Are We the People?

The Preamble to the Constitution tells about its purpose, but it is full of big words. Introduce the Constitution's purpose with a kid version of the Preamble of the Constitution: We the Kids by David Cattrow or School House Rock: The Preamble. Discuss what the Preamble tells us about the Constitution. 

Emphasize this point: The strength of this document and our way of government is that it is balanced by three branches and monitored "by the people." Our country stays strong if we stay informed and don't let one branch get too much power. We have to learn the facts, listen to others, state our opinions, and discuss. We are The People, and it is our responsibility to stay informed and active. 

Note: The entire Constitution is on the Internet. The language is tough for this age group, but it is impressive to see and read parts of this primary document that strongly defines how this country works

Below is a summary of each of the first three Articles. Use your own words to describe how the responsibilities of the three branches of government check and balance the power and responsibility of our leaders.

• Article I: Puts the power to make laws in the legislative branch and covers the rules for forming and running Congress. Congress is divided into two houses, the House of Representatives and the Senate. Basic requirements for candidates for the House and the Senate are stated, and the duties of each house are given. The powers of Congress are also listed.
• Article II: Gives the President the power to carry out the nation’s laws. The President’s term of office is four years, and procedures for electing the President are provided. Requirements for presidential candidates are listed. The President’s powers are enumerated, and finally, it outlines grounds for the impeachment for the President.
• Article III: The Supreme Court is established as the interpreter of laws in case of dispute. All cases over which the judicial branch has power are listed. A definition of treason is stated along with the listing of laws for dealing with treasonable behavior against the United States.

After scanning and discussing the first three Articles, form groups who work together to design a simple graphic organizer to show the main role of each of the branches of government. 

Optional Extension: Have youth complete the handout below, Anticipation Guide, to evaluate how much they already know about services provided by local, state, and federal governments.

Assignment: Local Representation and Advocacy

One of our roles as The People is to elect trustworthy people to serve in the Legislative and Executive branches, locally and nationally. Talk about the current elected officials, such as the governor of their state, their State Senator, and State Representative. Assignment: With a small group, look up the record and work of one elected official, summarize the information, and present an opinion with evidence of their effectiveness in working for the common good. 

Display the Internet to show where to find the state governor, state senators, and the representative for the area, and how to read about their voting record and what they have done for the state.

Review the Rubric for Government Official Brochure or Newsletter together (handout below). When finished, students will present the project to the class.