Grade Level:
Elementary
Overview:
In this lesson, students are presented with a controversial school policy and given two viewpoints on the issue. They are then divided into groups, and asked to provide reasons for and against the policy. After deciding whether the policy should be changed or not, the students are asked to reflect on why policies might change and what factors influence policy decisions.
Time needed:
1 class period
Materials required:
Influencing Public Policy Lesson Plan
Influencing Public Policy Handout
National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies, National Council for the Social Studies:
Theme 5: Individuals, Groups, and Institutions