Lesson Plans
Ideas for this unit borrowed from Elizabeth E. Heilman.
"Understanding and Teaching Core Democratic Concepts." Social Studies and Diversity Education: What We Do and Why We Do It. Ed. Elizabeth E. Heilman, Ramona Fruja. Amthor, and Matthew T. Missias. New York: Routledge, 2010. N. pag. Print.
"Understanding and Teaching Core Democratic Concepts." Social Studies and Diversity Education: What We Do and Why We Do It. Ed. Elizabeth E. Heilman, Ramona Fruja. Amthor, and Matthew T. Missias. New York: Routledge, 2010. N. pag. Print.
Essential Questions:
Why is civics education important?
What is the purpose of government?
How do governments gain and maintain authority?
Do governments have a responsibility to ensure human rights?
Why is civics education important?
What is the purpose of government?
How do governments gain and maintain authority?
Do governments have a responsibility to ensure human rights?
Plato
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LESSON: Political Philosophers
Consider what you read in the previous lesson about political philosophers. Read articles about the political theories of the worlds most referred to philosophers (whose theories were used to form our own government). What do each of these philosophers think is the purpose of government? |
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History of PowerThis inquiry leads students through an investigation of the ways in which people gain and exercise power. Power is a social phenomenon that comes in many forms. However, it is often the case that the ways that people achieve power helps to determine how that power is used. Although this compelling question is broad, the inquiry focuses on Latinx history. This strategic use of sources is particularly useful in showing the ways that some minority groups in the United States have experienced and pursued power in many different ways.
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Competency
Essay: Which form of government is most effective in ensuring the rights of its citizens?
- Dissect the above question. What does effective mean to you? Which rights are the most important to protect? You can use your explanation of government effectiveness as your introduction.
- Choose which form of government you feel is most effective in meeting your definition of effectiveness. Make sure you choose a system that will stay effective regardless of who is in leadership positions.
- Research three reasons why this is the most effective form of government.
- Consider counter arguments. Why is this form more effective than that form?
- Summarize your main points.
TEST: Nature and Purpose
Below are some sample questions that could be on the test.
Below are some sample questions that could be on the test.
- What are the similarities and differences between Aristotle and Marx’ theories on the purpose of government?
- What are the similarities and differences between communism and socialism?
- Are the United States a true democracy? Why or why not?
- Why do people submit to government authority? Use evidence from class discussion to support your claims.
- Iran’s government is a theocracy. What potential problems could this present in the United States’ relationship with that country? Name at least two.
OTHER USEFUL RESOURCES
Government Powerpoint
| Nature and Purpose.pptx |
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