Be Anti-Government: Teach the U.S. Constiution!

“Don’t interfere with anything in the Constitution. That must be maintained, for it is the only safeguard of our liberties.” – Abraham Lincoln

“Enlighten the people generally, and tyranny and oppressions of the body and mind will vanish like evil spirits at the dawn of day.” – Thomas Jefferson

A while back, I received an email that until tonight, I had forgotten about.  I don’t know why I started thinking about it, maybe all the stuff going on lately.  The email was sent back in Feb.  The author wrote,

“Recently, because of the things going on in this country I’ve decided to educate myself on some things that I either never really understood, or that it has been so long since I reviewed the material I really couldn’t remember what it was truly about.  I thought that you might take a look at these things and perhaps you might post them on your sight if you find them worthy.”

I bet a lot of people feel that way and more don’t even have a clue!  But as I was on my way home from work, I was thinking about my own kids and how much they know.  I’m thinking that this Summer, we might have a little Summer Home School of our own!

Below, I have linked to a ton of resources on the U.S. Constitution.  Some of the links will allow you to click and click and click and you could be lost for  hours! So be careful!!!   I’ve tried to provide a little info. on the resources as well.  In the spirit of education, it was my desire to provide these resources to teach young people.  However, anyone can learn from these links, as you will see!

Peace,
Todd

The Constitution at PPST.com – FREE Power Point Presentations.  These are way cool!  Many that I clicked on were very well put together.  Some had sound  which was a little cheesy at times.  The site has links that will allow you to drill down and get lost!  But there are also specific links for kids and teachers.  These links include lesson plans and interactive games.  The only downside is that you will need Microsoft Power Point to view the slides.  I was able to download a PPT and then upload it to Google Drive.  Open Office, a free program and alternative to Microsoft products will also work.

Federal Resources for Educational Excellence – It’s OK if you threw-up a little bit after reading that!  The link is worth it though.  The link is a portal that provides links to stuff like: The Federalist Papers, America’s Founding Fathers (with bios), Lesson Plans and a ton of other cool stuff!

Teachable Text from the National Archives in Boston – This site provides facts and ideas on teaching the U.S. Constitution.  I like some of the ideas like: “Learn the Preamble” and “Draw ‘We the People.’”  There are supposed to be some pdf’s that open up and provide these activities, but they only go to the directions page.  However, a creative person and take these ideas and run with them.

Learning the Constitution for Kids from LAWS.com – This is a quick read about the comprehension level of the U.S. Constitution and activities or lessons that students can do in regards to the comprehension level.  I’m of the firm belief that everyone can learn…and should take it to where they can.  Some students will need to learn the Constitution on a basic level, some will be able to go to higher levels with it.

Explore the US Constitution – National Constitution Center – This interactive guide breaks down the Articles and Amendments and then provides an easy to understand interpretation.  It also provides some info. on each (in the red box) article or amendment.  For example on the 2nd Amendment, “Passed by Congress September 25, 1789. Ratified December 15, 1791. The first 10 amendments form the Bill of Rights.”

The Annenberg Classroom – There is a lot here.  Check out the About page to get some background.  You really want to focus on the bottom of the page where the links are located.  Make sure you checkout the links under “Constitution Curriculum.”

Social Studies – Teaching the Constitution – This is a Pinetrest Pin with a ton of other links.

The U.S. Constitution Book: Just for Kids – (links to Amazon) – “Through fun activities like word searches, crossword puzzles, mazes and more, this interactive coloring book is both entertaining and educational. This unique approach to teaching captures both the imagination and creativity of students, and helps them become excited to learn about U.S. History and the Constitution. Approved by teachers and educators!”

And what kind of list would this be if I left out School House Rock?

This list of resources will keep anyone busy for a long time! If you come across any other links that should be included, please leave them in the comment section below.

This post first appeared on www.edthatmatters.com.