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)…

One of a series of modules designed to help people in Oklahoma become more self-sufficient in their personal and professional lives, this document is designed to introduce students to the function of various levels of U.S. government, symbols considered to have particular relevance to U.S. citizens, and how adults can make a difference as…

This material provides a program to instruct secondary level students in the political, governmental, and legal process and to encourage active student participation in these processes. Part of a year-long curriculum program, this unit examines the structure and function of the state, county, and local levels. Included are policy formation,…

An introduction to the study of American government is the focus on the first unit of the 12th grade level of the FICSS series (Focus on Inner City Social Studies -- see SO 008 271). The five content areas offer an overview of the three major branches of American government, independent regulatory agencies, and politics and elections. The unit…

Designed for use in secondary school social studies classes, this guide provides activities for helping students understand some of the fundamental principles of government as well as its structure, politics, and effects on the individual. Information, articles, and cartoons from the Austin-American Statesman form the basis of the readings, along…

Social change and the ideas, feelings, and hopes of man which lead to the development of his institutions are the major focus of the eleventh grade FICSS series (Focus on Inner City Social Studies -- see SO 008 271). The units examine how the forces of stability and change culminated in the creation of the major historical documents which are the…

Presents a lesson plan for middle school students that helps them develop an understanding of the Electoral College and the role of political parties in presidential elections. After receiving related background material and handouts, students play a question-and-answer game modeled on the television show "Jeopardy." (MJP)

This unit on economic decision-making is the fourth of five units in a ninth grade social studies course (see SO 010 891). Major objectives are to help students (1) explain how dissent and protest may be used as effective means of change and to consider the consequences of such actions; (2) examine the judicial branch of government in order to…