ANTICIPATE by asking students to think of one job that each branch of government does. Give students a moment to think, then randomly call on students to share.

DISTRIBUTE one reading packet to each student.

READ through page one and two with the class. 

ASK students to first match the quote with the correct branch of government, then identify the article that describes it.

READ through page three with the class. Explain that you will go into greater detail on the amendment process on the next page.

READ the information about the amendment process on page four and take the students through the various paths to the addition of an amendment to the Constitution.   

DISTRIBUTE the tent activity page and show the class how to fold it correctly. 

DISTRIBUTE the “Whose Job Is It?” sheet and worksheet (if double-sided).   

PROJECT the “Whose Job Is It” statements, revealing one at a time.     

ASK students to show the correct branch on their tent and write down the answer on their sheet.

ASSIGN the review sheet to be completed. Go over answers if needed.

CLOSE by asking students to think of one job for each of the three branches that is different from the one they identified at the beginning of the lesson. Call on students at random.

OPTIONAL  Distribute the Different Democracies extension worksheet and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each type of democratic government.