3rd Grade  Project 1 week

GovernMentor: Exploring Our Society's Backbone

Paula G
Updated
Global Citizen
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Purpose

The learning experience aims to immerse students in understanding the structure and function of the US government by engaging them with the Three Branches and Constitution in a relatable context. Students will explore the role of citizens and residents, and the importance of laws, through the creation of a classroom voting project. Each student's knowledge will culminate in an exhibition shared with their families, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and ethical participation within their local and global communities.

Learning goals

Students will explore the structure of the U.S. government, learning about the three branches and the constitution through engaging activities. They'll investigate how laws are created and the role of citizens and residents in shaping a democratic society. By participating in a mock vote, students will understand the impact of civic engagement and begin to act as ethical global citizens. They will present their findings to family members, fostering understanding and discussion around governance and ethics in a culturally diverse setting.

Competencies
  • Global Citizen - Acts responsibly and ethically within local, global, and digital communities, employing civic knowledge, skills, and mindsets to promote global sustainability and contribute positively to a culturally diverse, democratic society.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a "kid's guide" to the U.S. government, featuring interactive pages for each of the three branches, with fun facts, illustrations, and basic responsibilities outlined. This guide will be shared with families at the project's exhibition as part of a gallery walk where students present what they've learned about laws and voting. The final collective product will include a hands-on voting simulation, allowing students to experience casting votes on classroom issues, demonstrating the democratic process in action.

Launch

Begin by hosting an engaging discussion where students imagine what life would be like without a government and the chaos that might ensue. Introduce them to the concept of citizenship and residency, emphasizing their importance in contributing to a well-functioning democratic society. Facilitate an interactive activity where students role-play as citizens, engaging in a simple voting simulation to make decisions that impact classroom rules. This will serve as a hands-on introduction to the power and responsibility of voting within a governmental system.

Exhibition

Students will prepare and present a family-friendly government fair. They will create interactive displays that illustrate the role and function of the three branches of government, as well as the constitution's importance. Families will participate in mock voting stations designed by the students, showcasing the significance of citizen participation.