US History Herald: U.S. United States American Government~ Origins & Structure
In this 8 day course, students will learn about the origins of the government of the United States of America and the Constitution, the Structure of the 3 Branches, Checks & Balances, Bill of Rights, Elections, Civic Participation & More!
Courtney Murray, M. Ed, M. Hist. World US History
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What's included
8 live meetings
6 in-class hoursHomework
Students will have weekly work that is optional to help take notes and solidfy information.Class Experience
US Grade 6 - 9
Beginner Level
In this 8 day course, students will learn about the origins of the government of the United States of America and the Constitution, the Structure of the 3 Branches, Checks & Balances, Bill of Rights, Elections, Civic Participation & More! Each week, students will engage in active presentation, discussion, and activities to understand the foundations and workings of the American government? What were the major influences? How does the government work? Why are there 3 branches? How do we amend the Constitution? These are just a few of the questions that will be covered as we work to understand the American system of government. Weekly Schedule: Week One – Magna Carta and the Iroquois Confederacy: Beginnings of Democracy Week Two- Federalist Versus Antifederalists, Articles of Confederation and the Virginia Plan: Representation Week Three- The Constitution and The Preamble: Purpose Week Four- Three Branches: Distinguish between the role of the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches of the government, Checks and Balances Week Five -Elections - How do we elect our representatives? President, Senators, Representatives Week Six- Bill to Law: Explain the process of passing a law. Week Seven - Our Protections: Explain the significance of the Bill of Rights. Week Eight - Changes and Amendments: Assess how the US Constitution has been amended and interpreted over time, and the impact these amendments have had on the rights and responsibilities of citizens of the United States. Identify how the rights of selected groups have changed and how the Constitution reflects those changes (e.g. women, enslaved people). This is a beginner's class, so no prior knowledge is needed. Students will be given all necessary information to understand and comprehend the content. Handouts will be provided to allow students to take notes while participating in activities week by week.
Learning Goals
Students will improve their understanding of the origins of the United States government, the set up of the government, the protections in the Bill of Rights, and the changes over time. Students will also work on group collaboration skills and discussion.
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Magna Carta and the Iroquois Confederacy: Beginnings of Democracy
In this lesson, we will explore:
* Introduction to the Magna Carta and its significance in establishing principles of limited government and the rule of law
* Examination of the Iroquois Confederacy and its influence on the development of democratic principles among Native American tribes
* Discussion of how these historical documents and institutions laid the groundwork for democratic governance in the United States 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Federalist Versus Antifederalists, Articles of Confederation & the Virginia Plan
In this lesson, we will explore:
* Analysis of the Federalist and Antifederalist debates surrounding the ratification of the US Constitution
* Examination of the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and the need for a stronger central government
* Exploration of the Virginia Plan and other proposals for representation in the federal government during the Constitutional Convention 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
The Constitution and The Preamble: Purpose
In this lesson, we will explore:
* Overview of the US Constitution and its main components, including the Preamble, Articles, and Amendments
* Analysis of the purposes outlined in the Preamble, such as establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, and promoting the general welfare
* Discussion of the principles of federalism, separation of powers, and checks and balances embodied in the Constitution 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Three Branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial
In this lesson, we will explore:
* Examination of the powers and responsibilities of each branch of the federal government as outlined in the Constitution
* Analysis of the system of checks and balances designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful
* Discussion of contemporary examples illustrating the interplay between the three branches of government and the effectiveness of checks and balances 45 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
As a history class, students will discuss things such as slavery, suffrage, and other sensitive subjects.
Supply List
Handouts will be provided for students by the teacher week by week.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2020
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570reviews
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Teacher expertise and credentials
3 Degrees
Master's Degree in History from Arizona State University
Master's Degree in Education from Fayetteville State University
Bachelor's Degree in History from Duquesne University
For the past decade, I have been encouraging students through education and personal development to explore the challenges of the past. Through my own personal education and professional development, I create a safe environment for students to learn about challenging topics of the past. My undergraduate is in history, focusing on United States and European integration, past cultures, and empire. My first master's degree is in education with a focus on English/Language Arts and History. My second master's degree is in history with a focus on world empires and United States/Europe during the premodern era and modern era. I am currently pursuing my PhD in history focusing on immigration and relations with indigenous peoples and cultures.
I have taught Ancient Civilizations in World History classes as well as classes on the history of Africa, Asia, and Australia, Ancient and Medieval Europe, and Early American history. I have taken and taught classes on world religions and practices starting with the ancient traditions of prehistoric cultures through modern day transitions of religions such as druidism. I have also taught about episodes of religious hysteria such as the Inquisition and the Salem Witch Trials. I also teach classes on the myths and legends that have defined these cultures. This extensive background will be utilized to create a well-rounded and thorough explanation of the topic.Reviews
Live Group Course
$95
for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
45 min
Completed by 44 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-15
6-12 learners per class
