If students are to fulfill their obligations and rights as U.S. citizens they must develop the ability to make careful judgements, based on a reasoned historical perspective and a meaningful conception of the basic democratic values underlying citizenship in our constitutional order. To this end, an agenda of 12 core civic values that are…

Like other institutions, schools are occupied by people whose duties and liberties are in conflict. Understanding the Bill of Rights can help resolve school problems as well as major social problems outside the court system. Students should value the first eight constitutional amendments as not tied to majority rule and should study them…

Warns against reinforcing what is called the "sacred mythology" of the "miracle at Philadelphia," and urges teachers to tell the full story of the flaws, fights, and decades of legal and political work required to bring the original constitution in line with the U. S. Declaration of Independence. Supports this argument with a…

This article examines the history and thinking of the Federalists and Anti-Federalists in order to explain the formation of the ideas which allow the U.S. Constitution to provide for an effective government without sacrificing vital individual liberties. (JDH)

To help public schools produce well-educated citizens, the Center for Civic Education (originating at UCLA in 1965) works with elementary and secondary school students and teachers to promote better understanding of such basic democratic principles as due process, federalism, and judicial review. The process transforms student interactions while…

Reviews the Bills of Rights' creation and rationale. Discusses the Fourth and Fourteenth amendments and analyzes their current status. Emphasizes the Supreme Court's interpretive role. Argues that reliance on the courts will eventually result in legal interpretations that reflect dominant national opinion. Urges greater citizen responsibility for…

The principles, values, and issues of our constitutional heritage that should be emphasized in citizenship education are based on the concepts of liberty and power. The Constitution is not a sacred icon formulated by immortals, but rather a changing and controversial framework guided by a diverse group of practical politicians, sensitive to their…

This paper assesses efforts undertaken to promote teaching and learning about the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights during the years leading up to and including the bicentennial celebrations of these two documents. The assessment focuses on three specific topics: (1) patterns of content coverage; (2) materials for teachers and students; and…

The religious liberty clauses of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States are the most important political decision for religious liberty and public justice in history. Two hundred years after their enactment, they stand out boldly in a century darkened by state repression and sectarian conflict. The controversy now surrounding…

Discusses the reasons why students do not see constitutional rights as applicable to their own lives. Focuses on the formal and informal curriculum of schools. Presents court cases for students to learn about the reasons why their rights must differ from adults. Describes how students can be included in making school rules. (CMK)

Reaffirms the importance of civic education and active learning about the Bill of Rights and attendant civic responsibilities. Identifies four categories of knowledge deficiencies about the Bill of Rights. Explores four key ways to improve teaching and learning about the Bill of Rights. Stresses connections between civic knowledge and the vitality…