Legislators in Action: Bill Bonanza!

12th Grade Project 4 weeks

Legislators in Action: Bill Bonanza!

Nicolle N

D2.Civ.2.9-12

Self Directed Learning

Academic Mindset

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

Content Expertise

+ 1 more

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Purpose

This project immerses 12th-grade students in the legislative process, allowing them to authentically engage with and analyze how laws are crafted and influenced. Through a series of hands-on experiences that reflect real-world political proceedings, students actively participate in drafting, lobbying, and debating legislation, fostering critical thinking and civic awareness. By collaborating with local politicians and participating in structured reflections, they deepen their understanding of democratic principles, ultimately gaining skills in self-directed learning, effective communication, and problem-solving.

Learning goals

The learning goals for this project involve understanding and articulating the legislative process as described in Article 1 of the Constitution, recognizing the key roles and influences of different stakeholders in law-making, and applying these concepts to create a persuasive and impactful bill. Students will develop essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, self-directed learning, and effective communication, honing their ability to navigate complex civic issues. They will also engage in meaningful reflection on their civic responsibilities, considering how a single law can benefit their community while addressing diverse needs.

Standards

[National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Civ.2.9-12 - Analyze the role of citizens in the U.S. political system, with attention to various theories of democracy, changes in Americans' participation over time, and alternative models from other countries, past and present.

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.
Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Throughout the project, students will produce a comprehensive portfolio, capturing each phase of their legislative journey, including their drafted bills, committee notes, and video clips of committee sessions and 'Congress in session.' They'll create persuasive commercials advocating for and against their bills using digital media tools. By project's end, students will assemble a visual presentation mapping their bill's progression and personal reflections, showcasing their learning and the evolution of their civic perspectives.

Launch

Kick off the project with the 'Lawmaker's Challenge,' an engaging activity where students, guided by invited government officials, decode real versus fake laws. This will set the stage with lively dialogue on the characteristics of effective legislation. Following the game, hold a brainstorming session where students share initial law ideas they believe could benefit their local or national communities, fostering a sense of connection and motivation for the legislative journey ahead.

Exhibition

In the "Bill Journey Gallery Walk," each group of students will set up a station featuring the journey of their drafted bill. Stations will include visual and multimedia elements such as initial bill drafts, marketing commercials, video clips from their "Congress in session," committee deliberation notes, and personal reflections. Invite local politicians, community leaders, and family members to engage with student work, encouraging interactive discussions about the legislative process and its impact on real-world civic life. This collaborative exhibition allows students to communicate their learning effectively while highlighting their unique insights and solutions.

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Plan

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