Evaluates the "expanding environments" approach to social studies education. Argues that the sequence fails to portray the political environment realistically. Suggests an alternative approach that would bring all political organization levels together at each grade level. Concludes that such an approach would give students a more…

The questions that observers of Congress have posed throughout U.S. history continue to confront citizens: how have the constitutional powers of Congress adapted to new conditions, and how has this affected Congress's relations with the other branches of government. Congress, in its constitutional design, is part of the remedy for the problems of…

Australia is an independent nation-state, federally constituted under a democratic parliamentary system. Being part of the Commonwealth of Nations, with feelings of loyalty to the Crown, Australia is also a democratic monarchy. Its political structure is discussed. (RM)

This bibliography focuses on the origins and development of the United States Constitution. This single bibliography is organized into two versions: (1) The Abbreviated Bibliography provides a long catalog of some major sources for a basic understanding of the events and ideas of the writing and ratification of the Constitution; and (2) the…

The three chapters in Unit 2 of a six-unit series on Indiana state history designed to be taught in Indiana secondary schools chronicle the need for rewriting the Constitution of 1816, the events of the Constitutional Convention of 1850-51, and the details of the new constitution. Chapter 1 explains the reasons that Hoosiers wanted a new…

Describes a five-day instructional unit designed for seventh and eighth graders about the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Points out that the individual rights in the First Amendment often conflict with the rights of the majority. Provides student questions and suggestions for resources and activities. (CFR)

This document is intended as a resource guide for teachers to use in helping students to understand how the United States system of government operates. It examines the background, historical application, and current debate concerning the principle of checks and balances. Ten study sheets feature various figures and episodes prominently associated…

Outlines an upper elementary lesson in which students examine the judicial branch and the power of judicial review. Uses an actual case, "Torcaso v. Watkins," to demonstrate how the U.S. Supreme Court used its power of judicial review to strike down an unconstitutional state law. Provides discussion questions and optional activities. (LS)

Describes how the West German parliamentary government, although originally modeled after the British parliament, is different because it allows for separation of powers similar to the U.S. government. Illustrates how a teacher can use an examination of the executive office to describe governmental relationships. (GG)

Describes the state of confusion that exists among the Canadian government, society, and the Canadian Indian Community. Reviews the ongoing constitutional debate in Canada. Calls for better communication between the Canadian majority population and Canadian Indians. (CFR)

The "consociational" political system of Belgium responds to the needs of the country's three major ethnic communities: Dutch, French, and German. All decision-making power has been transferred to regional and local governments. In order to find policy decisions acceptable to all groups, most decisions are based on accommodations and…

Reviews the results of the October 26, 1992, national referendum on the Canadian constitution. Describes the impact of the results on the provinces of western Canada. Concludes that a new national election should be called to resolve further the constitutional issues. (CFR)

Although it was not directly named in the U.S. Constitution, federalism is a central principle of U.S. government. It is important for students to learn about federalism to comprehend the U.S. federal system and recognize examples of federalism in other countries. Teaching and learning about federalism is essential to education for citizenship in…

This guide is designed for those who participate in North Dakota's Close Up program, a program that provides the state's young people with the opportunity to experience government firsthand in an innovative and participatory setting. The state's 1991 legislative program offers a broad range of activities for student participants, including:…

This guide presents learning objectives, background information, activities, vocabulary, and word-search puzzles on local government and politics for junior high and high school. Although it is intended for use in New York schools, much of the material should be adaptable to any state. Topics covered are: (1) types and functions of government; (2)…