Objectives
The main objective of this unit is to give students the tools to read critically, draw conclusions, and formulate creative ideas. Through examination of the American democratic process students will see what worked for the Founding Fathers and discover areas for future improvement.
Reading for understanding, discussing interpretations and drafting original thoughts may be some of the outcomes, but not the main focus. Current pedagogical trends encourage students to seek, inquire and produce work reflective of their learning. Since educational trends focus on the process of learning to make students accountable, why not expose them to the process of deliberation and ratification of the U.S. Constitution to show how our first citizens were able to engage in a similar action?
Ultimately, the goal is to have students participate in a government they feel is "by the people." By writing a letter to their Congressperson to evoke change or creating a Constitutional amendment student actively engage in the same process as the Founding Fathers.
Students need to gain an understanding of American Diversity across time in America History. Studying differences and relationships among various groups should include the roles of race, gender, ethnicity, and class conflicts throughout the history of the United States. The theme American Identity deals with views of the American national character and ideas about American exceptionalism. Culture includes diverse individual and collective expressions through literature, art, philosophy, music, theater, and film throughout U.S. History. Popular culture and the dimensions of cultural conflict within American society should be explored.
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