studies and focus questions for classroom use. Featured Cases from the Supreme Court’s 2018-2019 session -  Read More

The Fourth Amendment: Past and Present

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-fourth-amendment-past-and-present/.

Presented in partnership with the National Constitution Center (NCC) and the Federal Judicial Center Podcast (44:30): “Two leading Fourth Amendment scholars join NCC President Jeffrey Rosen Read More

SCHOLAR EXCHANGE: Voting Rights in America

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/scholar-exchange-voting-rights-in-america/.

“Join Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, to examine the history of voting rights in America. Where in the Constitution are Read More

SCHOLAR EXCHANGE: AP Landmark Supreme Court Cases: Encore Session

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/scholar-exchange-ap-landmark-supreme-court-cases-encore-session/.

“This fast-paced and fun session will review the top 15 court cases from a typical course of study for an AP Government class. Join Jeffrey Read More

A National Town Hall on Policing and the Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/a-national-town-hall-on-policing-and-the-constitution/.

Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, moderates this virtual national Town Hall on policing and the Constitution (recorded June 5, 2020). Read More

Debate – Trigger Warning: Safe Spaces are Dangerous

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/trigger-warning-safe-spaces-are-dangerous/.

Intelligence Squared U.S. is a nationally broadcast debate series based on the traditional Oxford-style debate format, with one side proposing and the other side opposing a Read More

Pathways to the Bench Video Series

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/pathways-to-the-bench-judge-donovan-frank/.

Watch this U.S. Courts video series in which judges talk about challenges they overcame on their way to service on the federal bench. Featured Judges: Donovan Read More

The Courts and You: From Suffragist Sashes to Antiwar Armbands

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-courts-and-you-from-suffragist-sashes-to-antiwar-armbands/.

This 5-minute video portrays two rights activists from different eras: suffragist Virginia Minor and Vietnam war protester Mary Beth Tinker.  

Classroom Strategies – Reading Rockets

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/classroom-strategies-reading-rockets/.

Effective, research-based classroom strategies to help teachers build and strengthen literacy skills in phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing. Each strategy includes:  Instructions Read More

Strategies – Oregon Educator Network

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/strategies-oregon-educator-network/.

Search for teaching strategies by type, audience, or learning style. tag: distance learning

Why are American symbols important?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/why-are-american-symbols-important/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) Students identify American symbols such as the American flag, the bald eagle, the Statue of Liberty. Then, Read More

Who leads our country?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/who-leads-our-country/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) Who leads our country? Students write one paragraph that explains what the president does and how presidents Read More

What makes America special?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-makes-america-special/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) Students read: about the “Star-Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and answer the questions in Read More

How did D.C. become our nation’s capital?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-did-d-c-become-our-nations-capital/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) Students will read from several sources and then write an informational paragraph describing how Washington, D.C. became Read More

How to Use the Concept Attainment Strategy

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-to-use-the-concept-attainment-strategy/.

This strategy involves students in their own learning by helping them discover information on their own.  tag: distance learning

Kick the IDK Bucket: How to Rid Your Classroom of “I Don’t Know”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/kick-the-idk-bucket-how-to-rid-your-classroom-of-i-dont-know/.

“When a student recognizes they don’t know something, it should be a transition to knowing, not a termination of thinking.” Help students explore the reasons Read More

The Big List of Class Discussion Strategies

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-big-list-of-class-discussion-strategies/.

“Students will discuss…” Here is help to make this learning objective more specific! This podcast/ reading contains 15 strategies for structuring a class discussion; they are separated into Read More

Instructional Strategies Guide

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/instructional-strategies-guide/.

75+ Tools to Improve Student Learning Strategies compiled by Stefanie Wager (National Council for the Social Studies, Iowa Department of Education) tag: distance learning

What does Washington, D.C. look like?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-does-washington-d-c-look-like/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) This lesson is designed for elementary level students; however, it can be used or adapted for anyone as an introduction to: Read More

What is special about the Constitution?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-is-special-about-the-constitution/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) How does the Constitution work? Students complete a scavenger hunt using The Constitution of the United States of Read More

Creation of the Constitution – How do you build a “good” government?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/creation-of-the-constitution-how-do-you-build-a-good-government/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) Students describe the people and events associated with the development of the U.S. Constitution. After reading primary Read More

Why do countries declare independence?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/why-do-countries-declare-independence/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) This inquiry focuses on the arguments made in the United States Declaration of Independence. Students describe the people Read More

Language Acquisition – Beginner ESL: Washington, D.C.

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/language-acquisition-beginner-esl-washington-d-c/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) Lesson: https://dcps.instructure.com/courses/179580/pages/learners-elementary-language-acquisition-beginner-esl - Week 7 Learning Plans Students read sentences and match to pictures; read and state details from Read More

Voting Rights for Women – What Did It Take for Women to Be Considered “Equal” to Men?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voting-rights-for-women-what-did-it-take-for-women-to-be-considered-equal-to-men/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) This inquiry leads students through an investigation of the women’s suffrage movement as an example of how Read More

What makes a good citizen?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-makes-a-good-citizen/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) What makes a good citizen?  What were the different forms of government in ancient Greek city-states? What Read More

Does religious freedom exist?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/does-religious-freedom-exist/.

From DCPS  - Instructional Continuity Plan (distance learning) Does religious freedom exist?  What are the major religions of the world? What is religious freedom? How Read More

A Guide to Emergency Powers and Their Use

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/a-guide-to-emergency-powers-and-their-use/.

What statutory powers may become available to the U.S. president upon declaration of a national emergency? The Brennan Center’s research is presented in two tables: One lists Read More

Civics 101 – Emergency Powers of the Governor

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-emergency-powers-of-the-governor/.

What are a governor’s emergency powers?  Listen to podcast (16:00): https://www.civics101podcast.org/civics-101-episodes/governoremergencypowers Transcript and graphic organizer included.

Civics 101 – AP US Government and Politics Prepisode

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-ap-us-government-and-politics-prepisode/.

What is taught in the AP US Government and Politics course? What are the nine foundational documents that students are expected to know? Hear some Read More

Big Civics Ideas Through Political Cartoons

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/big-civics-ideas-through-political-cartoons/.

Florida Joint Center for Citizenship How do the political cartoons illustrate big civics ideas? This activity can be used to introduce big civics concepts or Read More

Representing Congress: Clifford K. Berryman’s Political Cartoons E-book

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/representing-congress-clifford-k-berrymans-political-cartoons-e-book/.

Representing Congress is designed to teach students about Congress—its history, procedures, and constitutional roles— through the analysis of political cartoons.  This e-book was created by the Read More

Guidance on Government: Federal Edition

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/guidance-on-government-federal-edition/.

Florida Joint Center for Citizenship How does the U.S. Constitution organize the government?     Students: identify responsibilities of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches Read More

Guidance on Government: State Edition

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/guidance-on-government-state-edition/.

Florida Joint Center for Citizenship How does the Florida Constitution organize the government?     (Adaptable for other states) Students: identify the legislative, judicial, and executive Read More

Thinking Through Timelines: Creating the Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/thinking-through-timelines-creating-the-constitution/.

Florida Joint Center for Citizenship Why do we celebrate Constitution Day?     Activity Documents and Handouts – Creating the Constitution PowerPoint Presentation Copies of Read More

Thinking Through Timelines: Inching Toward Independence

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/thinking-through-timelines-inching-toward-independence/.

Florida Joint Center for Citizenship Why do we celebrate Independence Day? Activity Documents and Handouts – The Road to Independence PowerPoint Presentation Copies of Primary Read More

Civics in Real Life

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-in-real-life/.

Florida Joint Center for Citizenship Concise resources to explore civics concepts connected to current events. Sample topics include: Public Health and the Social Contract  - How Read More

Meme machine

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/meme-machine/.

This Emerging Citizens game encourages players to engage with culturally and politically relevant topics while focusing on a specific 21st digital modality (Memes).  Meme machine is a Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/wikigeeks/

This Emerging Citizens game encourages players to engage with culturally and politically relevant topics while focusing on a specific 21st digital modality (Hyperlinks).  WikiGeeks is a realtime Read More

Hashtag You’re It

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/hashtag-youre-it/.

This Emerging Citizens game encourages players to engage with culturally and politically relevant topics while focusing on a specific 21st digital modality (Hashtags).  Hashtag You’re It is Read More

Songs for Free Men and Women

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/songs-for-free-men-and-women/.

“How can songs—moving speech, set to rhythmic music—shape hearts and minds? What do America’s national songs mean, and what feelings does singing them inspire? Songs Read More

Benjamin Franklin’s Virtues

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/benjamin-franklins-virtues/.

Background materials and discussion questions to enhance reading and understanding of Benjamin Franklin’s “The Project of Moral Perfection” a passage from his Autobiography. After learning about Read More

Civic Virtue, and Why It Matters – We The People

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civic-virtue-and-why-it-matters-we-the-people/.

The National Constitution Center What values did the founders think were necessary to uphold American government? Are the people and our representatives living up to them? “The Read More

The Constitution and the Coronavirus – We The People

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-constitution-and-the-coronavirus-we-the-people/.

The National Constitution Center In this 55 minute podcast, host Jeffrey Rosen and public health law experts examine the history of quarantines prior to and during the Read More

Safeguarding Democracy: Understanding Allegations of Russian Election Interference

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/safeguarding-democracy-understanding-allegations-of-russian-election-interference/.

From The Choices Program, May 2018 This lesson involves an adapted version of an ancient Egyptian board game called Senet. Students will complete the game with Read More

The Impeachment Process and President Trump

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-impeachment-process-and-president-trump/.

From The Choices Program, lesson published October 2, 2019 Students will: Understand the Constitutional basis and historical precedents for impeachment. Develop media source analysis skills. Read More

Boston Plays

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/boston-plays/.

Students take part in a series of short plays illustrating the lack of various rights during the American Revolutionary War period and then identify those Read More

Bill of Rights in Action

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/bill-of-rights-in-action/.

The Constitutional Rights Foundation (CRF) has published the Bill of Rights in Action, since 1967. Scroll to the view the issues available online or browse the Read More

Federal Budget Simulation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federal-budget-simulation/.

“…After analyzing the proposed FY 2020 discretionary budget, students will be asked to design a FY 2021 budget with a group of their peers. Through the simulation, Read More

Recipe For An Inaugural Address

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/recipe-for-an-inaugural-address/.

Students consider what “ingredients” might go into a speech that will launch a president’s term in office as they examine some of the most memorable Read More

Jacqueline Kennedy’s White House Restoration

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/jacqueline-kennedys-white-house-restoration/.

What symbols of democracy can you find in the White House and what do they signify? Students will learn about ancient symbols and ornamental and Read More

A President’s Day

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/8630-2/.

“If you are elected to the nation’s highest office, what are you actually expected to do? Spend a day at the White House with John Read More

Televised Debates: Candidates Take a Stand

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/8627-2/.

What are the Roles of the Citizen in American Democracy?  Students use primary source material from the 1960 debates between John F. Kennedy and Richard Read More

60-Second Presidents

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/60-second-presidents/.

Support materials (student handout and background reading) are included with each 1-minute presidential biography video.

Let’s Vote – Everyday Learning

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/lets-vote-everyday-learning/.

In this 2 minute video, students (PreK-1), taste three different apples, vote for their favorite, and tally the results. 

Governors’ Power and Authority

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/governors-power-and-authority/.

“Governors, all of whom are popularly elected, serve as the chief executive officers of the fifty states and five commonwealths and territories.” Learn more with Read More

Activity Guides: Grades 9-12 Learn At Home (NYC)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/activity-guides-grades-9-12-learn-at-home-nyc/.

Worksheets with activities for distance learning - these materials are designed to provide supplementary learning resources; they do not replace learning at school. 9th Grade Lesson – Read More

Activity Guides: Grades 6-8 Learn At Home (NYC)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/activity-guides-grades-6-8-learn-at-home-nyc/.

        Worksheets with activities for distance learning - these materials are designed to provide supplementary learning resources; they do not replace learning at school. Read More

Activity Guides: Grades K-5 Learn At Home (NYC)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/activity-guides-grades-k-5-learn-at-home/.

Worksheets with activities for distance learning - these materials are designed to provide supplementary learning resources; they do not replace learning at school.   Kindergarten Lesson - Civics Read More

iCivics – “We The Jury” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-we-the-jury-game/.

In We The Jury, students will: Choose from different civil cases Analyze evidence Weigh testimony Use the right arguments to reach a fair and impartial verdict Read More

iCivics – “Race to Ratify” game and “Extension Pack”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-race-to-ratify-game-and-extension-pack/.

Race to Ratify drops your students into 1787, where the ink is still drying on the new Constitution. Will it become the law of the land Read More

iCivics – “NewsFeed Defenders” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-newsfeed-defenders-game/.

NewsFeed Defenders is a challenging game designed to sharpen students’ news literacy skills. Objectives – Identify markers of verification, transparency, accountability, and independence in news stories. Read More

iCivics – “Crisis of Nations” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-crisis-of-nations-game/.

In Crisis of Nations, students take the helm of their own country and work together with others to solve international problems. Students: Determine the appropriate course Read More

iCivics – “Branches of Power” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-branches-of-power-game/.

Do your students like running things? Branches of Power allows them to do something that no one else can: control all three branches of government! They’ll have the power Read More

Dialogue on the Courts

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/dialogue-on-the-courts/.

American Bar Association Explore the role of the courts in our constitutional democracy.   “Part 1 introduces the judiciary as the third branch of American government, Read More

Dialogue on Youth and Justice

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/8455-2/.

American Bar Association “The Dialogue offers numerous perspectives on the topic of youth and justice, giving you different options for different audiences or classrooms. Parts Read More

Dialogue on the Rule of Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/8450-2/.

American Bar Association “The Dialogue offers numerous perspectives on the rule of law, giving you different options for different audiences or classrooms. Part I offers Read More

Political Gerrymandering Explained

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/political-gerrymandering-explained/.

What is political gerrymandering? Infographic with text. Also see: Rucho v. Common Cause and Lamone v. Benison (https://www.subscriptlaw.com/blog/rucho-v-commo-cause-and-lamone-v-benisek)

Levels of Scrutiny

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/levels-of-scrutiny/.

How courts determine if the government is violating the Constitution  - infographic with text. tags: Equal Protection Clause, 14th Amendment

Infographic Coverage of the Supreme Court

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/infographic-coverage-of-the-supreme-court/.

These one-page graphics with minimal text, introduce complex legal concepts in an accessible way. Coverage goes back to the Supreme Court’s 2017-2018 term.  

Case Study – Rucho v. Common Cause

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/case-study-rucho-v-common-cause/.

In 2016, a federal court ordered North Carolina to redraw its congressional districts because the existing map was unconstitutional because it included districts that were racially Read More

The Year of the Woman – A History of Women in Congress

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-year-of-the-woman-a-history-of-women-in-congress/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys When the 116th Congress was sworn in, a historic number of women took office. In 2019, 131 women serve Read More

Digital Dilemma: Your IoT Device May Be Testifying Against You

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/digital-dilemma-your-iot-device-may-be-testifying-against-you/.

This podcast (33:32) explores the scope of the Internet of Things (IoT) and gives an understanding of the privacy, security, and legal issues associated with Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/gag/

Make No Law: The First Amendment Podcast How far can judges go to restrict the dissemination of case information? This episode outlines the constitutionality of Read More

Is the U.S. Bail System Fair?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/is-the-u-s-bail-system-fair/.

From KQED This series investigates controversial current issues to help young viewers draw their own informed conclusions. What is bail? How does the U.S. bail system work? What Read More

Is the Electoral College Good or Bad for Democracy?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/is-the-electoral-college-killing-democracy/.

From KQED This series investigates controversial current issues to help young viewers draw their own informed conclusions. What is the electoral college? Why does the United States Read More

Is Facial Recognition Invading Your Privacy?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/is-facial-recognition-invading-your-privacy/.

From KQED/ By Derek Lartaud This series investigates controversial current issues to help young viewers draw their own informed conclusions. What is facial recognition? How are Read More

ELM (eLibrary Minnesota)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/elm-elibrary-minnesota/.

ELM is available to Minnesota residents and gives access to magazine, journal, newspaper and encyclopedia articles, media, including images, videos, and audio files, and other information Read More

Direct Election of Senators? It Wasn’t Always That Way: The 17th Amendment Turns 100

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/direct-election-of-senators-it-wasnt-always-that-way-the-17th-amendment-turns-100/.

Insights on Law & Society 13.1, Fall 2012 Read about how before the 17th Amendment was ratified in 1913, providing for the direct election of U.S. Read More

Teaching the Constitution with Political Cartoons

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-the-constitution-with-political-cartoons/.

This recording (39:50), designed for middle school and high school educators, is a condensed version of a webinar during which participants practiced techniques for helping students Read More

How Classroom Political Discussions — Controversies, Too — Prepare Students for Needed Civic Participation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-classroom-political-discussions-controversies-too-prepare-students-for-needed-civic-participation/.

By Holly Korbey This excerpt highlights research that supports well-planned, controversial political discussions in the classroom, as well as civic engagement skills and civil discourse.    Read More

Cartoon Carousel- The nation’s cartoonists on the week in politics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/cartoon-carousel-the-nations-cartoonists-on-the-week-in-politics/.

“Every week political cartoonists throughout the country and across the political spectrum apply their ink-stained skills to capture the foibles, memes, hypocrisies and other head-slapping Read More

Cartoons for the Classroom

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/cartoons-for-the-classroom-2/.

Look through this editorial cartoon lesson library to download lessons and a two-page Cartoon Evaluation Worksheet for students: https://nieonline.com/sfchronicle/cftc.cfm?cftcfeature=archive current/ historical/ primary source

Teaching with Primary Sources: Videos for Teachers

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-with-primary-sources-videos-for-teachers/.

Presenter: Jessica Ellison   15 minute professional development videos -  Teaching with Census Records  Using Primary Sources: Newspapers Using Primary Sources: Photographs Using Primary Sources: Objects Using Read More

The First Five Podcast: Context, Please

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-first-five-podcast-context-please/.

Researcher Emily Thorson, author of Contextual Fact-Checking: A New Approach to Correcting Misperceptions and Maintaining Trust, speaks about Americans’ misperceptions about public policy issues and how lack Read More

The First Five Podcast: Call It What You Want

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-first-five-podcast-call-it-what-you-want/.

  Is requiring someone to have a license to call themselves a certain type of professional–like a psychologist–a violation of freedom of speech?     Read More

Women’s Suffrage in Sheet Music

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/womens-suffrage-in-sheet-music-collection/.

“Women’s Suffrage in Sheet Music includes over 200 pieces of sheet music spanning the years 1838-1923, over half of which highlight women’s emerging voices and suffrage Read More

Extending Suffrage to Women

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/extending-suffrage-to-women-2/.

Students must analyze and chronologically sort eleven different documents arguing both for and against women’s suffrage.

Teacher’s Guides and Analysis Tool

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teachers-guides-and-analysis-tool/.

Teacher’s Guides for analyzing various types of primary sources, as well as an Analysis Tool for students.

Suffering Through Suffrage: Arguing Women’s Right to Vote

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/suffering-through-suffrage-arguing-womens-right-to-vote/.

From The Florida Joint Center for Citizenship Primary Source Document: Memorial of Alice Wadsworth of the National Association Opposed to Woman Suffrage, 12/11/1917 Why do the Read More

The Informed Citizen Blog

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-informed-citizen-blog/.

The Informed Citizen is the New Jersey State Bar Foundation’s civics blog for Grades 5 through High School. This blog explains civics- related topics in Read More

Beyond the Bill of Rights – Explaining Constitutional Amendments 11 Through 27

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/beyond-the-bill-of-rights-explaining-constitutional-amendments-11-through-27/.

This newsletter from the New Jersey State Bar Foundation contains 10 articles on Constitutional Amendments 11-27. Writing/ Discussion questions and glossary are included.  

History of Impeachment from Andrew Johnson to Today

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/history-of-impeachment-from-andrew-johnson-to-today/.

Understanding the Constitution’s Impeachment Clause – Join two of America’s leading scholars on the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson to listen to the history of Read More

ConSource: The United States Constitution for Kids

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/consource-the-united-states-constitution-for-kids/.

Explore the history of the Constitution, particular Constitutional sections, themes and topics through primary source documents. You will find the text of the U.S. Constitution, Read More

The Constitution in Action: Who Shapes Foreign Policy?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-constitution-in-action-who-shapes-foreign-policy/.

“This simulation places students in the Early Republic and asks them to engage with a fundamental question of Constitutional interpretation faced at that time: Who Read More

Teaching with the News: Oral History and September 11

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-with-the-news-oral-history-and-september-11/.

From: The Choices Program This lesson helps students explore the human dimension of the September 11 attacks by conducting an interview. Students also consider the Read More

How to Become the US President A Step-by-Step Guide

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-to-become-the-us-president-a-step-by-step-guide/.

Meet Eligibility Guidelines Set by the US Constitution Test the Water: Pre-Candidacy Process Declare Candidacy & File Applications with Federal Election Commission Fundraise and Campaign Read More

ProCon.org – 2020 Presidential Election Site

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/procon-org-2020-presidential-election-site/.

Researched non-partisan pro-con presentations of where US presidential candidates stand on issues.  

Mr. Madison Needs Some Help

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/mr-madison-needs-some-help/.

From the Constitutional Rights Foundation Why was the Constitution necessary? In this free unit from CRF’s Adventures in Law and History, students explore the meaning of Read More

Captain Kirk Preamble

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/captain-kirk-preamble/.

Star Trek’s Captain Kirk, reads the preamble from the US constitution.

Constitution Day Scavenger Hunt with 60-Second Civics – The Framers of the Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitution-day-scavenger-hunt-with-60-second-civics-the-framers-of-the-constitution/.

From the Center for Civic Education In this lesson students will familiarize themselves with the delegates to the Constitutional Convention (Philadelphia, 1787) by listening to a series Read More

Primary Source Analysis Worksheets – Elementary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/primary-source-analysis-worksheets-elementary/.

Artifact Artwork Document Film Map Newspaper Article Oral History Picture/ Photograph (Image) Political Cartoon Poster tag: distance learning

The First Five Podcast: Access Denied

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-first-five-podcast-access-denied/.

Journalists are supposed to serve as “watchdogs” on the government – supplying the people with information about what government is doing so that the people Read More

The First Five Podcast: Treading on Sacred Ground

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-first-five-podcast-treading-on-sacred-ground/.

Does the freedom of religion protect sites that are sacred to Native Americans? Nicole Ducheneaux, lead attorney for the Cheyenne River Sioux tribe in the Dakota Read More

The First Five Podcast: The First Amendment and Symbolic Speech

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-first-five-podcast-the-first-amendment-and-symbolic-speech/.

Kneeling during the national anthem, burning the American flag, burning draft cards, hanging effigies of political leaders — these are all examples of symbolic speech, Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/8245-2/

From the Esri GeoInquiries collection for Government Examine factors affecting voting and registration in presidential and midterm elections. How does the percent voting vary by Read More

This Land is Your Land

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/this-land-is-your-land/.

From the Esri GeoInquiries collection for Government Examine the lands that have special designations, or that the U.S. government has set aside for its citizens. Read More

Where’s the Money?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/wheres-the-money/.

From the Esri GeoInquiries collection for Government Students will compare the distribution of campaign funds at state and district levels, and examine sources of campaign Read More

Federal District Courts

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/8238-2/.

From the Esri GeoInquiries collection for Government Students will explore the distribution of federal court districts, and will identify how the court system affects individuals. Read More

Power to the people

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/power-to-the-people/.

From the Esri GeoInquiries collection for Government Students will be able to explain the purpose and use of the recall to hold state and local Read More

What is a Gerrymander?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-is-a-gerrymander/.

From the Esri GeoInquiries collection for Government Students will analyze the connection between congressional districts and population, and assess the fairness of the congressional districts Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/allsides/

Allsides is a media technology company that exposes people to information and ideas from all sides of the political spectrum. They display, side-by-side, the day’s top news Read More

Street Law Teaching Strategies

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/street-law-teaching-strategies/.

From Street Law Four short “how-to” videos to help law students, lawyers, and educators master some of Street Law’s popular interactive teaching strategies - Take a Read More

60-Second Civics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/60-second-civics/.

Produced by the Center for Civic Education 60-Second Civics is a daily podcast that explores themes related to civics and government, the constitutional issues behind the Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 72: The 2nd Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-72-the-2nd-amendment/.

Jeffrey Rosen, CEO and President of the National Constitution Center, is the guest on this episode about the Second Amendment. “For ages, the right to bear arms Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 76: Native American Reservations

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-76-native-american-reservations/.

“On this episode:  What is a Native American reservation? What is a pueblo? What does it mean to be a sovereign nation? What is the Read More

NAEP Questions Tool

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/naep-questions-tool/.

From: National Center for Education Statistics Each time the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) releases the results of a subject-level assessment, a portion of the Read More

Teaching About Controversial Issues: A Resource Guide

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-about-controversial-issues-a-resource-guide/.

From: The Choices Program “This resource guide aims to provide teachers with resources and pedagogical tools so they can feel more prepared to address controversial Read More

Myanmar and the Rohingya

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/myanmar-and-the-rohingya/.

From: The Choices Program Students will: Learn more about the Rohingya people of Myanmar and the current conflict. Read and analyze personal accounts from numerous Read More

Seeking Asylum in the United States

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/seeking-asylum-in-the-united-states/.

From: The Choices Program Students will: Practice image analysis skills. Understand the process for applying for asylum in the United States. Review a timeline of Read More

An Interactive Timeline: U.S. Immigration Policy, Past and Present

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/an-interactive-timeline-u-s-immigration-policy-past-and-present/.

From: The Choices Program Students access an interactive timeline with videos and images to: Review a timeline of U.S. immigration policy and laws from European Read More

Analyzing Historical Sources: Images

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/analyzing-historical-sources-images/.

From: The Choices Program Suzanne Enzerink, American Studies scholar with Brown University, discusses how to analyze images as historical sources. As an example, she uses Read More

27: The Most Perfect Album

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/27-the-most-perfect-album/.

Produced by WNYC Studios. In partnership with musicians such as Dolly Parton, Kevin Morby, Devendra Banhart, Aisha Burns, and more, More Perfect created songs inspired by the Read More

Social Media – C3 Teachers

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/social-media-c3-teachers/.

From C3 Teachers: College Career & Civic Life This inquiry leads students through an investigation of rights and responsibilities involved when posting to social media. Read More

Symbols – C3 Teachers

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/symbols-c3-teachers/.

From C3 Teachers: College Career & Civic Life Compelling Question: “What symbol best represents the United States?” Students investigate what each American symbol represents, how we Read More

Civics 101 – Founding Documents: Declaration of Independence

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-founding-documents-declaration-of-independence/.

