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3rd Grade  Project 3 weeks

"Governopoly: Power Play in Politics"

Amy W
3.4.4
2.3.1
4.5.3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project aims to immerse 3rd-grade students in a dynamic exploration of government functions, focusing on the interaction and occasional disagreements between branches. Through hands-on activities like creating murals and participating in a mock council meeting, students will develop a deeper understanding of government processes and their relevance to community issues. The experience is designed to foster critical thinking, self-directed learning, and a sense of belonging by engaging students in meaningful, real-world applications of civic knowledge.

Learning goals

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the three branches of government and their interactions, focusing on both collaboration and conflict resolution. They will enhance their self-directed learning skills by using feedback and reflection to guide their project work. Through creating visual and interactive displays, students will build critical thinking and problem-solving abilities as they explore complex governmental concepts. They will also cultivate an academic mindset by establishing a sense of identity and belonging within their community, actively engaging in discussions about local issues and the legislative process.
Standards
  • [California] 3.4.4 - Understand the three branches of government, with an emphasis on local government.
  • [California] 2.3.1 - Explain how the United States and other countries make laws, carry out laws, determine whether laws have been violated, and punish wrongdoers.
  • [California] 4.5.3 - Describe the similarities (e.g., written documents, rule of law, consent of the governed, three separate branches) and differences (e.g., scope of jurisdiction, limits on government powers, use of the military) among federal, state, and local governments.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a vibrant mural that visually represents the interaction between the branches of government, emphasizing key moments of disagreement on important issues. Additionally, they will design interactive displays and activities for a 'Government Fair' to showcase the roles and responsibilities of each government branch. To culminate the project, students will produce a public service announcement video that explains the roles of the different branches and their significance in resolving community issues. These products will be developed through peer feedback, self-reflection, and community engagement, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of government functions.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Government Mystery Challenge' where students work in teams to solve puzzles related to the functions of the three branches of government. Each puzzle will reveal a clue about how the branches interact and sometimes disagree, encouraging teamwork and critical thinking. This engaging activity will spark curiosity and set the stage for deeper exploration of government processes.

Exhibition

The 'Government Fair' will be a vibrant showcase where students set up interactive booths representing the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Each booth will feature student-created visual aids, interactive activities, and role-playing scenarios that illustrate the branches' roles and how they collaborate or disagree on issues. Inviting family, community members, and local government officials to the fair will provide students with an authentic audience, fostering a deeper connection to their community and enhancing their presentation skills.