Content Specification - SS.4.4.a.1:
Students will examine the basic structure of the federal government, including the president, Congress, and the courts.

Content Specification - SS.4.4.a.2:
Students will explore ways that the federal, state, and local governments meet the needs of citizens, looking for similarities and differences between the different levels of government.

Content Specification - SS.4.4.b.1:
Students will examine the elements of the New York State Seal adopted in 1777 and the New York State flag and explain the symbols used.

Content Specification - SS.4.4.b.2:
Students will use a graphic organizer to show the different branches of state government and the roles and responsibilities of each. The present governor, the local senator, and the local assemblyperson should be identified.

Content Specification - SS.4.4.b.3:
Students will investigate the steps necessary for a bill to become a law in New York State.

Content Specification - SS.4.4.c.1:
Students will identify the county in which they live, noting where their city, town or village is within that county. OR Students will identify the borough of New York City in which they live, and in which county the borough is located. (NOTE: Teachers choose the appropriate content specification based on the school location)

Content Specification - SS.4.4.c.2:
Students will examine the structure of their local government and its relationship to state government. Students will be able to identify the elected leaders of their community.

Content Specification - SS.4.4.d.1:
Students will examine the rights and freedoms guaranteed to citizens.

Content Specification - SS.4.4.e.1:
Students will learn their responsibilities as citizens such as obeying rules and laws (e.g., traffic safety, see something–say something, anti-bullying).

Content Specification - SS.4.4.e.2:
Students will discuss active citizenship and adults’ responsibility to vote, to understand important issues, and to serve on a jury.