Civics 101 is the podcast refresher course on the basics of how the U.S. government works. Each episode explores topics through interviews with experts and teachers. The Read More

Civics 101 – Founding Documents: Articles of Confederation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-founding-documents-articles-of-confederation/, civics 101 – founding documents: the constitution, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-founding-documents-the-constitution/, civics 101 – founding documents: the federalist and anti-federalist papers, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-founding-documents-the-federalist-and-anti-federalist-papers/, civics 101 – founding documents: the bill of rights, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-founding-documents-the-bill-of-rights/, civics 101 – life stages: birth, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-life-stages-birth/, civics 101 – life stages: school, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-life-stages-school/, civics 101 – life stages: marriage, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-life-stages-marriage/, civics 101 – life stages: retirement, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-life-stages-retirement/, civics 101 – life stages: death, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-life-stages-death/, the first five podcast: unprotected speech, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-first-five-podcast-unprotected-speech/.

What are the limits to free speech? In this episode, host Lata Nott, Executive Director of the Freedom Forum Institute’s First Amendment Center, walks through all of Read More

Is your speech protected by the the First Amendment?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/is-your-speech-protected-by-the-the-first-amendment/.

When does the First Amendment protect your speech from censorship or punishment? Here is a primer of some questions to ask – Is it speech? Read More

Null and Void

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/null-and-void/.

Produced by WNYC Studios. “Should a juror be able to ignore the law? From a Quaker prayer meeting in the streets of London, to riots Read More

Match the slogan with the presidential candidate game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/match-the-slogan-with-the-presidential-candidate-game/.

Match the slogan with the presidential candidate; get different quotes with each new game. Scatter game on Quizlet: https://quizlet.com/142564521/match

Civics 101 – Infrastructure – Water!

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-infrastructure-roads/.

Each podcast episode of Civics 101 gives listeners a basic, non-partisan, topical reintroduction to how the U.S. government works. The history of the topic, as Read More

How to Read a U.S. Supreme Court Opinion

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-to-read-a-u-s-supreme-court-opinion/.

Insights on Law & Society 13.1, Fall 2012 A basic guide for reading a U.S. Supreme Court opinion. See pages 10 – 11.

The “Door” Study

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-door-study/.

by Daniel Simons and Daniel Levin “This video shows footage from a 1998 study by Daniel Simons and Daniel Levin in which a participant fails Read More

Understanding Injunctions

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/understanding-injunctions/.

Insights on Law and Society, Winter 2014 What is an injunction? This overview of injunction types and requirements for their issue demystifies this oft-referenced legal document. Teaching Read More

Miranda v. Arizona (Quimbee video)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/miranda-v-arizona-quimbee-video/.

Does the Fifth (5th) Amendment’s protection against self-incrimination extend to the police interrogation of a suspect? A 5 minute video case brief of Miranda v. Read More

Wickard v. Filburn (Quimbee video)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/wickard-v-filburn-quimbee-video/.

Wickard v. Filburn (1942) was a landmark decision in which the Supreme Court interpreted Congress’s Commerce Clause authority to reach purely in-state activities using the Aggregation Doctrine. Overview video (3:28): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGZIAf_-Ckw

Youngstown Sheet and Tube Co. v. Sawyer Primary Source Jigsaw

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/youngstown-sheet-and-tube-co-v-sawyer-primary-source-jigsaw/.

“In this activity, students study five primary sources related to the 1952 U.S. Supreme Court case, Youngstown Sheet and Tube Co. v. Sawyer. The landmark Read More

Separate Powers: Comparing Constitutions

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/separate-powers-comparing-constitutions/.

“In this activity, students will analyze historical readings about the system of separated powers, or checks and balances, outlined in the U.S. Constitution. They may Read More

Search Me: Understanding the Fourth Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/search-me-understanding-the-fourth-amendment/.

by Catherine Hawke Students will examine definitions and interpretations of the Fourth (4th) Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, read about and discuss the role of the Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 69: The Federalist Papers

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-69-the-federalist-papers/, civics 101 – episode 67: the 1st amendment – freedom of assembly, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-67-the-1st-amendment-freedom-of-assembly/, civics 101 – episode 66: the epa, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-66-the-epa/, civics 101 – episode 63: the cdc, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-63-the-cdc/, civics 101 – episode 61: the attorney general, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-61-the-attorney-general/, tribal government (hs), https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/tribal-government-hs/.

From iCivics Tribal Structure Activity: Read the excerpts that establish the structure of government from two different tribal constitutions. Then consider the pros and cons Read More

Sal teaches Grover about the electoral college

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/sal-teaches-grover-about-the-electoral-college/.

Grover, a character from Sesame Street, helps students understand how the president of the United States is elected.  Watch video (3:36): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-n_YOtUnqU  

See-Wonder-Think Strategy

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/see-wonder-think-strategy/.

Help students build analysis skills by using the See-Wonder-Think sequence: (video – 2:38) https://www.teachingchannel.org/videos/thinking-routine-getty

The Schoolhouse Gates

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-schoolhouse-gates/.

Make No Law: The First Amendment Podcast The episode features the Tinker v. Des Moines case and how it has impacted freedom of speech for students on Read More

Disparagement, Contempt, and Disrepute

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/disparagement-contempt-and-disrepute/.

Make No Law: The First Amendment Podcast “Simon Tam named his band ‘The Slants’ as a form of self empowerment, but ran into problems when Read More

On The Job: Freedom of Speech in the Workplace

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/on-the-job-freedom-of-speech-in-the-workplace/.

Make No Law: The First Amendment Podcast Explore the Garcetti v. Ceballos case, the results of which saddle government employees with a tough decision when Read More

To What Extent Should the Federal Government Impose Limits on Immigration?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/to-what-extent-should-the-federal-government-impose-limits-on-immigration/.

From C-SPAN Classroom Deliberations “This deliberation explores the range of limitations that might be applied to immigration in the United States, largely in the context Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 60: Federalism

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-60-federalism/, civics 101 – episode 59: the census, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-59-the-census/, civics 101 – episode 58: government shutdown, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-58-government-shutdown/, civics 101 – episode 57: commander in chief, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-57-commander-in-chief/, civics 101 – episode 121: the white house press secretary, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-121-the-white-house-press-secretary/, the constitutional podcast finale: ‘ourselves and our posterity’, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-constitutional-podcast-finale-ourselves-and-our-posterity/.

From The Washington Post What do the 27 successful amendments to the Constitution have in common? What trends have emerged among the 11,000 amendment proposals in Read More

Episode 6 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘Senate and states’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-6-of-the-constitutional-podcast-senate-and-states/.

From The Washington Post In 1912, the U.S. Congress decided to approve a fundamental change to the Constitution by passing the Seventeenth (17th) Amendment, which Read More

Episode 2 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘Ancestry’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-2-of-the-constitutional-podcast-ancestry/.

From The Washington Post Does an American Indian have a legal right to sue the government of the United States and ask for his freedom? Does the Read More

Episode 1 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘Framed’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-1-of-the-constitutional-podcast-framed/.

From The Washington Post The Constitutional Convention – “… During a sweltering summer in Philadelphia, a group of revolutionary Americans holed themselves up in Independence Hall Read More

Episode 8 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘Fair trials’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-8-of-the-constitutional-podcast-fair-trials/.

From The Washington Post In addition to telling the historical narrative of the landmark Supreme Court case Gideon v. Wainwright, the episode explores the challenges that have accompanied the change Read More

10 Supreme Court Cases Every Teen Should Know

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/10-supreme-court-cases-every-teen-should-know/.

By Tom Jacobs, From The Learning Network “In a landmark 1967 case known as In re Gault (“in re” is Latin for “in reference to”), Read More

Naturalized Citizens and the Presidency

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/naturalized-citizens-and-the-presidency/.

Constitutional Rights Foundation - Civics On Call “Students will role play state senators from their home state. Imagine Congress has just passed a joint resolution to Read More

The Emoluments Clause and the President (Civil Conversation)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-emoluments-clause-and-the-president-civil-conversation/.

Constitutional Rights Foundation - Civics On Call In preparing for a Civil Conversation activity (guide included), students read about the emoluments clause in Article 1, Section Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 102: The Fourteenth Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-102-the-fourteenth-amendment/, civics 101 – episode 119: the national guard, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-119-the-national-guard/, civics 101 – episode 116: infrastructure – roads, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-116-infrastructure-roads/, state and federal courts – jurisdiction, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/state-and-federal-courts-jurisdiction/.

From The Federal Judicial Center     This animated video (5:25) details the difference between Federal and State Courts, how Federal Courts are organized, and how Read More

Off Paper – Episodes 4 and 5: Trends in Federal and State Pretrial Justice (Parts 1 and 2)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/off-paper-episodes-4-and-5-trends-in-federal-and-state-pretrial-justice-parts-1-and-2/.

Off Paper: The Criminal Justice Podcast from the FJC “The Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits the government from requiring a criminal defendant to Read More

Episode 3 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘Nationality’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-3-of-the-constitutional-podcast-nationality/.

From The Washington Post “What makes someone American? A landmark Supreme Court case in 1898, involving a child born in San Francisco to Chinese immigrant Read More

Episode 9 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘Fair punishment’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-9-of-the-constitutional-podcast-fair-punishment/.

From The Washington Post “There is so much feeling of racial injustice around the issue of punishment. And you have to understand that those feelings Read More

You Have The Right to Remain Silent – A History of the Miranda Warning

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/you-have-the-right-to-remain-silent-a-history-of-the-miranda-warning/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys “… A man named Ernesto Miranda confessed to rape and kidnapping in a Phoenix police station. His trial would Read More

Civics 101 video: Reading Supreme Court Cases

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-video-reading-supreme-court-cases/.

New Hampshire Public Radio An “explainer” of how to read Supreme Court Cases, using Texas v. Johnson as an example. Go to: Civics 101 video (7:42): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wk-uMa04ovo  

Civics 101 video: The Exclusionary Rule

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-video-the-exclusionary-rule/.

New Hampshire Public Radio Go to : Civics 101 video (10:36): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0W3y1flhiVw “Learn about the Supreme Court cases that defined use of illegally-obtained evidence! Also a Read More

Civics 101 – IRL1: Free Speech in Schools

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-irl1-free-speech-in-schools/.

Each podcast episode of Civics 101 gives listeners a basic, non-partisan, topical reintroduction to how the U.S. government works. The Civics 101 IRL installments dive into the Read More

Civics 101 video: John and Mary Beth Tinker

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-video-john-and-mary-beth-tinker/.

New Hampshire Public Radio Go to : Civics 101 video (6:47)- John and Mary Beth Tinker (Tinker v Des Moines): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeK9t8uMXTY “John and Mary Beth Tinker Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 56: The 1st Amendment – Freedom of Speech

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-56-the-1st-amendment-freedom-of-speech/, civics 101 – episode 115: foreign aid, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-115-foreign-aid/, civics 101 – episode 114: the cia, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-114-the-cia/, civics 101 – episode 113: the americans with disabilities act, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-113-the-americans-with-disabilities-act/, civics 101 – episode 112: the eighth amendment, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-112-the-eighth-amendment/, civics 101 – episode 109: the fourth amendment, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-109-the-fourth-amendment-2/, civics 101 – episode 111: the doj, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-109-the-fourth-amendment/, civics 101 – episode 108: the fbi, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-108-the-fbi/, chronicling america: historic american newspapers, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/chronicling-america-historic-american-newspapers/.

From the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Library of Congress “Search America’s historic newspaper pages from 1789-1963 or use the U.S. Newspaper Directory Read More

Document Analysis Worksheets

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/document-analysis-worksheets/.

Social Education 67(7), pp. 417-428 © 2003 National Council for the Social Studies  “Teaching students to successfully analyze primary sources begins with teaching them to Read More

The Words We Live By: The Constitution in Context

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-words-we-live-by-the-constitution-in-context/.

Linda R. Monk, Social Education 67(7), pp. 381-385 © 2003 National Council for the Social Studies  To help students understand the context of the Constitution’s original Read More

Independent Prosecutors, the Trump-Russia Connection, and the Separation of Powers

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/independent-prosecutors-the-trump-russia-connection-and-the-separation-of-powers/.

Steven D. Schwann, Social Education November/December 2017 “The U.S. Constitution codifies a complex system of governmental checks and balances. But for all its innovation, our founding Read More

Teaching Strategy: Oxford Style Debate

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-strategy-oxford-style-debate/.

From United States Courts The following details modified rules for courtroom Oxford-Style debate: http://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/educational-resources/about-educational-outreach/activity-resources/oxford  

Elonis v. U.S. – Artistic Expression or Serious Threat?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/elonis-v-u-s-artistic-expression-or-serious-threat/.

 Office of the U.S. Courts – Educational Resources This First Amendment activity applies the landmark Supreme Court case Elonis v. U.S. to a teen conflict Read More

The Monkey Business Illusion

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-monkey-business-illusion/.

by Daniel Simons Watch this Selective Attention task, part of Psychology research showing that people are less aware of their visual surroundings than they think. Read More

Episode 11 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘War’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-11-of-the-constitutional-podcast-war/.

From The Washington Post This episode examines the colonial and revolutionary roots of the Second and Third Amendments. Together they were supposed to help “ensure domestic tranquility,” Read More

More Perfect: The Gun Show

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/more-perfect-the-gun-show/.

Produced by WNYC Studios. A mini series. “For nearly 200 years of our nation’s history, the Second Amendment was an all-but-forgotten rule about the importance Read More

Episode 13 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘Taxes’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-13-of-the-constitutional-podcast-taxes/.

From The Washington Post “Congress today faces the same question it faced a century ago when creating the modern tax system: What kind of society Read More

Episode 15 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘Privacy’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-15-of-the-constitutional-podcast-privacy/.

From The Washington Post What is the role of new technologies that are transforming privacy? In this episode, “National Constitution Center leader Jeffrey Rosen explores the Read More

Episode 16 of the Constitutional podcast: ‘The First Amendment’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/episode-16-of-the-constitutional-podcast-the-first-amendment/.

From The Washington Post “Between 1938 and 1946, [Jehovah's Witnesses] argued 23 cases for their rights before the Supreme Court. Their relentless litigation forced the court Read More

American Panorama: An Atlas of United States History

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/american-panorama-an-atlas-of-united-states-history/.

By Digital Scholarship Lab, University of Richmond “American Panorama is an historical atlas of the United States for the twenty-first century. It combines cutting-edge research with Read More

Street Law Resource Library

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/street-law-resource-library/.

Street Law has compiled hundreds of teaching activities and methods, case summaries, mock trials, and articles—many of which are free—and organized them by topic, audience, and Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 103: The Fifteenth Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-103-the-fifteenth-amendment/, civics 101 – episode 104: voting rights, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-104-voting-rights/, civics 101 – irl2: the flag and the pledge, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-irl2-the-flag-and-the-pledge/, civics 101 – episode 107: torture, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-107-torture/, more perfect: who’s gerry and why is he so bad at drawing maps, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/whos-gerry-and-why-is-he-so-bad-at-drawing-maps/.

Produced by WNYC Studios. A mini series. “Politicians have been manipulating district lines to favor one party over another since the founding of our nation. Read More

Constitutional Rights Origins and Travels

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitutional-rights-origins-and-travels/.

From the National Constitution Center Writing Rights: “Which documents and ideas influenced the Founders when drafting the bill of Rights? Rights Around the World: How Read More

Interactive Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/interactive-constitution/.

“In the Interactive Constitution, scholars from across the legal and philosophical spectrum interact with each other to explore the meaning of each provision of the Read More

Federalism (Mr. Raymond)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federalism-mr-raymond/.

From Mr. Raymond’s Civics and Social Studies Academy This lesson teaches students about Federalism – the sharing of power between the national, state and local Read More

How do executive orders work? video

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-do-executive-orders-work-video/.

From TED-Ed The framers of the U.S. Constitution made the power of executive order available to the president. How does it work? What’s the extent of Read More

Whose Heritage? Public Symbols of the Confederacy

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/whose-heritage-public-symbols-of-the-confederacy/.

From Southern Poverty Law Center “Across the South, communities began taking a critical look at many other symbols honoring the Confederacy and its icons — statues and Read More

History in Dispute: Charlottesville and Confederate Monuments

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/history-in-dispute-charlottesville-and-confederate-monuments/.

By The Choices Program How should public spaces be used to commemorate the past? Who should decide? How do governments and citizens shape historical memory? Read More

iCivics – “Do I Have A Right?” game and “Extension Pack”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-do-i-have-a-right-bill-of-rights-edition-game/.

In Do I Have a Right? students run their own firm of lawyers specializing in constitutional law. Students: Identify rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights Read More

iCivics – “Argument Wars” game and “Extension Pack”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-argument-wars-game-and-extension-pack/.

In Argument Wars, students try out their persuasive abilities by arguing a real Supreme Court case. The other lawyer plays their competition. Whoever uses the strongest Read More

Labor Day | All About the Holidays

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/labor-day-all-about-the-holidays/.

From PBS LearningMedia “Take your students on a look back to the Industrial Revolution and the establishment of Labor Day in 1894 to honor the Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 55: The Federal Reserve

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-55-the-federal-reserve/, civics 101 – episode 54: security clearance, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-54-security-clearance/, civics 101 – episode 52: state of emergency, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-52-state-of-emergency/, civics 101 – episode 51: treason, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-51-treason/, civics 101 – episode 50: u.s. voting systems, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-50-u-s-voting-systems/, civics 101 – episode 49: sanctions, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-49-sanctions/, civics 101 – episode 48: who gets to run for president, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-48-who-gets-to-run-for-president/, deferred action for childhood arrivals (daca), https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deferred-action-for-childhood-arrivals-daca/.

From C-Span Classroom “Former Commissioner of the U.S. Immigration & Naturalization Service, Doris Meissner discussed DACA and the possible impacts of changing the policy.” Watch Read More

On This Day: September 11, 2001

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/7512-2/.

From C-Span Classroom “Marking the anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, C-SPAN Classroom has aggregated a number of resources, including oral history Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 47: Federal Grand Juries

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-47-federal-grand-juries/, the federalist debate, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-federalist-debate/.

From iCivics After a brief reading, students are provided with Federalist/ Anti-Federalist arguments arranged in a well-organized table (big names and supporters, Who should rule? Which plan Read More

Constitutional Principles (HS)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/7503-2/.

From iCivics Students will: • Analyze the basic principles of the U.S. Constitution. • Identify relationships among popular sovereignty, consent of the governed, limited government, Read More

Podcast: Charlottesville and free assembly

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/podcast-charlottesville-and-free-assembly/.

National Constitution Center “Protests in Charlottesville, Baltimore, and Ferguson have prompted many questions about the right to protest in our country. What restrictions can governments Read More

10 fascinating facts about the Labor Day holiday

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/10-fascinating-facts-about-the-labor-day-holiday/.

National Constitution Center The first Monday in September is celebrated nationally (U.S. A) as Labor Day.  “The Labor Day holiday grew out of the late Read More

ProCon.org’s State Laws & State Data On…

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/procon-orgs-state-laws-state-data-on/.

Many ProCon.org’s websites feature state laws and state-specific research on the issues they cover. Find links to state laws and related state resources here. Be Read More

Separation of Powers game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/separation-of-powers-game/.

From Texas Law-Related Education This game asks students to sort the powers of government into the appropriate branch that exercises that power. Students will also get Read More

Predicting the Meaning of the Declaration of Independence

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/predicting-the-meaning-of-the-declaration-of-independence/.

From Texas Law-Related Education Part One: Students read statements and decide if they think the statement is true or false. Part Two: Students read the Declaration Read More

The Importance of What is Not Said in the Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-importance-of-what-is-not-said-in-the-constitution/.

From Texas Law-Related Education After reviewing the organization of the U.S. Constitution, students fill out an anticipation guide. They are given statements and they need to Read More

Mastering the Bill of Rights

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/mastering-the-bill-of-rights/.

From Law Focused Education, Inc To complete the study of the Bill of Rights, students play “Bill of Rights Bingo.” Pass out one of four Read More

Can They Do That?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/can-they-do-that/.

From Law Focused Education, Inc Students will gain knowledge of two constitutional principles: Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances, as well as become familiar Read More

Federalism–The Role of Government in my Life

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federalism-the-role-of-government-in-my-life/.

From Law Focused Education, Inc Students will… 1. Understand the role of local, state, and the federal governments in their lives. 2. Analyze which level Read More

Theft! A History of Music

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/theft-a-history-of-music/.

Published by The Center for the Study of the Public Domain at Duke Law School “Theft! A History of Music is a graphic novel laying Read More

ABA Legal Fact Check

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/aba-legal-fact-check/.

The American Bar Association will use case and statutory law and other legal precedents to separate legal fact from fiction. ABA Legal Fact Check: http://www.abalegalfactcheck.com/indexa.html Read More

Prohibition – Episode 1: A Nation of Drunkards

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/prohibition-episode-1-a-nation-of-drunkards/.

“PROHIBITION is a three-part, five-and-a-half-hour documentary film series directed by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick that tells the story of the rise, rule, and fall Read More

National Lampoon – A History of American Satire

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/national-lampoon-a-history-of-american-satire/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys Take a look at the history of political satire in America, including the 1987 Supreme Court case, Hustler Read More

The shifting history of Confederate monuments

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-shifting-history-of-confederate-monuments/.

Charlottesville, Virginia – a plan to remove a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from the city’s downtown leads to violence. In this video, Read More

The Pursuit: A History of Happiness

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-pursuit-a-history-of-happiness/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys “Here’s a line you might have heard once or twice: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that Read More

Debate: Gerrymandering Is Destroying the Political Center

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/7431-2/.

The National Constitution Center Event Date: November 2016 Watch video (1:46:15): “It is alleged that the practice of gerrymandering -dividing election districts into units to favor Read More

Lesson Plan: Redistricting and Gerrymandering

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/lesson-plan-redistricting-and-gerrymandering/.

From KQED/ By Rachel Roberson How do redistricting and gerrymandering work? Does gerrymandering silence voters? Who should decide how legislative districts are drawn? Students watch Read More

Presidential Baseball

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-baseball/.

Building Presidential knowledge through America’s favorite pastime. “Presidential Baseball is a multiple choice quiz in which one or more players test their knowledge to identify Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 46: Ambassadors

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-46-ambassadors/, civics 101 – episode 45: speaker of the house, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-45-speaker-of-the-house/, civics 101 – episode 44: intelligence agencies, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-44-intelligence-agencies/, american government – document based questions, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/american-government-document-based-questions/.

From Copy/ Paste Gr. 5 Government – Document Based and Constructed Response Questions For Elementary Students (DBQ CRQ Directions: Write an introductory paragraph. Use specific details Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 43: Presidential Pardons

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-43-presidential-pardons/, free speech on campus: trigger warnings, safe spaces, and controversial speech at u.s. colleges, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/free-speech-on-campus-trigger-warnings-safe-spaces-and-controversial-speech-at-u-s-colleges/.

Constitutional Rights Foundation “Public colleges and universities are government institutions and must abide by the First Amendment in protecting free speech. But what if college Read More

Understanding ‘Fake News’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/understanding-fake-news/.

Constitutional Rights Foundation “In this lesson, students learn about the phenomenon of “fake news,” how it spreads quickly on the Internet, and how to recognize Read More

Fake News: How A Partying Macedonian Teen Earns Thousands Publishing Lies

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/fake-news-how-a-partying-macedonian-teen-earns-thousands-publishing-lies/.

From NBC News via YouTube – An 18-year-old, who lives in the small Eastern European town of Veles, says he made at least $60,000 in Read More

Distinguish Fact From Opinion

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/distinguish-fact-from-opinion/.

This site has 50 ideas to help teachers bring current events into the classroom. Idea #43: News vs.opinion: what’s the difference? Use this skills practice lesson to Read More

Reliability of Sources

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/reliability-of-sources/.

From The Learning Network’s “50 Ways to Teach With Current Events” by Michael Gonchar This site has 50 ideas to help teachers bring current events into the classroom. Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/scicheck/

FactCheck.org’s SciCheck feature focuses exclusively on false and misleading scientific claims that are made by partisans to influence public policy. Go to: http://www.factcheck.org/scicheck/ tags: fake news, Read More

Virology Report: Online Rumor Breakdown

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/virology-report-online-rumor-breakdown/.

From The News Literacy Project A guide to help students fact-check rumorous claims. Go to: http://thenewsliteracyproject.org/sites/default/files/Viral-GO-071415.pdf tag: fake news  

Ten Questions For Fake News Detection

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/ten-questions-for-fake-news-detection/.

From The News Literacy Project Use these questions to assess the likelihood that a piece of information is fake news. Go to: http://www.thenewsliteracyproject.org/sites/default/files/GO-TenQuestionsForFakeNewsFINAL.pdf

Believe It or Not? Putting the Consumer’s Questions to Work

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/believe-it-or-not-putting-the-consumers-questions-to-work/.

From NewseumED In this activity, students apply the “consumer’s questions” to a chosen research topic in order to improve their media literacy skills. Go to: https://newseumed.org/activity/believe-it-or-not-putting-the-consumers-questions-to-work/ This Read More

What Would You Do? Media Ethics: Scenarios

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/media-ethics-scenarios/.

From NewseumED “This activity helps students apply journalism standards of accuracy, fairness and clarity in deciding how to report the news.”  

News Literacy – Mini-Lesson A: Monetization

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/news-literacy-mini-lesson-a-monetization/.

From iCivics “In this mini-lesson, give your students a reality check about the news industry by helping them understand that news is a business. Students Read More

News Literacy – Mini-Lesson B: Satire

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/news-literacy-mini-lesson-b-satire/.

From iCivics “Don’t let your students be fooled into believing satire is real news. Satirical news stories, like political cartoons, are meant to poke fun—not Read More

Propaganda: What’s the Message?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/propaganda-whats-the-message/.

From iCivics OVERVIEW Examine the seven forms of propaganda found in advertising and politics. Discover the persuasive methods behind the messaging we see every day Read More

The Role of Media

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-role-of-media/.

From iCivics OVERVIEW What is the media? What does it do? Students examine the types and roles of the media by taking on the role Read More

iCivics – “Cast Your Vote” game and “Extension Pack”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-cast-your-vote-game/.

Election Day is coming! In Cast Your Vote, students will discover what it takes to become an informed voter — from knowing where they stand on Read More

iCivics – “Win the White House” game and “Extension Pack”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-win-the-white-house-game-and-extension-pack/.

Objectives – Explain the electoral process (primary and general elections, Electoral College) Identify the influence of the media in forming public opion Analyze how parts Read More

Freedom of the Press: New York Times v. United States

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-the-press-new-york-times-v-united-states/.

From Annenberg Classroom This documentary examines the First Amendment’s protection of a free press as well as the historic origins of this right and the Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 42: U.S. Territories

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-42-u-s-territories/.

