The United States Constitution The United States Constitution Targets I can explain how the United States Constitution is structured and what it entails. I can break down and describe the Preamble to the United States Constitution. I can explain different Core Democratic Values and how they are linked to the United States Constitution. I can describe each of the Articles to the United States Constitution and what they uphold. I can depict different amendments to the United States Constitution and understand why these changes were necessary. The structure of the Constitution 1. Preamble- or opening statement – – 2. Articles – – 3. Begins with… “We the People…” The main body is divided into seven sections. Together they establish the framework for America’s government. The Amendments – – Formal changes that have been made to the Constitution There have been 27 changes The Preamble We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. School House Rock http://www.youtube.com /watch?v=30OyU4O80i4 The Preamble of the United States Constitution To form a more perfect union – all states should work together as a unified nation The Preamble of the United States Constitution Establish Justice – – – – – Require search warrants Outlaw segregation Voting rights for all Emancipation Proclamation **Court system (legal system) The Preamble of the United States Constitution Insure Domestic Tranquility (peace at home among citizens) – – – – – – – – prevent child abuse provide police patrols on the streets curfew in Kentwood neighborhood watch fire department FEMA National Guard **Create a Peaceful Society The Preamble of the United States Constitution Provide for the Common Defense – – – – – – – – become a member of NATO Build military jets Enlist troops military equipment border control Department of Defense Homeland Security **Protect us from enemies The Preamble of the United States Constitution Promote the General Welfare (common good) – – – – – – – – Provide Medicare for the elderly and disabled Enforce child labor laws (16-20 hours per week) Social Security Child support laws Minimum wage food stamps free and reduced lunch **Create conditions that benefit all people The Preamble of the United States Constitution Secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity – – – – Ensure the right to religious beliefs Allow peaceful demonstrations Freedom of speech and press EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) – National Park Service – **Freedom for us and future generations