Overview
This activity uses a graphic organizer to help students understand the branches of government at the state, local and federal levels.

Standards
Social Studies
Grade 5
Government, Benchmark A

2. Explain the essential characteristics of American democracy including:

c. The government is run directly by the people or through elected representatives.

Government, Benchmark B

3. Explain the significance of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

Grade 8
Government, Benchmark B

4. Explain the political concepts expressed in the U.S. Constitution:

a. Representative democracy.
b. Federalism.
c. Bicameralism.
d. Separation of powers.
e. Checks and balances.

 

Materials
• Nine-Box Chart of American Government worksheet
• Research materials — text, library, Internet

Procedure

1. Have the students research some background information on how a law is made. A grid showing the relationship of the branches of government is available on the Constitution Challenge Web site.

2. Work with the students to complete the Nine-Box Chart of American Government worksheet.
   • Begin by explaining the concept of separation of powers and the idea that power is also divided by level (federalism).
   • As each branch of government is introduced, offer the students synonyms that will help them understand the function of each branch of government.
         E = E (Executive = Enforce laws) Synonyms include administer and carry out.
         L = L (Legislative = Lawmakers) Synonyms include make, create, develop and design.
         J = J (Judicial = Judge laws) Synonyms include judge, interpret, decide, determine and evaluate.
   • As the chart unfolds, teachers may also discuss the concepts of checks and balances between the branches.
   • Where appropriate, teachers may include the names as well as the titles of officials in different boxes.

3. Use the following questions for discussion.
   • Which branch of government is most powerful?
   • Which branch appears to have the most influence?
   • Which branch impacts your life most each day?
   • Which level of government is the most powerful?
   • Which level of government impacts your life most each day?

Evaluation
Use the blank chart as a quiz at a later date. Students have to get all nine boxes correct (including spelling, if desired). If appropriate, multiple chances can be given. To reinforce the concept that all branches of government are equal, you may quiz the students by changing which branch appears in each column.