1. Sept 25 – Gov – Constitution
Agenda:
Quick-Write
Notes: Constitution Intro
Viewing Notes: Conflict, Compromise and Participation
Franklin’s Closing Statements
Guiding Principles of Gov
Searching for the Principles
HW:
Read and continue SG
Take Out:
Notebook
Pen/Pencil
Goals:
Understand the need for the Constitutional Convention
Understand the compromises reached
Investigate the six principles of government and how they fit into the Constitution

2. Quick-Write
Why did the founding fathers come together and write the Constitution?

3. The Constitution… …was written in 1787.
…was the second attempt at organizing the newly independent states into a single nation.
…was written by 55 men representing 12 different states
(Rhode Island did not participate in the convention).
…represents that each delegate and state arrived at the convention with different priorities and ideas for how the government should be structured.
…was a document of compromise, allowing for multiple perspectives and points of view to be shown.
This section of the film will introduce these differing points of view and show the compromise that was needed to create the Constitution.

4. Viewing Guide
As we watch the film, take notes on the CONFLICTS that were addressed, the COMPROMISES that were reached, and the PARTICIPANTS that were involved
Work with your neighbors to create a comprehensive list

5. Franklin’s Closing Remarks
Read and annotate Ben Franklin’s closing statement to the convention
How would the public have known about Franklin’s views?
How does Franklin address conflict?
Do you agree or disagree with Franklin’s statements?
How do you think that other delegates responded to his ideas?

6. Guiding Principles of Govt
Popular Sovereignty
Because the government is created by and for the people, power resides not with the government or its leaders, but with the people.
In a representative democracy, the people vote to elect leaders to represent their interests.

7. Guiding Principles of Govt
Rule of Law
The people and their government must abide by a set of laws, rather than by arbitrary rules set down by an individual or group.
The Founders believed in Limited Government
Dilemma of wanting a more effective government but also a limited government that did not become tyrannical.
Constitutional government – govt only has those powers listed in the Constitution
There was little fear of state govts, but great fear of national government
The constitution sets limits to governmental power and establishes how leaders who overstep their power can be removed.

8. Guiding Principles Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances
I. Separation of powers.
To Madison, tyranny was govt. that controlled all 3 branches of govt. So Powers and responsibilities are divided among three government branches to prevent any one person or group from having too much power
This system diffuses power instead of concentrating power.
Colonial experiences, e.g., excessive power in st. legislatures  need for strong exec.
Danger of one branch combining forces with another branch ---> checks and balances.
II. Checks and balances.---> means of intentionally building inefficiency in order to prevent govt. abuse of power.
System of restraints allows each branch to monitor and check the power of the others to prevent any abuse of government power
Political independence within each branch: no branch is dependent upon the other two for election (exception: judges are appt'd by President) and continuance in office (life terms for judges ameliorate presidential influence).
Staggering of terms within each branch -> a majority of voters can gain control over one part of govt. at one time, e.g., midterm cong. elections can serve as a check on the exec.

9. Guiding Principles Federalism
Power is divided between the central government and the individual state and local governments.
Independent Judiciary
The judicial branch is established as an independent entity, free of pressures and influences from the other two branches.
The Supreme court is the highest authority in the federal court system.
Individual Rights
Individual rights and liberties are protected against government encroachment.
Bill of Rights as a safeguard against possible tyranny from a new, strong, distant government.

10. Principles of the Constitution
Get a computer (for you and your partner)
Navigate to
Searcht he contitution for the article, section and clause on your card
Identify which principle(s) it relates to, and explain HOW they are exemplified in the Constitution
When you finish one card, switch with another group
Be thorough!