January 6
-Objective: Each student will test their understanding and knowledge based on
the U.S. Citizenship test.
-Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Za4ZZN0SekE
-U.S. Citizenship Test
1) Take
2) Review as class
-Current Events - Federalism played out in Nebraska (see Omaha World
Herald)
*write a short summary of how the article relates to federalism
-Homework: 1) Find an article online that discusses federalism in Nebraska
(majijuana)
January
7
-Objective: Each student will analyze the purpose and function of the U.S.
federal system of government, identifying the roles and responsibilities of
national, state, and local governments.
-Discuss article summaries from yesterday.
*Talk about how federalism is playing out in Nebraska
-Conservative, Liberal, Moderate
1) Review the meaning of each
2) Determining Bias of Major Issues - Conservative, Moderate, Liberal
a. Abortion
b. Gun Rights
c. War
d. Gov’t Shutdown (Finances)
e. Energy
f. Taxes
g. Job Creation
h. Marriage
i. Marijuana
j. College Loans
3) Choose an issue above and find two articles using CNN and Fox
a. 1 article from each source
b. Highlight or underline words or phrases that you think might make this
biased.
-Homework: 1) 2 articles with highlights and/or underlines.
January
7
-Objective: Each student will analyze the purpose and function of the U.S.
federal system of government, identifying the roles and responsibilities of
national, state, and local governments.
-Discuss article summaries from yesterday.
-Read Article: “My American Dream”
1) Read the article.
2) Underline at least 5 words you do not know
3) Define all 5 words on the margins.
4) Write 3 questions you have from reading in margins.
5) Summarize the article in 3 sentences or less (at the end.)
6) Justify how the article is biased (conservative, liberal, moderate) by using at least 2
pieces of evidence from the article. (at the end)
7) Find more information about the author by Google search
*Write your short summary by the author’s name.
-Homework: 1) Finish all parts of article summary
January 8
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Pass out a blank calendar to all students
*Mark ALL dates of possible work time.
*Work math to determine time available.
2) Timeline
a. Work on sample timeline (choose a student or group)
b. Entire class will help determine what to put on timeline
c. Work on individual timelines. - Begin work next Thursday.
-Homework: 1) Timeline complete by next week.
January
9
-Objective: Each student will analyze the purpose and function of the U.S.
federal system of government, identifying the roles and responsibilities of
national, state, and local governments.
-Understanding Media Bias
*Conservative, Liberal, Moderate
1) Review the meaning of each
2) Determining Bias of Major Issues - Conservative, Moderate, Liberal
a. Abortion
b. Gun Rights
c. War
d. Gov’t Shutdown (Finances)
e. Energy
f. Taxes
g. Job Creation
h. Marriage
i. Marijuana
j. College Loans
-Current Events Project - Discuss dates
-Notebook #10 - Make sure everyone has it shared on Google Drive
*Go over expectations - step by step through notebook
-Homework: 1) NONE - will work on notebook on Monday.
January 12
Objective: Each student will compare the roles of state and national
government by better understanding federalism.
-Video - “What is Federalism?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ie6mvIDU2y4
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 4:1 - Federalism
1) Lecture & Notes – Ch. 4:1
*Work on study guide 4:1 during lecture
-Notebook #10 - Work on together
-Homework: 1) Notebook #10 – WEDNESDAY
2) Study Guide 4:1 - WEDNESDAY
January 13
Objective: -Each student will argue in favor of state power OR favor of
national power in understanding federalism.
-Federalism Activity - See Materials for Chapter 4 (overhead)
1) Group Students
2) The Federal System - 3 Handouts and Federal System Chart
3) Answer questions on each handout.
-Notebook #10 & Study Guide 4:1
-Homework: 1) Notebook #10 – WEDNESDAY
2) Study Guide 4:1 - WEDNESDAY
3) Quiz 4:1 - WEDNESDAY
January
14
Objective: -Each student will apply their knowledge of federalism on a quiz.
-Questions on 4:1 Study guide
-Quiz - 4:1 (on Angel)
*Collect Notebook #10
*Collect Study Guide 4:1
-Discussion Board #1 - Federalism Article
-Assign:
1) Notebook #11
2) Study Guide 4:2
-Homework: 1) Complete Discussion Board Post.
January 15
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Pass out a blank calendar to all students
*Mark ALL dates of possible work time.
