Federalism Round Up

Do your students ever think their rights just appeared without a fight for them? Or, do they not realize the amount of people and hard work it took to create the Constitution? Honestly, these are common trends among students! Until they learn something, they will not just know it! So, they will not realize how power became divided between the federal government and individual states. Similarly, they will not realize how government structures operate at many levels and the impact of policy-making. Luckily, these Federalism round up resources are the perfect way to help students critically analyze the government! Whether looking at Federalism Supreme Court Cases, the Federalism Lesson, or the Modern Day Federalism Project, students will gain so much appreciation for the United States. 

federalism

The Division of Powers 

Understanding the division of power is critical when working through the Federalism round up. Students need to know how the system of checks and balances ensures that no single source can become too powerful. Thankfully, the U.S. Constitution clearly outlines the specific powers granted to the federal government and the states. This framework allows the United States to operate cooperatively. 

Federalism Supreme Court Cases 

Students may not realize where many of their rights originated. Additionally, they may not realize how the Supreme Court resolves disputes between state and federal authorities. Thankfully, this will all change during the Federalism round up! 

Students will learn all about the Supreme Court cases McCulloch vs. Maryland, Gibbons vs. Ogden, and D.C. vs. Heller. They will do this through engaging graphic organizers that allow them to read about the cases and compare them. There are even videos to watch to ensure students understand the complexity of each case. 

This is a fantastic way to engage students in the Constitution and make them critically analyze the US Government! 

Federalism Lesson

This incredible resource breaks down each type of Federalism for students and what they look like. For example, students will learn about Fiscal Federalism and the impact of grants. They will complete notes, view PowerPoints, watch videos, and see important graphics to illustrate the concepts. 

This will be a great lesson to help students think critically while analyzing Federalism! 

Modern Day Federalism Project 

Students love working on projects! They are an incredible way to help students apply their learning on a deeper level. Luckily, this Federalism round up project is an amazing way to showcase learning. 

Specifically, students will select one US federal event, such as Columbine, Sandy Hook, and Hurricane Katrina. They will then research the case and trace federal, state, and local responses to it. Students get so creative when sharing their work with the class! 

Federalism is an essential concept that allows the government and state to have specific powers. Thankfully, the Federalism roundup will allow students to see that while disagreements may arise, the Constitution helps protect the rights of each. 

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With 15 years of experience teaching government, U.S. history, sociology, and AP government in New York and Pennsylvania, Melissa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to students and teachers all over the world. She is also a certified AP U.S. Government grader for the College Board. Melissa proudly calls Wooster, Ohio, home and is a dedicated mother of two active boys and a supportive wife to a lacrosse coach.

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