This lesson uses an organizational chart of the federal government to discuss what the administrative state within the federal government is and does, compares “lawmaking” and “rulemaking” processes, and introduces academic debates surrounding the administrative state and the Constitution.
Courts, Judicial Review, Independent Judiciary Read More »
Much civic knowledge and many civic sensibilities are formed through families and friends. Or maybe there’s a wish to engage those conversations and discuss civic values with these groups. The resources here are designed to facilitate simple conversations, from your living room or the café table, and engage whole families with accessible questions and activities.
Law Day for Families and Friends Read More »
Using the Quote of the Day in your classroom is a wonderful way to ignite reflection, critical thinking, and promote discussion. Each Daily Juice contains a carefully selected quote from a notable individual meant to inspire and engage students.
American Values that Unite Us: Relevant Quotes as Discussion Prompts Read More »
The United States has, historically and today, more immigrants than any country in the world. Immigration has been and remains one of the nation’s most political, rule of law-focused, and contentious issues. The resources here allow explorations of history as well as opportunities to have important discussions.
An Immigration Nation Read More »
Some of the most recognizable, tangible, and beloved indicators of constitutional values are visual—official and unofficial symbols, iconic pieces of art and messaging. Each of these resources offers an opportunity to start a discussion about how symbols unite us. These are engaging for audiences, especially young people.
E Pluribus Unum Art, Symbols, and Visuals Read More »
The Law Day theme, Advancing the Rule of Law Now, offers opportunities for dialogue, learning, and sharing across a variety of audiences. In our modern and virtual world, when so many of us can record our thoughts from a smartphone, it is easier than ever to express yourself. Join a national virtual conversation about advancing the rule of law now by submitting your thoughts, ideas, and perspectives on what the Law Day theme means to you. Whether you have an idea for a short video, song, poem, or hope to have a heartfelt conversation with family, friends, or colleagues, it is all welcome this Law Day.
Write or Talk About the Law Day Theme Read More »
This lesson can be customized to student and classroom perspectives and time constraints. It starts with a discussion of poetry as an expressive art form accessible to all. There are suggested poems to read, compare, and discuss in terms of their authors’ contributing voices to American democracy.
Poetry Speaks in American Democracy Read More »
During this lesson, students will explore the evolution of voting rights throughout American history. Students will gain a fuller understanding of how the right to vote has evolved and why it is critical aspect of using our voice in our American democracy.
American Voting Rights: Deep Dive Into Primary Sources Read More »
This lesson introduces young students to what a judge is and what they do in court settings. Then it explores what qualities and skills a judge must possess and use in order to be effective. This discussion may be scaled up or down depending on students’ understanding. To facilitate discussion there are three prompts that may be used in any combination appropriate for students’ understanding.
Civics, Civility, and Collaboration in the Courtroom: What Makes a Good Judge? Read More »
During this lesson, students will explore various protests and public rallies and then review Supreme Court cases dealing with protests, civil rights, community safety and the First Amendment. Students then have an option to view a video on the power of protests for civil rights movements.
The First Amendment, Protests, Community Safety, and Civility Read More »
