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3-4 Weeks
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12.G1 FOUNDATIONS of AMERICAN DEMOCRACY: The principles of American democracy are reflected in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights and in the organization and actions of federal, state, and local government entities. The interpretation and application of American democratic principles continue to evolve and be debated.
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SS.12G.1.a |
Enlightenment ideas such as natural rights, the social contract, popular sovereignty, and representative government greatly influenced the framers of the Constitution and Bill of Rights. |
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SS.12G.1.b |
The Constitution created a unique political system that distributes powers and responsibilities among three different branches of government at the federal level and between state and federal governments. State constitutions address similar structures and responsibilities for their localities. |
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SS.12G.1.c |
Limited government is achieved through the separation of powers between three different branches. The system of checks and balances is part of this limited government structure at all levels of government. |
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SS.12G.1.d |
The rule of law is a system in which no one, including government, is above the law. The United States legal system has evolved over time as the result of implementation and interpretation of common law, constitutional law, statutory law, and administrative regulations. |
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SS.12G.1.e |
The powers not delegated specifically in the Constitution are reserved to the states. Though the power and responsibility of the federal government have expanded over time, there is an ongoing debate over this shift in power and responsibility. |
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SS.12G.1.f |
The Constitution includes a clearly defined and intentionally rigorous process for amendment. This process requires state and federal participation and allows the Constitution to evolve and change. |
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Here are some focus questions for the topic "Foundations of American Democracy":
Principles of American Democracy
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What key principles of democracy are reflected in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights?
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How do the principles of popular sovereignty, limited government, separation of powers, checks and balances, federalism, and individual rights shape American democracy?
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Why did the Founding Fathers include the system of checks and balances in the Constitution?
Structure of Government
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How does the federal system divide power between national, state, and local governments?
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What are the roles and responsibilities of each branch of government in upholding democratic principles?
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How do state and local governments reflect and implement democratic principles?
Interpretation and Evolution of Democratic Principles
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How has the interpretation of the Constitution changed over time through Supreme Court decisions?
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What role does judicial review play in shaping American democracy?
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How have amendments to the Constitution expanded democratic rights and freedoms?
Debates and Challenges in American Democracy
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What are some major historical and contemporary debates about the meaning and application of democratic principles?
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How do different political ideologies influence the interpretation of democracy in the U.S.?
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What challenges does American democracy face today, and how can they be addressed?
Would you like me to refine or expand on any of these?
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Foundations of Government and Citizenship
The Beginning of American Government
The U.S. Constitution
The Legislative Branch
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Key Words:
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Congress – The legislative body of the U.S., includes Senate and House of Representatives
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Senator / Representative – Elected members of Congress
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Bill – A proposed law
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Law / Act – A bill that has been passed and signed
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Committee – A group within Congress that reviews bills
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Amendment – A change or addition to a law or Constitution
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Debate – Discussion on a bill before voting
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Majority / Minority Party – Political groups with more/less members
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Filibuster – A tactic to delay or block legislative action
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Veto / Override – President rejects a bill / Congress overrides it
đ˘ Executive Branch (Enforces Laws)
Key Words:
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President / Vice President – Head of the executive branch
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Cabinet – Advisors to the President (e.g., Secretary of State, Defense)
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Executive Order – A rule issued by the President
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Bureaucracy – Government agencies and departments
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Commander-in-Chief – President’s role in leading the military
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Treaty – Agreement with another country (needs Senate approval)
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Pardon – President forgives a crime
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Veto – President's power to reject legislation
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Department – A major part of the executive branch (e.g., Dept. of Education)
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Federal Agencies – Organizations like the FBI, EPA, etc.
âď¸ Judicial Branch (Interprets Laws)
Key Words:
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Supreme Court – Highest court in the U.S.
