A Recipe For Democracy - The Delicious Taste of Choice

The smell of something bubbling on the stove, or baking in the oven, is intoxicating. The same holds true for a well-constructed system of government. The recipe for democracy has been mixed, and blended over the years into our modern concoction. Children can use the previous ancient democracy lessons to see how these systems have influenced today's government. After learning about the current system, and its ancient roots, the finishing touch can be a real life meeting with senators, representatives, or local government officials.

Before making such a visit, parents can walk their children back through the important components of Greek and Roman democracies. It may be fun to have a brainstorming session on what was learned. Make a flow chart of the current Senate and House of Representative set-up, and have the children fill in the spots they think are inspired by the Greek or Roman systems.

Next, you could display a copy of the Declaration of Independence. Have one child, or several, take turns reading it out loud. Ask some leading questions about what, why and how the words were written by Thomas Jefferson. They can also explain how it worked as an impetus for the start of the American Revolution. The Purpose of Government walks parents and students through an understanding of the  Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The lesson describes the foundation of the United States government, and helps demonstrate the checks and balances inherent in the system.

All of the background information above has been chosen to build a foundation to prepare children to conduct a mock senate. "School House Rocks - I'm Just A Bill" is a cute short film that illustrates the often arduous process of how a bill becomes a law. Teaching About Congress has a comprehensive walk-through on how to conduct and hold a mock senate. It takes students through the committee process, and describes the House of Representatives and  the Senate. This mock senate could take a couple of hours, so plan accordingly. You could even opt for a two day event.

A field trip to your state capital, the nation's capital, or a local government agency can be a great way to make a connection between what students have learned and real life. Children always enjoy the chance to meet people who are doing the jobs they have studied or examined in the classroom. Government agencies often welcome student visits. Some key things to keep in mind when making such a visit is to have students dress in proper attire, and respect the government representative's time. Encourage children to ask questions, but stress the importance of listening to make sure their question hasn't already been answered. This will help ensure that the children were attentive during the lecture, and show that they appreciate the valuable time the official has given to the group.

Declaration and Constutional Lesson Plans:

Sizing Up the Senate: Examining Senate Leadership Positions Through Role-Play reviews various positions in the Senate. There is a handout and diagram to help the teacher illustrate the purpose of each Senate position.

Comparing the House and Senate gives various rubrics to help students make comparisons. The lesson plan clearly defines the job, qualifications, and duties for each branch.

Declare the Causes has a break down of the Declaration of Independence. It has valuable background information that sets up the reasons for the document was written. There is a nice chance for children to write their own declaration.

How Did the Revolutionaries Design the First American System of Government has several worksheets that are helpful in learning about the Articles of Confederation.