Each podcast episode of Civics 101 gives listeners a non-partisan, topical “refresher course on how American democracy was designed and how it is practiced in Read More

Assignment Media Literacy (High School Unit 5): The Language of Politics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/assignment-media-literacy-high-school-unit-5-the-language-of-politics/.

From the Media Education Lab Analyze policial communication strategies and evaluate the impact of mass media on the political campaign process. 5.1 – Distortion Tactics Read More

Hate Speech & Campus Speech Codes

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/hate-speech-campus-speech-codes/.

By David L. Hudson Jr., Freedom Forum Institute This article looks at some of the speech codes implemented by public colleges and universities in order to combat discrimination, Read More

Freedom of Information Overview

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-information-overview/.

By David C. Vladeck, Freedom Forum Institute This reading is divided into two parts – an overview of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and how it Read More

How to separate fact and fiction online

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-to-separate-fact-and-fiction-online/.

TED Talk by Markham Nolan “By the end of this talk, there will be 864 more hours of video on YouTube and 2.5 million more photos Read More

Habeas Corpus: The Guantanamo Cases

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/habeas-corpus-the-guantanamo-cases/.

From Annenberg Classroom “One of our oldest human rights, habeas corpus safeguards individual freedom by preventing unlawful or arbitrary imprisonment. This documentary examines habeas corpus Read More

Photographic Dictionary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/photographic-dictionary/.

The Photographic dictionary is designed to appeal to a wide audience – children and people who speak English as a second language, in particular. Browse Read More

The Key to Keywords

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-key-to-keywords/.

Which keywords will give you the best search results? Students will be able to … -experiment with different keyword searches and compare their results. -refine Read More

Strategic Searching

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/strategic-searching/.

“Students learn that to conduct effective and efficient online searches, they must use a variety of searching strategies rather than relying on a single source. Read More

Identifying High-Quality Sites

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/identifying-high-quality-sites-6-8/.

Students explore the idea that anyone can publish on the Internet, so not all sites are equally trustworthy. Students will: understand how the ease of publishing Read More

Reading Like a Historian – Historical Thinking Chart

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/reading-like-a-historian-historical-thinking-chart/.

“This chart elaborates on the historical reading skills of sourcing, corroboration, contextualization, and close reading. In addition to questions that relate to each skill, the Read More

Reading Like a Historian – Evaluating Sources

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/reading-like-a-historian-evaluating-sources/.

“In this activity, students sharpen their ability to source documents and learn to think critically about what sources provide the best evidence to answer historical Read More

The First Five Podcast: The Band Who Must Not Be Named

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-first-five-podcast-the-band-who-must-not-be-named/.

Does a law that prohibits trademarking an offensive or racist name violate freedom of speech? “When Simon Tam formed the world’s first all-Asian-American dance rock band, he Read More

QUIZ: How Good Are You At Detecting Bias? (with Lesson Plan)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/quiz-how-good-are-you-at-detecting-bias-with-lesson-plan/.

This lesson plan features an interactive quiz: Do You Recognize These Types of Biases? as well as a video (5:20): Why Do Our Brains Love Fake Read More

Anticipation Guide strategy

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/anticipation-guide/.

“An anticipation guide is a comprehension strategy that is used before reading to activate students’ prior knowledge and build curiosity about a new topic. Before reading, students Read More

Not all scientific studies are created equal

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/not-all-scientific-studies-are-created-equal/.

  “Every day, we are bombarded by attention grabbing headlines that promise miracle cures to all of our ailments — often backed up by a Read More

Freedom of Information (FOI) curriculum and classroom ideas for instructors

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-information-foi-curriculum-and-classroom-ideas-for-instructors/.

Sone ideas for teaching FOI in the college or high school classroom (Record requests, Organized FOI audits, I seek dead people, Secret justice, Dream House, Bleachers Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/stake/

“@Stake is a multiplayer role-playing game that builds empathy and creativity for small group deliberation… players are provided a deeper understanding of community needs by Read More

iCivics – The Role of Media

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-the-role-of-media/.

What is the media? What does it do? Students examine the types and roles of the media by taking on the role of newsmaker and Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 41: Obstruction of Justice

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-41-obstruction-of-justice/, civics 101 – episode 40: church & state, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-40-church-state/, civics 101 – episode 39: lobbying, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-39-lobbying/, civics 101 – episode 38: the 25th amendment, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-38-the-25th-amendment/, civics 101 – episode 37: autocracies & oligarchies & democracies, oh my, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-37-autocracies-oligarchies-democracies-oh-my/, civics 101 – episode 35: party whips, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/7218-2/, civics 101 – episode 34: separation of powers, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-34-separation-of-powers/, educating about immigration, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/educating-about-immigration/.

“Educating About Immigration helps teachers and students address issues of immigration productively and critically. It is a one-stop informational and interactive clearinghouse on topics of U.S. Read More

Image Detective – Women and Suffrage

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/image-detective-women-and-suffrage/.

Pose a question, gather clues, get background information, draw a conclusion using primary source documents with this online media literacy activity. Go to: http://cct2.edc.org/PMA/image_detective/main/index.html?women      

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitute/

Constitute is a powerful research tool. Read, search, and compare the world’s constitutions. Go to: https://www.constituteproject.org tag: interactive constitution  

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/factitious/

By The American University Game Lab and JoLT This game was designed to “playfully show how to detect fake news.” The player is shown an Read More

Photo Ethics: A Photograph’s Integrity

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/photo-ethics-todays-front-pages-photographs/.

From NewseumED “This case study explores a photojournalist’s ethical duty to be fair, accurate and clear, specifically in regard to manipulating photographs.” Divide students into small groups. Read More

When the News Media Make Mistakes

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/believe-it-or-not-when-the-news-media-make-mistakes/.

From NewseumED “Freedom of press doesn’t promise perfection. By exploring corrections, students learn why the news media make mistakes and what happens.” Option to focus on Read More

Today’s Front Pages (archives)- Wednesday, September 12, 2001

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/todays-front-pages-archives-wednesday-september-12-2001/.

From the Newseum “Through a special agreement with more than 2,000 newspapers worldwide, the Newseum displays these front pages each day on its website. The Read More

The Press and the Presidency: Here’s What We Think, Editorials and Opinion Articles

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-press-and-the-presidency-heres-what-we-think-editorials-and-opinion-articles/.

From NewseumED “In this activity, students learn the purpose of editorials and opinion articles and evaluate their effectiveness.” Go to: https://newseumed.org/activity/the-press-and-the-presidency-heres-what-we-think-editorials-and-opinion-articles/ tags: fake news, media literacy

Evaluating Election Ads

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/evaluating-election-ads/.

From NewseumED “In this activity, students examine some of the techniques political campaigns use in ads to persuade voters.” Go to: https://newseumed.org/activity/evaluating-election-ads/ tag: media literacy

The Fundamentals of News

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-fundamentals-of-news/.

From NewseumED This video (4:06 min.) defines essential terms that will help students understand the media. Worksheet provided. tags: fake news, media literacy  

The Media Literacy Maven!

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-media-literacy-maven/.

“NewseumED’s Media Literacy Maven is your resource for teaching the importance of being critical news consumers. Periodically, she takes viewers through her favorite media literacy Read More

Source: Can I Trust the Creator?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/source-can-i-trust-the-creator/.

From NewseumED Students find a news story that includes information/facts from at least two different individuals. Then, they determine whether they can trust the story by investigating Read More

Evidence: Do the Facts Hold Up?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/evidence-do-the-facts-hold-up/.

From NewseumED Students dig into an article to determine whether they can trust the information by verifying the evidence it presents. An easy to use worksheet Read More

Is This Story Share-Worthy? Flowchart

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/is-this-story-share-worthy-flowchart/.

From NewseumED Students use an infographic to gauge the value of a news story and weigh what they should do with it. Go to: https://newseumed.org/activity/is-this-story-share-worthy-flowchart/ tags: fake news, Read More

E.S.C.A.P.E. Junk News

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/e-s-c-a-p-e-junk-news/.

From NewseumED Students learn a handy acronym to help them remember six key concepts for evaluating information (Evidence, Source, Context, Audience, Purpose, Execution), then test the Read More

U.S. v. Alvarez – United States Courts

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/u-s-v-alvarez-united-states-courts/.

“This First Amendment activity is an appellate hearing on the landmark Supreme Court case U.S. v. Alvarez dealing with lies and free speech. Using this Read More

The 14th Amendment: Transforming American Democracy

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-14th-amendment-transforming-american-democracy/.

From the American Bar Association’s Division for Public Education On pages 4-9 of the 2017 Law Day Planning Guide: Fourteenth Amendment Overview (with Questions to Consider), Fourteenth Read More

Fourteenth Amendment, Fundamental Rights, and Same-Sex Marriage

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/fourteenth-amendment-fundamental-rights-and-same-sex-marriage/.

by Evan Gerstmann “While the meaning of the Thirteenth and Fifteenth Amendments has always been reasonably clear, the courts have struggled considerably with the meaning Read More

Tracking the Transformative Fourteenth Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/tracking-the-transformative-fourteenth-amendment/.

By JoEllen Ambrose - Insights on Law & Society 17.2, Winter 2017 DURATION: One class period for speaking strategy and research; one class period for role-play Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 33: Declaring War

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-33-declaring-war/, civics 101 – episode 32: budget basics, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-32-budget-basics/, civics 101 – episode 30: the national debt and the deficit, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-30-the-national-debt-and-the-deficit/, knowledge seminar – jury service overview, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/knowledge-seminar-jury-service-overview/.

From United States Courts An overview of jury service and what to expect if called for jury duty. Video (3:33): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grnUvCNAfGA

Court Shorts: An Impartial Federal Judiciary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/court-shorts-an-impartial-federal-judiciary/.

From United States Courts Federal judges answer questions regarding a fair and impartial judiciary. Video (5:15): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TywjEd6QPuk  

Legal Stuff Booklets

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legal-stuff-booklets/.

Produced by the Hennepin County Bar Association, Legal Stuff,  is a 48-page booklet of practical legal information about the laws that impact the daily life of Minnesota residents.  The booklet Read More

Executive Branch – Presidential Powers & Structure (Mr. Raymond)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/executive-branch-presidential-powers-structure-mr-raymond/.

From Mr. Raymond’s Civics and Social Studies Academy This video teaches students the structure, functions and processes of the Executive Branch of the United States Read More

C-SPAN’s Constitution Clips

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/c-spans-constitution-clips/.

“C-SPAN’s Constitution Clips makes the U.S. Constitution come alive by providing teachers and students with video clips from C-SPAN’s Video Library of the Constitution in Read More

Hearing Questions – We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/hearing-questions-we-the-people-the-citizen-and-the-constitution/.

From the Center for Civic Education “The simulated congressional hearing questions are an excellent way for students to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the Read More

How to Use Google Reverse Image Search to Fact Check Images

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-to-use-google-reverse-image-search-to-fact-check-images/.

“Have you ever wondered about the source or history behind an image? Google image search can help provide answers.” This video demonstrates how Google’s reverse Read More

How to Spot Fake News video

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-to-spot-fake-news-video/.

From FlackCheck Tips on consuming news like a fact-checker. Video (3:22): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AkwWcHekMdo tags: fake news, media literacy

Civics 101 – Episode 29: Political Speechwriting

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-29-political-speechwriting/, civics 101 – episode 28: congressional caucuses, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-28-congressional-caucuses/, civics 101 – episode 27: how a case gets to the supreme court, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-27-how-a-case-gets-to-the-supreme-court/, more perfect: cruel and unusual, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/more-perfect-cruel-and-unusual/.

Produced by WNYC Studios. A mini series. In context of the death penalty as punishment, explore three little words embedded in the Eighth 8th Amendment Read More

More Perfect presents: Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/more-perfect-presents-adoptive-couple-v-baby-girl/.

Produced by WNYC Studios. A mini series. “This is the story of a three-year-old girl and the highest court in the land. The Supreme Court Read More

First Amendment Freedoms and Fourteenth Amendment Due Process & Equal Protection (Mr. Raymond)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/first-amendment-freedoms-and-fourteenth-amendment-due-process-equal-protection-mr-raymonds-civics-and-social-studies-academy/.

From Mr. Raymond’s Civics and Social Studies Academy In this video, students will learn about the five basic freedoms of the First Amendment – freedom Read More

US Supreme Court Landmark Cases (Mr. Raymond)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/us-supreme-court-landmark-cases-mr-raymonds-civics-and-social-studies-academy/.

From Mr. Raymond’s Civics and Social Studies Academy “This lesson teaches students about the landmark US Supreme Court Cases: Marbury v. Madison, Plessy v. Ferguson, Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/usafacts/

USAFacts: a non-partisan, not-for-profit civic initiative that uses publicly available government data sources to create a portrait of the American population, government finances, and government’s Read More

The Story of Earth Day: Everything’s Gone Green

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-story-of-earth-day-everythings-gone-green/.

National Constitution Center Explore the history of the environmental movement in the United States and the origins of Earth Day. Video (27:02): https://constitutioncenter.org/learn/hall-pass/the-story-of-earth-day

American Governance: Center for Civic Education Packet

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/american-governance/.

Shared by Gale – Cengage Learning for the Center for Civic Education A special series of articles explores key concepts behind each of the six Read More

Correlated Primary Source Documents for We the People Textbook (Middle School and High School)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/correlated-primary-source-documents-for-we-the-people-textbook-middle-school-and-high-school/.

From the Center for Civic Education and ConSource Looking for a quick and easy way to read the primary sources mentioned in the We the Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 26: The Cabinet

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-26-the-cabinet/, civics 101 – episode 25: term limits, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-25-term-limits/, civics 101 – episode 24: the irs, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-24-the-irs/, civics 101 – episode 23: emoluments, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-23-emoluments/, civics 101 – episode 22: congressional investigations, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-22-congressional-investigations/, everything you need to know about omnibus bills, and why they’re so popular at the minnesota legislature, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/everything-you-need-to-know-about-omnibus-bills-and-why-theyre-so-popular-at-the-minnesota-legislature/.

By Briana Bierschbach, MinnPost What, exactly, is an omnibus bill? How does Minnesota handle omnibus bills? Other states? Terms explained: Omnibus, Christmas Tree Bills or Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 20: The Electoral College

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-20-the-electoral-college/, civics 101 – episode 19: senate rules, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-19-senate-rules/, civics 101 – episode 17: veto, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-17-veto/, civics 101 – episode 16: gerrymandering, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-16-gerrymandering/, civics 101 – episode 15: department of state and department of defense, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-15-department-of-state-and-department-of-defense/, deliberation: sanctuary cities, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deliberation-sanctuary-cities/.

From Street Law Should cities or counties be able to declare themselves “sanctuaries” and refuse to cooperate with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement detainer requests? Current Read More

2017 Supreme Court Nomination Advising Senators Activity

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/2017-supreme-court-nomination-advising-senators-activity/.

From Street Law Are you teaching about President Trump’s nomination of Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court? Street Law has new resources for teaching Read More

Federal vs State Laws video

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federal-vs-state-laws-video/.

Produced by the Robert H. Smith Center for the Constitution at James Madison’s Montpelier Learn about the Supremecy Clause of the US Constitution in this Read More

The House Rules Committee video

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-house-rules-committee-video/.

Produced by the Robert H. Smith Center for the Constitution at James Madison’s Montpelier This short video covers the role of the House Rules Committee Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 13: Filibuster

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-13-filibuster/, civics 101 – episode 12: the nuclear codes, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-12-the-nuclear-codes/, civics 101 – episode 11: the state of the union, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-11-the-state-of-the-union/, america under the articles of confederation video, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/america-under-the-articles-of-confederation-video/.

Produced by the Robert H. Smith Center for the Constitution at James Madison’s Montpelier What were some problems under the Articles of Confederation? Video (6:26): Read More

Constitutional Bingo: By the Number

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitutional-bingo-by-the-number/.

From Law Focused Education, Inc Students review their understanding of the Constitution of the United States by playing a Bingo game in which every answer Read More

Looping Through the Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/looping-through-the-constitution/.

From Law Focused Education, Inc Students will review key facts about the ideas and key people involved in the writing of the U.S. Constitution by Read More

Legislative Process Videos

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legislative-process-videos/.

The Congress.gov Legislative Process Videos site provides a series of short videos on the legislative process. A transcript is included with each video. 1. Overview Read More

Bell Ringer: 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/bell-ringer-13th-14th-and-15th-amendments/.

From C-Span Classroom Students will be able to explain the relationship among the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments. Bell ringer video (4:32): https://www.c-span.org/classroom/document/?1323 Username: students Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 1: Chief of Staff

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-1-chief-of-staff/, civics 101 – episode 2: white house press corps, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-2-white-house-press-corps/, civics 101 – episode 3: understanding the public comment period, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-3-understanding-the-public-comment-period/, civics 101 – episode 4: how to amend the constitution, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-4-how-to-amend-the-constitution/, civics 101 – episode 10: impeachment, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-10-impeachment/, civics 101 – episode 9: overturning a supreme court ruling, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-9-overturning-a-supreme-court-ruling/, civics 101 – episode 5: calling your congressperson, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-5-calling-your-congressperson/, civics 101 – episode 6: the national security council, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-6-the-national-security-council/, researching a supreme court justice – how they work, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/researching-a-supreme-court-justice-how-they-work/.

From C-Span Classroom “How does the Supreme Court decide what cases to hear and what is the process they go through in hearing a case? Read More

Lesson Plan: 2016-2017 Supreme Court Oral Arguments

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/lesson-plan-2016-2017-supreme-court-oral-arguments/.

From C-Span Classroom As a class, students watch a brief video (7:42) of Supreme Court Justices explaining the process and importance of oral arguments during Read More

Lesson Plan: Media, Confidential Sources, and Shield Laws

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/lesson-plan-media-confidential-sources-and-shield-laws/.

From C-Span Classroom In this lesson, students work in small groups. They consider why confidential sources are important to journalists and analyze a series of Read More

1st Amendment and Classified Leaks

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/1st-amendment-and-classified-leaks/.

From C-Span Classroom What is the balance between security and transparency? Students work in small groups to analyze video clips portraying different sides of the Read More

Civics 101 – Episode 7: Executive Orders

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-7-executive-orders/, civics 101 – episode 8: federal courts, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civics-101-episode-8-federal-courts/, icivics – “power play” game, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-power-play-game/.

In Power Play, students coach a team of players to develop arguments that, if persuasive, will pull power statues toward a side: state or federal government. Read More

iCivics – “People’s Pie” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/icivics-peoples-pie-game/.

In People’s Pie, students will learn to control the budget of the federal government. They will choose how federal revenues should be raised and how taxpayers’ Read More

Power to the States! (HS)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/6863-2/.

From iCivics Lesson Objectives: The student will… • Explain the origin of states’ power as pre- existing the Constitution. • Define and distinguish reserved, expressed, Read More

State Legislatures (HS)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/state-legislatures-hs/.

From iCivics “Students are introduced to the basic structure and function of state legislatures, as well as the variety in those structures. They will also Read More

Constitution Class Video – Sixth Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitution-class-video-sixth-amendment/.

From Annenberg Classroom Topics: What is the purpose of the Sixth Amendment? What rights are guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment? This video is “…part of Read More

Constitution USA – Episode IV: Built to Last? (We the People)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitution-usa-episode-iv-built-to-last-we-the-people/.

Part IV of a four-part series hosted by Peter Sagal. Viewers are introduced to some of today’s major constitutional debates. For “each contemporary story, Sagal Read More

A Quick Guide to Libel Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/a-quick-guide-to-libel-law/.

What is libel law? How does it work? Are newspapers “totally protected” from lawsuits? Can libel laws be “opened up”? Is freedom of the press Read More

Free Expression on Social Media

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/free-expression-on-social-media/.

“The First Amendment protects individuals from government censorship. Social media platforms are private companies, and can censor what people post on their websites as they Read More

Leaks and the Media

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/leaks-and-the-media/.

by Lata Nott, Executive Director, First Amendment Center This primer’s interactive graphics and visual aids addresses the questions: What is a leak? Is leaking illegal? Read More

High Crimes and Misdemeanors

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/high-crimes-and-misdemeanors/.

Constitutional Rights Foundation The grounds for most impeachments is the phrase “High Crimes and Misdemeanors” in the U.S. Constitution. Students complete a reading that examines Read More

Growth of a Nation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/animated-atlas-growth-of-a-nation/.

By Peter Mays This 1o minute presentation illustrates the growth of the United States from the original 13 states in 1789. tag: map

America 101 videos – Donkey for Democrats/ Elephant for Republicans

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/america-101-videos-donkey-for-democrats-elephant-for-republicans/.

From History.com David Eisenbach explains the origin of the donkey as a symbol of the Democratic party and how the Republican party and the symbol of Read More

Mission: Citizen – Student Resources

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/mission-citizen-student-resources/.

From Mission: Citizen These materials are part of a series of free, eight week classes (in Portland, Oregon) designed to provide a basis in American history, citizenship Read More

Cartoon Gallery

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/cartoons-for-the-classroom/.

Browse current/ historical editorial cartoons here: https://www.editorialcartoonists.com/editorial-cartoon-galleries/.    

Sanctuary Cities in the Spotlight

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/sanctuary-cities-in-the-spotlight/.

From TeachableMoment “What are sanctuary cities, and why are they girding for conflict in the wake of Trump’s election? This lesson consists of two student Read More

Due Process of Law: Crash Course Government and Politics #28

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/due-process-of-law-crash-course-government-and-politics-28/.

From CrashCourse Topic: Due Process of Law – 5th and 6th amendments and how they ensure a fair trial; Gideon v. Wainwright and Miranda v. Read More

Constitution Class Video – Equal Protection/What Is Discrimination?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitution-class-video-equal-protectionwhat-is-discrimination/.

From Annenberg Classroom Topics: What is the purpose of the equal protection clause? What did Plessy v. Ferguson and Brown v. Board of Education say? Read More

Constitution Class Video – Article II: Executive Branch

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitution-class-video-article-ii-executive-branch/.

From Annenberg Classroom Topics: What does the president do? How has presidential power expanded? This video is “…part of an online course called Introduction to Read More

Yick Wo and the Equal Protection Clause

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/yick-wo-and-the-equal-protection-clause/.

From Annenberg Classroom “This documentary examines the case Yick Wo v. Hopkins (1886) in which the Supreme Court held that noncitizens have due process rights Read More

Short Take: Native Americans, The U.S. Government, and a History of Treaties

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/short-take-native-americans-the-u-s-government-and-a-history-of-treaties/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys “In this Short Take, Brian talks to Robert T. Anderson, a Professor of Law and Director of the Read More

Liam Learns: Seven Principles of the Constitution Videos

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/liam-learns-seven-principles-of-the-constitution-videos/.

From Texas Law-Related Education Liam Learns is a video series designed to help teach and reinforce the seven principles of constitutionalism: Checks and Balances, Federalism, Individual Read More

Gideon v. Wainwright (1963) – iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/gideon-v-wainwright-1963-icivics/.

From iCivics’ Landmark Library This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court’s decision that gave defendants in state criminal courts the right to a lawyer. Read More

Marbury v. Madison (1803) -iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/marbury-v-madison-1803-icivics/.

From iCivics’ Landmark Library Students will: Define “judicial review” and describe its importance. Identify the main arguments put forth in the case. Describe the Supreme Court’s Read More

Korematsu v. United States (1944) -iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/korematsu-v-united-states-1944-icivics/.

From iCivics’ Landmark Library After a brief reading, students use a word bank to complete President Reagan’s apology to Japanese Americans who were interned during World Read More

Gibbons v. Ogden (1824) -iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/gibbons-v-ogden-1824-icivics/.

From iCivics’ Landmark Library Students will: Describe the Commerce Clause and the Supremacy Clause, and their effect Identify the main arguments put forth in the case. Read More

Texas v. Johnson (1989) -iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/texas-v-johnson-1989-icivics/.

From iCivics’ Landmark Library Students will: Describe the First Amendment right to freedom of speech and the kind of speech it protects. Identify the main arguments Read More

Brown v. Board of Education (1954) -iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/brown-v-board-of-education-1954-icivics/.

From iCivics’ Landmark Library This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court’s decision that overturned “separate but equal” in public schools. Students learn about segregation Read More

U.S. v. Nixon (1974) -iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/u-s-v-nixon-1974-icivics/.

From iCivics’ Landmark Library Students will: Describe basic events surrounding the Watergate break-in. Explain the president’s privilege of confidentiality. Identify the main arguments put forth in Read More

A Very Big Branch

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/a-very-big-branch/.

From iCivics Students will be able to: Explain the roles and responsibilities of executive departments and the president’s cabinet. Describe how executive departments and agencies Read More

The First 100 Days

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/6720-2/.

From iCivics After a 2-page reading, students will complete 2 pages of guided activities designed to generate discussion. Students will: explain the origin of the Read More

theweekincongress.com Weekly Summary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/theweekincongress-com-weekly-summary/.

By theweekincongress.com This website is published weekly when the House and / or Senate is in session and doing legislative business. They provide weekly summaries Read More

Congressional Moments Videos

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/congressional-moments-videos/.

From Indiana University Center on Representative Government “Examine key legislation throughout our country’s history that impacts our lives today. Watch videos featuring primary source images Read More

Civil Rights & Liberties: Crash Course Government #23

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/civil-rights-liberties-crash-course-government-23/.

From CrashCourse This video gives an overview of civil rights and civil liberties. “Often these terms are used interchangeably, but they are actually very different. Read More

Controlling Bureaucracies: Crash Course Government and Politics #17

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/controlling-bureaucracies-crash-course-government-and-politics-17/.

From CrashCourse How do we keep bureaucracy, expanding power within the executive branch, in check? Video (7:24): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12MCVhfo4j4&index=17&list=PL8dPuuaLjXtOfse2ncvffeelTrqvhrz8H

Types of Bureaucracies: Crash Course Government and Politics #16

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/types-of-bureaucracies-crash-course-government-and-politics-16/.

From CrashCourse What are some of the agencies of the executive branch and different types of bureaucracies? Find out by watching this video. Video (5:57): Read More

Different Voices, Different Occasions

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/different-voices-different-occasions/.

From “Five Easy Drama Games for the Early Elementary Classroom” by ArtsEdge Help young students begin to develop speaking skills that enable them to influence Read More

Gerrymandering: Crash Course Government and Politics #37

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/gerrymandering-crash-course-government-and-politics-37/.

From CrashCourse This video covers the topic of Gerrymandering, the process in which voting districts are redrawn (usually in census years) in a way to Read More

Congressional Leadership: Crash Course Government and Politics #8

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/congressional-leadership-crash-course-government-and-politics-8/.

From CrashCourse Explore the leadership structure of Congress. Examine the responsibilities of the speaker of the house, the majority and minority leaders as well as Read More

Congressional Committees: Crash Course Government and Politics #7

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/congressional-committees-crash-course-government-and-politics-7/.