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Justice / Judge – Interprets and applies the law
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Judicial Review – Power to declare laws unconstitutional
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Appeal / Appellate Court – Request to review a lower court’s decision
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Trial / Hearing – Legal proceeding to resolve disputes
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Verdict – Final decision in a court case
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Constitutionality – Whether something aligns with the Constitution
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Precedent – Past decision used to guide future cases
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Plaintiff / Defendant – Person bringing a case / person being sued or charged
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Due Process – Fair treatment under the law
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Week 1–2: Foundations of American Democracy
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Standards: 12.G1a, 12.G1b, 12.G1c
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Concepts: Enlightenment ideas, social contract, popular sovereignty, representative government, separation of powers, checks and balances
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Activities: Analyze excerpts from the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution; group discussions on the influence of Enlightenment thinkers; create a diagram illustrating the separation of powers.IXL Learning+1ny24000038.schoolwires.net+1ny24000038.schoolwires.net
Week 3–4: The Constitution and Bill of Rights
Week 5–6: Federalism and the Three Branches of Government
Week 7–8: Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
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Standards: 12.G2a, 12.G2b, 12.G2d
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Concepts: Freedom of speech, press, assembly, religion; equal protection under the law; expansion of civil rights
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Activities: Analyze Supreme Court cases (e.g., Tinker v. Des Moines, Brown v. Board of Education); group presentations on the Civil Rights Movement; debate current civil rights issues.IXL Learning+1ny24000038.schoolwires.net+1
Week 9–10: Political Participation and Voting
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Standards: 12.G3b, 12.G3c
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Concepts: Voter registration, political parties, elections, civic duties
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Activities: Simulate a voter registration drive; research and present on the history of voting rights; mock election with student-created platforms.ny24000038.schoolwires.net
Week 11–12: Political Parties and Elections
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Standards: 12.G4d
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Concepts: Role of political parties, electoral systems, campaign strategies
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Activities: Analyze party platforms; create campaign materials for a mock election; debate the pros and cons of the electoral college.
Week 13–14: Public Policy and the Legislative Process
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Standards: 12.G5a, 12.G5b
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Concepts: Policy formulation, lawmaking process, role of interest groups
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Activities: Simulate the passage of a bill; research and present on a current policy issue; invite a guest speaker from a local government office.IXL Learning
Week 15–16: Media and Public Opinion
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Standards: 12.G4e
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Concepts: Media influence, public opinion, media literacy
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Activities: Analyze media coverage of a current event; create a media bias chart; conduct a survey on public opinion regarding a political issue.IXL Learning+1ny24000038.schoolwires.net+1
Week 17–18: Civic Engagement and Activism
Week 19–20: Review and Final Project
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Guided Learning Worksheets
Hard copies and digital copies of texts
You Tube Videos
Resources shared among teachers via Google Drive
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Choice of the following:
Activity Sheets
Homework
Essays
Tests
Projects
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3-4 Weeks
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12.G2 CIVIL RIGHTS and CIVIL LIBERTIES: The United States Constitution aims to protect individual freedoms and rights that have been extended to more groups of people over time. These rights and freedoms continue to be debated, extended to additional people, and defined through judicial interpretation. In engaging in issues of civic debate, citizens act with an appreciation of differences and are able to participate in constructive dialogue with those who hold different perspectives.
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SS.12G.2.a |
Equality before the law and due process are two fundamental values that apply to all under the jurisdiction of the United States. While the United States legal system aims to uphold the values of equality before the law, due process, human dignity, freedom of conscience, inalienable rights, and civility, the extent to which the legal system upholds these values in practice is an issue of ongoing civic debate. |
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SS.12G.2.b |
The Constitution aims to protect, among other freedoms, individual and group rights to freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, freedom of petition, and freedom of religion. The extent to which these ideals exist in practice and how these protections should be applied in a changing world continues to be an issue of ongoing civic debate. |
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SS.12G.2.c |
An independent judicial system is an integral part of the process that interprets and defends citizensâ freedoms and rights. Issues pertaining to the flexibility of judicial interpretation and the impartiality of justices in practice are continued sources of public debate. |
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SS.12G.2.d |
The definition of civil rights has broadened over the course of United States history, and the number of people and groups legally insured of these rights has also expanded. However, the degree to which rights extend equally and fairly to all (e.g., race, class, gender, sexual orientation) is a continued source of civic contention. |
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SS.12G.2.e |
Rights are not absolute; they vary with legal status, with location (as in schools and workplaces), and with circumstance. The different statuses of United States residency bring with them specific protections, rights, and responsibilities. Minors have specific rights in school, in the workplace, in the community, and in the family. The extension of rights across location, circumstance, age, and legal status is a subject of civic discourse. |
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SS.12G.2.f |
Freedom of the press is an essential element of a democratic system, and allows for a citizen to receive and interpret information representing different points of view. Freedom of the press has limits, which are intended to protect the rights of individuals and other entities. The degree to which the press is free and impartial in practice is a source on ongoing debate. |
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Here are some focus questions on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties:
Understanding Civil Rights and Civil Liberties
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What is the distinction between civil rights and civil liberties?
