Overview
This lesson serves as a short introduction to the creation of the Constitution.

Scenario
In 1781, after defeating the British at Yorktown, the new American nation had to form a new government. With the fear of the abuses of a king fresh in their memory, the colonists gathered to create a democratic form government, but one that would not have a strong central government. The Articles of Confederation were developed as America’s first form of government.

Six years later, with a nation struggling to pay debt and unable to make efficient decisions at the national level, delegates met in Philadelphia under the guise of fixing the problems with the Articles of Confederation. It was determined that this was not possible and an entire new government would have to be created.

This lesson takes students through the debates and concepts of the creation of the Constitution.

Standards — Social Studies
Grade 5
Government, Benchmark B

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

Grade 8
History, Benchmark F

6. Explain the challenges in writing and ratifying the U.S. Constitution, including the following:

a. Issues debated during the convention resulting in compromises (i.e., the Great Compromise, the Three-Fifths Compromise and the compromise over the slave trade).
b. The Federalist/Anti-Federalist debate.
c. The debate over a Bill of Rights.

Government, Benchmark B

3. Explain how events and issues demonstrated the need for a stronger form of governance in the early years of the United States:

a. Shays’ Rebellion.
b. Economic instability.
c. Government under the Articles of Confederation.

 

Materials
• American history textbook

Procedure
Have the students research some background information on the Constitution. They can go the Constitution Challenge Web site, for links to more information.

One-period Activity
For an introductory overview, have students work individually or with a partner to answer the questions on the worksheet, “Comparing Governments of Early America.” Students can find specific information on the Constitution Challenge Web site, in their textbook or through an Internet search.

Two-period Activity
Begin by presenting the PowerPoint file, which you can find on the Constitution Challenge Web site. Then have the students answer the questions on the worksheet, “Comparing Governments of Early America.” They can find specific information on the Constitution Challenge Web site, in their textbook or through an Internet search.

Evaluation
The worksheet can be collected and graded, and/or used for a unit quiz or test. There are 20 blanks to be filled in and each blank can count as five points.