Let's Talk Politics...

In 8th grade U.S. History, we dive into the U.S. government and all of the ins and outs of how to comprehend how our government system works. No this is not easy. I will say that students do tend to have many questions on the topics, which makes the process more interactive. 

government also seems to be a topic that many students are able to relate to due to the fact that they hear lots of information outside of school about politics. We had a to make a rule in our class:

If you don't research it, you don't talk about it. 

Instructing the concept of how the government works in our country is a huge undertaking for teachers. Here are a couple of tools I have found to be helpful. 

First, one of the best websites out there on government is icivics. Click on the link to go directly to the website. They have teacher tools, students worksheets, and even games for the students to play to practice their skills. 

When you first get to the site, this is what you should see:

You can choose from here if you would like to check out the games fir the students to play or the teaching tools. Both very beneficial. 

As thr students play the game, you will here lots of commentary. 'Oh Man' 'You want what kind of law?' 'They want to go to war again!'

Very fun for the teacher. 

The next day, I had my students complete the following graphic organizer. 

When following the link below, you will also find a Constitution Summative Study Guide as well as a Branches of Government short quiz. 

Constitution Study Guide - Branches Quiz

These products will give your students the opportunity to practice skills and give the teacher an opportunity to see what concepts should re-taught or have reached mastery.
Have fun with government!

Enjoy,

Emily