*Work math to determine time available.
2) Timeline
a. Work on sample timeline (choose a student or group)
b. Entire class will help determine what to put on timeline
c. Work on individual timelines. - Begin work next Thursday.
-Homework: 1) Timeline complete by next week.
January 16 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Current Events Presentations
-Work on Notebook #11 & Study Guide
*Some students should begin work on Current Events.
-Homework: 1) NONE
January 19
Objective: Each student will compare the roles of state and national
government by better understanding federalism.
-Video - “Northwest Ordinance”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgS2Ar4QBxE (just a portion)
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 4:2 - Federalism
1) Lecture & Notes – Ch. 4:2
*Work on study guide 4:2 during lecture
-Notebook #11 - Work on together
-Homework: 1) Notebook #11 – TUESDAY
2) Study Guide 4:2 - TUESDAY
January
20
Objective: -Each student will apply their knowledge of federalism on a quiz.
-Questions on 4:2 Study guide
-Quiz - 4:2 (on Angel)
*Collect Notebook #11
*Collect Study Guide 4:2
-Discussion Board #1 - “American Sniper” Article and views on war (Google
Document)
-Assign:
1) Notebook #11
2) Study Guide 4:2
-Homework: 1) Complete Discussion Board Post.
January 21
Objective: -Each student will justify their point of view on federalism
through a discussion board forum
-Discussion Board #1 - “American Sniper” & War - Google Document
*Discussion
-Assign:
1) Notebook #12
2) Study Guide 4:3
-Homework: 1) Notebook #12 - Tuesday
2) Chapter 4 TEST - Tuesday
January 22
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
January 23 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Current Events Presentations
-Work on Notebook #12 & Study Guide
*Some students should begin work on Current Events.
-Homework: 1) Chapter 4 Test - Tuesday
January 26
Objective: Each student will compare the roles of state and national
government by better understanding federalism.
-Video - Full Faith and Credit Clause and Privileges & Immunities (up to 5:00)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHKk7cGw5Wc&list=PLn58ZahPKE64BMnJC2H63ZBmbE0xR9Nl
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 4:3 - Interstate Relations and Federalism
1) Lecture & Notes – Ch. 4:3
*Work on study guide 4:3 during lecture
-Notebook #12
-Homework: 1) Notebook #12 – TUESDAY
2) Study Guide Ch. 4 - TUESDAY
3) Ch. 4 Test - TUESDAY
January
27
Objective: -Each student will apply their knowledge of federalism on a test.
-Questions on 4:3 Study guide
-Test - Ch. 4 (on Angel)
*Collect Notebook #12
*Collect Study Guide
-Discussion Board #2 - Understanding the different generations after WWII
-Assign:
1) Notebook #13
2) Study Guide 5:1 & 5:2
-Homework: 1) Complete Discussion Board Post.
January 28
Objective: -Each student will justify their point of view on federalism
through a discussion board forum
-Discussion Board #2 - “Understanding the different generations following
WWII”
*Discussion
-Assign:
1) Notebook #13
2) Study Guide 5:1 & 5:2
-Homework: 1) Notebook #13 - Tuesday
2) 5:1 & 5:2 Quiz - Tuesday
January 29
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
January 30 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Current Events Presentations
-Work on Notebook #13 & Study Guide
*Some students should begin work on Current Events.
-Homework: 1) Chapter 5:1 & 5:2 Quiz - Tuesday
February 2
Objective: Each student will review the Constitution as it pertains to
interstate relations among the states and the federal government.
-No School - Snow Day
February 3
Objective: Each student will review the Constitution as it pertains to
interstate relations among the states and the federal government.
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 5:1-5:2 – Civic Participation
1) Lecture & Notes – Ch. 5:1-5:2
*Discuss – Chapter 5:1-2 Quiz TUESDAY
-Notebook #13
-Homework: 1) Notebook #13 – TUESDAY
2) Quiz – Tuesday – Ch. 5:1-5:2
February 4
Objective: Each student will review the Constitution as it pertains to
interstate relations among the states and the federal government.
-No School - Snow Day
February
5
Objective: -Each student will apply their knowledge of federalism on a test.
