U.S. Constitution | The Preamble | 6 purposes of Government | Student Activity

In this download you have everything you need to complete an activity about The Preamble: the 6 Purposes of Government, using the Concept Attainment Strategy. The idea behind this strategy, is that you discuss a topic students are familiar with in order to introduce a new topic. When students make the connection between the two, they understand the new concept on a deeper level.

 In this activity your students will:

1) Read a funny story about a shipwrecked cruise ship and discuss the problems that the people encountered as a result of this event. This is the perfect “hook” or lead-in to use that will allow students to understand the Preamble on a deeper level.

2) Compare the story of the shipwreck to the actual meaning of the Preamble while completing a graphic organizer.

3) Then list events that prompted the Framers of the Constitution to include the 6 purposes of government, as written, in the Preamble. (Another connection)

4) Application. Students will read and discuss a current event related to each of the 6 purposes of government to answer the question “How does this event illustrate, and to what extent, how the U.S. government is OR is NOT fulfilling its intended purpose TODAY?”

5) Share out in small groups.

6) OPTIONAL USE: Extension Activity Included! Students will be guided to create their own constitution for the "deserted island" on which they now live! Fun!

Very engaging lesson! All handouts, materials, and TEACHER DIRECTIONS/KEY are included.

***Includes a GOOGLE and Traditional version for your use!

Created by: Learning is a Passion