Teaching Guide
"Our
Government"
produced by
Lisa Glover
Fuller Elementary School
Web Institute for Teachers, Summer, 2002
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Introduction
Government can be a very challenging subject area to teach. Students often
become overwhelmed with learning about the many different components that are
involved in running this country. This unit will (hopefully) give students a fun
and exciting approach to learning about the basic principles of American government
(in terms of its structure and their civic roles and responsibilities as related
to government). Students will be interactive because they will use resources on
the web to research information necessary to complete the activities associated
with this topic.
Aim
The purpose of this unit is to increase student's knowledge of the basic
priniciples of American government.
Rationale
Many children have very limited ideas of what our government encompasses.
They need to develop an understanding of the many facets working together to keep
this country running. Once they learn about the structure and understand the functions
of the various levels of our government, they can begin to see how their lives
are affected by this system. Ultimately, students will begin to realize the importance
of their role (and responsibility) of being active and productive citizens.
Goals and Objectives
* Indentify and describe the organization of government (local, state,
federal and how they carry out their functions)
*Describe the purpose of government and politics (why it is necessary).
*Describe the components and characteristics of the U.S. government.
*Explain meaning of civic responsibilities (importance of voting, election
process)
*Describe ways in which citizens can participate in their local, state, and
national government.
Audience
This unit is intended for grades 4-6.
Prerequisites
Students should have some basic knowledge of how to use a computer and
navigate through the web.
Subject-Matter
This site makes available information and links to resources about American
Government.
Instructional Plan
Students will use the web site to research about American government and
complete lessons and activities included in this unit.
Materials
Computer with internet access, (as well as other supplementary materials........)
Assessment and Evaluation
As students research and learn information about the government, they will
complete various activities with questions designed to monitor student's understanding
of the material.
Appendices (optional, if needed)
Resources
Glossary