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…

Between 1938-1980, the local administrative units of American education were transformed from small, informal community arrangements into large professionally run bureaucracies. This paper explores this structural change by analyzing variation among states in the speed and extent of school district consolidation. Consolidation stemmed largely from…

Examines four simulation games used in higher education to teach the role of elections in promoting governmental responsibility, the effects of imperfect accountability on governmental policy, and ways to make governments more accountable. These games simulate interest group lobbying, political party formation, bureaucratic policy making, and…

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:…

The fourth in a special series of handbooks dealing with constitutional themes, this document looks at power in the context of the U.S. Constitution. "The Constitution's Prescription for Freedom" (L. Peach) examines the separation of powers provided for in the Constitution. "The Concept of Power" (C. Roach) is a series of…

The paper discusses the political events and issues that affected North Carolina and the nation between 1776 and 1789. Attitudes and philosophies on government and its centralization form the foundation for North Carolina's traditional and firm opposition to centralization of power and changes in government structure. North Carolina's…

Educating students about state and local government is vital to providing the skills necessary for effective citizenship. This six-part teachers guide addresses various aspects of incorporating the study of government into the social studies curriculum. Part 1 presents a rationale and goals for teaching government. Part 2 addresses the various…

Indiana state and local government structure and the governance process are outlined in this comprehensive survey which is used in government courses throughout Indiana. Legislative power is granted to the General Assembly whose powers, duties, compensation, terms of office, and qualifications are explicated. The legislative process and financing…

Notes the blurring of boundaries between public and private sectors, pointing out that the interaction between governmental and non-profit agencies is increasing in the areas of public policy. Argues that these increasing interactions need to be integrated into the political science curriculum. (GG)

This resource document is designed to assist teachers in implementing the "History-Social Science Framework for California Public Schools, Kindergarten through Grade Twelve." The purpose of these models is to support implementation of the "Framework" at the local level. In addition to serving as a resource for teachers and…

This kit, the second of four learning circles on civics and citizenship, explores Australia's federal system of government and the three spheres of government. Introductory materials include lists of 53 print resources, 47 Internet sites, and 7 videos and CDs; and a glossary. Session guides are provided for six sessions: The Three Spheres of…