Civil rights involve the right to be free from unequal treatment based on certain protected characteristics (e.g., race, gender) in settings such as employment and education. Civil liberties are fundamental freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, such as freedom of speech and religion. îciteîturn0search3î
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How does the U.S. Constitution safeguard individual freedoms and rights?
The Constitution, particularly through the Bill of Rights, enumerates specific protections like freedom of speech, religion, and due process, ensuring that governmental power is limited in these areas.
Evolution and Expansion of Rights
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In what ways have constitutional amendments and Supreme Court decisions expanded civil rights in the United States?
Amendments like the 14th, which includes the Equal Protection Clause, and landmark Supreme Court cases have played pivotal roles in extending rights to various groups over time.
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How have judicial interpretations influenced the balance between individual freedoms and societal interests?
Courts have interpreted the Constitution to balance personal liberties with the need for public order and safety, a concept sometimes referred to as "ordered liberty." îciteîturn0search12î
Contemporary Debates and Judicial Interpretations
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What are some current debates surrounding the scope and application of civil rights and liberties?
Contemporary issues include discussions on affirmative action, voting rights, and the extent of free speech protections in various contexts.
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How do recent Supreme Court cases reflect the ongoing evolution of civil rights and liberties?
Recent decisions, such as those concerning gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth, demonstrate how the Court's interpretations continue to shape the landscape of civil rights. îciteîturn0news18î
Civic Engagement and Constructive Dialogue
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Why is it important for citizens to engage in civil discourse when discussing issues related to civil rights and liberties?
Constructive dialogue allows for a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and democratic society.
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How can individuals effectively participate in debates on civil rights while appreciating differing viewpoints?
By actively listening, seeking common ground, and respectfully addressing disagreements, individuals can contribute to meaningful and productive discussions on civil rights issues.
Would you like to delve deeper into any of these questions or explore additional topics?
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Protecting Civil Liberties
Citizenship and Civil Rights
The Judicial Branch
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Crime – An act that violates the law and is punishable by the government.
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Justice – The fair treatment of individuals according to the law.
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Due Process – Legal requirement that the state must respect all legal rights owed to a person.
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Jurisdiction – The official power to make legal decisions and judgments.
Law Enforcement
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Arrest – The act of detaining a person suspected of a crime.
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Warrant – A legal document authorizing an officer to make an arrest, search premises, or carry out some action.
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Interrogation – The process of questioning a suspect or witness.
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Miranda Rights – Rights read to a suspect upon arrest (e.g., the right to remain silent).
Legal Proceedings
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Defendant – The person accused of a crime.
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Plaintiff – The person or party bringing a case against another in court.
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Prosecutor – The legal representative of the state who brings charges against the defendant.
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Defense Attorney – The lawyer representing the accused.
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Indictment – A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
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Bail – Temporary release of an accused person awaiting trial, sometimes paid with money as security.
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Plea Bargain – An agreement where the defendant pleads guilty in exchange for a lesser charge or sentence.
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Trial – The formal process of examining evidence in court.
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Verdict – The decision of the jury or judge in a trial.
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Sentence – The punishment assigned to a defendant found guilty.
Courtroom Vocabulary
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Judge – The official who presides over the courtroom.
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Jury – A group of citizens who determine the verdict in a trial.
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Testimony – A formal written or spoken statement given in court.
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Evidence – Material used to prove or disprove a fact in court.
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Cross-examination – Questioning of a witness by the opposing side.
Corrections and Punishment
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Probation – A court-imposed period of supervision in the community.
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Parole – Early release from prison under specific conditions.
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Incarceration – The act of confining someone in prison.
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Rehabilitation – The process of restoring a criminal to a useful life.
Other Useful Terms
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Recidivism – The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend.
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Felony – A serious crime usually punishable by imprisonment for more than one year.
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Misdemeanor – A less serious crime, often punishable by less than a year in jail or a fine.
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Acquittal – A legal judgment that officially and formally clears a defendant of criminal charges.
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Guided Learning Worksheets
Hard copies and digital copies of texts
You Tube Videos
Resources shared among teachers via Google Drive
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Choice of the following:
Activity Sheets
Homework
Essays
Tests
Projects
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3-4 Weeks
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12.G3 RIGHTS, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND DUTIES OF CITIZENSHIP: Active, engaged, and informed citizens are critical to the success of the United States representative democracy. United States citizens have certain rights, responsibilities, and duties, the fulfillment of which help to maintain the healthy functioning of the national, state, and local communities.