-Questions on 5:1-5:2 Study guide
-Quiz - Ch. 5:1 & 5:2 (on Angel)
*Collect Notebook #13
*Collect Study Guide
-Read and Discuss Forum #3 - Beheading by ISIL
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2015/01/31/japan-jordanislamic-state-hostage/22643137/
-Assign and Begin Chapter 9 lecture:
1) Notebook #15
2) Study Guide 9:1 & 9:2 & 9:3
-Homework: 1) Complete Discussion Board Post.
February 6
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-Finish Chapter 9 Lecture
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
3) Work on Notebook & Study Guide
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
February 10 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Current Events Presentations
-Work on Notebook #15 & Study Guide
*Some students should begin work on Current Events.
-Homework: 1) Chapter 9:1-9:3 Quiz - Tuesday
February
11
Objective: -Each student will apply their knowledge of federalism on a test.
-Questions on 9:1-9:3 Study guide
-Quiz - Ch. 9:1-9:3 (on Angel)
*Collect Notebook #15
*Collect Study Guide
-Discussion Forum #4 - ????????????????
-Chapter 5 & 9 Test - TUESDAY
-Homework: 1) Complete Discussion Board Post.
2) Chapter 5 & 9 Test - TUESDAY
February 12
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
3) Work on Notebook & Study Guide
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
February 16
Objective: Each student will analyze the role of the mass media on public
opinion
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 8:1-8:3 – Mass Media & Public Opinion
1) Lecture & Notes – Ch. 8:1-8:3
*Discuss – Chapter 8:1-8:3 Quiz TUESDAY
-Homework: 1) No Notebook this week
2) Quiz – Tuesday – Ch. 8:1-8:3
February 17
Objective: -Each student will analyze the role of mass media on public opinion
-Understanding Persuasive Techniques
1) Chapter 8 Notes – Persuasive Techniques
2) Recognizing Persuasive Techniques
*Placards 9A-9F
3) Quiz – Angel – Common Persuasive Techniques
-Quiz - 8:1-8:3 (on Angel)
*Collect Study Guide
-Research & Discussion Forum #4 - ISIS, the media, and the U.S. responsibility
-Homework: 1) Complete Discussion Board Post.
February 18
Objective: -Each student will justify their point of view of the situations
regarding ISIS.
-Discussion Board #4 - ISIS, the media, and the U.S. responsibility
-Assign:
1) Notebook #16
2) Study Guide - All of Chapter 7
-Homework: 1) Notebook #16 - Tuesday
2) Ch. 7 Quiz - Tuesday
February 19
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
3) Work on Notebook & Study Guide
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Ch. 7 Quiz - Tuesday
3) Notebook #16 - Tuesday
February 20 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Current Events Presentations
-Work on Notebook #16 & Study Guide
*Some students should begin work on Current Events.
-Homework: 1) Chapter 7 Quiz - Tuesday
February 23
Objective: Each student will recognize the steps in the electoral process.
-Discussion Board #4 - ISIS, the media, and US responsibility
*Discuss
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 7 – The Electoral Process
1) Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfrXIGclkLA
2) Lecture & Notes – Ch. 7
*Discuss – Chapter 7 Quiz TUESDAY
3) Video - Super PAC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmQ37zm7-uU
-Notebook #16 & Study Guide Ch. 7
-Homework: 1) Notebook #16 – TUESDAY
2) Study Guide Ch. 7
3) Quiz – Tuesday – Ch. 7
February 24
Objective: -Each student will recognize the steps involved in the electoral
process.
-Quiz - Ch. 7 (on Angel)
*Collect Study Guide
-Research & Discussion Forum #5 - Where is Nebraska at on gay marriage?
-Homework: 1) Complete Discussion Board Post #5
February 25
Objective: -Each student will compare Nebraska’s stance on gay marriage
with other states in the United States.
-Discussion Board #5 - Where is Nebraska at on gay marriage?
-Assign:
1) Notebook #17
2) Study Guide - Ch. 10:1 & 10:2
-Homework: 1) Notebook #17 - Tuesday
2) Ch. 10:1 & 10:2 Quiz - Tuesday
February 26
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
3) Work on Notebook & Study Guide
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Ch. 10:1 & 10:2 Quiz - Tuesday
3) Notebook #17 - Tuesday
February 27 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Current Events Presentations
-Work on Notebook #17 & Study Guide
*Some students should begin work on Current Events.