From CrashCourse What is the role of committees in the legislative process? Learn about standing committees, joint committees, conference committees, and caucuses (not the candidate-choosing Read More

Congressional Elections: Crash Course Government and Politics #6

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/congressional-elections-crash-course-government-and-politics-6/.

From CrashCourse Craig Benzine talks about the importance of congressional elections – the frequency of elections in the Senate and House, typical characteristics of a Read More

Constitutional Compromises: Crash Course Government and Politics #5

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitutional-compromises-crash-course-government-and-politics-5/.

From CrashCourse The United State’s current system of government is it’s second attempt. This video covers some of the failures of the Articles of Confederation Read More

Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances: Crash Course Government and Politics #3

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/separation-of-powers-and-checks-and-balances-crash-course-government-and-politics-3/.

From CrashCourse In theory, the Legislative Branch, the Executive Branch, and the Judicial Brach are designed to keep each other in check, and to keep Read More

Yes! to Violent Video Games? Exploring Brown v. Entertainment Merchants Assn.

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/yes-to-violent-video-games-exploring-brown-v-entertainment-merchants-assn/.

By Hon. Sue Leeson – Oregon Supreme Court, retired Go to: http://www.classroomlaw.org/resources/teaching-materials/#1st and scroll down to “Media” to find a Powerpoint-like presentation about the First Read More

Presidential Powers and Their Limits

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-powers-and-their-limits/.

By JoEllen Ambrose – Insights on Law & Society 17.1, Fall 2016 This lesson offers several instructional strategies enabling students to examine more closely presidential Read More

What is an Executive Order?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-is-an-executive-order/.

Teaching Legal Docs is a feature in each issue of Insights on Law & Society. It considers legal documents as primary sources and attempts to unpack them for students and teachers.

Teaching Strategies from Landmark Cases.org

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/6650-2/.

Street Law, Inc.and the Supreme Court Historical Society present a full range of resources and activities to support the teaching of landmark Supreme Court cases. Case Read More

The Question Formulation Technique (QFT) for Summative Assessment video

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-question-formulation-technique-qft-for-summative-assessment-video/.

From The Right Question Institute The Question Formulation Technique (QFT) is “an evidence-based strategy that allows all people to produce their own questions, improve their Read More

Fighting Words – A History of Debate in America

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/fighting-words-a-history-of-debate-in-america/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys Take a look at the history of political debate in America. Listen (59:05): http://backstoryradio.org/shows/fighting-words/

Pulling the Curtain – Voting in America

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/pulling-the-curtain-voting-in-america/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys “In this episode of BackStory, the History Guys look at voting trends – from the changing mechanisms of Read More

U.S. Electoral College Frequently Asked Questions

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/u-s-electoral-college-frequently-asked-questions/.

From The National Archives and Records Administration Click the links for answers to frequently asked questions about the U.S. Electoral College. https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/electoral-college/faq.html#whyec

Video: How does ranked-choice voting work?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/video-how-does-ranked-choice-voting-work/.

Under the Minneapolis’ ranked choice voting system, also called instant runoff voting, voters choose up to three candidates and rank them — first choice, second Read More

Constitution USA – Episode III: Created Equal (Equality)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitution-usa-episode-iii-created-equal-equality/.

Part III of a four-part series hosted by Peter Sagal. Viewers are introduced to some of today’s major constitutional debates. For “each contemporary story, Sagal Read More

Constitution USA – Episode II: It’s a Free Country (Rights)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitution-usa-episode-ii-its-a-free-country-rights/.

Part II of a four-part series hosted by Peter Sagal. Viewers are introduced to some of today’s major constitutional debates. For “each contemporary story, Sagal Read More

Constitution USA – Episode I: A More Perfect Union (Federalism)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitution-usa-episode-1-a-more-perfect-union-federalism/.

Part I or a four-part series hosted by Peter Sagal. Viewers are introduced to some of today’s major constitutional debates. For “each contemporary story, Sagal Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/politifact/

PolitiFact staffers research statements made by elected officials, candidates, leaders of political parties and political activists, and rate their accuracy on the Truth-O-Meter, from True Read More

American President: A Reference Resource

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/american-president-a-reference-resource/.

This website includes extensive video, audio, and text of presidential speeches to help expand understanding of the presidency, public policies, and political history. http://millercenter.org/president#classroom-nav

All About Redistricting

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/all-about-redistricting/.

A comprehensive guide to the process of drawing electoral lines by Justin Levitt, Professor of Law at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles. http://redistricting.lls.edu/why.php

ProCon.org – 2016 Presidential Election: The Candidates and Where They Stand on the Issues

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/procon-org-2016-presidential-election-the-candidates-and-where-they-stand-on-the-issues/.

Researched non-partisan pro-con presentations of where US presidential candidates stand on issues. http://2016election.procon.org

The Living Room Candidate

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-living-room-candidate/.

The Living Room Candidate: Presidential campaign commercials from 1952-2016. http://www.livingroomcandidate.org

270towin.com

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/270towin-com/.

270towin.com: This website educates its audience on the Electoral College system through the use of an interactive Electoral College map for 2016 and a history Read More

FactCheck.org

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/factcheck/.

FactCheck.org: A nonpartisan, nonprofit project which monitors “…the factual accuracy of what is said by major U.S. political players in the form of TV ads, Read More

Project Vote Smart

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/project-vote-smart/.

Voting records, campaign finances, interest group ratings, public statements, issue positions, and biographical and contact information for every candidate and elected official from President to Read More

Electoral Dysfunction

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/6583-2/.

Directed by David Deschamps, Leslie D. Farrell and Bennett Singer “Officially endorsed by The National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS), this closed-captioned video is Read More

Blue Feed, Red Feed

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/blue-feed-red-feed/.

From The Wall Street Journal See Liberal Facebook and Conservative Facebook, Side by Side. To demonstrate how reality may differ for different Facebook users, The Read More

Pulse of the Populace

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/pulse-of-the-populace/.

The Georgetown ‘Pulse of the Populace’ (GU PoP) is an interactive website which allows the public and students to familiarize themselves with the top ten Read More

The Election of 1800 Animatic

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-election-of-1800-animatic/.

Published June 12, 2016 by Giselle Duration: 04:03 This animated video depicts the election of 1800 using the lyrics from the Hamilton, the Musical.  Students Read More

Election Lessons from Classroom Law Project

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/election-lessons-from-classroom-law-project/.

From Classroom Law Project To help you through the hype, Classroom Law Project is again offering popular election season lessons. The lessons are well-researched, non-partisan, Read More

Presidential Debate Analysis (current and historical)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-debate-analysis-current-and-historical/.

From C-Span Classroom This lesson allows students to compare and contrast the current presidential debates with past presidential debates. Students will watch and evaluate Presidential Read More

Better Questions – Better Decisions Voter Engagement

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/better-questions-better-decisions-voter-engagement/.

From the Right Question Institute The BQBD Voter Engagement Workshop offers a free, simple, easy to implement, engagement nonpartisan lesson for any middle school or high school social Read More

“I Side With” political ideology quiz

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/i-side-with-political-ideology-quiz/.

I Side With – Political Ideology quiz. Can take shorter or longer version of quiz. Matches up beliefs with the 5 major candidates and explains Read More

Political Compass

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/political-compass/.

Political Compass - The Political Compass has been on the internet since 2001.  It is a continually accessible profile of a political personality applicable to all democracies. Read More

Political Spectrum Quiz

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/political-spectrum-quiz/.

Political Spectrum Quiz- From GoToQuiz.com (40 questions, give results and also has maps that show leanings of people who taken the quiz by state) Discover Read More

Political Typology Quiz

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/political-typology-quiz/.

Pew Research Center Are you a Steadfast Conservative? A Solid Liberal? Or somewhere in between? Take this quiz to find out which Political Typology group Read More

More Perfect podcast

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/more-perfect/.

From Radiolab, Produced by WNYC Studios Radio lab’s mini series, More Perfect, “…connects you to the decisions made inside the court’s hallowed halls, and explains Read More

Candidate for An American America Video Generic Presidential Campaign Ad Video

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/candidate-for-an-american-america-video-generic-presidential-campaign-ad-video/.

From Digg Take a humorous look at how political ads work. This spoof campaign ad uses only stock footage and features a “generic” presidential candidate. Read More

Debate Observation and Analysis Sheet (2016)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/debate-observation-and-analysis-sheet/.

From The Learning Network “The presidential debates give students a chance to see both candidates side by side, answering questions about the nation’s most serious Read More

Election 2016: Analyzing a Campaign Ad

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/election-2016-analyzing-a-campaign-ad/.

From The Learning Network Students watch two short television commercials, one representing each campaign. A sampling of commercials promoting each candidate (some were created by Read More

Teaching With: ‘How to Win an Election’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-with-how-to-win-an-election/.

From The Learning Network “In this short documentary, a leading political strategist explains how candidates use the art of storytelling to help swing elections. Encourage Read More

Election 2016: Who Are the Candidates?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/election-2016-who-are-the-candidates/.

From The Learning Network Part One of a Four-Part Election Unit- Students create candidate profiles to inform voters about the competing candidates in this presidential Read More

Tips for Testifying Before a Legislative Committee

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/6454-2/.

From Minnesota Senate Media Services Minnesota state lawmakers and committee staff offer advice to people interested in testifying before a legislative committee. Video (approximately 6 Read More

Understanding Legislation: How to Read a Bill

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/understanding-legislation-how-to-read-a-bill/.

From Minnesota Senate Media Services This video clip (approximately 7 minutes) contains tips for reading and understanding a bill that is before the Minnesota Legislature. Read More

ProCon.org Critical Thinking Seminar

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/procon-org-critical-thinking-seminar/.

By ProCon.org “OVERVIEW: The seminar revolves around a hotly debated topic, such as the pros and cons of social networking or illegal immigration. The students Read More

FRONTLINE: How Voting Laws Have Changed

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/frontline-how-voting-laws-have-changed/.

From PBS LearningMedia “Examine data about the voting rights laws that most impact Americans’ access to the ballot box and how they’ve changed across the Read More

Gun Control Debate After Sandy Hook Shootings

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/gun-control-debate-after-sandy-hook-shootings/.

From PBS LearningMedia “This video (4:48) adapted from FRONTLINE explores the attitudes of citizens of Newtown, Connecticut in the aftermath of the 2012 massacre at Read More

Daily Video: Apple cites privacy concerns, resists government access to iPhone

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/daily-video-apple-cites-privacy-concerns-resists-government-access-to-iphone/.

From PBS Newshour Extra Students read a brief summary about the legal battle between the makers of the iPhone and the U.S. government and consider Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/newsela/

From Newsela “Newsela publishes high-interest news articles daily at five levels of complexity for grades 2-12 using Newsela’s proprietary, rapid text-leveling process. Common Core–aligned quizzes Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/pear-deck/

From Pear Deck Pear deck is an Internet-based tool that allows teachers to efficiently understand individual students’ progress in the classroom. Teachers can create and Read More

Deconstructing History: American Flag Video – George Washington

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deconstructing-history-american-flag-video-george-washington/.

From History.com Watch this short video to get the facts and history of the American Flag. TV-14 (2:06) Deconstructing History: American Flag Video – George Read More

Deconstructing History: Mount Rushmore Video – Presidents’ Day

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deconstructing-history-mount-rushmore-video-presidents-day/.

From History.com Studying the executive branch or G. Washington, T. Jefferson, T. Roosevelt, A. Lincoln? Watch this brief video about Mount Rushmore in the Black Read More

Deconstructing History: White House Video – Presidents’ Day

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deconstructing-history-white-house-video-presidents-day/.

From History.com “It may not have been home to the president until 1800 or even called the White House until 1901, but it remains a Read More

Presidential Fun Facts Video – Presidents’ Day

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-fun-facts-video-presidentsday/.

From History.com “The Oval Office has been filled with extraordinary presidents, but did you know about these not-so-famous firsts?” This brief trivia video is a Read More

Racial Profiling and Criminal Justice

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/racial-profiling-and-criminal-justice/.

By Close Up Foundation Should Congress pass legislation to end the use of racial profiling in law enforcement, except in matters pertaining to national security? Read More

Presidential podcasts

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-podcasts/.

By The Washington Post “In 44 episodes leading up to Election Day 2016, this podcast explores the character and legacy of each of the American Read More

Analyze the President’s State of the Union Address Using Word Clouds

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/analyze-the-presidents-state-of-the-union-address-using-word-clouds/.

From Flocabulary “In this lesson plan, students will use the word cloud to analyze previous State of the Union speeches, make predictions about this year’s Read More

The American Presidency Project

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-american-presidency-project/.

From the University of California, Santa Barbara “The American Presidency Project is the only online resource that has consolidated, coded, and organized into a single Read More

Teachable Instant: Refugee Crisis

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teachable-instant-refugee-crisis/.

From Morningside Center for Teaching Social Responsibility Students read a brief background about the surge of refugees pressing into Europe (9/2015) and then watch a Read More

Judicial Review: Crash Course Government and Politics #21

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/judicial-review-crash-course-government-and-politics-21/.

From CrashCourse “Craig Benzine is going to tell you about the Supreme Court’s most important case, Marbury v. Madison, and how the court granted itself Read More

Structure of the Court System: Crash Course Government and Politics #19

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/structure-of-the-court-system-crash-course-government-and-politics-19/.

From CrashCourse Trial courts, district courts, appeals courts, circuit courts, state supreme courts, and of course the one at the top – the U.S. Supreme Read More

Supreme Court of the United States Procedures: Crash Course Government and Politics #20

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-of-the-united-states-procedures-crash-course-government-and-politics-20/.

From CrashCourse Join Craig Benzine to see how the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) works procedurally. Go to video (6:53): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sualy8OiKk Tags: Granting Read More

Presidential Power: Crash Course Government and Politics #11

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-power-crash-course-government-and-politics-11/.

From CrashCourse “Craig looks at the expressed powers of the President of the United States – that is the ones you can find in the Read More

Presidential Powers 2: Crash Course Government and Politics #12

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-powers-2-crash-course-government-and-politics-12/.

From CrashCourse Craig Benzine explores the implied or inherent powers of the president – “how the president uses his or her power to negotiate executive Read More

The Thirteenth Amendment Video

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/6219-2/.

From the National Constitution Center Watch The Thirteenth Amendment to “learn about the ways the Constitutional Convention failed to address the issue of slavery, the Read More

3 Umbrellas and 4th Amendment Search Protection

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/3-umbrellas-and-4th-amendment-search-protection/.

Three sizes of umbrellas (golf, regular, cocktail) are used to categorize search scenarios, asking students to use search analysis questions: (1) Is there a recognized Read More

Principles of Democracy Posters

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/principles-of-democracy-posters/.

By Deliberating in a Democracy in the Americas Print out small posters of each of the 14 principles of democracy for educational use as well Read More

How Courts Work – Understanding the Types of Cases

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-courts-work-understanding-the-types-of-cases/.

From The Judicial Learning Center “The activities in this lesson can be assigned to students individually or in groups. In part 1, students will be Read More

Supreme Court Case Studies: EEOC v. Abercrombie & Fitch

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-case-studies-eeoc-v-abercrombie-fitch/.

From Street Law Issue Does Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 require an employer have actual knowledge that an employee’s practice is Read More

Supreme Court Case Studies: Williams-Yulee v. Florida Bar

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-case-studies-williams-yulee-v-florida-bar/.

From Street Law Issue Does a law that prohibits candidates for judicial office from personally asking for campaign funds violate the First Amendment? Precedents Republican Read More

Supreme Court Case Studies: Arizona State Legislature v. Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-case-studies-arizona-state-legislature-v-arizona-independent-redistricting-commission/.

From Street Law Issue Does the Elections Clause of the U.S. Constitution permit a state to use an independent commission established by ballot initiative to Read More

Supreme Court Case Studies: By Topic

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-case-studies-by-topic/.

From Street Law Go to Street Law’s Supreme Court Lesson Plans & Teaching Methods page and check out the “Methods for Teaching Supreme Court Cases” Read More

Supreme Court Case Studies: The Same-Sex Marriage Cases: Obergefell v. Hodges (and consolidated cases)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-case-studies-the-same-sex-marriage-cases-obergefell-v-hodges-and-consolidated-cases/.

From Street Law Issues Does the Fourteenth Amendment require a state to license same-sex marriages? Does the Fourteenth Amendment require a state to recognize a Read More

Supreme Court Case Studies: Rodriguez v. United States

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-case-studies-rodriguez-v-united-states/.

From Street Law Issue Does it violate the Fourth Amendment if an officer extends an already completed traffic stop (a seizure) for a dog sniff Read More

Picking Cotton (Eyewitness Misidentification)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/picking-cotton-eyewitness-misidentification/.

From The Street Law Clinic at Georgetown University Law Center – The Innocence Project Curriculum Picking Cotton: Lives Taken/Reason for Wrongful Conviction/Eyewitness Misidentification Go to: Read More

“Okay, fine, I did it!” (False Confessions)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/okay-fine-i-did-it-false-confessions/.

From The Street Law Clinic at Georgetown University Law Center – The Innocence Project Curriculum “Okay, fine, I did it!”: Life Taken/Reason for Wrongful Conviction/False Read More

The Morton story (Prosecutorial Misconduct)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-morton-story-prosecutorial-misconduct/.

From The Street Law Clinic at Georgetown University Law Center – The Innocence Project Curriculum The Morton story: Lives Taken/Reason for Wrongful Conviction/Prosecutorial Misconduct Go Read More

Oyez, Oyez, Oh Yay! Gibbons v. Ogden

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/oyez-oyez-oh-yay-gibbons-v-ogden/.

From The State Bar of Texas Oyez, Oyez, Oh Yay! Case summaries, videos and other helpful resources for teachers and students. What is the extent Read More

Defending Gideon

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/defending-gideon/.

From: The Street Law Clinic at Georgetown University Law Center (lesson) and The Constitution Project (video) This lesson begins with several student-centered introductory activities designed Read More

50 Years After Key Case, Problems Defending The Poor Persist

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/50-years-after-key-case-problems-defending-the-poor-persist/.

From Npr.org “Half-century after Gideon v. Wainwright, many lawyers say the system for providing defense attorneys for the poor is in crisis.” Article and podcast, March Read More

Interest Groups and the United States Supreme Court

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/interest-groups-and-the-united-states-supreme-court/.

From Street Law As a result of this lesson, students will be able to: define the terms: interest group, writ of certiorari, and amicus brief Read More

The Right to Vote & Restrictions on Voting

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-right-to-vote-restrictions-on-voting/.

From Street Law Activity: Students consider state voting laws (North Carolina, Texas, North Dakota, Ohio) that limit registration, voting times, or voter identification. They examine Read More

Why crime has a time limit

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/why-crime-has-a-time-limit/.

From CNN “Why do states have a time limit on when to charge against certain crimes? CNN’s Danny Cevallos explains the reasoning behind statutes of Read More

Voting Rights – The March @50; Episode 2

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voting-rights-the-march-50-episode-2/.

“The Supreme Court decision in Shelby County v. Holder shook the Voting Rights Act to the core. Shukree sits down with Edward Blum, whose firm provided counsel to plaintiffs in the Shelby County case, and Sherrilyn Ifill of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, to determine the reasons behind this turning point case and what it means for the future of voting in America.”

From Selma to Montgomery: An introduction to the 1965 marches

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/from-selma-to-montgomery-an-introduction-to-the-1965-marches/.

by Katie Gould, PBS NewsHour Teacher Resource Producer Introduction: Students read a one-page overview of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery Marches and watch three video Read More

Presidential Timeline – President Nixon and the Twenty-Sixth Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-timeline-president-nixon-and-the-twenty-sixth-amendment/.

From the National Archives’ Presidential Timeline “The Twenty-Sixth Amendment” is one of the interactive Richard Nixon Exhibits: http://www.presidentialtimeline.org/#/exhibit/37/03 It is accompanied by educational activities in Read More

Memorial Day | All About the Holidays

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/memorial-day-all-about-the-holidays/.

From PBS LearningMedia “Learn about Memorial Day with this look back at the holiday’s history.” Go to video (1:21): Memorial Day | All About the Read More

Magna Carta: Rule of Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/magna-carta-rule-of-law/.

From PBS LearningMedia “Learn how the rule of law and due process, first guaranteed by Magna Carta in 1215, became an essential component in U.S. Read More

Federalism: Crash Course Government and Politics #4

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federalism-crash-course-government-and-politics-4/.

From CrashCourse “Craig Benzine teaches you about federalism, or the idea that in the United States, power is divided between the national government and the Read More

Bureaucracy Basics: Crash Course Government and Politics #15

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/bureaucracy-basics-crash-course-government-and-politics-15/.

From CrashCourse In this video, Craig Benzine discuses bureaucracies. “Bureaucracies tend to be associated with unintelligible rules and time-wasting procedures, but they play an important, Read More

Meeting at Runnymede: The Story of King John and Magna Carta

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/meeting-at-runnymede-the-story-of-king-john-and-magna-carta/.

Constitutional Rights Foundation After a brief, yet higher level reading about the Magna Carta, students are divided into small groups and each group is assigned Read More

Colonial Influences

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/colonial-influences/.

From iCivics “American colonists had some strong ideas about what they wanted in a government. These ideas surface in colonial documents, and eventually became a Read More

John Philip Sousa, Magna Charta

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/john-philip-sousa-magna-charta/.

From YouTube For a lively anticipatory set to your lesson on Magna Carta, listen to John Philip Sousa’s “Magna Charta” (PRESIDENT’S OWN UNITED STATES MARINE Read More

Magna Carta – Timelines.tv History of Britain

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/magna-carta-timelines-tv-history-of-britain/.

From Timelines.tv History of Britain – Rulers & Ruled: How did medieval kings share power with their barons? The story of King John reveals the Read More

Magna Carta, the Federalists, and the Anti-Federalists

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/magna-carta-the-federalists-and-the-anti-federalists/.

“The mention of Magna Carta appears in both Federalist and Anti-Federalist papers discussing ratification of the new U.S. Constitution. This exercise uses primary source excerpts Read More

Faces of King John

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/faces-of-king-john/.

From Insights on Law & Society This image analysis activity asks students to compare and contrast depictions of King John sealing Magna Carta at Runnymede. Read More

What is Magna Carta?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-is-magna-carta/.

From the British Library “Narrated by Monty Python’s Terry Jones, this animation takes you back to medieval England to explore the tyranny of King John, Read More

The Constitution Board Game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-constitution-board-game/.

From Texas Law-Related Education Review facts about the Constitution and the Constitutional Convention using a board game. Answer options are multiple choice and the correct answer Read More

Federalist/ Anti-Federalist game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federalist-anti-federalist-game/.

From Texas Law-Related Education Players decide whether statements describe Federalist or Anti-Federalist positions. There is no scoring and players are directed to the correct Federalist or Read More

Objection! Your Honor game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/objection-your-honor-game/.

From Texas Law-Related Education Players are faced with different legal scenarios – with a case, a witness on the stand, and a question – and must Read More

Serve & Protect? A History of the Police

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/serve-protect-a-history-of-the-police/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys What is the role of local police in their communities? In this public radio podcast (52:02), U.S. historians Read More

Dollars and Sense: Tax Day

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/dollars-and-sense-tax-day/.

From the National Constitution Center   Learn how the Constitution was amended to allow the federal government to impose an income tax, and learn where Read More

America, Inc.: A History of Corporations

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/america-inc-a-history-of-corporations/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys The recent Citizens United and Hobby Lobby cases raised questions about “corporate personhood” and fueled debate over corporate Read More

Wall of Separation: Church & State in America

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/wall-of-separation-church-state-in-america/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys “Are Christian Nativity scenes, Jewish Menorahs, or even atheistic symbols appropriate for display at public buildings? And what Read More

Tyrannophobia: The Uses & Abuses Of Executive Power

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/tyrannophobia-the-uses-abuses-of-executive-power/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys In this public radio program (1:01:07), U.S. historians Ed Ayers, Peter Onuf, and Brian Balogh “…ask how perceptions Read More

Censoring the Press

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/censoring-the-press/.

From The Learning Network’s “50 Ways to Teach With Current Events” by Michael Gonchar This site has 50 ideas to help teachers bring current events into Read More

Teenagers in the Times

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teenagers-in-the-times/.

From The Learning Network Teenagers in the Times, a monthly feature from the New York Times, is a collection of recent articles, slide shows and Read More

City Council Simulation: Dogwood City’s Proposed Curfew Ordinance

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/city-council-simulation-dogwood-citys-proposed-curfew-ordinance/.

From The North Carolina Civic Education Consortium “In this experiential activity, students will gain an understanding of the role of city councils, the responsibilities of Read More

Voting Matters To Me

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voting-matters-to-me/.

by JoEllen Ambrose, Jennifer Bloom, Alex Gray, and Filiz Yargici This 3-4 day unit will prepare students to vote by showing them why voting matters Read More

Teaching Strategies for Civics, Law and Government Education

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-strategies-for-civics-law-and-government-education/.

Instructions including student handouts for the most often used engaging strategies in civics, government, and law education. Includes case study, mock trial, jigsaw, mock appellate Read More

One School’s Fight: The Making of a Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/one-schools-fight-the-making-of-a-law/.

“This documentary tells the story of a tiny school in Yosemite National Park that tries to solve its funding problem by getting a bill passed Read More

Congress Protects the Right to Vote: The Voting Rights Act of 1965

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/congress-protects-the-right-to-vote-the-voting-rights-act-of-1965/.

From The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration’s Center for Legislative Archives “By analyzing evidence reviewed by the House Judiciary Committee related to the Voting Read More

Congress at Work: The Presidential Veto and Congressional Veto Override Process

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/congress-at-work-the-presidential-veto-and-congressional-veto-override-process/.

From The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration’s Center for Legislative Archives “Students use a veto message and vetoed bill to make a direct connection Read More

Teaching Six Big Ideas in the Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-six-big-ideas-in-the-constitution/.

From The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration’s Center for Legislative Archives “This lesson engages students in a study of the Constitution to learn the Read More

Declaration Clarification game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/declaration-clarification-game/.

From Texas Law-Related Education Students (re-)familiarize themselves with the words of the Declaration of Independence by completing this jigsaw puzzle.  

Branches of the Federal Government game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/branches-of-the-federal-government-game/.

From Law Focused Education Inc. Students are given 16 statements to categorize as either Legislative, Judicial, or Executive. A correct answer results in that statement, Read More

Carolina K-12′s Database of K-12 Resources

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/nc-civic-education-consortiums-database-of-k-12-resources/.

From Carolina K-12 This is a searchable database for lesson plans/ activities. Files are available in PDF format, and one must have Adobe Reader installed to Read More

Seven Principles of the Constitution – Animations

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/animations-principles-of-the-u-s-constitution/.