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SS.12G.3.a |
Citizens should be informed about rights and freedoms, and committed to balancing personal liberties with a social responsibility to others. |
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SS.12G.3.b |
The right to vote, a cornerstone of democracy, is the most direct way for citizens to participate in the government. A citizen must register to vote, and may register as a party member or select the status of independent. |
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SS.12G.3.c |
Citizens have opportunities to both participate in and influence their communities and country. Citizens contribute to government processes through legal obligations such as obeying laws, paying taxes, serving on juries, and registering for selective service. |
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SS.12G.3.d |
Citizens have the right to represent their locality, state, or country as elected officials. Candidates develop a campaign when they decide to seek public office. |
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Government by the People
Elections
State & Local Government
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đš Describing Platform Planks
đš Examples of Common Planks
Want a vocabulary list geared toward students, a debate club, or a
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Guided Learning Worksheets
Hard copies and digital copies of texts
You Tube Videos
Resources shared among teachers via Google Drive
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Choice of the following:
Activity Sheets
Homework
Essays
Tests
Projects
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3-4 Weeks
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12.G4 POLITICAL AND CIVIC PARTICIPATION: There are numerous avenues for engagement in the political process, from exercising the power of the vote, to affiliating with political parties, to engaging in other forms of civic participation. Citizens leverage both electoral and non-electoral means to participate in the political process.
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SS.12G.4.a |
Depending on the level of government and type of election, there are different processes and mechanisms within the United States electoral and representational systems, including the electoral college and winnerâtake all systems. Advantages and drawbacks of election processes and mechanisms continue to be an issue of ongoing debate in the United States. |
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SS.12G.4.b |
Allowing citizens to vote does not ensure that a system is a democracy. Open, safe, and honest elections are essential to a democratic system. Engaged and informed citizens should know the mechanics associated with voting, including when major local, state, and national elections are held, how to register to vote, who currently holds each office, who is running for office, and what the central issues are pertaining to that election. |
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SS.12G.4.c |
In addition to voting, there are many ways in which citizens can participate in the electoral process. These include joining a political organization, donating money, and doing volunteer work on a political campaign. |
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SS.12G.4.d |
The United States and New York have political party systems, and the political parties represent specific political, economic, and social philosophies. Debate over the role and influence of political parties continues, although they play a significant role in United States elections and politics. The role of political parties and the platforms they represent varies among states in the United States. |
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SS.12G.4.e |
Citizens participate in civic life through volunteerism and advocacy, including efforts such as contacting elected officials, signing/organizing petitions, protesting, canvassing, and participating in/organizing boycotts. |
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Elections
The Executive Branch
The Executive Branch at Work
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Guided Learning Worksheets
Hard copies and digital copies of texts
You Tube Videos
Resources shared among teachers via Google Drive
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Choice of the following:
Activity Sheets
Homework
Essays
Tests
Projects
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3-4 Weeks
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12.G5 PUBLIC POLICY: All levels of government—local, state, and federal—are involved in shaping public policy and responding to public policy issues, all of which influence our lives beyond what appears in the Constitution. Engaged citizens understand how to find, monitor, evaluate, and respond to information on public policy issues.
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SS.12G.5.a |
Each level of government has its own process of shaping, implementing, amending, and enforcing public policy. Customarily the executive branch will outline its plan and agenda in an executive address to the legislative body. |
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SS.12G.5.b |
On various issues, certain governmental branches and agencies are responsible for determining policy. Those who create public policies attempt to balance regional and national needs, existing political positions and loyalties, and sources of political power. |
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SS.12G.5.c |
Successful implementation of government policy often requires cooperation among many levels of government as well as other public and private institutions. Conflicts between different levels of government sometimes emerge due to different goals, ideas, and resources regarding creation and implementation of policy. |
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SS.12G.5.d |
Active and engaged citizens must be effective media consumers in order to be able to find, monitor, and evaluate information on political issues. The media have different venues which have particular strengths and serve distinct and shared purposes. Knowing how to critically evaluate a media source is fundamental to being an informed citizen. |
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Government and the Economy
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Guided Learning Worksheets
Hard copies and digital copies of texts
You Tube Videos
Resources shared among teachers via Google Drive
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Choice of the following:
Activity Sheets
Homework
Essays
Tests
Projects
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