The basic premise of the paper is that the Constitution should be the main theme of courses in United States history at grade 8. Students should study a unit on the Constitution, as is commonly done at that level. In addition, other units taught throughout the school year should emphasize constitutional principles, values, and issues. Three…

This curriculum unit focuses on individual and personal freedoms as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and as interpreted by the courts. In particular, the unit which includes illustrated student materials and a teacher's guide, underscores the idea of fundamental rights as expressed through the concepts of liberty, justice, and equality. Through…