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.