1. US Civics and Government
Mini Unit

2. Declaration of Independence
Turn to page 45 in our textbook and read the section about “Revolutionary Ideas.” As you do, answer the following questions.
Who wrote it?
Why was it written?
What do “natural rights” and John Locke have to do with it?

3. Revolutionary War and its Outcome
At the end of the war, we needed to establish a new government. Just as we tried to do on our island, it was challenging and the first attempt was unsuccessful. Read about the Articles of Confederation on pages 55 – As you do, answer the following
What is a democracy? What is a republic?
Why did the Articles of Confederation fail?
Democracy equals citizen participation

4. Why did the Articles of Confederation fail?
FEAR OF MONARCHY!!
Government didn’t control taxes.
National government couldn’t control the state governments.
Government couldn’t control the military.
Why are these big problems?

5. The Solution – A Constitution
1787 – A Constitutional Convention is convened.
How do we solve the problems of the Articles of Confederation?
Read the Preamble found on page 67 and list the six purposes. Then let’s do an activity with them!
The power belongs to the people!
Use oaktag with each purpose written on it. Have students rotate through the stations to write real life examples for each purpose.

6. How do we avoid monarchy but have a strong government?
Branches of government, Separation of Power, and Checks and Balances -

8. Compromise? Virginia and the New Jersey Plan
How do we create a plan for representation in government? How many people should be in Congress?
Read the Reaching Agreements section on page 58.
What did each side say?
How was it resolved?
1. What is the great compromise that was reached at this convention?
2. Why was the issue of slavery of such great concern for delegates at this convention?
3. How was the issue of slavery addressed/resolved?

9. Compromise? What is the electoral college?
Read “The President” on page 60 and the box “Fast forward to Today”
What is the Electoral College? How does it impact todays presidential election?

10. What is the illustrator saying about the Electoral College?

11. What is the role of the Supreme Court?
It will “interpret” the Constitution. Are laws constitutional or not? Should they only see what is there or may they interpret it?
Miranda v. Arizona (pg. 748)
Schenck v. United States (pg. 482)
Create a T chart in your notes and take notes on these important cases. For each, write a response stating if you agree with the decision or not and why.