From Law Focused Education Inc. Short animations on the Principles of the U.S. Constitution (Checks and Balances, Federalism, Individual Rights, Limited Government, Popular Sovereignty, Republicanism, Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/wikiality/

From Annenberg Classroom By Joe Miller, Ph.D. “This lesson illustrates the potential pitfalls of Wikipedia. Drawing on two controversies – Stephen Colbert’s on-air altering of Read More

Annenberg Classroom’s FAQs: Juries (videos)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/annenberg-classrooms-faqs-juries-videos/.

Constitutional experts, lawyers and judges discuss juries and jury service on these eleven short videos (about 3-5 minutes each). The site also includes a Sixth Read More

Minnesota Election Vocabulary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/minnesota-election-vocabulary/.

At quizlet.com Use this learning tool to play around with flashcards, matching games, multiple choice tests. Minnesota Election Vocabulary: http://quizlet.com/45297243/minnesota-election-vocabulary-flash-cards/alphabetical

Historical Documents – Vocabulary Lists

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/historical-documents-vocabulary-lists/.

From Vocabulary.com This site offers a personalized vocabulary learning experience. “The Challenge,” an adaptive learning system, and “The Dictionary” help users efficiently learn words. Highlights Read More

Arson Investigation Video “Burned”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/arson-investigation-video-burned/.

Video by ABC’s 20/20 Watch: ABC’s 20/20 Arson Investigation Video “Burned” (41:33) to see the science of fire investigation. http://www.hulu.com/watch/147911 (5/7/2010; Season 32, Episode 19) Read More

Your Bill of Rights – The Tenth Amendment and States’ Rights

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-the-tenth-amendment-and-states-rights/.

From TIME The final amendment in the Bill of Rights was drafted because the states were concerned about the power of a Federal government. What Read More

Your Bill of Rights – The Ninth Amendment and Your Unwritten Rights

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-the-ninth-amendment-and-your-unwritten-rights/.

From TIME “When James Madison penned the Bill of Rights, some worried that by writing some things down, it meant other rights were not secured. Read More

Your Bill of Rights – The Eighth Amendment: What Would the Framers Call Cruel Punishment?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-he-eighth-amendment-what-would-the-framers-call-cruel-punishment/.

From TIME “The 8th amendment of the U.S. constitution protects against excessive bail and cruel or unusual punishments. What was considered cruel or unusual in Read More

Your Bill of Rights – What Does the Seventh Amendment Have to do With a 20-Dollar Bill?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-what-does-the-seventh-amendment-have-to-do-with-a-20-dollar-bill/.

From TIME “The seventh amendment gives the right to a jury trial for any civil case over property more than $20. What could $20 buy Read More

Your Bill of Rights – The Sixth Amendment and Your Right to a Speedy, Public Trial

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-the-sixth-amendment-and-your-right-to-a-speedy-public-trial/.

From TIME This video (04:30) from the Your Bill of Rights series gives an overview of the Sixth Amendment. http://content.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2080345_2080344_2080380,00.html

How a bill really becomes a law: What Schoolhouse Rock missed

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-a-bill-really-becomes-a-law-what-schoolhouse-rock-missed-2/.

By Vox “As Congressional gridlock and dysfunction worsen, Schoolhouse Rock’s “I’m Just a Bill” seems to be missing a few key steps. So [Vox] made Read More

Your Bill of Rights – Why the Fifth Amendment Is Much More than ‘Pleading the Fifth’

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-why-the-fifth-amendment-is-much-more-than-pleading-the-fifth/.

From TIME This video (03:16) from the Your Bill of Rights series gives an overview of Fifth Amendment protections. http://content.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2080345_2080344_2080379,00.html

Historic Supreme Court Decisions – by Justice

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/historic-supreme-court-decisions-by-justice/.

From Cornell University’s Legal Information Institute Click on the name of a Supreme Court Justice (the list includes all the Justices who have served on Read More

Electing a US President in Plain English

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/electing-a-us-president-in-plain-english/.

From Dotsub; Directed by Lee LeFever and Produced by Common Craft, LLC A public service video (03:42) about how the electoral college works. Captions available Read More

Unpacking our National Anthem “The Star-Spangled Banner”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/unpacking-our-national-anthem-the-star-spangled-banner/.

By ArtsEdge “In this audio story, Leonard Slatkin, Music Director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (and former Music Director of the National Symphony Orchestra), examines Read More

Harlan Institute’s – National Labor Relations Board v. Noel Canning Corporation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/harlan-institutes-national-labor-relations-board-v-noel-canning-corporation/.

From the Harlan Institute What is the scope of the President’s recess appointment power? Learn about the 2014 Supreme Court case National Labor Relations Board Read More

Your Bill of Rights – Why People Rarely Talk About the Third Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-why-people-rarely-talk-about-the-third-amendment/.

From TIME In this segment of the Your Bill of Rights series: The Framers insisted on the right to refuse to quarter troops in private Read More

Your Bill of Rights – Second Amendment: The Origins of the Right to Keep and Bear Arms

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-second-amendment-the-origins-of-the-right-to-keep-and-bear-arms/.

From TIME This video (03:22) from the Your Bill of Rights series asks: Why did the framers of the U.S. constitution demand the right of Read More

In the Light of Reverence – Sacred Ground or Federal Ground?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/in-the-light-of-reverence-sacred-ground-or-federal-ground/.

From PBS documentary series POV – Documentaries with a point of view Lesson Author: Joan Brodsky Schur “The subject of this lesson is a controversy Read More

In the Light of Reverence – Freedom of Religion: A Supreme Court Simulation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/in-the-light-of-reverence-freedom-of-religion-a-supreme-court-simulation/.

From PBS documentary series POV – Documentaries with a point of view Lesson Author: Joan Brodsky Schur This lesson plan explores the Establishment Clause and Read More

Your Bill of Rights – Your Fourth Amendment Right to Privacy

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-your-fourth-amendment-right-to-privacy/.

From TIME “The fourth amendment to the constitution guarantees the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures, and is often argued as protecting Read More

Your Bill of Rights – Why the First Amendment Is Foremost

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/your-bill-of-rights-why-the-first-amendment-is-foremost/.

From TIME “Why did the states want to ensure the Federal government did not establish a national religion? And why were the freedoms of press, Read More

Federal Revenue Statistics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federal-revenue-statistics/.

The IRS maintains a “Tax Stats” page that provides an excellent overview of tax collection by category by the Federal Government.  It does not include information Read More

Minnesota v Federal Revenue and Spending

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/minnesota-v-federal-revenue-and-spending/.

Minnesota v Federal Revenue and Spending This lesson gives you the resources to compare and contrast the budgets of the United States and Minnesota governments describing Read More

Tales From the Public Domain: Bound by Law?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/tales-from-the-public-domain-bound-by-law/.

Published by The Center for the Study of the Public Domain at Duke Law School This graphic novel explains copyright law.

Minnesota Revenue and Spending

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/minnesota-revenue-and-spending/.

Minnesota Revenue and Spending Resource: The Minnesota Office of Management and Budget prepares reports each year that summarize the major sources of revenue and the Read More

11 Excellent Reasons Not To Vote

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/11-excellent-reasons-not-to-vote/.

From New York Times, By Errol Morris In this Op-Doc video, Academy Award-winning filmmaker Errol Morris speaks with young Americans about the merits of voting Read More

Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Interactive Games for Public Education

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/minnesota-state-fire-marshals-interactive-games-for-public-education/.

From the Minnesota State Fire Marshal Fire Safety Education in Quiz Show style! Winter Fire Safety Challenge Summer Safety Challenge Arson Awareness Challenge Fire Marshall Read More

Death By Fire: Did Texas Execute an Innocent Man?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/death-by-fire-did-texas-execute-an-innocent-man/.

By PBS’ FRONTLINE “In this lesson, students will examine evidence used in a 1994 case to convict Cameron Todd Willingham, who was executed for the Read More

The Electoral College Facts of Life

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-electoral-college-facts-of-life/.

By Slater’s Garage Ads & Audio “With the US Presidential election just days away, a father and son sit down for a heart-to-heart talk about Read More

Independence Daze: A History of July Fourth

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/independence-daze-a-history-of-july-fourth/.

From BackStory With The American History Guys In this public radio program (52:00), U.S. historians Ed Ayers, Peter Onuf, and Brian Balogh explore the origins Read More

Flocabulary’s “Check and Balances”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/flocabularys-check-and-balances/.

The song in this video explains the three branches of the US government and the system of checks and balances.

Decoding the Video: Bad Romance (Women’s Suffrage)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/decoding-the-video-bad-romance-womens-suffrage/.

Learn more about the passage of the 19th Amendment by watching Soomo Publishing’s five-minute parody music video of Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance.” (2012 Emmy Award recipient for Best Informational/Instructional Program.) vote/ voting/ suffrage

Supreme Court Week Documentary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-week-documentary/.

By C-SPAN Original Productions “The Supreme Court: Home to America’s Highest Court takes an unprecedented look into the Supreme Court, its role, traditions and history Read More

Justices in their own words: Granting Certiorari

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/5308-2/.

By C-SPAN Original Productions “Each year the Justices and their law clerks review anywhere between 8 to 10 thousand petitions that come to Court – Read More

Mini-Mock Trial: State v. Anderson

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/mini-mock-trial-state-v-anderson/.

In this mock trial, students role play people in the courtroom as they hear a case involving a driver charged with violating a law that Read More

Interactive Learning Module: The Impact of Congress

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/e-learning-module-the-impact-of-congress/.

From Indiana University Center on Representative Government “Contrary to many Americans’ opinions, the work of Congress has a significant impact on their everyday lives. This colorful Read More

iCivics – “Activate” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/activate/.

In Activate, students: Campaign for an issue of their choice Learn how to grow an organization of friends into a national movement Engage the community and elected Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-a-bill-really-becomes-a-law-what-schoolhouse-rock-missed/

by Andrew Prokop This article and accompanying video adapts the how-a bill-becomes-a-law narrative to what Prokop refers to as “our polarized, dysfunctional Congress.” The article Read More

The Redistricting Game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-redistricting-game-2/.

USC Annenberg Center for Communication The Redistricting Game is designed to educate, engage, and empower citizens around the issue of political redistricting. Currently, the political system Read More

I Do Solemnly Swear: What Does a Mayor Do?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/i-do-solemnly-swear-what-does-a-mayor-do/.

In this 19 min. video from The Annenberg Classroom, students explore the role and responsibilities of mayors in the United States. Students follow mayors from several Read More

The Personal Side of Citizenship: Process to Become a Naturalized U.S. Citizen

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-personal-side-of-citizenship-process-to-become-a-naturalized-u-s-citizen/.

the.News the.News online video reports for the.Gov provide middle and high school students with a valuable exercise in language arts and social studies with this Read More

Principles of Democracy in the News

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/principles-of-democracy-in-the-news/.

Students work in small groups to match recent news article headlines to the principles of democracy. Lesson Plan – Democratic Headlines in the News Democratic Read More

Federalism: Pouring Power into the Federal Government

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federalism-pouring-power-into-the-federal-government/.

This lesson focuses on the distribution of powers called federalism.  Using water in a pitcher and a jar and small cups, it visualizes powers between Read More

Legal Concepts from Landmark Cases.org

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legal-concepts-from-landmark-cases-org/, citizenship: making government work (democracy in america video series), https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/citizenship-making-government-work-democracy-in-american-video-series/.

from Annenberg Learning This session covers the basic elements of government, politics, and democracy. A grounding in these issues will give you a solid foundation Read More

Federalism: U.S. v. the States (Democracy in America Video Series)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federalism-u-s-v-the-states-democracy-in-america-video-series/.

From Annenberg Learner This lesson with one-half hour video provides an overview of the workings of federalism in the United States. In this unit, the Read More

Minimum Voting Age (DDA)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/minimum-voting-age-dda/.

This lesson is designed to promote the teaching and learning of democratic principles and the skills of civic deliberation. Students complete a reading (available in Read More

The Perfect President

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-perfect-president/.

After researching about the U.S. president’s duties, students will brainstorm criteria for the “perfect president.” The information will then be used to create a job description and newspaper article to advertise the presidency.

The Many Powers of the President

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-many-powers-of-the-president/.

Students will use hats as props to enliven a lesson about the powers of the president. Hats will be identified with various powers. Students will match actual presidential actions to the hat which gave the president power to carry it out.

Resources on the Presidency

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/resources-on-the-presidency/.

This site provides a rich source of information regarding the Presidency, the Executive Branch, issues of the day and the White House.

LegalWays: Investigation and Arrest

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-investigation-and-arrest/.

This lesson from the LegalWays curriculum focuses on the most common questions regarding investigation and arrest including police stops, searches, probable cause, arrest, and the constitutional rights of the accused. Activities include a student reading with guiding questions, a “Police Role-play” activity that provides the students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge and for them to review and reflect with a police officer, and a final case study that asks students to apply their knowledge about interrogation and Miranda rights in a slightly different setting, the principal’s office in a school. This lesson uses basic information and does not include the many small exceptions and interpretations that exist in the law. Where appropriate, Minnesota law has been used. Lessons can be adapted to other states. Remind students they should not attempt to answer specific individual legal problems with the information provided.

Respecting Freedom of Speech

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/respecting-freedom-of-speech/.

In the course of this lesson, students will consider the point where respect and freedom of expression intersect.

LegalWays: Steps in a Criminal Case

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-steps-in-a-criminal-case/.

This lesson from the LegalWays curriculum focuses on the procedure followed in a criminal case. In the activity “Creating a Flow Chart” the students can work individually or in small groups. It requires that the students use their knowledge from “Investigation and Arrest” and “Your Right to an Attorney” in addition to the information in this lesson. By asking them to add pieces of information they think are important, the students reflect on their learning. This lesson is designed for the computer. However, it can be accomplished with posterboard and markers. The “Mini-Mock Trial” concerns a stolen wallet and is a two-hour activity. This activity benefits greatly by having a lawyer or judge serve as the judge for the mock trial. (If there are enough students, one can assist the judge, serving as a co-judge.) Although this lesson uses Minnesota law and procedure, it is adaptable.

The Scopes Trial – A Mini-Unit

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-scopes-trial-a-mini-unit/.

Using the movie Inherit the Wind, text books and internet research students learn about the Scopes Trial. The analyze the key facts, arguments, individuals and historical events.

Schoolhouse Rock – Preamble

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/schoolhouse-rock-preamble/.

The lyrics and the video of the Schoolhouse Rock song about the Preamble to the Constitution.

Jury Nullification

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/jury-nullification/.

Though jurors are sworn to uphold the law during their deliberation, they still have the power to decide that a defendant is innocent even when Read More

Grade 6 Civics and Government Strands and Benchmarks Lessons and Resources

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/grade-6-civics-and-government-strands-and-benchmarks-lessons-and-resources/.

Grade 6 Civics and Government Strands and Benchmarks Aligned with Resources Link to updated Google Docs file  

Introduction to the Juvenile Justice System

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/introduction-to-the-juvenile-justice-system/.

These materials teach middle school students about the Minnesota Juvenile Justice System. Informational powerpoint is followed by chart that compares the adult with the juvenile Read More

Federalism and Lawmaking: Claim Your Powers State v. Federal Government

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federalism-and-lawmaking-claim-your-powers-state-v-federal-government/.

This lesson focuses on the basic concepts of federalism and lawmaking.  It explores powers reserved to the states and those given to the federal government Read More

Claim Your Powers Elementary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/claim-your-powers-elementary/.

Students apply their knowledge of the US Constitution and the powers of each branch of government in this activity. Students work in three groups, one Read More

Minnesota v. Hershberger: Freedom of Religion

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/minnesota-v-hershberger-freedom-of-religion/.

Freedom of religion has been a controversial, yet fundamental, tenet of the United States since even before the nation’s birth. In a instructional activity, the Read More

Property: Ownership, Respect, and Responsibility

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/property-ownership-respect-and-responsibility/.

Introduces the concepts of personal property and responsibility to very young students. Students will think about the difference between damage done to property on purpose versus accidental damage.

Politics of the Equal Rights Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/politics-of-the-equal-rights-amendment/.

Students will gain an overall understanding of and insights into arguments for and against the proposed Equal Rights Amendment.

Perseverance and the First Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/2729-2/.

Students will consider how perseverance effects movements as they exercise their First Amendment rights to petition and assemble.

Painting Presidential Portraits

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/painting-presidential-portraits/.

Students learn about the duties of the president as they redesign currency to reflect a President’s life and times.

No Weapons Allowed

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/no-weapons-allowed/.

The common “no weapons allowed” school rule is tested through a variety of scenarios. Students place themselves on a line to express their opinion regarding the application of the rule to the situation.

Making the Grade: What Makes a Good President?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/making-the-grade-what-makes-a-good-president/.

This lesson will provide students with a way to evaluate their leaders and with background material to use when studying about various Presidents.

Making An Appeal

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/making-an-appeal/.

Students consider the facts in the real case of a boy who was expelled from school. They break into small groups to list the arguments for one of the parties in the case. The groups share their arguments in a class discussion.

Local Stuff – Learn About Local Government

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/local-stuff-learn-about-local-government/.

A collection of 4 units to teach younger students about local government. Leads students through identifying their community, what kinds of work people do in the community, who governs and how decisions are made.

Judicial BINGO Icebreaker

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/judicial-ice-breakers/.

Two quick activities that can be used to introduce new materials to students in an engaging way. As written the activities focus on Florida law and judiciary, but are easily adaptable to other states.

It’s In Your Pocket

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/its-in-your-pocket/.

Students will learn about the Federal government’s power to mint money. They will also learn about the symbols on American money.

In the Home, Outside the Home – How Do We Value Work?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/in-the-home-outside-the-home-how-do-we-value-work/.

By thinking critically about gender stereotypes in relation to work in the home vs. outside the home, students will gain an awareness of how perceived value of work is connected to embedded views of gender roles.

In Praise of Political Parties

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/in-praise-of-political-parties/.

Student groups will be analyzing one current political party and making a presentation to the class about this party’s solutions for the problems that confront the U.S. today.

Immigration Debate

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/immigration-debate/.

Gathering information on pro and con arguments can be helpful if making conclusions regarding immigrants’ roles in the United States is to occur.

If I Were President

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/if-i-were-president/.

This activity is for young students. Students will discuss what a President does. They will then make a classroom book of rules or laws that they would enact if they ever become president.

Honoring Property Rights

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/honoring-property-rights/.

Students will examine how the concepts of private property and honor are inter-connected—how expectation of honorable action protects the private property rights of individuals in a civil society.

History of the Bill of Rights

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/history-of-the-bill-of-rights/.

Students play a “Jeopardy” like game to learn about the history of the Bill of Rights. Students should have some basic knowledge of the content of the Bill of Rights and the historical setting in which it was written.

Examining the Evidence: Suffrage & Anti-Suffrage Ephemera

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/examining-the-evidence-suffrage-anti-suffrage-ephemera/.

By examining and analyzing political cartoons and other ephemera dating to the women’s suffrage campaign era in the U.S., students will investigate and discover what primary source images can tell us about attitudes and events of the period in which they were made.

Serving on a Jury

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/serving-on-a-jury/.

Students role-play a court room trial based on scenarios involving juvenile offenders.

Shoplifting

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/shoplifting/.

Author: Street Law for Youth Courts Students work in small groups to define shoplifting, thinking about the definition from different perspectives.  After learning facts about Read More

Crimes and Consequences

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/crimes-and-consequences/.

Students identify and rank crimes as juvenile status offenses, misdemeanors, petty offenses and felonies.

Guess Who Did This: How does gender bias affect our judgment?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/guess-who-did-this-how-does-gender-bias-affect-our-judgment/.

By being asked to match a group of men and women (about whom they may know nothing) to a list of feats, students will realize that their own preconceptions based on gender may lead them to make mistaken judgments about people’s roles and abilities.

Freedom of Speech and Automatic Language

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-speech-and-automatic-language/.

This lesson plan asks students to explore this rote learning and their own right to freedom of speech by examining the Pledge of Allegiance from a historical and personal perspective and in relationship to fictional situations in novels they have read.

Exploring Free Speech in Nothing But the Truth

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/exploring-free-speech-in-nothing-but-the-truth/.

After reading the novel Nothing But the Truth, students discuss the protagonist Phillip and his right to free speech as well as their own rights.

Examining the Evidence: Gender and Adverstising

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/examining-the-evidence-gender-and-adverstising/.

Students will investigate and discover what primary source [advertising] images can tell us about views on gender equality in different time periods.

Equality and the Media Today

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/equality-and-the-media-today/.

This Class Starter activity is found on page 12 of the guide for K-12 educators that accompanied the temporary exhibition From the Absence of Many to the Presence of All: The Unfinished Business of Women’s Equality at the National Constitution Center, Philadelphia.

Declaration of Independence – Acts of Courage

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/declaration-of-independence-acts-of-courage/.

Students begin to construct a definition of courage based on classroom discussion, then consider The Declaration of Independence and an essay about what happened to the signers in the years during and following the American Revolution.

Creating a Bill of Rights in Space

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/creating-a-bill-of-rights-in-space/.

Students discuss the pros and cons to adding a Bill of Rights to their constitution for their space colony. Hypothetical situations are used to highlight rights. The lesson helps the students discover the need for a Bill of Rights.

Classroom Electorate

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/classroom-electorate/.

Students take on the role of a political analyst, forecasting the electoral vote count for the presidential election.

Breaking Down the Declaration of Independence

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/breaking-down-the-declaration-of-independence/.

Working in small groups, students will answer questions to help them break down the language and content of the Constitution.

Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges- Critical Discussion of Social Issues

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/breaking-barriers-building-bridges-critical-discussion-of-social-issues/.

Students read and discuss a series of picture books that highlight social barriers and bridges of race, class, and gender.

Amending the Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/amending-the-constitution/.

Students will learn about the process for amending the Constitution and consider what standards should be applied when considering an amendment.

Accommodating Students’ Religious Needs

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/accommodating-students-religious-needs/.

This strategy offers students an opportunity to weigh the establishment clause against the free exercise clause of the First Amendment.

2nd Grade – Your Vote Counts

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/2nd-grade-your-vote-counts/.

2nd graders will vote for a “classroom helper,” using fictional characters as candidates. They learn about the candidate positions through daily messages.

Minnesota Juvenile Justice Jeopardy Game for Elementary Classroom

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/minnesota-juvenile-justice-jeopardy-game-for-elementary-classroom/.

Author: adapted for elementary students from Jeopardy created by Rebecca Swinney, University of Minnesota Law Student, Street Law Course, 2010 This Power Point slide show works Read More

School Wide Plan for Constitution Day Observance

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/school-wide-plan-for-constitution-day-observance/.

This plan is designed to help a school participate in Constitution Day in a meaningful way, with as little disruption to the regular school day as is possible.

Trying Teens – Development of the Juvenile Justice System

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/trying-teens-development-of-the-juvenile-justice-system/.

In this lesson, students will learn about the court cases and legal organizations that were instrumental in creating a system of juvenile justice in the United States, then present their findings in a composite timeline illustrating the history of the juvenile courts.

Sources of Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/sources-of-law/.

This lesson teaches students about the sources, types, and unique systems of law that exist in the United States.

In re Gault (1967) -iCivics

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/in-re-gault/.

This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court’s decision that said juvenile offenders have a right to due process. Students learn about 14th Amendment due process, fairness, and the specific rights afforded juveniles in the justice system.

Recognizing Leaders

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/recognizing-leaders/.

This is an introductory lesson, giving students a basic understanding of the branches of government and the people who work there.

Constitutional Conversation Starters

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitutional-conversation-starters/.

Conversation starters are short, easily read text or images that are meant to be thought-provoking. They have been selected to illuminate issues, raise or explore areas of conflict, highlight ideas associated with each Conversation topic, and to foster conversation and ongoing dialogue.

Voting Activities for Grades K-2

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voting-activities-for-grades-k-2/.

The intent of this theme is to educate students about elections, from gaining an appreciation of the power of voting, to studying the candidates and issues, to understanding the registration process and participating in an election.

Bill of Rights Game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/bill-of-rights-game/.

Help restore the Bill of Rights in this online game.

The Tired King

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-tired-king/.

Students are introduced to the three functions of government (legislative, executive and judicial) through a story about an over-worked king who must handle too many tasks.

The Constitution – The Country’s Rules

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-constitution-the-countrys-rules/.

Students develop an awareness of the Constitution by exploring what it is and why it is important.

Symbols of America

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/symbols-of-america/.

A multi-disciplinary 3 week unit that teaches young students about the President, the White House, the Statue of Liberty, the Flag, the Liberty Bell, Mount Rushmore, Pledge of Allegiance and the Bald Eagle. Lessons could be separated if time doesn’t allow for all 3 weeks.

Simple Symbols and American Children

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/simple-symbols-and-american-children/.

Children begin at a very early age to learn the meaning of symbols in our culture and environment. Understanding the meaning of some universal symbols, such as traffic signs and signals, handicap logos, gender signs on restrooms, etc., is essential for responsible membership in society.

“Ask Not What Your Country Can Do For You…”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/ask-not-what-your-country-can-do-for-you/.

In this lesson, students learn about the theme of President Kennedy’s inaugural address, civic action, and consider how it applies to their own lives.

Constitutional Convention 2

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitutional-convention-2/.

Students will understand the structure and function of the United States government established by the Constitution by participating in a “Constitutional Convention” in class.

Exploring the Purposes of Government – A Lesson on the Preamble

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/exploring-the-purposes-of-government-a-lesson-on-the-preamble/.

Understanding the Preamble is critically important because it provides the vision for the government.

What Responsibilities Accompany Our Rights?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-responsibilities-accompany-our-rights/.

From the Center for Civic Education “Suppose your government does everything it can to protect your rights. Is this enough? Will your rights be protected? Read More

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/who-rules/

Students explore several different forms of government ranging from democracy, to oligarchy, to anarchy.

The Pledge of Allegiance

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-pledge-of-allegiance/.

Students will understand the Pledge of Allegiance and its importance as a symbol. Students will make Pledge of Allegiance picture books. They will learn the vocabulary necessary to understand the Pledge.

Comparative Constitutions

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/comparative-constitutions/.

Find common ways in which state constitutions differ from (and are similar to) the U.S. Constitution, and take a closer look at your own state constitution.

You’ve Got Rights!

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/youve-got-rights/.

Students learn about the rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights and other important constitutional amendments.

Mini Mock Trial

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/mini-mock-trials/.

Mini-Mock Trials are shorter versions of mock trial, taking an average of  2-3 hours. They are helpful for teaching about trial procedure as well as Read More

Teaching Civics through Children’s Literature

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-civics-through-childrens-literature/.

Teaching guides for popular children’s literature to help teach Civics and Government standards and English Language Arts standards. As increased emphasis on math and reading Read More

The Making of the American Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-making-of-the-american-constitution/.

How did a meeting intended to revise the Articles of Confederation lead to the new Constitution for the United States? Students watch a four minute video designed for “flip” teaching and then answer 5 Multiple Choice and 3 Open Answer questions to check for understanding. The “Dig Deeper” section has links to additional resources for students to explore.

