The Constitution and Middle Schoolers

The Constitution, although written over 200 years ago, is one of those documents in our 7th grade Social Studies curriculum that can be really challenging for middle schoolers to understand.  The concepts of federalism and separation of powers can be especially difficult.  Over the years I have used many strategies to help students tackle this challenging, but really important topic!

Strategy #1:  Federalism by way of good ol' fashioned cutting and pasting

Yes.  It is time for your middle schoolers to dust off the old scissors and glue sticks that they used way back in primary school.  I am teased by my colleagues for doing this "elementary" activity in middle school, but I really believe there is value in this as a differentiated learning activity.  It hits on two major methods of learning:  bodily/kinesthetic (moving into groups and cutting and pasting) and interpersonal (group work).  Students are actively engaged the entire class period.

Prior to this activity, students have a basic knowledge of the terms delegated, concurrent and reserved powers.  I have a handout with a list of powers (some delegated, some reserved and some concurrent) and have students cut the powers intro strips of paper.

Then I have students lay them out on their desk and, in small groups, categorize into delegated, reserved or concurrent powers.  Once the group thinks they have them categorized correctly, I check over their work.  If all is correct, they are given glue sticks and then glue the power strip (ha ha!) intro the correct area of an accompanying venn diagram.  The venn diagram has a circle for delegated powers, a circle for reserved and the interlocking party is designated for concurrent powers. 

Students leave the class with their completed venn diagram showcasing the powers delegated to the federal government, reserved to the state governments or shared by both.  Parents, students and even resource room teachers have told me in the past that to help prep for the unit test on this topic, they will print out a new, clean copy of the power strips and venn diagram and complete the activity again for review.

Hope you find this helpful as well or maybe will help spark a new idea of your own!

Stay tuned for Strategy #2!