Introduction to Civics

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Introduction to Civics
3rd Grade
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In this Lesson I will lead an introduction to the
basic functions of government, the voting system
and Presidential history.
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WV Content and State Objectives

• SS. 3.2.1- Explain the importance of government
  in the classroom, school, community, and state
• SS. 3.2.2- Explain that citizens are united by
  commonly held principals and beliefs
• SS 3.2.3- Identify the three levels (local,
  state, federal) of government and the
  responsibilities of each level
• SS 3.2.4- Define majority rule and give examples
  of that concept in democracy
• SS 3.2.5- Apply criteria in evaluating rules and
  laws (strengths and weakness, design and purpose,
  enforcement, bias)

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Select Methods, Media and Material

• Bens Guide
• http//bensguide.gpo.gov/3-5/index.html
• GpoAccess
• http//www.gpoaccess.gov/coredocs.html
• White House
• http//www.whitehouse.gov/history/presidents/index
  .html
• Ga. Tech University
• http//www.ceismc.gatech.edu/busyt/soc.html

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Materials

• Pen
• Pencils
• Computer
• Paper
• School House Rock Video
• Television
• VCR
• Ballots

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Day One

• Student will write on prior knowledge of
  government
• Read student responses
• Discuss all levels of government and the duties
  of each
• Pass out field trip permission slips

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Day Two

• Take students to computer lab
• Research On past president
• Assign homework of one written page on president
  of students choice
• Split class into Democrats and Republicans
• Have students select one person to represent them
  and run for class president

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Day Three

• Democrats and Republicans speak on be half of
  their candidate
• Candidates Speak to class
• Watch School House Rock Video Im just a bill

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Day Four

• Voting For Class President
• Announce President
• Collect field trip permission slips

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Day Five

• Students will write a paper on what they have
  learned about U.S. government
• Collect papers and see progress made from the
  first paper
• Class President will be given the opportunity to
  speak

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Day Six

• Collect permission slips
• Go on field trip to state capitol

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Required Learner Participation Provide chances
for students to speak in class, and use the
computer for educational and fun
activities. Having goal of class president will
keep students interested and attentive
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Assessment

• Students will be graded on a one page paper of
  past president. Grammar and spelling will be
  graded within.
• Group Project Promoting candidate for class
  president. Graded on creativity and participation
  within group