Offers a simulation in which middle school students examine the constitutionality of a creche being placed on town property. Develops an understanding of (1) the religion clauses of the First Amendment, (2) governmental limitations on religious practices, and (3) governmental regulations that may incidentally support religious beliefs. (LS)

Discusses classroom activities designed to enhance student learning about federalism and sovereignty. Describes classroom discussions on jurisdiction, federalism, and sovereignty generated by asking students to clarify the constitutional section referring to the Writ of Habeas Corpus. Concludes that this exercise clarifies the concepts and…

Examines the debate over school vouchers, focusing on constitutional questions. Considers the separation of church and state, court cases related to public aid for religiously affiliated education, the Milwaukee (Wisconsin) and Cleveland (Ohio) voucher programs, and court cases addressing the constitutional dimensions of vouchers. Provides two…

Provides background information on four constitutional amendment proposals: (1) flag protection amendment; (2) school prayer amendment; (3) balanced-budget amendment; and (4) victim rights amendment. Evaluates each in terms of timeliness, the support base, and the strength of their opposition. Includes questions for discussion. (CMK)

Provides a lesson appropriate for secondary students focusing on the constitutional amendment process. Explains that students explore historical forces that shaped the U.S. Constitution and also addresses whether current amendment proposals should be considered. Lists the materials needed. (CMK)

Designed to help students learn about courts and trials in an interesting and enjoyable way, this document provides teachers with the necessary instructions and materials on how to conduct mock trials. By using the program, students become familiar with the role of a trial court in resolving disputes. They also are introduced to court procedure…

Designed to give students in grades 5 through 12 information about the Minnesota court system, this document provides teachers and students with the necessary background materials to study Minnesota's courts. Rather than an introduction to all law, the document is limited to the function and operation of the courts. The curricular materials cover…

This publication on the constitutional principles of the U.S. Government consists of the textbook and teacher's guide. The textbook begins with a review of constitutionalism in antiquity, in early modern England, and in colonial America. Following sections outline the constitutional convention in Philadelphia, the principles of the constitution,…

Intended for use by high school U.S. history and government teachers and students, these scripted trials and related materials are designed to help students develop an understanding about important ideas in the U.S. Constitution. The document focuses on three fundamental issues of the Bill of Rights: search and seizure, freedom of expression, and…

Developed for elementary students, this compilation of diverse lesson plans, project ideas, and resources is designed to assist teachers in teaching about the United States Constitution. The document includes 10 sections: (1) A Model Bicentennial Program for Elementary Schools; (2) Patriotism Packet of Lesson Plans; (3) A Young Citizen's Guide to…

A collection of resources for high school history and government teachers and their students, this volume treats core ideas on constitutional government in the United States. James Madison's ideas as found in "The Federalist Papers" are examined in conjunction with their counterpoints in essays of the Anti-Federalists. This volume…

This paper discusses the distinction between the Constitution and constitutional law. The Constitution is the fundamental law of the United States. It creates the institutions of government, enumerates the powers of these institutions, and delineates areas government may not enter. The Constitution is the instrument by which the consent of the…

The objective of this textbook review was to evaluate the textbook's capacity for imparting the knowledge and skills necessary for democratic citizenship along with an enthusiasm for civic participation. A panel of scholars reviewed 18 U.S. government and civics textbooks on the basis of: (1) coverage, (2) engagement, (3) constitutional themes,…

Over 400 films, filmstrips, audio cassettes, video tapes, and mixed media kits are described in this annotated catalogue of law-related materials for elementary and secondary education. The catalogue is divided into seven major content areas. Part one lists the audiovisual materials that deal with the history of the U.S. system of law, as well as…

Presents a lesson on capital punishment for juveniles based on three hypothetical cases. The goal of the lesson is to have students understand the complexities of decisions regarding the death penalty for juveniles. (JDH)