Constitution Lesson Plan
Submitted by Kristine Majich and Tina Ogron
INTO
Students view the painting of the signing of the Constitution by Christy. See the attached Aile from TeachingAmericanHistory.Org. They make observation of what they see on a double entry chart. One side is labeled observations and the other side of the column is to remain blank until the end of the lesson. At the conclusion of the lesson, the students will Aill in the column with gained knowledge (consequences) relating to the effect the signing of the Constitution has had on them and the nation at the present. Students view overhead #1 – Before Learning about the Preamble
In small groups they discuss the questions on the overhead.
1. What is government?
2. What is the purpose of government?
3. List Aive purposes that you think government should have. Then explain why you think they are important.
The students groups share their results with the class.
THROUGH
Students view overhead #2 – What does the Preamble Say?
Additionally they will view overhead #3 Problem Solving
The students in the class will read the Preamble to the Constitution (overhead#2). Then after viewing overhead #3, the students will be divided into six groups. Each group will examine a phrase of the Preamble answer the following questions on chart paper.
1. What does the part mean? Give an example.
2. Why is it important?
3. What does it have to do with protecting your rights and welfare?
The Phrases to be examined are as follows:
1. We the People do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
2. establish justice
3. insure domestic tranquility
4. provide for the common defense
5. promote the general welfare
6. secure the blessings of liberty
A student representative from each group will share their answers with the class. Teacher clariAication of the phrases will ensue.
BEYOND
Choose from any of the following activities or differentiate as student needs dictate.
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Students will read information about the three branches of government from the current Social Studies textbook. They will then complete Document #4 – The separation of Powers.
Students read the illustrated “Amendments to the Constitution”. They then may design an illustrated amendment they think should be added to the Constitution of the United States or design some for a Class Constitution.
Students read the worksheet titled “A Bundle of Compromises (activity three). They may work in pairs to answer the questions to the compromise prompts.
Students complete the double entry chart making notes about how the constitution has affected them as individuals and the country as a whole.