Presidential Elections from Adams to Lincoln

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-elections-from-adams-to-lincoln/.

For an assignment, students in a Politics of the Presidency class at Williams College created video campaign ads for the presidential elections from John Adams to Abraham Lincoln (12 segments). The students could only use images, quotes, documents, and music from the era. RealClearHistory partnered with the class to displayed the best videos the students produced.

What Is A Court?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-is-a-court/.

An easy lesson that helps students understand the basics of the appeals process. Students will learn the difference between a trial court and an appeals court.

Minnesota State Symbols Game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/minnesota-state-symbols-game/.

Identify the correct Minnesota state symbols in this Internet trivia game. A brief historical explanation follows each selection.

Suffrage Strategies: Voices for Votes

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/suffrage-strategies-voices-for-votes/.

After learning about the Women’s Suffrage movement, students create original documents encouraging citizens to vote in current elections. Lesson includes primary source documents from the Library of Congress.

Picture Books and the Bill of Rights

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/picture-books-and-the-bill-of-rights/.

This lesson is designed to acquaint students with sections of the Bill of Rights through the use of Caldecott Medal Books and other picture books.

Technology and Copyright Law: A “Futurespective”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/technology-and-copyright-law-a-futurespective/.

Students research past copyright disputes and their relation to technology innovations and then predict future copyright disputes that may arise from advancements in technology.

Famous Trials

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/famous-trials/.

Student research famous trials and write the opening paragraphs of a newspaper report as it might have been written at the time of their particular trial. They then campaign and vote for which trial they feel is most famous.

“The Story of the American Revolution” slide shows

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/kids-corner-for-the-4th-of-july/.

View two slide shows on the story of the American Revolution.

The Powers of Getting a Drink (An Activity for Teaching the Concept of “Implied Power”)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/you-can-lead-a-class-to-water-but-can-you-make-it-think-an-activity-for-teaching-the-concept-of-implied-power/.

A dramatic scene in a high school government or civics class provides the setting. Students follow a process of inductive reasoning in a situation which is especially relevant to their daily lives. In the scene, the teacher grants a student permission to get a drink of water and the student begins to leave the room. But does he or she have “implied” authority to get out of his seat, open the door, and walk out into the hall?

Economic Functions of Government

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/economic-functions-of-government/.

Students categorize a series of newspaper headlines as examples of each of the six economic functions of government and locate additional examples in current newspapers and newsmagazines.

First Amendment Survey

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/first-amendment-survey/.

This lesson gives students an opportunity to conduct and analyze their own First Amendment survey and compare it with the national survey conducted by The Freedom Forum.

Voting! What’s It All About?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voting-whats-it-all-about/.

A series of eight lessons on voting. Students discuss information, read from a variety of sources, collect images, articles, and other things they can use to create a graffiti wall about voting. They create a chart listing what they know about the current election and how they know it, then examine the chart to determine which items are fact and which are opinion. They explore the history of voting and voting rights and create a timeline of voting history.

War Making: Executive and Legislative Powers

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/war-making-executive-and-legislative-powers/.

What are the respective roles and responsibilities of the executive and legislative branches in making war? In the course of this lesson, students will examine the constitutional, legal, political and historical sources of this debate and apply them to the conflict in Iraq and to other situations both past and present.

You Make the Rules

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/you-make-the-rules/.

In developing a new club, students explore the nature of rules and see how they help in the formation and operation of organizations.

Who Pays for City Hall?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/who-pays-for-city-hall/.

This lesson uses computer games to introduce younger students to city government.

Understanding Procedural Justice – Fairness in the Land of Faircastle

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/understanding-procedural-justice-fairness-in-the-land-of-faircastle/.

Students perform 4 brief skits demonstrating procedural unfairness in trials. They then analyze the skits, listing what was unfair in each situation and what rights needed to be protected.

Graphically Speaking

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/graphically-speaking/.

Using website data or almanacs, students will graph state population, state size, and number of congressional representatives.

Donkeys and Elephants and Voters, Oh My!

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/donkeys-and-elephants-and-voters-oh-my/.

These hands-on activities are designed to help students journey through politics from its “grass roots” to a national convention through the creation of a new political party and the development of the convention’s national platform.

Presidential Libraries Podcasts

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidential-libraries-podcasts/.

Listen to the voices of the Presidents! In these historical clips from the Libraries’ collections, you’ll hear Presidents Hoover, Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, and Clinton.

Learning the Value of Rules-A Paper Clip Game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/paperclip-game-and-the-value-of-rules/.

The paper clip game serves as a good devices for discussing the need for and importance of rules in society.

No Animals Allowed in School

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/no-animals-allowed-in-school/.

This activity provides an opportunity for students to explore how rules and laws are written and interpreted.

Myth and Truth – Independence Day

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/myth-and-truth-independence-day/.

This lesson explores all the dates and stories associated with the Declaration of Independence, focusing on the reason there are so many different dates and signings of the document and why we celebrate the nation’s birthday on July 4th rather than one of the other dates.

Memorial Day – Elementary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/memorial-day-elementary/.

Students will appreciate the significance and history of “Taps.” They will use the bugle call to learn about the sacrifices made by those who have fallen in war and the importance of doing the right thing.

Literary Characters on Trial

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/literary-characters-on-trial/.

After reading a work of literature as a class, students will brainstorm “crimes” committed by characters from that text. Groups of students will work together to act as the prosecution or defense for the selected characters, while also acting as the jury for other groups.

Kid Definitions of Types of Government

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/kid-definitions-of-types-of-government/.

This site offers very short, kid friendly definitions of types of Governments.

Good Citizen Interviews

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/good-citizen-interviews/.

Youngsters interview adults whom they consider good citizens. They share their interviews with the others and reflect on what it means to be a good citizen.

Everyone Has Rules

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/everyone-has-rules/.

Students consider the value of rules in the lives of children and adults. They brainstorm and write good rules for different places and situations in their schools.

Minnesota Constitutional Amendment: Voter ID

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/minnesota-constitutional-amendment-voter-id/.

This lesson focuses on the proposed amendment to the Minnesota Constitution requiring a photo ID to vote.

Teaching about the Minnesota Marriage Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-about-the-minnesota-marriage-amendment/.

by University of Minnesota Law Students Aleida Ortega and Ryan Conners.  This unit of study includes three lessons  Introductory Lesson on Constitutional Interpretation of Fundamental Read More

New voter photo ID laws: Preventing fraud or discriminating?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/new-voter-photo-id-laws-preventing-fraud-or-discriminating/.

This “Speak Out” from the Annenberg Classroom supports online discussion of these questions: Are voter ID laws necessary to prevent election fraud? Are the voter Read More

Changing Voting Age from 18 to 16

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/changing-voting-age-from-18-to-16/.

Students will write letters to their state and/or national leaders either in support or against a fictitious proposed constitutional amendment to lower the voting age from 18 to 16.

Expanding Voting Rights

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/expanding-voting-rights/.

Expanding Voting Rights traces changes in voting rights through the early republic, African-American suffrage, women’s suffrage, Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the 26th Amendment

Voter ID, Voting Requirements, and Vote Counting

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voter-id-voting-requirements-and-vote-counting/.

A collection of lesson plans from the American Bar Association that teach voting requirements, voter ID laws, and vote counting laws.

When should increased security measures outweigh your privacy rights in school?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/when-should-increased-security-measures-outweigh-your-privacy-rights-in-school/.

Through the use of cases and school policy, students will be able to define student privacy rights and then evaluate the necessity and constitutionality of increased security measures in schools, such as cell phone content searches. Cases: New Jersey v. T.L.O. (1985); Board of Education of Independent School District #92 of Pottawatomie County v. Earls (2002); Safford Unified School District v. Redding (2009)

State of the Union Bingo

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/state-of-the-union-bingo-2012/

Precedent and stare decisis, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/precedent-and-stare-decisis/.

Parts One and Two of this lesson involve students reflecting about and discussing the questions: What are the benefits and risks of sticking by the known rules? What are the benefits and risks of changing the rules for new situations? Part Three has students working in small groups. Students look at quotations about What The Justices Think About Precedent And Stare Decisis and then summarize and share the main ideas.

Voting In Congress

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voting-in-congress-more-than-yea-or-nay/.

Through an interactive PowerPoint presentation, students learn what factors members of Congress consider when deciding whether to vote for a bill. These include the powers given to Congress by the Constitution (“necessary and proper” clause highlighted), members’ personal opinions, political party support, and what voters think. During the first part of the lesson, students find out about each of these factors and participate in mini-quizzes to check for understanding. During the second part, students try their hand at weighing the factors by considering hypothetical bills. This lesson is part of the Legislative Branch curriculum. While the graphics and some of the examples in this lesson are appropriate for younger students, the content also works well for high school.

Voting Rights

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voting-rights/.

With guided notes, students explore the evolution of voting rights in the United States through an interactive PowerPoint presentation highlighting landmark changes. They apply knowledge of voting legislation to individual scenarios through a class activity. This lesson is part of the Politics and Public Policy curriculum. The Teacher’s guide has a useful “Voting Rights: A Brief History” chart.

Candidate Evaluation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/candidate-evaluation/.

From iCivics In this lesson which is part of the Politics and Public Policy curriculum, students: “evaluate hypothetical candidates by establishing and applying their own Read More

The Electoral Process

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-electoral-process/.

Take a peek into the electoral process- from party primaries to the general election. Students will learn the distinctions between the popular vote and the Electoral College, and exercise their critical reasoning skills to analyze the differences between the presidential and congressional elections. Students will also contrast the various nomination processes and learn about the role of party conventions in American politics.

International Organizations

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/international-organizations/.

from iCivics Using jigsaw method, students read about and describe the purposes and functions of the following international organizations: UN, EU, NATO, World Bank, Red Read More

Environment (DDA)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/environment-dda/.

This lesson is designed to promote the teaching and learning of democratic principles and the skills of civic deliberation. Students complete a reading (available in English, Spanish, and Audio-English) and engage in a Structured Academic Controversy. Deliberation question: Should our democracy permit the cultivation of genetically modified foods?

Corruption and Judicial Independence (DDA)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/corruption-and-judicial-independence-dda/.

This lesson is designed to promote the teaching and learning of democratic principles and the skills of civic deliberation. Students complete a reading (available in English, Spanish, and Audio-English) and engage in a Structured Academic Controversy. Deliberation question: Should our democracy elect judges?

Cyberbullying (DDA)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/cyberbullying-dda/.

This lesson is designed to promote the teaching and learning of democratic principles and the skills of civic deliberation. Students complete a reading (available in English, Spanish, and Audio-English) and engage in a Structured Academic Controversy. Deliberation question: Should our democracy allow schools to punish students for off-campus cyberbullying?

Compulsory Voting (DDA)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voting-dda/.

This lesson is designed to promote the teaching and learning of democratic principles and the skills of civic deliberation. Students complete a reading (available in English, Spanish, and Audio-English) and engage in a Structured Academic Controversy. Deliberation question: Should voting be compulsory in our democracy?

Juvenile Justice (DDA)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/juvenile-justice-dda/.

This lesson is designed to promote the teaching and learning of democratic principles and the skills of civic deliberation. Students complete a reading (available in English, Spanish, and Audio-English) and engage in a Structured Academic Controversy. Deliberation question: In our democracy, should violent juvenile offenders be punished as adults?

Freedom of Expression (DDA)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-expression-dda/.

This lesson is designed to promote the teaching and learning of democratic principles and the skills of civic deliberation. Students complete a reading (available in English, Spanish, and Audio-English) and engage in a Structured Academic Controversy. Deliberation question: Should our democracy block Internet content to protect national security?

iCivics – “Counties Work” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/counties-work/.

In Counties Work, an online game from iCivics, students become elected officials and decide about the programs and services that affect everyone! Their choices shape the community, and citizen satisfaction determines whether they will get re-elected for a second term.

Facts on Congress

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/facts-on-congress/.

The Center on Congress has developed a series of brief, 60-second video segments aimed at middle-school students, but also appropriate for other age groups.

American Indian Sovereignty Curriculum

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/american-indian-sovereignty-curriculum/.

Students learn that American Indians have systems of tribal government that have powers, rights and responsibilities based on tribal constitutions agreed to by the people.

Why Government? (iCivics)

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/why-government-icivics/.

http://www.icivics.org/teachers/lesson-plans/why-government iCivics offers an off-line lesson on Locke and Hobbes ideas about the state of nature and natural rights.  The vocabulary building sections of the Read More

The U.S. Role in the World

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/3365-2/.

What role should the United States play in the world today and in coming years? What are the challenges before us? What issues are of most concern to us? What kind of world do we want in the 21st century? This lesson engages students in these questions. Students engage in active consideration of historical and current background material and are placed in the role of decision-makers as they explore divergent policy alternatives. After exploring divergent views, students deliberate together on the merits and tradeoffs of each. Finally, students express their own considered judgments on future policy direction.

Teaching About Trials

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-about-trials/.

The ideas shared in this article provide a range of classroom activities that can add interest, variety, and depth to middle and high school social studies classrooms.

Let’s Play Jeopardy! Electoral College

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/lets-play-jeopardy-electoral-college/.

A team game based on Jeopardy used to clarify and review the Electoral College. Students answer questions that are provided as part of the lesson, gaining points for their team.

Choosing an Impartial Jury

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/choosing-an-impartial-jury/.

Using the American Bar Association’s Goldilocks Mock Trial or a copy of the story of Goldilocks, students participate in a simulated voir dire or jury selection.

Dispute Resolution – Case of the Professional Tap Dancer

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/dispute-resolution-case-of-the-professional-tap-dancer/.

Students hear a simple story about two neighbors with conflicting interests. They brainstorm possible solutions to the conflict and discuss what rules could have existed to avoid the conflict and when those rules should have been made.

It’s My Life

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/its-my-life/.

In this discussion activity, students acknowledge how the law influences their lives, and how the Constitution provides a framework for such laws.

Who Doesn’t Count?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/3176-2/.

This lesson explores who is counted by the U.S. Census, and why an accurate count is important for ensuring representation in government.

Reforming American Government for the 21st Century

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/reforming-american-government-for-the-21st-century/.

Participants consider the citizenship clause of the presidential requirements, and the use of federal referenda during this simulated constitutional convention. Amending the U.S. Constitution is explored as well. This summary handout from the National Constitution Center may be used to supplement the lesson.

The Bill of Rights Match Game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-bill-of-rights-match-game/.

The object of the game is to read each statement and decide if the answer to the question at the end is “yes” or “no” based on information from the Bill of Rights.

Debating War and Peace in Washington Square Park

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/debating-war-and-peace-in-washington-square-park/.

“Here is a sampling of the comments written and posted around the arch at Washington Square Park in the days immediately following the destruction of the World Trade Center [9/11/2001]. Following the comments are suggestions about ways to use this primary source in social studies classes. Although the immediate sense of urgency to discuss the World Trade Center tragedy in classrooms may diminish in time, the Washington Square writings will long be relevant to social studies classes as they explore such topics as citizenship, civil liberty, prejudice, nationalism, immigration, terrorism, violence, and war.”

A Day in The Life

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/a-day-in-the-life/.

This activity describes 10 situations encountered in the daily life of an American teen. Take a look at each scenario, and then choose the related Supreme Court decision that directly impacts our rights and freedoms as citizens of the United States.

Supreme Court Landmark Case Timeline

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-landmark-case-timeline/.

In this activity, you will sort landmark Supreme Court cases into chronological order. After you have correctly placed all of the cards on the timeline, you will get more information and details about each of the cases, and links to additional resources related to the case.

Supreme Court Concentration

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-court-concentration/.

Learn about some of the most notable Supreme Court justices by matching the justices with their historic achievements and decisions!

With Liberty and Justice for All

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/with-liberty-and-justice-for-all/.

Students will reflect on their own ideas of liberty, and learn how to define and identify civil liberties. Through a historic case study involving the Pledge of Allegiance, they will analyze First Amendment rights in light of laws passed to increase citizenship, knowledge of our country, and patriotism.

The Power and Importance of Precedent in the Decisions of the Supreme Court

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-power-and-importance-of-precedent-in-the-decisions-of-the-supreme-court/.

Students will examine the role of precedent in Supreme Court decisions – why precedents are usually followed and what justices take into consideration when they overturn precedents.

How History Affects Supreme Court Decisions and Supreme Court Decisions Affect History: A Look at the Fourteenth Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-history-affects-supreme-court-decisions-and-supreme-court-decisions-affect-history-a-look-at-the-fourteenth-amendment/.

Students will analyze and compare important Supreme Court decisions involving the Fourteenth Amendment and civil rights. Students will also study how the Court applied the Fourteenth Amendment to questions involving the liberty of contract and protections for working people.

Constitution Guide

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitution-guide/.

The Constitution Guide provides a breakdown of the United States Constitution, section by section. Each section includes the actual language of the Constitution, and what it means in simplified language.

How a Bill Becomes a Federal Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-a-bill-becomes-law/.

Through this lesson, students will learn about the dynamic process of federal lawmaking and how it relates to them.

Justice For All in the Classroom

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/justice-for-all-in-the-classroom/.

In this lesson, students analyze the interplay of processes and procedures that courts use to seat an impartial jury and gain appreciation for the essential role of juries in the justice system.

Are the principles of the U.S. Constitution reflected in your school?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/are-the-principles-of-the-u-s-constitution-reflected-in-your-school/.

In this deliberation activity, students will be able to compare and contrast specific aspects of their school system (including school policies and student government system) with the key principles found in the U.S. Constitution.

Students and the Supreme Court: A Lexicon of Laws

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/students-and-the-supreme-court-a-lexicon-of-laws/.

In this lesson, students will use primary and secondary sources to analyze Supreme Court opinions for thirteen landmark cases involving students.

Separation of Powers and the Judiciary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/separation-of-powers-and-the-judiciary/.

In this lesson, students examine historical and contemporary examples of legal disputes over Constitutional powers that were decided by the Supreme Court.

The Making of a Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-making-of-a-law/.

Through this lesson, students will learn about the dynamic interconnections of people, principles, and process that are involved in making federal laws.

Jury Duty – Our Duty and Privilege

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/jury-duty-our-duty-and-privilege/.

In this lesson, students learn about the importance, history, and constitutional foundations of jury service

Judicial Fairness – Playground Bullies

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/judicial-fairness-playground-bullies/.

Through a role-playing activity, students learn about judicial fairness and bias.

Introduction to the Minnesota Judiciary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/introduction-to-the-minnesota-judiciary/.

This introduction to the judiciary in Minnesota includes a handout of background information for students to study and a handout of questions to stimulate discussion and increase their understanding of the materials.

How a Bill Becomes Law in Minnesota

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/how-a-bill-becomes-law-in-minnesota/.

Reference material explaining the steps between a bill and a law from a specific Minnesota perspective. Includes the story of Minnesota teen Joe Gibson’s process in changing the law to allow 16 year-olds to donate blood with parental permission.

Make Your Case Game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/make-your-case-game/.

Make Your Case is a courtroom trial simulation in which students control the action in a television-like trial. Students play the role of attorneys in a civil case involving a traffic accident between a bicyclist and a driver.

U.S. Constitution Scavenger Hunt

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/u-s-constitution-scavenger-hunt/.

Help students become familiar with the U.S. Constitution by hunting for specific citations within the document.

Jury Selection on Trial

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/jury-selection-on-trial/.

In this lesson, students learn about the process used for jury selection and how the role and responsibilities of government in civil and criminal jury trials are viewed by the Supreme Court.

Judicial Independence – Essential, Limited, Controversial

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/judicial-independence-essential-limited-controversial/.

In this lesson, students learn about the role of an independent judiciary in the United States. Through a cooperative learning jigsaw activity they focus on operational differences, essential functions, limited powers, and controversial issues.

Equal Justice Under Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/equal-justice-under-law/.

In this lesson, students explore the cause-and-effect relationships between historical events and the development of constitutional principles that protect the rights of all people in America today.

Key Constitutional Concepts – Creating a Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/key-constitutional-concepts-creating-a-constitution/.

To ensure engagement during the film, students are given the task of collecting a list of the many conflicts and compromises that went into the creation of a new American government. The lesson is completed with students reading Benjamin Franklin’s closing speech at the Constitutional Convention.

Actions That Changed the Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/actions-that-changed-the-law/.

Students gain insight into the lawmaking process, consider how statutory decisions made by the Supreme Court can prompt better laws, and learn about the rights and responsibilities they will have when they enter the workforce.

The Power of One Decision – Brown v. Board of Education

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-power-of-one-decision-brown-v-board-of-education/.

Through the lesson, students gain insight into decision-making at the Supreme Court, learn about the people behind the case, construct a persuasive argument, and evaluate the sig- nificance of Brown v. Board of Education.

Freedom of Speech: Finding the Limits

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-speech-finding-the-limits/.

In this lesson, students gain insight into the many challenges involved in defining and protecting free speech.

Media Law Presentation: Invasion of Privacy

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/invasion-of-privacy-law/.

This PowerPoint presentation examines each of the four different types of invasion of privacy and includes a number of true-to-life examples that will help reporters and photographers steer clear of the most common privacy trouble spots.

Media Law Presentation: Freedom of Information Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-information-law/.

This PowerPoint presentation is designed to explain what Freedom of Information law is and how it works.

Interactive Diagram of the Federal Court System

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/interactive-diagram-of-the-federal-court-system/.

This interactive diagram of the Federal Court System includes small videos of various judges presenting information about the Court.

Interactive Guide to the Sixth Amendment

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/interactive-guide-to-the-sixth-amendment/.

http://www.annenbergclassroom.org/page/interactive-guide-to-the-sixth-amendment

Constitutional Convention 1

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constitutional-convention/.

As the Founding Fathers struggle to decide how the young nation will be governed, explore how very different men representing their states’ conflicting interests created a bicameral legislature and three branches of government.

iCivics – “LawCraft” game and “Extension Pack”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/law-craft/.

Students play as a senator or representative from a state and political party they select. Then their challenge is to get Congress to pass a bill based on a hot topic from a constituent.

iCivics – “Court Quest” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/court-quest/.

In Court Quest students help citizens seeking justice from courts in the United States.

Media Law Presentation: Copyright Law

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/copyright-law/.

This presentation of approximately 45 minutes begins with a brief introduction of the history and goals behind copyright. It then explores some of the basics of copyright, including distinction from other intellectual property rights (patent, trademark), questions about copyright eligibility, duration, registration, obtaining copyright permissions and plagiarism. Finally, considerable time is spent discussing copyright law’s Fair Use Exemption.

The Role of Government- Federal Government and Fiscal Policy

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-role-of-government-federal-government-and-fiscal-policy/.

Students will visit “A Citizen’s Guide to the Federal Budget,” and use the federal government web site to obtain information which will help them understand basic information about the budget of the United States Government for the current fiscal year.

Tic Tac Taxes

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/tic-tac-taxes/.

This lesson will take you through the different types of taxes governments impose, and the goods and services the governments provide in return.

Is 12 an Important Number?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/is-12-an-important-number/.

This interdisciplinary lesson considers the use of 12 members on a jury, and whether decreasing that number impacts the chance of a fair trial.

Constituion Costs

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/constituion-costs/.

This lesson will help you understand the government’s role in providing some protections and services to all our country’s citizens, and the reason we pay taxes to fund those protections and services.

Jury Deliberation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/jury-deliberation/.

This lesson includes two activities to help students learn about jury deliberation.

Issues of Evidence – Sheppard Murder Trial

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/issues-of-evidence-sheppard-murder-trial/.

Students read selected background material on the Sheppard murder case and discuss the assigned readings in class. Activities include analyzing a political cartoon and a primary source document, writing and delivering a closing statement, and developing a timeline of the various court decisions made in the Sheppard case.

Voir Dire: A Simulation

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/voir-dire-a-simulation/.

This lesson includes hypothetical cases and materials to allow classroom teachers to simulate the voir dire process used in court rooms to choose jurors.

High Speed Police Chase – Search and Seizure

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/high-speed-police-chase-search-and-seizure/.

The case of Scott v. Harris asks where the responsibility lies in a chase that ends with 19-year-old Victor Harris becoming a quadriplegic in a wheelchair.

First Amendment and Social Media

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/first-amendment-and-social-media/.

This highly interactive program combines the vampire craze and social media to give high school students the opportunity to wrestle with a current issue by participating in a trial and jury deliberations.

Religion – Engel v. Vitale

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/religion-engel-v-vitale/.

This lesson contains materials for Engel v. Vitale, a Landmark Case. These materials can be used to lead students in a discussion of religion in public schools.

Free Speech and Flag Burning

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/free-speech-and-flag-burning/.

In Texas v. Johnson the Court decided that flag burning is symbolic speech protected by the First Amendment. If you were an Associate Justice serving on the Supreme Court, what legal arguments would you take into account in deciding Texas v. Johnson?

Freedom of the Press and School Newspapers

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-the-press-and-school-newspapers/.

In Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier the Court ruled that the First Amendment rights of student journalists are not violated when school officials prevent the publication of certain articles in the school newspaper.

Freedom of Assembly – Cox v. New Hampshire

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/freedom-of-assembly-cox-v-new-hampshire/.

The First Amendment protects freedom of assembly. Includes materials to lead discussion or debate surrounding the Landmark Case of Cox v. New Hampshire.

Carey v. Musladin

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/balancing-free-speech-and-fair-trial-2/.

The case of Carey v. Musladin asks students to separate emotions from reason when they decide the following question: If the friends and family of a murder victim sit in the trial of the alleged murderer wearing buttons printed with a picture of the deceased, does that prejudice the jury and risk depriving the defendant of his Sixth Amendment right to an impartial jury?

Failure is Impossible – Woman Suffrage

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/failure-is-impossible-woman-suffrage/.

To dramatize the debate for woman suffrage, playwright Rosemary Knower was commissioned to write a narrative script, drawing on the Congressional Record, petitions to Congress, personal letters within the legislative records of the Government, and other archival sources such as newspaper editorials and articles, diaries and memoirs.

Memorial Day- Secondary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/memorial-day-secondary/.

Students will define the different categories of memorials and begin to understand the intentions of the artists who design them. Students will also consider current international conflicts and use their findings to design a memorial.

President’s Day – Elementary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/presidents-day-elementary/.

Students will learn about Abraham Lincoln and his role in shaping America by researching his life.

Tribal Sovereignty

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/tribal-sovereignty/.

Students will be asked to research the sovereignty issues facing a tribe that resides within their state border. Then, they will develop their own sovereign nation.

The American Presidency – grades 4-6

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-american-presidency-grades-4-6/.

This group of lessons was created as part of the permanent American Presidency – A Glorious Burden exhibit at the National Museum of American History.

The American Presidency – grades 7-9

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-american-presidency-grades-7-9/, the american presidency – grades 10-12, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-american-presidency-grades-10-12/, the constitution and the economy, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-constitution-and-the-economy/.

