TEACHER MATERIALS
How do different levels of government solve problems democratically?
“Exploring Key Concepts – Federalism”
In this activity, the students will learn about the concept of federalism, consider its pros and cons, and investigate the Native American government that inspired the structure of America’s government.
“The Great Law of Peace” – primary source
“The Great Law of Peace” video
“How the Iroquois Great Law of Peace Shaped U.S. Democracy” – chart for class discussion
“Shades of Democracy – Comparing America to Other Nations”
In this activity, the students will discover how America’s system of government differs from that of other democratic countries.
Sources
- “Perspective: How the U.S. Constitution Changed the World”
- “Democracy in Two Nations: Comparing Elections in Brazil and the U.S.”
- Swiss and US Democracy: Twins Separated at Birth?”
- “What Uruguay Can Teach Us”
Source handouts
“Federalism – Separate Responsibilities”
In this activity, the students will study passages from the Constitution to discover which levels of government are responsible for different aspects of running the country.
“Federalism – McCulloch v. Maryland”
In this activity, the students will explore the complexities of America’s “cooperative federalism.”
“Strained Federalism – Fighting for Control”
In this activity, the students will learn more about how different levels of government work together – and against each other – under “cooperative federalism” in America.
“America’s Governments Are at War with Each Other” article
“America’s Governments Are at War with Each Other” handout
“Tenth Circuit Holds Endangered Species Act Applies to Purely Intrastate Animals”
“History of the Clean Water Act”
“The Environment Needs a Constitutional Amendment to Save Us All”
“Empower Local Governments to Develop Environmental Solutions”
“Big and Small Government – Classroom Survey”
In this activity, the students will complete a survey about the federal government’s responsibilities.
“Exploring Our Options – Jigsaw Sharing”
In this activity, the students will learn more about what they can do to participate in different levels of government problem-solving (beyond the act of voting).
“LB225 Aims to Increase Civic Education Opportunities for Nebraska Students”
“Lightfoot Blasted After Asking CPS Teachers to Encourage Students to Help Her Mayoral Campaign”
“Students Write Letters to Lawmakers Asking for Flood Assistance”
“Evaluating Our Options – Class Discussion”
In this activity, the students will discuss and evaluate different forms of civic action that allow young people to directly participate in government problem-solving.