1. Rule of Law SS.7.C.1.9: Essential Questions:
Define the rule of law and recognize its influence on the development of the American legal, political, and governmental systems.
Essential Questions:
What does “rule of law” mean? What is the impact of the “rule of law” on society?

2. Bell Ringer: 3 Minutes
The quote below is from a 1977 interview with President Richard Nixon.
“Well, when the President does it, that means that it is not illegal.”
Source: New York Times
Based on the quote, what can be presumed about the rule of law?
It requires judicial review.
It promotes fair procedures.
It requires consistent application.
It promotes institutional transparency.
Which statement describes an impact of the rule of law?
state of nature
checks and balances
separation of powers
transparency of institutions

3. Hook President Theodore Roosevelt made the following statement:
“No man is above the law and no man is below it…”
Explain this quote in your own words and how it relates to the concept of rule of law.

4. “I Do” 6 factors of Rule of Law
Laws apply to everyone, including those who govern.
Constitution specifies what government is allowed to do.
NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW!!!
Fair procedures – procedural fairness
Accountability to the law – Checks and balances
Decisions based on the law - legitimacy
6 factors of Rule of Law
Enforcement of the law – order and security
Consistent application – equal application of the law
Transparency of institutions – access to justice

5. Let’s Practice! Role Play!
Each group will get a skit. Groups will preform their skit for the class.
At the end of each skit we will discuss the following questions.
Was the rule of law being adhered to in this scene? Why or why not?
How does this scene illustrate the importance of the rule of law?

6. Bell Ringer: Check It!!
The quote below is from a 1977 interview with President Richard Nixon.
“Well, when the President does it, that means that it is not illegal.”
Source: New York Times
Based on the quote, what can be presumed about the rule of law?
It requires judicial review.
It promotes fair procedures.
It requires consistent application.
It promotes institutional transparency.
Which statement describes an impact of the rule of law?
state of nature
checks and balances
separation of powers
transparency of institutions

7. You Do
The conversation below took place between two U.S. citizens.
Kevin: I do not want to visit a country where the police force operates like an organized crime gang.
Peggy: I do not want to visit a country where the police make up evidence. 
What principle is important to these citizens?
representative democracy
freedom of speech
trial by jury
rule of law
Which characteristic serves as a long-term protection against tyranny and is a foundation of liberty in the United States?
the commerce clause
the elastic clause
the right to trial
the rule of law D

8. Answer the following questions in your interactive journal
Rule of Law
Exit Slip:
Answer the following questions in your interactive journal
Essential Questions:
What does “rule of law” mean? What is the impact of the “rule of law” on society?