Emergent Order
The Economics of House of Cards
How does the modern television show House of Cards and its dramatization of a power-hungry congressman in American government illustrate public choice theory—the concept that politicians retain personal interests after being elected...
Curated OER
WWII - America Builds Military
A "sleeping giant" through the many German invasions in Europe, America slowly starts participating in the war. First, America sells aircraft to Britain, makes its naval presence known in the Caribbean, and builds its artillery. This...
C-SPAN
Bell Ringer: Powers of Congress Examples
A short bell ringer introduces middle schoolers to the powers and duties of the United States congress. The three clips show congress's role in confirming presidential nominees, in declaring war, and in overseeing legislation
C-SPAN
Bell Ringer: Special Sessions of Congress: Truman's Turnip Day Speech
One of the checks and balances built into the United States Constitution, is the president's ability to call a special session of Congress. A bell ringer, designed to stir interest in this check that president has on the legislative...
PBS
Demonstrations of 2006
A brief video examines a demonstration that crossed the nation. After a congressman pushed to criminalize undocumented immigrants, Latino Americans banded together to fight for immigration reform.
Crash Course
Congressional Leadership: Crash Course Government and Politics #8
Other than talking, what is the role of the speaker of the House of Representatives? Learners research, via a short video clip, the leadership positions in the United States government and politics. They use their knowledge to discuss...
Crash Course
The Bicameral Congress: Crash Course Government and Politics #2
Why have a House and Senate and not just one single Congress? Learners research the need for a bicameral Congress in the system of the United States government and politics. They view a short Crash Course video, the second in a 50-part...
Crash Course
Congressional Delegation: Crash Course Government and Politics #13
Why would Congress freely give up some of their own power under the Constitution? Scholars investigate the concept of the delegation of powers in the United States government and politics in the 12th video of a 50-part unit. Armed with...
Crash Course
Congressional Decisions: Crash Course Government and Politics #10
How does a member of Congress make a final decision on a bill or law? Scholars view a short video that investigates the process in which members of Congress come to their own conclusions. They analyze the impact special interest groups,...
Crash Course
Congressional Committees: Crash Course Government and Politics #7
Scholars investigate the makeup and division in the legislative branch known as Congress by watching a short video outlining the function of committees within both houses. The topic inspires active thought and discussion about the...
Bill of Rights Institute
Constitutional Principles: The Rule of Law
Invite your young citizens to consider the depth, significance, and necessity of the rule of law. This video focuses particularly on the American commitment to rule of law since the nation's inception with the...