Three activities focus on the need to have rules. Young historians are first challenged to suggest rules for their classroom and then to create their own constitution that balances the need for freedoms and protections. The third activity has class members grading how well the goals presented in the Preamble to the United States Constitution have been realized.

Concepts

civics, classroom community, school community, community service, constitutions

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Instructional Ideas

• To get an overview of the entire series, instructors should read the provided "Civics Curriculum Guide"
• Display the "Classroom Constitution" on a civics-themed wall

Classroom Considerations

• The third section in a 10-part civics unit
• The activities may be taught in any order
• Civics concepts covered in this section are participation, deliberation and debate, consensus and compromise, community, and rights and responsibilities
• Although designed for grades 6-12, the activities in this section are most appropriate for middle schoolers

Pros

• Each of the three activities includes extension suggestions

Cons

• None