Introduction
When in the course of third grade, it becomes necessary for students to examine the structure and purposes of government and understand that the ideals underlying American democracy are designed to promote the freedom of the American people, we must look at a unit developed in a seminar aptly titled, "The Idea of America".
The idea of America, hmm, what exactly is the idea of America? The best place to begin is the beginning. First we will investigate The Declaration of Independence which is the document that announced the thirteen colonies to be independent states and no longer a part of the British Empire, thus creating The United States of America. The Declaration was approved by representatives of the thirteen colonies who were attending the Continental Congress and states that people have certain rights and the ability to alter or abolish the government if those rights are violated. What is a right?
Next we will examine The Constitution of the United States of America; this document sets up the framework for the government, the law of the land! Within this framework, the organization of the federal government is detailed and the connection formed between the federal government, the states, and the citizens. The first three articles establish the three branches of government and the duties and powers of each branch. The Constitution lists some integral freedoms that are granted to the citizens of the United States. Since they are listed in The Constitution they become special and are safe. The Bill of Rights is a part of the Constitution and lists many of these freedoms. What does freedom mean to you?
Article 2 of the Constitution creates the office of the presidency and details the qualifications, duties, and powers of the president. When the president is inaugurated, he promises to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution. The inaugural address is not mandated by the U S Constitution however our first president, George Washington, decided that he had a duty to show his appreciation and gratitude to the nation. Our country and government were just being formed so no one knew what would lead to a tradition. John Adams and the other early presidents followed Washington's lead in delivering an inaugural address and current presidents now feel bound to make an inaugural address. Most presidents reveal what they believe will be the overarching theme of their presidency during this address. We can also learn a little more about the current president based on which prior addresses and presidents he respects and chooses to emulate.
In teaching third graders history, it is important to make the past seem real, not some abstract set of facts that are read from books or heard from the adults in their lives. Students need to find a way to make connections to their own lives and the events that are occurring today, as one day these experiences will be woven into the history of America. I will help students make this connection as we create a classroom Constitution and each student writes an inaugural address. What message will they create to share with the nation of our classroom?
Concentrating on our history and civic standards, students will be introduced to the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution for the United States. After we interpret some major themes found in these documents, we will begin to read and analyze the Inaugural Addresses of selected United States Presidents. Using the presidential inauguration addresses, we will explore what the presidents have chosen to highlight as they address the nation. Are there any common themes? How, if at all, has the message changed as our nation grew.
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