Watch lesson plans in the video, “Creating Effective Citizens,” from the Social Studies in Action Library, that teach students how to become active and effective citizens. Students participate in role-play and simulations that model civic action, discuss controversial laws about gender discrimination and individual rights, explore what it means to be a global citizen within a democracy, and engage students in local and national issues.
“Story” from Essential Lens: Analyzing Photographs Across the Curriculum
Every photograph tells a story: Stories of struggle. Stories of beauty. Stories of community and culture. This video offers stories of three people and what compels them to do what they do. Hear from a high school teacher using the Protests and Politics photo collection from this resource (link to collection and big ideas on page), a National Geographic photo editor, and photographer Danny Wilcox Frazier who discusses his work, which focuses on marginalized communities across the United States.
U.S. v. Windsor (2013)
Does the DOMA deprive same-sex couples who are legally married under state laws of their Fifth Amendment rights to equal protection under federal law? This case study shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 2013.
Van Orden v. Perry (2005)
Does placement of the Ten Commandments on state property in Texas violate the Establishment Clause? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answers this question in 2005.
The Impact of Congress
The Impact of Congress looks at the work of the First Congress, 1789-91, and its impact on the country over the years. In this module you will learn about eleven of the First Congress’s most important accomplishments through primary source images and documents – accomplishments that still have a major impact on our country today. Then you will pick a later session of Congress and explore and analyze its accomplishments.
Virginia v. Black (2003)
Does a Virginia law that criminalizes the burning of a cross on public or private property violate the First Amendment? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 2003.
Virginia v. Moore (2008)
Is a warrantless search for driving with a suspended license reasonable even if it is not permitted under state law? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 2008.
Watchtower Bible v. Stratton (2002)
Is an ordinance regulating the solicitation and canvassing of private homes a violation of free speech? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 2002.
Wilson v. Layne (1999)
Are news media ride-alongs during the execution of a warrant in violation of the Fourth Amendment? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 1999.
Wyoming v. Houghton (1999)
May police officers, with probable cause to search a car, inspect personal items belonging to its passengers without violating the Fourth Amendment? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered this question in 1999.