Students see how the U.S. Constitution supports those characteristics by reading relevant portions of the Constitution, and matching these provisions with the six characteristics of a market economy.

Titanic Mock Trial

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/titanic-mock-trial/.

Materials for a mock trial based on the sinking of the Titanic. The site includes information regarding the case of the Estate of Hans Jensen v. White Star Line.

https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/extending-suffrage-to-women/

In this interactive activity, students will see eleven different documents arguing both for and against voting rights for women. Their task is to put them in the order that they were created, making a list of the arguments that suffragists and anti-suffragists used to convince others of their opinions.

DocsTeach: We the People

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/docsteach-we-the-people/.

The two documents students will see are George Washington’s copy of a draft of the U.S. Constitution and the final, ratified version of the Constitution of the United States. They are to evaluate the difference in wording between the two by answering and discussing the provided questions.

The Constitution at Work

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-constitution-at-work/.

An interactive online learning activity in which students connect primary sources with sections of the Constitution and determine the big idea(s) found in the Constitution exemplified by each.

The Trial of Susan B. Anthony: The Woman Suffrage Movement, A Document-Based Question

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-trial-of-susan-b-anthony-the-woman-suffrage-movement-a-document-based-question/.

Students are asked to use primary source documents, knowledge of the period from 1865–1873, and knowledge of Susan B. Anthony to answer: To what extent did the trial of Susan B. Anthony advance the cause of suffrage for women?

The Trial of Susan B. Anthony: Interpreting the Fourteenth Amendment, A Simulation Activity

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-trial-of-susan-b-anthony-interpreting-the-fourteenth-amendment-a-simulation-activity/.

In order to examine the meaning of the Fourteenth Amendment and the suffragists’ arguments in favor of voting rights, students write scripts for and reenact a hearing before the House of Representatives Committee on the Judiciary as well as reenact a jury deliberation in the Susan B. Anthony trial.

Newspapers in the Digital Age

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/newspapers-in-the-digital-age/.

Students evaluate the most significant developments in news dissemination through individual ranking and small group consensus work. Students then construct an illustrated timeline that explains the historical significance of each development. Finally, students predict trends in journalism over the next 5 years.

Journalists and the Constitution

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/journalists-and-the-constitution/.

Students write an amicus brief in the case of a freelance journalist imprisoned for not turning over footage to the federal government.

Gerrymander Exercise

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/gerrymander-exercise/.

Working individually or in groups, students will develop legislative districts that will favor their assigned party.

A Burning Issue: A Structured Academic Controversy Concerning Flag Desecration

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/a-burning-issue-a-structured-academic-controversy-concerning-flag-desecration/.

Is a Constitutional Amendment required to protect the U.S. flag from desecration? Students present a compromise resolution after they debate, deliberate, and analyze primary source documents, including the majority and dissenting opinions from Texas v. Johnson.

What is an American? An Immigration Policy Seminar

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/what-is-an-american-an-immigration-policy-seminar/.

This lesson plan features four primary sources related to immigration legislation which provide the basis for a classroom activity in which students, working collaboratively, come up with their own immigration policy proposals.

Government Quiz Game – Minnesota House of Representatives

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/government-quiz-game-minnesota-house-of-representatives/.

State of Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Office This is an internet quiz game with questions and multiple choice answers dealing with the MN Read More

Impact of Government

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/impact-of-government/.

Democracy Kids State and Federal laws impact our lives in many ways.  This website offers fun, interactive pop-ups that show how government affects our lives Read More

Getting Involved: Making a Difference – What Level of Government do you work with?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/getting-involved-making-a-difference-what-level-of-government-do-you-work-with/.

Democracy Kids  This site gives you a brief introduction to the three levels of government and what issues they deal with.  It will also give Read More

To Keep and Bear Arms: An Individual or Collective Right?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/to-keep-and-bear-arms-an-individual-or-collective-right/.

An individual or a collective right? This lesson asks students to examine landmark Supreme Court decisions and opposing interpretations of the Second Amendment in developing their own reasoned positions.

Budget Hero

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/budget-hero-american-public-media/.

American Public Media This is a great resource to help students understand the structural problems with the nation’s debt. Participants choose certain “badges that represent Read More

Federal Budget Allocation – CCIU – Representative Democracy in America

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/federal-budget-allocation-cciu-representative-democracy-in-america/.

Link: http://congress.indiana.edu/sites/default/files/modules/budget/budget.htm One of Congress’ major responsibilities is providing funds for federal programs. This activity allows you to try your hand at allocating the federal Read More

Public Criticisms of Congress – CCIU – Representative Democracy in America

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/public-criticisms-of-congress/.

Link: http://congress.indiana.edu/sites/default/files/modules/public_opinion/base.html In the Public Criticisms module, you will hear many of the common criticisms of Congress via “man on the street” videos. You will Read More

iCivics – “Represent Me!” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/represent-me/.

In Represent Me!, students work as legislators trying to meet the needs of their constituents by deciding what bills to sponsor in Congress. Students: Understand that Read More

iCivics – “Executive Command” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/executive-command/.

Objectives – Analyze the structure, functions, and processes of the executive branch Describe the various roles of the president: commander in chief, head diplomat, agenda Read More

iCivics “Responsibility Launcher” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/responsibility-launcher/.

In Responsibility Launcher, students can help remind citizens that their civic duties aren’t just responsibilities, they help get things done! Students: Describe ways an individual can Read More

Felon Voting

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/felon-voting/.

“Should felons be allowed to vote?” is the core question explored on this site, with arguments and support given both pro and con. The topic of felon voting is further explored pro-con by categories.

LegalWays: Search and Seizure

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-search-and-seizure/.

This lesson examines more closely the issues surrounding search and seizure. The warrant requirement is explained and exceptions are described in a student reading with guiding questions. The students are asked to apply their knowledge and understanding to five hypothetical cases in the “What do you think?” activity. Defense lawyers would be very helpful in this lesson because the students are likely to have very specific questions that require knowledge of search law. Although this lesson reflects Minnesota law, it is generally applicable to all states and can be adapted.

Which Founder Are You?

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/which-founder-are-you/.

Take an 11 question personality quiz to see which Founder you are most like!

Seize the Vote

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/seize-the-vote/.

This in an online interactive voting rights game which addresses historical and current suffrage issues.

Deliberating in a Democracy Judicial Elections

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deliberating-in-a-democracy-judicial-elections/.

By Jennifer Bloom and Kate McBride Engage students in a Structured Academic Controversy in this lesson that focuses on developing deliberation skills using a proposed Read More

Deliberating in a Democracy Voter Identification

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deliberating-in-a-democracy-voter-identification/.

Engage students in a Structured Academic Controversy in this lesson that focuses on developing deliberation skills using a proposed Minnesota Law that would require all Minnesota voters to have photo identification.

iCivics “Supreme Decision” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/supreme-decision/.

Is the t-shirt free speech? Help decide a Supreme Court case about a student’s 1st Amendment rights in school using the process of judicial reasoning and looking at the landmark Tinker v. Des Moines case.

Deliberating in a Democracy Raw Milk

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deliberating-in-a-democracy-raw-milk/.

This lesson from the Deliberating in a Democracy Minnesota (DIDMN) project teaches deliberation skills that ensure that conflicting views can be heard, understood, and valued, and students will develop the ability to find solutions to important issues. Lesson includes a student reading on the pros and cons of regulation raw milk which is used by small groups as they increase their understanding of the issue.

Deliberating in a Democracy Ethanol

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deliberating-in-a-democracy-ethanol/.

Engage students in a Structured Academic Controversy in this lesson that focuses on developing deliberation skills using the issue of ethanol (a critical question for Minnesota and the nation and world).

Deliberating in a Democracy Farm Subsidies

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/deliberating-in-a-democracy-farm-subsidies/.

This lesson from Deliberating in a Democracy Minnesota (DIDMN) project teaches deliberation skills that ensure that conflicting views can be heard, understood, and valued, and students will develop the ability to find solutions to important issues. Lesson includes a student reading on farm subsidies which is used by small groups as they increase their understanding of the issue.

iCivics – “Immigration Nation” game

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/immigration-nation-2/.

Objectives – Identify eligibility requirements for legal U.S. residence Use citizenship criteria to distinguish those who are already citizens from those who are not Describe Read More

Vote America!

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/vote-america-video/.

Vote America! educates students about suffrage. The struggles of the civil rights era, passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, and the 15th, 19th, and 26th amendments to the U.S. Constitution are chronicled in this video.

LegalWays: Juvenile Sentencing

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-juvenile-sentencing/.

The disposition of a case (sentencing) is the focus of this lesson from the LegalWays Curriculum. It includes a description of the process and the options open to the court. In the “You Decide” activity, students serve as the judge and determine what the sentence will be in a hypothetical case. They are asked to provide the reasons for their decision. The final activity has students participating in a “Youth Forum” to consider the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system. Suggested guiding questions are included. This forum provides an excellent opportunity to invite local juvenile justice stakeholders including prosecution and defense lawyers, judges, corrections employees, treatment professionals, victims, families, law enforcement, etc. The questions provided are adaptations of questions considered by policy makers and the Minnesota Supreme Court.

LegalWays: Juvenile Certification

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-juvenile-certification/.

In this lesson from the LegalWays curriculum, certification(the process of moving a juvenile from juvenile court to adult court) is described, including presumptive and non-presumptive certification. The activity “You Decide” asks students to decide whether cases would be presumptive or non-presumptive and to identify the factors that would be considered in the certification process. The “Case Study” asks them to determine whether a juvenile should be certified and to explain the reasons for the decision. In the final “You Decide” activity the students analyze four cases and decide if the juvenile stays in juvenile court, becomes an EJJ, or is certified to adult court. The students are asked to provide their reasons. This activity requires that the other lessons in the unit be completed first. Although the lesson is based on Minnesota law and procedure, most states have similar processes. The lesson can be adapted to the law of other states.

LegalWays: Extended Jurisdiction Juvenile

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-extended-jurisdiction-juvenile/.

This lesson from the LegalWays curriculum describes a process provided by Minnesota law that has the juvenile in both the juvenile system and adult system. It has been described as “a foot in each system.” How a juvenile becomes EJJ, what the court looks as in making its decision, and what happens if the juvenile does not complete the juvenile sentence are the topics of the lesson. The Questions guide the student through the information and the “You Decide” activities ask the students to apply what they have learned.

LegalWays: Juvenile Delinquency Process

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-juvenile-delinquency-process/.

In this lesson from the LegalWays curriculum the Steps in a Juvenile Delinquency case are described. This lesson enhances the lesson on the Juvenile Court in The Legal System unit. The student reading with guided questions and the “Ordering” activity help the students learn the procedure. The steps in the procedure can also be used in a “Human Continuum” activity. This lesson uses Minnesota law but can be adapted for other states.

LegalWays: Introduction to Juvenile Delinquency

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-introduction-to-juvenile-system/.

This lesson asks the students to think about the history and purpose of the juvenile system and to decide how they feel about specific issues currently facing the juvenile justice system. Lesson begins with a “What do you think?” activity. The “Juvenile Justice Poll” can be used with groups outside of the class and the answers can be tabulated and the results shared.

Teaching Strategy: Client Counseling Role Play

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/teaching-strategy-client-counseling-role-play/.

Teacher instructions for Client Counseling Role-Plays, a strategy that provide students with the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the experiences of both clients and their counselors, to develop interviewing skills, to practice communication skills, and to learn content in a more meaningful and effective way.

LegalWays: Termination of Parental Rights

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-termination-of-parental-rights/.

The reasons the court will use in terminating a parent’s rights are described and the steps are laid out in this lesson from the LegalWays curriculum. The “Case Study” presents a story of a baby and her mom and asks the students to decide if parental rights should be terminated and identify alternative steps that might be taken. Additional cases are considered in the “Mock Appellate Argument” activity. To conclude the lesson, the students are engaged in a “Mock Legislative Hearing” concerning a bill making it easier to terminate parental rights.

LegalWays: Child Abuse and Neglect

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-child-abuse-and-neglect/.

This lesson from LegalWays curriculum defines types of abuse, neglect, and endangerment and discusses mandated reporters and what happens when a report is made. Students use guiding questions and a matching activity to apply the law presented in a short student reading. The “You Decide” activity asks them to decide if a situation is neglect, endangerment, physical abuse, sexual abuse, or an accident. Many of the cases are actual stories. This lesson uses Minnesota law but can be easily adapted.

LegalWays: Harassment and Restraining Orders

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-harassment-and-restraining-orders/.

Harassment is defined and steps a victim of harassment should take are included in this lesson from the LegalWays curriculum. In the “You Decide” activity the students decide if situations fit the definition of harassment. The “Ordering” activity asks students to order the steps in getting a restraining order. This activity can also be done as a Human Continuum (see Strategy section). The final activity, another “You Decide” asks students to decide if cases would result in a restraining order or an order for protection. This activity requires that the students have already completed the lesson on Domestic Abuse and Order for Protection. Student use a short reading on the law and guiding lessons to understand the content. Minnesota law is use in this lesson, but lesson adaptation is easily done.

LegalWays: Domestic Abuse and Order for Protection

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-domestic-abuse-and-order-for-protection/.

This lesson from LegalWays describes domestic abuse and what can be done when a person is the victim of abuse. The procedure for getting an Order for Protection is included. The “Case Study” activity asks the students to apply their new knowledge to a hypothetical case. As a culminating activity, the students will apply their knowledge and learn more about the court system in the Mock Trial, which involves domestic abuse between a girlfriend and boyfriend. Lesson includes a student reading with guiding questions using Minnesota law. Lesson can be adapted.

LegalWays: Child Protection

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-child-protection/.

In this lesson from LegalWays curriculum, Child Protection is explained, both the process and the people. The lesson also suggests what a parent involved in a child protection matter should do. Students use guiding questions to review the student reading. The two case studies ask the students to play the role of child protection worker and respond to the case, making recommendations and developing the case plan. They are also asked to take the perspective of a mother whose child is now under the services of child protection. This lesson applies Minnesota law but can be easily adapted.

LegalWays: Runaways

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-runaways/.

This lesson from the LegalWays curriculum helps the students understand what will happen to them if they run away. The “Matching” activity asks them to match the terms with the definitions. The “Role-Play” activity has the students giving advice to young people contemplating running away. Although this activity reflects the procedures used in MInnesota, they are similar to procedures in other states and the student reading and guiding questions are easily adaptable.

LegalWays: Living Away From Home

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-living-away-from-home/.

This lesson from the LegalWays curriculum focuses on emancipation, which is a difficult area to understand because there is no specific Minnesota statute that lists the requirements and the procedure to become emancipated. This lesson describes emancipation and how it occurs using a student reading with guiding questions. In some states, the law provides specific procedure for emancipation.

LegalWays: Guardian Ad Litem & Child Intermediary

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-guardian-ad-litem-child-intermediary/.

This lesson from LegalWays curriculum tries to help students understand who the people in the juvenile justice system are and what they do. The lesson includes a student reading with guiding questions to explain the law. The “Your Turn” activity asks the students to create situations involving guardians ad litem and child intermediaries and to identify the responsibilities they have in each case. Although this uses Minnesota law, it can be adapted for other states.

LegalWays: Children in Foster Homes

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-children-in-foster-homes/.

Because of the importance of foster care in the lives of many young people, this lesson from the LegalWays curriculum looks at foster care from the perspective of a child in foster care, including a description of the specific rights that youth in foster care have. The Case Plan activity asks the students to analyze three cases looking at the reasons for the foster care, the attempts to correct the problems, the services that might help, and what needs to be done to return the child home. Lesson includes a student reading about the law including guiding questions. Although the lesson uses Minnesota law, it can be adapted.

LegalWays: Visitation and Child Support

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-visitation-and-child-support/.

By Jennifer Bloom and Sally Revak This lesson from the LegalWays curriculum describes the rights, the people involved, and the way visitation can be changed, Read More

LegalWays: Paternity and Child Custody

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-paternity-and-child-custody/.

This lesson from the LegalWays curriculum focuses on paternity, which is an important issue in the lives of teen parents. The reading about the law with the guiding questions and the Yes or No You Decide activity are designed to help the students understand the content of the law. The “Each One Teach One” is an effective way to teach and review the substance of the law in an interactive way. Although the reading reflects Minnesota law, the reading can be adapted easily.

LegalWays: Parenting

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-parenting/.

In this lesson from the LegalWays curriculum, students are encouraged to think about the rights and responsibilities of parenting. The responsibility to keep children safe is emphasized. Lesson includes a short student reading with guiding questions. The “What do you think?” activity requires that the students understand the rights and responsibilities that they would have as teen parents toward their children and the rights and responsibilities that their parents have over them. “Your Turn” asks students to brainstorm conflicts between parents and children and then craft solutions that would be acceptable to both sides. “Your Turn” could also be used in mediation simulation. Although the lesson reflects Minnesota law, adaptions could be easily made.

LegalWays: Juvenile Protection and Services

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-juvenile-protection-and-services/.

This lesson presents the steps in juvenile protection and services cases. Materials include a student reading with related ordering activity. Lesson is targeted at young people at risk of being in the juvenile protection system. This activity uses Minnesota law but can be adapted for your state law.

LegalWays: Conciliation Court

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-conciliation-court/.

By Jennifer Bloom and Sally Revak From Unit 1 of LegalWays, a curriculum designed to teach a variety of legal topics of interest to young Read More

LegalWays: Your Right to an Attorney

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-your-right-to-an-attorney/, founding documents treasure hunt, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/founding-documents-treasure-hunt/.

Students are provided a handout with quotations from the English Bill of Rights, Magna Carta, Mayflower Compact, and Declaration of Independence. They are to identify the source of each quotation and paraphrase the passages using modern-day language.

LegalWays: Juvenile Court

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-juvenile-court/.

By Jennifer Bloom and Sally Revak, Learning Law and Democracy Foundation From Unit 1 of LegalWays, a curriculum designed to teach a variety of legal Read More

LegalWays: Sources of Law and the Courts

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/legalways-sources-of-law-and-the-courts/, the problem of spongebob roundpants mock trial script, https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-problem-of-spongebob-roundpants-mock-trial-script/.

This short scripted mock trial for grades 4-6 involves SpongeBob suing Abercrombie and Fish for pants that don’t fit. The roles of the people in the courtroom are described before students volunteer to play various parts. The scripted parts allow the trial to move quickly to jury deliberations during which the student jurors actually decide the verdict of the case.

From King to Constitution “Get Off our Backs!”

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/from-king-to-constitution-get-off-our-backs/.

Authors: iCivics Students learn how the American colonists became used to governing themselves and ultimately declared independence from Britain in order to establish their own Read More

Visitor from Outer Space

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/visitor-from-outer-space/.

Students are asked to evaluate and rank rights protected by the Bill of Rights in a hypothetical invasion by a visitor from outer space. Students complete the ranking individually and then work in small groups to come to consensus. Students apply prior knowledge about the meaning and importance of the rights and are inspired to learn more about these rights. Lesson can be used as an introductory or review activity.

No Vehicles in the Park

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/no-vehicles-in-the-park/.

This lesson engages students in the interpretation of a law. Working in groups, they decide whether citizens engaged in various activities violate the law “No Vehicles in the Park.” Students can roleplay judges deciding whether the law has been violated or citizens requesting variances from a city council which would exempt them from the law.

Claim Your Powers

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/claim-your-powers/.

This cooperative small group activity will involve students in a class competition. Groups are assigned one of the three branches of government and points are awarded when groups correctly claim the branches power and/or checks the branch has over other branches. Students will claim powers based on their reading and application of the first three articles of the Constitution to hypothetical situations. The constitutional themes presented are separation of powers and checks and balances.

Choosing a Judge

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/choosing-a-judge/.

Students explore the considerations that play a role in judicial selection and select the qualities they think should be considered in selecting a judge. Students will then act as governor as they select one judge from a list of candidates.

People in the Court

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/people-in-the-court/.

This lesson introduces students to the various people who appear in courtrooms including parties to the court action, court employees, and the public. In small groups, students analyze the interests and concerns of each person using a worksheet. Students are also introduced to the right to a fair trial guaranteed by the 6th Amendment to the U. S. Constitution and Article 1, Section 6 of the Minnesota Constitution.

Government Mindwalk

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/government-mindwalk/.

This lessons asks students to identify the various ways in which government is involved in their lives by imagining their daily activities and completing a worksheet with the activities, the rules or laws involved, the purpose or reasons, and whether the government action is appropriate.

Immigration Law: Deport or Not? You Decide

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/immigration-law-deport-or-not-you-decide/.

Author: Rebecca Swinney, University of Minnesota Law Student, Street Law Course 2010 This lesson introduces students to immigration law in the United States.  The lesson Read More

The Fourth Amendment and School Searches

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/the-fourth-amendment-and-school-searches/.

This lesson explores the Fourth Amendment protection against unreasonable searches and seizures through the lens of “School Searches.” Using role-play scenarios, individual and class opinion polls, and a PowerPoint overview of the relevant case law, students will explore their own views, and learn what the law says about reasonable expectations of “privacy” at school.

Fourth Amendment’s Protections in the Home

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/fourth-amendment%e2%80%99s-protections-in-the-home/.

In this lesson, students will be presented with a brief summary of the scope of the Fourth Amendment as it relates to the home. They will read the facts of the Supreme Court case California v. Greenwood and work in small groups to deliberate as the Supreme Court would. After reaching a decision in their groups, they will be provided with the Supreme Court’s reasoning and have an opportunity to compare their explanations with those of the Court. The lesson includes background information and relevant case summaries for the teacher.

Juvenile Sentencing

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/juvenile-sentencing/.

This lesson plan will aid students in understanding the goals of the juvenile justice system and the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment by participating in a Mock Appellate Argument.

Juvenile Justice Introduction

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/juvenile-justice-introduction/.

This lesson aims to introduce students to the history of juvenile law in the United States, the differences between Juvenile and Criminal Law, and the different ways in which courts treat juvenile delinquency cases. The second day focuses on the Minnesota Juvenile Justice system. The lessons uses case studies of actual cases and student written reflections.

Understanding the Minnesota Judiciary: Impartiality and Elections

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/understanding-the-minnesota-judiciary-impartiality-and-elections/.

Abstract: Students will learn about judicial elections and impartiality through case studies on the exercise of First Amendment rights in judicial elections, limitations on corporate contributions, and procedures to protect impartiality. Strategies used include jigsaw of case studies and deliberation on proposed change to the Minnesota Constitution regarding judicial elections.

Understanding the Minnesota Judiciary: Judicial Decision Making

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/understanding-the-minnesota-judiciary-judicial-decision-making/.

Abstract: This lesson describes Minnesota’s different levels of courts differentiating them by structure, function, and decision making processes. The lesson includes a brief lecture/direct instruction component as well as a guided discussion activity. The direct instruction component is appropriate for any Civics course with a Judicial Branch unit focus. Due to its content, the lesson activity as written is most suitable for older high school students in Government or Civics classes.

Cameras in the Courtroom-Lesson Example

Https://teachingcivics.org/lesson/cameras-in-the-courtroom/.

In this lesson, students will examine the constitutional conflicts of allowing or disallowing cameras in courtrooms. The importance of this issue will be emphasized through a discussion about media literacy. Students will participate in a “Shuttle Debate,” where they will argue whether the state of Minnesota, which currently does not allow cameras in courtrooms, should change its policy.

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Lesson 1: Starting a Government from Scratch

Statue of John Hanson by Richard E. Brooks in the National Statuary Hall in the Capitol Building, Washington, D.C.

Architect of the Capitol

At the time the Founders were shaping the future of a new country, John Adams suggested the President should be addressed as “His Excellency.” Happily, others recognized that such a title was inappropriate. Though the proper form of address represents only a small detail, defining everything about the Presidency was central to the idea of America that was a work-in-progress when the nation was young.

Guiding Questions

What actions are necessary in order to start a new government?

What would one of the major concerns be in preserving the new government and country?

What should be the role of the leader or president of the country?

Learning Objectives

Describe the role of the government and the president in establishing a new country.

Describe some of the actions the government bodies would probably take to ensure order and security.

List some of the challenges and problems, as well as accomplishments that might occur in forming a new government.

Lesson Plan Details

NCSS.D2.His.1.6-8. Analyze connections among events and developments in broader historical contexts.

NCSS.D2.His.2.6-8. Classify series of historical events and developments as examples of change and/or continuity.

NCSS.D2.His.3.6-8. Use questions generated about individuals and groups to analyze why they, and the developments they shaped, are seen as historically significant.

NCSS.D2.His.4.6-8. Analyze multiple factors that influenced the perspectives of people during different historical eras.

NCSS.D2.His.12.6-8. Use questions generated about multiple historical sources to identify further areas of inquiry and additional sources.

NCSS.D2.His.15.6-8. Evaluate the relative influence of various causes of events and developments in the past. 

NCSS. D2.His.16.6-8. Organize applicable evidence into a coherent argument about the past.

Activity 1. Starting a Government From Scratch

Begin the discussion by asking students if anyone in their families ever makes a “to do list.” Talk about such lists.

Ask students to think carefully about what the Founders had to do to start a brand new country, which officially began with the ratification of the Articles of Confederation on March 1, 1781. Imagine you've just formed a new country. Brainstorm a list of actions the Continental Congress would probably take in starting a new country. Consider the many kinds of things a government does.

"The exceeding narrow limits to which the possessions of the enemy (the British) are confined by a series of the most judicious and fortunate operations, must be the source of infinite discontent and an inconceivable mortification to their unbounded ambition and intolerable pride; at the same time that it affords every Friend to his Country singular Joy and satisfaction. Nothing can be a more convincing proof of their weakness and hopeless situation, than the base unworthy acts they are practicing and the infamous means they have recourse to, in order to support themselves in their diminishing Conquests and distress us. But I hope every practicable measure will be adopted to defeat their wicked designs. The partial failure of their attempt to embody (enlist) the Tories I consider as a favorable Omen; and as to the Negroes, (the British are trying to convert them to) inhuman purposes. ... But with respect to the savages (Native Americans), every precaution within our power should be used to render the plans of our enemy ineffectual."

"… the Battle of Blue Licks, in the Appalachian west, the British and their Indian allies, the Wyandot, Ottawa, Ojibwa, Shawnee, Mingo, and Delaware inflict heavy casualties and force the retreat of Daniel Boone and the Kentucky militia. In response, George Rogers Clark leads Kentucky militia on an expedition against the British into Ohio country. These are often considered the last formal engagements of the Revolutionary War."

• The class should also consider the ways the government helps out with activities Americans do every day, such as going to schools supported and regulated by the government, spending money coined by the government, riding on roads maintained by the government, paying taxes for the government's use, sending and receiving mail, and so on.

