Grade Level:
High
Overview:
Students will compare the preamble of the U.S. Constitution with the preambles from two state constitutions. They will extract common themes from the three, and note key differences. The preamble to the Constitution has not been changed since its drafting; the Constitution, however, has been amended. Students will reevaluate the ideals expressed in the Preamble and consider their relevance today. They are given the chance to rewrite the Preamble, share their rationale, and explain the values contained expressed inside.
Time needed:
1-2 class periods
Materials required:
Preamble of the U.S. Constitution Lesson Plan
National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies, National Council for the Social Studies:
Theme 6: Power, Authority, and Governance
Theme 10: Civic Ideals and Practices