It’s easy to forget how much drama surrounded the Constitution before it became the law of the land. The ratification debate between the Federalists and Anti-Federalists gives us insight into the ideas behind both sides and a better understanding of how our government developed in its early years. Students will analyze parts of Federalist 84 and Anti-Federalist 46. We also provide a template so you can bring in additional excerpts as your state standards require.
iCivics en español! Student and class materials for this lesson are available in Spanish.
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![Federalist Debate Federalists vs Anti-Federalists Lesson Plan 01 - Reading](/sites/default/files/styles/lesson_plan_rev_slider/public/2023-10/Federalist%20Debate%20Federalists%20vs%20Anti-Federalists%20Lesson%20Plan%2001.png?itok=2S4L9BGJ)
![Federalist Debate Federalists vs Anti-Federalists Lesson Plan 03 - Chart](/sites/default/files/styles/lesson_plan_rev_slider/public/2023-10/Federalist%20Debate%20Federalists%20vs%20Anti-Federalists%20Lesson%20Plan%2003.png?itok=I3E00CGN)
![Federalist Debate Federalists vs Anti-Federalists Lesson Plan 06 - Student Activity](/sites/default/files/styles/lesson_plan_rev_slider/public/2023-10/Federalist%20Debate%20Federalists%20vs%20Anti-Federalists%20Lesson%20Plan%2006.png?itok=6hcF9AAt)
I find the materials so engaging, relevant, and easy to understand – I now use iCivics as a central resource, and use the textbook as a supplemental tool. The games are invaluable for applying the concepts we learn in class. My seniors LOVE iCivics.
Lynna Landry , AP US History & Government / Economics Teacher and Department Chair, California