"The United States in Congress assembled shall have authority … to appoint such other committees and civil officers as may be necessary for managing the general affairs of the United States under their direction -- to appoint one of their members to preside, provided that no person be allowed to serve in the office of president more than one year in any term of three years."

Guiding Discussion Questions

• What “rules” applied to the President under the Articles of Confederation? ( The responsibility to preside over Congress's meetings, a one-year term, only one term in any three-year period, and nothing else specific in the way of powers or responsibilities .)
• What does it mean to preside over a meeting?
• What responsibilities does that task entail?
• What power could that give the person who presides?
• If the term of the President was set at one year, and a candidate could only be elected for that one-year term once every three years, how would those requirements most likely affect the power of the President?

More information on the Articles of Confederation, intended specifically for students in grades 6-8, is available on Ben's Guide to U.S. Government for Kids: The Articles of Confederation , a link from the EDSITEment resource Internet Public Library.

Write down and save all of students' ideas about what was on the minds of the Founders as they started the new nation. We know what was on some of their "to do lists" because records were kept of what happened in the Continental Congress. In Lesson Two , students will review the Journals of the Continental Congress to find out what was really on the Founders' “to do lists.”

Selected EDSITEment Websites

• John Hanson to Nathanael Greene, January 29, 1782
• Last engagements of the Revolutionary War
• The Articles of Confederation

Related on EDSITEment

Lesson 2: the "to do list" of the continental congress, lesson 3: lost hero: was john hanson actually the first president, before and beyond the constitution: what should a president do.

teach civics

Use free online civics games and lesson plans proven to engage students, make civic learning engaging with interactive games for middle school and high school students., icivics games cover a range of topics.

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Best Civics Websites

Information about three types of recommended websites are provided here. Sister websites are those connected to Annenberg Classroom. Best Civics Websites are organizations that have excellent content for civics education. Most of the resources are free.

Sister Sites

FactCheck.org and the Civics Renewal Network are projects of the Annenberg Public Policy Center.

Civics Renewal Network

Teachers can find an array of free, standards-aligned online classroom resources at this one-stop website for teaching civics education and history. The resources cover all grade levels and are searchable by subject, resource type, teaching strategy, standards and organization. The material features the best of the nonprofit, nonpartisan organizations in the Civics Renewal Network.

Level: Kindergarten through high school

FactCheck.org

FactCheck.org is a “nonpartisan, nonprofit ‘consumer advocate’ for voters that aims to reduce the level of deception and confusion in U.S. politics.” Its staff monitors factual accuracy in American politics, looking at what’s being said in TV ads, debates, speeches, interviews and the like.

The website has three main outlets for its work: Articles, the FactCheck Wire (for shorter items or ones of less national interest) and Ask FactCheck (in which the group’s staff members answer questions sent in by readers, often about chain e-mails on political subjects). The group debunks myths, falsehoods and exaggerations by politicians and outside groups involved in election campaigns and public policy debates. Examples of FactCheck.org’s work include stories about misinformation spread during public policy debates such as the one on overhauling the health care system, and inaccurate claims made during election campaigns. The group’s work is often cited by other media organizations.

FactCheck.org is funded by, and is a project of, the Annenberg Public Policy Center, which was established by the Annenberg Foundation with a $20 million endowment in 1993. The Annenberg Foundation also made additional grants to support FactCheck.org’s work. The APPC accepts no funding from business corporations, labor unions, political parties, lobbying organizations or individuals. In 2010, FactCheck.org began accepting donations from individual members of the public. Its does not accept any funds from corporations, unions, partisan organizations or advocacy groups.

Political Leanings: None

Annenberg Public Policy Center

The Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania has been the premier communication policy center in the country since its founding in 1993. APPC’s work has informed the policy debates around campaign finance, children’s television, Internet privacy, tobacco advertising, adolescent health, movie violence, and the tone of discourse in Washington.

This website is designed to give scholars, the media and the general public expanded access to the work that began in 1993.

Best Civics Sites

Annenberg Classroom recommends these nonprofit, nonpartisan organizations that provide free civics education curriculum as excellent resources for teachers.

ABOTA Foundation

The ABOTA Foundation provides free civics and law-related education resources and programs to teachers and students. The mission of the ABOTA Foundation is to support the purposes of the American Board of Trial Advocates to preserve the constitutional vision of equal justice for all Americans and preserve our civil justice system for future generations. Lesson plan topics include media literacy; civic participation in the justice system; the Constitution; federal and state courts; judicial independence; Magna Carta; trial by jury; and separation of powers. ABOTA also offers the James Otis Lecture Series on the Constitution and Teachers Law School, a crash course in the law and legal system for middle and high school educators.

Level: Middle and high school

American Bar Association

For teachers and students, the American Bar Association’s Division of Public Education offers lessons plans for K-12. Topics include civic engagement, the Constitution, due process, human rights, and much more. The Dialogue program provides lawyers, judges and teachers with resources to engage students and community members in discussions of fundamental American legal principles and civic traditions. Its Civics and Law Academy engages middle and high school students in learning about law and society.

Level: Elementary through high school

Annenberg Learner

Annenberg Learner develops and distributes multimedia resources for teaching and learning in a range of subjects, including civics and government. Video components are enhanced with websites that include online texts, guides and extensive background information. For teachers, the website offers free professional development workshops and courses as well as the opportunity to earn graduate education credit.

Bill of Rights Institute

The Bill of Rights Institute provides a trove of online educational resources for teachers, students and parents. Teachers will find lesson plans, founding documents, resources for teaching with current events, and professional development opportunities. For students, resources include essay contests, AP prep webinars, and Think the Vote, in which students participate in online discussions on current events. The Constitutional Academy is a summer program for high school students.

C-SPAN Classroom

The cable channel’s site features a wealth of audio and video clips, both current and historical, related to government, history, and current events. Teacher registration is required to access free forums, lesson plans, Bell Ringers, and Constitution Clips. Links to other C-SPAN resources for educators include: American History TV, American Presidents, Politics, Economic Stimulus, Presidential Libraries, Radio Specials, the Capitol, the Supreme Court, the White House and U.S. Economy. Each of these sites features extensive resources on the topic. Tutorials explain how teachers can use C-SPAN resources. The site also contains TV and radio programs that feature, among other resources, recordings of past presidents and oral history interviews with presidents; Supreme Court oral arguments in landmark cases and videos of justices; and interactive Supreme Court timeline.

Center for Civic Education

The Center for Civic Education is an independent, nonprofit organization based in California. A network of program coordinators throughout the United States and more than 70 other countries administers a range of curricular, teacher-training and community-based programs.

Level: Elementary, middle and high school

Highlights include:

We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution: An instructional program on the history and principles of American constitutional democracy for all grade levels. The program is based on curricular materials developed by the Center for Civic Education. A simulated congressional hearing is the culminating activity.

We the People: Project Citizen: This program for middle, secondary, and post-secondary students, youth organizations, and adult groups is designed to develop interest in public policy as well as the ability to participate in state and local government.

Resource Center: For high school students: links to biographies, historical documents, images and firsthand accounts of historical events. For teachers: free professional development opportunities, free lesson plans, classroom activities.

Podcasts: Users can subscribe to four different podcasts, 60-Second Civics and quiz, Talking Civics, Conversations on Civics and Education for Democracy. Also a series of podcasts supplement text of We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution.

Developed by the Comparative Constitutions Project, the website contains the constitution of nearly every independent state in the world. It allows the user to search by country and by topic and to download PDFs of the constitutions. 

Constitutional Rights Foundation

The Constitutional Rights Foundation is a nonpartisan, nonprofit community-based organization that focuses on law and government and civic participation by young people. Its site pulls together resources for curriculum and professional development. Its outreach programs include a mock trial competition and Cops & Kids program. Lesson plans are available on U.S. history, world history and government. Civics on Call provides resources for teaching about current events. Its Civic Action Project is a real-world project-based learning model for civics and government courses.

Level: Primarily middle and high school, but also material for younger students

Companion websites include:

Educating About Immigration :  An information clearinghouse on topics of U.S. immigration, its history and current controversies.

Civic Action Project : A practicum for high school students in civics and government in which they integrate the content of a government class with hands-on learning about public policy in the real world.

Judges, Courts and the Law : Activities, games and stories instruct students on the courts’ role in our government.

CFR Blog : This site features discussion and information for all social studies educators.

Constitutional Sources Project

This project, also known as ConSource, offers K-12 lesson plans and guides to constitutional themes; a three-and-a-half hour “crash course” that explores the Constitution; a U.S. Constitution for Kids; and a Constitutional Index. With the Harlan Institute, ConSource sponsors the Virtual Supreme Court Competition for high school students. Level: Upper elementary, middle and high school

Core Knowledge Foundation

The Core Knowledge Foundation is an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization based in Charlottesville, Virginia, and founded in 1986 by E. D. Hirsch, Jr., professor emeritus at the University of Virginia and author of many acclaimed books on education. The Core Knowledge curriculum covers language arts, science, music, visual arts, and geography and history. Material are free for download.

Level: Preschool through grades 6-8

Dirksen Congressional Center

Named for Everett Dirksen, who served in the U.S. House and Senate, the site promotes civics engagement by providing a better understanding of Congress and its members. Extensive information covers modern and historical information, the legislative process, the current Congress’ activities, and lawmakers’ duties. Congress for Kids helps elementary school students understand government, the Constitution and voting, and includes an online learning module Democracy Kids. The site provides an extensive number of lesson plans, an interactive Congressional Timeline; webquests; online textbooks; an online civics/government course called Congress in the Classroom; and interactive activities for younger students.

Florida Joint Center for Citizenship at the Lou Frey Institute

The Florida Joint Center for Citizenship Institute is a partnership between the Lou Frey Institute of Politics and Government at the University of Central Florida and the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at the University of Florida. FJCC works in partnership with Florida teachers, social studies district coordinators and national partners to develop and distribute K-12 curriculum resources. Civics360 is a student learning tool for middle school civics that includes videos, readings in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, as well as short and extended practice assessments that help students and teachers understand student progress. Resources are free and available for download.

Level: Kindergarten through 12th grade.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon

At the Mount Vernon website, teachers will find lesson plans for all grade levels; primary sources related to Washington and Mount Vernon; resources for teaching the Constitution; online student quizzes; and distance-learning videos. Among many resources, students will find a digital encyclopedia about Washington and can play a variety of quiz-based games to test knowledge learned on the site. Mount Vernon also offers professional development opportunities. The Fred W. Smith National Library provides research about George Washington, Colonial America and the Revolutionary Era.

Elementary through high school

Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is a nonprofit organization devoted to the improvement of history education. The Institute has developed an array of programs for schools, teachers, and students that now operate in all fifty states, including a website that features more than 60,000 unique historical documents. They also partner with the producers of Hamilton and the Miranda family to bring the history and the musical to Title I schools across the country.

Historical Society of Pennsylvania

Founded in 1824, the Historical Society of Pennsylvania is a provider of education and information about America’s history for the people of Philadelphia and beyond. Its collection of manuscripts, graphics, and ephemera encompass more than 350 years of U.S. history, from the stories of its 17th-century settlers to those of its most recent immigrants.

Students can find help with homework or research projects. Teachers can find unit plans with primary sources from HSP. Learn about Digital History Projects and other online tools as well as professional development opportunities.

An initiative of retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, this site features online lessons covering the three branches of government and interactive games that cover citizenship and participation, the Constitution and Bill of Rights, separation of powers, budgeting, and the executive, judicial and legislative branches. Online discussion forums allow teachers and students to give feedback on various topics. Teacher resources include curricula that complement the games, webquests, lessons and activities.

Indiana University Center on Representative Government

The Center on Representative Government covers all aspects of the legislative branch and civic involvement. Interactive learning activities are aimed at the general public as well as students. Level: Middle and high school

Interactive Learning Modules: These activities teach students about topics such as How a Member Decides to Vote, The Impact of Congress, The Importance of Civic Participation, The Dynamic Legislative Process, The Many Roles of a Member of Congress, and Federal Budget Allocation.

Engaging Congress. This interactive game uses primary source documents to explore the basic tenets of representative government and the challenges they face in modern society. The game is available for free here .

Facts of Congress: For middle school students, 60-second videos all about Congress and how students can participate.

James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation

The James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation offers $24,000 James Madison Graduate Fellowships to individuals desiring to become outstanding teachers of the American Constitution at the secondary school level. Fellowship applicants compete only against other applicants from the states of their legal residence. The James Madison Fellows have created lesson plans on the Constitution that are available on the website.

Library of Congress

America’s Library provides classroom materials from a vast array of primary sources — documents, photos, objects — about events and significant figures in U.S. history. Two sections are particularly relevant for educators: America’s Library from America’s Library and a page of resources for teachers .  Lesson plans on American history are supplemented with primary sources from the Library of Congress collection. Class starters include Today in History and American Memory Timeline. Interactive learning activities are available for younger children. Several professional development programs for teachers are offered.

National Archives

The National Archives and the Center for Civic Education partnered to create DocsTeach, a series of lesson plans that use primary sources to teach about different periods of U.S. history and the Constitution. eBooks illustrate American history and government through National Archives documents. The website contains numerous links to state and regional primary sources and presidential libraries as well as professional development for teachers.

National Center for State Courts

The National Center for State Courts is an independent, nonprofit court improvement organization founded at the recommendation of Chief Justice Warren E. Burger. The center has created a series of graphic novels called Justice Case Files to educate the public and students about how the courts work and their role in a democratic society. The six graphic novels created address Internet piracy, stolen identity, jury duty, cyberbullying, immigration and the three branches of government. The novels can be downloaded at no charge.

Level: Middle and high school/

National Constitution Center

The National Constitution Center site provides classroom resources related to the Constitution as well as civic participation and responsibility, and the executive branch. Online resources include interactive games, videos, webcasts, primary and secondary sources, Constitution Fast Facts, biographies of Constitutional Convention delegates, and the Interactive Constitution guide.

National Endowment for the Humanities

The organization’s EDSITEment project provides comprehensive lesson plans on American history, social studies and civics, government and society, among others. Its Introduction to Advanced Placement U.S. History Lessons contains scholar-reviewed website and primary sources; lesson plans focused on the Document Based Questions in the AP exam; and lesson plans based on active learning, mastery of content and engaging the student. Under Student Resources are interactive activities collected from around the web that can be used to support related lesson plans or as standalone activities in the classroom.

Level: Kindergarten through 12th grade

National History Day

National History Day makes history come alive for students by engaging them in the discovery of the historical, cultural and social experiences of the past. Through hands-on experiences and presentations, today’s students are better able to inform the present and shape the future. NHD inspires children through exciting competitions and transforms teaching through project-based curriculum and instruction.

Level: Middle and high school.

National Priorities Project

The goal of this website is to make the complex federal budget process easier to understand and more accessible so individuals can better understand how their tax dollars are spent and how they can participate in the budget process. For teachers and students, Federal Budget 101 provides a plain English guide to the federal budget process. The Educator Toolkit offers activities for middle school, high school and college learners. A Federal Budget Timeline shows major milestones of the federal budget process.

New York Times Learning Network

The New York Times’ content, current and historical, is the basis for teacher and student resources on this site. The Teaching Topics page is a living index page of links to resources on frequently taught subjects. For each topic, collected resources include lesson plans, related articles, multimedia, themed crosswords and archival material. Lesson plans cover numerous topics, including social studies, current events, civics and American history. The site also provides a daily news quiz, Word of the Day, Student Crossword, Today in History, and more. An online forum invites students to post their opinions on issues in the news. Resources are free.

The NewseumED website contains free learning tools on media literacy and First Amendment rights. Find lesson plans, primary sources, activities and more. Get ideas for teaching the latest news topics and trends. Connect with other educators in the EDCommunity. Explore the EDCollections on topics such as media literacy, women’s rights, the First Amendment and the Civil Rights Movement, and Decoding Elections.

Online NewsHour Extra: For Students and Teachers

This PBS site uses current events as the basis for educational content revolving around news categories such as health, science, U.S. and history. Lesson plans based on current events contain videos, audio and photo essays; a forum for students to post essays, articles or comments on issues in the news.

Level: High school

A free, online multimedia database of the U.S. Supreme Court, Oyez.org and its mobile apps offer plain-English case summaries, decision information, opinions, and transcript-synchronized audio for every recorded case in Supreme Court history. The transcript-synchronized audio allows users to hear what it’s like to be present at the Court for arguments or opinion announcements, and to catch the subtleties and emotion unavailable simply from reading the transcript. Users can also clip and download segments of audio or entire arguments as MP3s. Oyez engages a non-legal audience, primarily students, with the judicial branch to promote public understanding in a historical and contemporary context.

PBS Learning Media

This PBS site for teachers covers all subject areas, including civics participation, community, the three branches of government, politics, economics, current events, the courts and history. Lesson plans are free, with some material downloadable. Videos and audio recordings supplement lesson plans; interactive activities for younger children are available in the Democracy Project. Teachers have access to discussion forums, online professional developments courses, and an archive of webinars.

Level: Preschool through high school

Presidential Libraries

The National Archives offers a list of links to the presidential libraries that have free online resources for students and teachers.

Share My Lesson

Teachers share their learning materials covering a range of subjects for all grade levels. The resources may be downloaded for free. An online forum lets teachers exchange ideas and advice and share best practices. Share My Lesson also provides a resource bank for the Common Core State Standards, which has advice and guides for teachers.

Street Law and the Supreme Court Historical Society partnered to create Landmark Cases of the U.S. Supreme Court. In-depth information about each case, related activities that involve interactive teaching strategies and external resources are provided. SCOTUS in the Classroom is a project in which Street Law selects the most classroom-relevant, student-friendly cases argued at the Supreme Court. Teachers receive support to conduct moot courts based on each case. A Resource Library has compiled hundreds of teaching activities, case summaries, mock trials and articles. Street Law also offers a Supreme Court Summer Institute for teachers.

TeachingAmericanHistory.org

The Ashbrook Center’s TeachingAmericanHistory.org includes a historical documents library, Exhibits on America’s Founding, web-based lesson plans, and podcasts. Its American History Toolkits are topically focused collections made up of resources from the site and organized to provide easy access to a variety of materials for teachers. Its 50 Core Documents That Tell America’s Story lists the essential documents that are a starting point for students and teachers to “think more deeply about what it means to be an American.” The website also contains Core Documents Collections on topics such as the Cold War and Documents and Debate. Numerous opportunities for professional development are available.

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello

The Monticello Digital Classroom, launched in 2017, combines content from the prior classroom archive with materials from the Sea of Liberty website. The Digital Classroom includes lesson plans, articles, and multimedia content for use by teachers, students and scholars of all levels. All materials are cross-referenced, searchable and available for download.

U.S. Courts

This government site focuses on court literacy, featuring free, downloadable in-depth resources to help students understand how the courts work, key amendments to the Constitution, federal court basics and fast facts, legal concepts, legal landmarks and Supreme Court cases. Classrooms to Courtrooms provides real-life teen-related scenarios to stage in-class or in-court simulations of trials with accompanying scripts. You Be the Supreme Court features comprehensive material for a class to simulate Supreme Court deliberations. Sections on the First, Fourth and Sixth Amendment gives teacher a variety of formats to present to a class, including Oxford-style debate or a Supreme Court case conference. Homework Help is a set of links to related websites. Videos and podcasts are also provided.

U.S. Government Publishing Office

This comprehensive site contains Ben’s Guide to U.S. Government for Kids, which features information about all aspects of government, citizenship, elections and voting. It also provides links to kids’ sites for most government agencies. Activities include print games, interactive games and activities; information pages; links to other government agencies’ curriculum; and a glossary.

WhatSoProudlyWeHail.org

This site focuses on literature-based curricula for instruction of U.S. history, civics, social studies and language arts. Resources include lesson plans, video seminars, and primary resources.

Youth Leadership Initiative

The Youth Leadership Initiative, based at the University of Virginia’s Center for Politics, has created three interactive simulations. E-Congress, a free, interactive, national online simulation lets students play the part of a member of the House. They research issues, write legislation, debate bills in committee and work to move their bill to the House floor. Students use innovative technology to interact with their legislators and to connect with their peers around the country. Mock Election is conducted each fall by the Youth Leadership Initiative for students around the nation using electronic ballots designed for each student’s home district. A More Perfect Union simulates an actual campaign for Senate. The site also provides teacher-developed lesson plans and a service-learning program called Democracy Corps.

Living Well + Learning Well

with Alicia Hutchinson

How to Easily Teach U.S. Government to Your High Schooler

High school is the perfect time for a deep dive into U.S. history and government with your high schooler. Truth be told, when I dove in with my oldest several years ago, I learned so much myself! (Isn’t that the beautiful thing about homeschooling?)

America has an amazing and complex history. I think it’s so important to instill a good understanding of her history to our kids, but finding great tools isn’t always so easy.

So, when Boundary Stone asked if I would review their U.S. government course, I was happy to check it out and share it with you! I am always looking for ways to simplify big topics like government!

Learning Well LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Affiliate links from Amazon or other programs are used on this website. For more info, please refer to our disclosure statement .

This article will break down what Boundary Stone’s U.S. government course has to offer, how we are using it in our homeschooling, and the aspects I am loving as a homeschool mom.

I was compensated for my time in writing this review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

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How + Why to Teach Your High Schooler about U.S. Government

The more you know about the past, the better prepared you are for the future. Theodore Roosevelt

As homeschoolers, we have a unique opportunity to use an assortment of resources to teach our kids a well-rounded history of our amazing country. There is no other country like America and her history deserves to be preserved and taught. The more our kids know about history, the better place they can make our country going forward–preserving the integrity of our country, while still making it a better and better place.

History is important–the good parts and the not-so-good. It all makes up a story that is uniquely America’s.

What is Boundary Stone U.S. Government?

Boundary Stone offers bundles for your homeschooled high schooler on Basic American Government and Basic Economics. We have been using the government bundle.

• Basic American Government Course Bundle
• Basic Economics Course Bundle

These bundles use a combination of text + online course with reading assignments, quizzes, and videos to teach a full comprehension of basic American Government.

Your child will log onto the online course and see each day clearly laid out for them. The course is divided into units. Units cover big idea topics like:

• the constitution
• growing pains of the U.S.
• limited government

Those units each contain two modules.

Each module then contains 8-16 daily lessons, so each module will take a different length of time depending on the number of daily lessons.

Most weeks look like this:

• reading from the online course lesson
• watching a video
• reading from the textbook + textbook assignments
• discussion questions
• quizzes and/or interactive questions
• One day set aside to work on research project

The course includes quizzes and then unit tests as well and you can grade your student as you like.

Each daily lesson is clearly laid out with what your student needs to do and then can check “lesson completed” after each lesson so they can easily stay on track and see how much of the course they’ve completed.

What We’re Loving about Boundary Stone U.S. Government

It’s important that our kids find the resources that we set before them to be engaging and inspiring. It’s also important that they’re easy for you as the homeschool mama to easily track progress and stay current on what your child is working on. With multiple kids, we all know this can be challenging!

That being said, here’s what I’m loving about Boundary Stone’s U.S. Government course:

• It’s so easy for me to check the course and see where Jack is in the course.
• The daily lessons are very clearly laid out and ordered, so it’s great for both him and I to see what needs to be done that day/week.
• It’s simple: just a text and an online course. It would be a great idea for your child to keep a notebook with notes as well.
• The built-in quizzes help me to know that Jack is grasping the material.
• These courses provide one credit for your high schooler.

If you have a homeschool co-op and would like to teach a U.S. government class, Boundary Stone also has bundles designed for co-ops. They include multi-print licenses (so you can distribute the PDF or printed copies of it) for the government study guide (economics study guide is in the textbook) and the study guide suggested answers section of the teacher’s guide for situations where a teacher wants parents to be able to check student work at home.

History is Important

The U.S. Constitution is the main theme of this course, as is the main foundation of our country. Through this course, your student will become very familiar with the organization and the content of the the Constitution.

By the end of this course, Boundary Stone’s goal is for your child to understand the historical reasons for the design of the U.S. government and what the Founders expected when they designed it.

Another thing I love is that students will learn to discuss how our U.S. government has grown to what it is today and how that impacts us as citizens. They will also learn about policy issues, policy proposals, and how those decisions impact us as well.

Politics can be a very heated area of discussion, but this course will teach students how to keep up on current events: federal, state, and local and be able to discuss them in a civil and courteous manner. Boundary Stone recognizes the varying opinions of these topics and how students have have these varied opinions and still discuss them civilly.

Giveaway + a Coupon Code for You!

Sign up below to win a giveaway from Boundary Stone:

OR: Use coupon code StoneReward2020 to receive 15% off all purchases. Valid through 8/23/2020.

More Help for Teaching U.S. Government to Your High Schooler

• Check out Boundary Stone’s Government & Economics curriculum page
• download the Budget Project Mini-course
• The Law Mini-course
• and soon-to-be-released Dinner Table Economics which will include short videos and a handout with discussion starter questions on economic topics.
• You can also sign up for their newsletter HERE .

More on Homeschooling Your High Schooler:

• Curriculum for Junior Year
• ACT Prep for Your High Schooler
• Editor in Chief for Your High Schooler
• WriteShop for High School Writers
• Homeschooling High School: Our 9th Grade Resources

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High School Government Projects

How Often Do US Congressmen Get Elected?

High school is an important time for students to learn about the workings of the United States government. Doing projects to learn more about government can help teens prepare to become voting adult members of their communities. There are many ways for teens to learn more about the Constitution, judicial system and the other branches of government.

Mock trials can be a good project for high school students who want to learn more about the workings of the judicial system. Some student volunteers can serve as jurors, another as a judge, others as attorneys and defendants. Read about the jury selection process and how a case moves through the court system before beginning. Choose a real or mock case, and help the students to move the case through their system.

Constitution

To help learn the struggles of the founding fathers, high school students can work together to create a class constitution. First, read the U.S. Constitution and research some background information about how the document came to be. Choose a president and vice president from among the class. The rest of the class can be members of Congress. Students work to create laws and rules, which must be approved by Congress. The president can veto a law, but the veto can then be overturned by a two-thirds majority.

Allowing a class to debate as a project is a good way for students to express ideas and study today's government issues. Issues such as immigration, ethics in government and education are all of interest to teens. Choose a topic of interest and allow students to do research on both sides of an issue.

Role in Government

A wonderful way for high school students to understand the role of government is to participate. Students can attend city council and school board meetings to become informed on local issues, and can even work to solve an issue they feel strongly about. Teens can propose improvements to parks, help others in need in their community or provide a student voice in school affairs.

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• The Educator's Reference Desk: Activities for Learning the U.S. Constitution
• The Educator's Reference Desk: Role of the Government
• The Educator's Reference Desk: Ethics in American Government

Emily Potter has written professionally since 1998. She has edited local magazines, such as "Family Living in Southeast Idaho," and worked as a reporter for the "Idaho State Journal." Potter has a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Montana.

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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