This Lesson encourages students to think about representation in a democracy and examine important legislative issues within the structure of a Senate debate. Students will work collaboratively to create a new bill on the topic of Court Orders and Cybersecurity.
Today’s Vote: Confederate Monuments
In this lesson students will take on the role of United States Senators and create a new bill on the topic of Confederate Monument Removal. Students will read primary sources in favor and against the legislation, debate, and vote in an interactive simulation based lesson.
Today’s Vote: Climate Change
This lesson encourages students to think about representation in a democracy and examine important legislative issues within the structure of a Senate debate. Students will consider the threat posed by climate change and take on the role of Senators to vote on legislation addressing that threat.
Today’s Vote: Assault Weapons and Mass Shootings
This lesson encourages students to consider representation in a democracy and examine important legislative issues within the structure of a Senate debate. In the lesson, students will consider new laws and regulations to limit assault weapons and prevent mass shootings in the United States.
Climate Change Video Handout
This handout can be used as part of our Preparing for Environmental Pathways lesson or as an independent activity in your classroom. Students will watch the video linked within and answer questions to deepen their understanding of the climate crisis.
Biographies for Pathways to Citizenship (Grades 6-8)
This resource is used in conjunction with our Preparing for Pathways to Citizenship lesson plan. This version is recommended for middle grade students (grades 6-8).
Biographies for Pathways to Citizenship (Grades 4-6)
This resource is used in conjunction with our Preparing for Pathways to Citizenship Lesson. This version is designed for younger students in grades 4-6.
Class Discussion: Manufacturing and International Relations
In this lesson students will learn about the Chips and Science Act, a bill designed to improve semiconductor manufacturing in the United States. Students will watch a short introductory video, read speeches in favor and against the legislation, and then have their own discussion and vote on whether the bill should pass.
Climate and Energy Policy Vocabulary
This resource provides students with useful vocabulary words and definitions regarding climate and energy policy.
Elections and Voting: An Overview
Students will explore the Constitutional amendments that deal with elections, the qualifications for voting, and protections offered to voters. Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, explains the Fifteenth, Nineteenth, Twenty-fourth, and Twenty-sixth amendments, the history of voting in America, Supreme Court cases, and measures that ensure voters can vote without discrimination based on property ownership, race, sex, and age. Created by National Constitution Center.