-Homework: 1) Chapter 10:1 & 10:2 Quiz - Tuesday
March 2
Objective: Each student will compare Congress between national and state as well
as between the House of Representatives and the Senate.
-Videos -Lecture & Notes – Ch. 10 – Congress
1) Video 1) Lecture & Notes – Ch. 10:1-10:2
*Discuss – Chapter 10:1 & 10:2 Quiz TUESDAY
-Notebook #17
-Homework: 1) Notebook #17 – TUESDAY
2) Quiz – Tuesday – Ch. 10:1 & 10:2
March 3
Objective: Each student will compare Congress between national and state as
well as between the House of Representatives and the Senate.
-Quiz - Ch. 10:1 & 10:2 (on Angel)
*Collect Study Guide
-Research & Discussion Forum #5 - Where is Nebraska at on gay marriage?
-Homework: 1) Complete Discussion Board Post #5
March 4
Objective: -Each student will compare Nebraska’s stance on gay marriage
with other states in the United States.
-Discussion Board #5 - Where is Nebraska at on gay marriage?
*Discuss
-Assign:
1) Notebook #18
2) Study Guide - Ch. 10:3 & 10:4
-Homework: 1) Notebook #18 - Tuesday
2) Ch. 10:3 & 10:4 Quiz - Tuesday
March 5
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
3) Work on Notebook & Study Guide
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Ch. 10:3 & 10:4 Quiz - Tuesday
3) Notebook #18 - Tuesday
March 6 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Current Events Presentations
-Work on Notebook #18 & Study Guide
*Some students should begin work on Current Events.
-Homework: 1) Chapter 10:3 & 10:4 Quiz - Tuesday
March 9
Objective: Each student will compare Congress between national and state as well
as between the House of Representatives and the Senate.
-Videos “The Bicameral Congress https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9defOwVWS8
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 10 – Congress
1) Lecture & Notes – Ch. 10:3-10:4 (Senate)
*Discuss – Chapter 10:3 & 10:4 Quiz TUESDAY
-Notebook #18
-Homework: 1) Notebook #18 – TUESDAY
2) Quiz – Tuesday – Ch. 10:3 & 10:4
3) Ch. 10 Test - Wednesday
March 10
Objective: Each student will compare Congress between national and state as
well as between the House of Representatives and the Senate.
-Quiz - Ch. 10:3 & 10:4 (on Angel)
*Collect & GRADE Study Guide
-Review for Ch. 10 Test - TOMORROW
*Pass back study guide for Ch. 10 Test
-Turn study guides in tomorrow to take test
-Homework: 1) Ch. 10 Test - TOMORROW
March 11
Objective: -Each student will compare Nebraska’s stance on gay marriage
with other states in the United States.
-Chapter 10 Test
-Assign:
1) Notebook #19
2) Study Guide - Ch. 11
-Homework: 1) Notebook #19 - Tuesday
2) Ch. 11 Quiz - Tuesday
March 12
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
3) Work on Notebook & Study Guide
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Ch. 11 Quiz - Tuesday
3) Notebook #19 - Tuesday
March 16
Objective: Each student will analyze the varying powers of Congress.
-March Madness Theme Song - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhC5-uIJJWQ
*Pass out Brackets
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 11 – Powers of Congress
1) Lecture & Notes – Ch. 11
*Discuss – Chapter 11 Quiz TUESDAY
-Notebook #19
-Homework: 1) Notebook #19 – TUESDAY
2) Quiz – Tuesday – Ch. 11
March 17
Objective: Each student will analyze the varying powers of Congress.
-Quiz - Ch. 11 (on Angel)
*Collect & GRADE Study Guide
--Presidential March Madness
*Prepare and Assign Presidents for the Bracket
-Presidential Game Planning - See Next Slides
-Homework: 1) Presidential March Madness
Presidential March Madness
-Objective: Each student will create a presentation about their
assigned President to more completely recognize the major
Presidents and their contribution to American history and
government.
