In this unit students explore many important civics concepts using the context of local government. The unit begins with a lesson that explores diversity in communities and also reviews why people live in communities. Then, students explore the reasons people form governments including the need for laws, safety, and order. In a lesson on core democratic values and how they create a foundation for government students are introduced to the values of the common good, individual rights, and patriotism. Students then explore the meaning and importance of the Pledge of Allegiance. Using the example of school rules as a springboard, students next examine the reasons communities need laws. Then, they learn how local governments make, enforce, and interpret laws. Students compare narrative text and informational text as they learn about the role mayors play in local government. This serves as an introduction to for the next lesson on different functions of local government. In a final lesson on citizenship students learn about the roles and responsibilities of citizens in local government. As a culminating activity, students take part in a simple simulation of a town council meeting where they have to decide whether to buy a new police car or new playground equipment for a local park.
Stage One - Desired Results
How do people live together in a community?
branches of governmentcitizencity councilcivic responsibilitycommon goodcommunitycore democratic valuescourtdiversitygovernmentindividual rightslawsmayorpatriotism
Cause and EffectDescribing
Stage Two - Assessment Evidence
Stage Three - Learning Plan