In this branches of U.S. government instructional activity, students answer 3 questions for each branch concerning separation of powers, then give examples from the textbook for the use of checks and balances for each branch.

Learners research the Executive Branches role in making a law. In this law making lesson plan, students study the history of the Constitution and see how much power the President has in making a bill into a law. Learners then research on...

Students review the first three articles of the United States Constitution. In groups, they examine the three branches of government and their function. They follow the path of a bill until it becomes law and discuss Congress' role.

Eighth graders examine the three branches of government and the system of checks and balances.

Students examine presidential powers. In this checks and balances lesson, students identify the constitutional and informal restraints of the president and consider the reasons for the limitations.

Eighth graders research the three branches of government and examine the effect that the separation of powers has on the presidency. They explain the importance of the rule of law in establishing limits on both those who govern and the...

Eighth graders explore and explain the responsibilities and limits of our national system of government. After reading various selections documenting the viewpoints of the federalists and anti-federalists and the separation of power,...

Seven video clips reveal how the checks and balances built into the constitutional framework of the United states' government are designed to keep any one branch from becoming too powerful. After watching each clip, groups identify the...

According to Article III, Section1 of the United States constitution, the only qualification one needs to be appointed to the Supreme Court is to demonstrate "good behavior." The president and Congress are given the power to determine...

Learners study the powers and limitations of the three branches of the American government. They explain how the system of "checks and balances" protects the individual citizens. They explain how the amendments to the Constitution...

Young scholars examine presidential powers. In this Executive Branch lesson, students listen to their instructor present a lecture on the president's influence on legislation as they view a 7-slide PowerPoint presentation.

Have learners try their hands at an online quiz. There are 32 multiple choice questions all related to the three branches of the US government. Questions regarding US economics are also included. 

The emerging politicians in your government might be familiar with the words "Democrat" and "Republican," but what do they really know about the role of political parties in America? Use this activity to reinforce information from your...

Learners understand the purpose of the judicial branch of government. In this judiciary lesson, students participate in exercises to understand how the court system works. Learners complete activity sheets to develop understanding of...

Students read, discuss and analyze the New York Times article "In Wartime, Who Has the Power?" and relate the article to the Constitution. They then brainstorm how the president and Congress make decisions about the war in Iraq and write...

Students examine executive and legislative powers. In this federal powers lesson, students determine who has the power to wage war in the U.S. government. Students analyze the Constitution and research historical precedents regarding...

Students explore the U.S. plan for federal government. In this U.S. Constitution lesson, students investigate a chart on the responsibilities of the Executive, Judicial, and Legislative Branches of governments. Students complete a...

All revolutions in science and technology have both pros and cons. Kids examine the advent of the green revolution, nuclear growth, use, and the countries that are considered nuclear powers. They'll construct three responses to each of...

Students explore the structure and powers of the federal government. They assess the validity of recent criticisms of each branch of the federal government and create pyramid posters which simulate the structure of government.

Students examine the separation of powers of the branches of the U.S. federal government. In this U.S. Constitution instructional activity, students listen to a SMART Board supported lecture on checks and balances of the Judicial,...

What is the difference between foreign and domestic policy? What are the primary differences in what the United States hopes to accomplish through foreign aid, the military, and the creation of treaties? Your class members will examine...

Students list the exclusive and shared powers of the state and national governments. They state the specific role of the national and state governments in enforcing environmental legislation.

Students view a PowerPoint presentation to explore the three branches of government. Using this infromation, they identify the people, buildings and responsiblities of each branch. They complete a worksheet using the internet and take a...

Students become familiar with the many roles of the president. They are given various scenarios. They must decide which of his "hats" he must wear given the specifics of each situation.