-Discuss rubric for Presidential March Madness
*On Google Documents
-Students will COMPLETE presentations before they leave
1) Share with me on Google Docs
2) IF FINISHED EARLY – work on timeline for 20% Time
-Homework: 1) Begin “Presidential March Madness”
TOMORROW
Presidential March Madness
-Objective: Each student will analyze and compare major Presidents
and decide which one was more influential in American history and
government
-Discuss how students will analyze Presidents and complete bracket
1) Students must:
a. Include at least 2 specific details on bottom of
bracket as to why they chose one President as
being more influential over another
b. Prepare for quiz over the ORDER of Presidents
2) Use Clickers to determine winner of the bracket
*”A” is for the TOP person of the bracket
*”B” is for the BOTTOM person of the bracket
-Homework: 1) 20% Time - TOMORROW
March 18
Objective: Each student will create a presentation about their
assigned President to more completely recognize the major
Presidents and their contribution to American history and
government.
-Presidential March Madness - See Previous Slides
*Begin work - presentations begin Monday
-Homework: 1) Presidential March Madness Presentations - Monday
March 19
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
3) Presidential March Madness Presentations
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Presidential March Madness Presentations Monday
March 20 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Current Events Presentations
-Work on Presidential March Madness Presentations
-Homework: 1) Presidential March Madness Presentations
March 23
-Objective: Each student will analyze and compare major Presidents and
decide which one was more influential in American history and government
-Discuss how students will analyze Presidents and complete bracket
1) Students must:
a. Create a Google Document AND SHARE w/ Mr. Lahm
b. Include at least 2 specific details on bottom of bracket as to
why they
chose one President as being more influential over another
c. Prepare for quiz over the ORDER of Presidents
2) Use Google Form to determine winner of the bracket
*”A” is for the TOP person of the bracket
*”B” is for the BOTTOM person of the bracket
March 24
-Objective: Each student will analyze and compare major
Presidents and decide which one was more influential in
American history and government
-Discuss how students will analyze Presidents and
complete bracket
1) Students must:
a. Include at least 2 specific details on bottom
of
bracket as to why they chose one President
as
being more influential over another
b. Prepare for quiz over the ORDER of
Presidents
March
25
-Objective: Each student will analyze and compare major Presidents and decide which
one was more influential in American history and government
-Discuss how students will analyze Presidents and complete bracket
1) Students must:
a. Include at least 2 specific details on bottom of
bracket as to why they chose one President as
being more influential over another
b. Prepare for quiz over the ORDER of Presidents
-Assign:
1) Notebook #20
2) Study Guide - Ch. 12:1 & 12:2
-Homework: 1) Notebook #20 - Tuesday
2) Ch. 12:1 & 12:2 Quiz - Tuesday
March 26
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
3) Notebook #20 & Study Guide 12:1 & 12:2
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
March 27 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Current Events Presentations
-Work on Presidential March Madness Presentations
-Homework: 1) Notebook #20
2) Study Guide 12:1 & 12:2
3) President’s Quiz - Tuesday (STILL
NEED TO CREATE)
March 30
-Objective: Each student will analyze and assess the powers of
Congress via lecture, notes, and their study guide.
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 12 – Congress in Action
*Have study guide out
*Review & Discuss
-Presidential March Madness
-Homework: 1) Ch. 12:1 & 12:2 Quiz – TOMORROW
2) President’s Quiz - TOMORROW
3) Notebook #20 - TOMORROW
April 1
Objective: Each student will compare the similarities and differences of
the powers of Congress on an assessment on Angel.
-Quiz – Chapter 12:1 & 12:2 – on Angel
*-Collect Ch. 12:1 & 12:2 Study Guides
-Finish Presidential March Madness
-Pass out: (DUE NEXT TUESDAY, APRIL 8)
1) Study Guide – Chapter 12:3 & 12:4
2) Notebook #21 – Congress in Action
-Homework: 1) President’s Quiz - TOMORROW
April 2
-Objective: Each student will analyze and assess the powers of
Congress via lecture, notes, and their study guide.
-Lecture & Notes – Ch. 12:3 & 12:4 – Congress in Action
*Have study guide out
*Review & Discuss
-Work on Ch. 12:3 & 12:4 Study Guides & Notebook #21
-Homework: 1) Ch. 12:3 & 12:4 Quiz – TUESDAY
2) Notebook #21 - TUESDAY
April 3
Objective: Each student will originate ideas on producing a project or achieving
a goal through “Community Studio (20% Time)”
-20% Time
1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) Work on Project
3) Notebook #21 & Study Guide 12:3 & 12:4
-Homework: 1) Weekly To-Do Sheet
2) QUIZ - TUESDAY
April 4
-Objective: To take a look at the past and present Presidents of
the United States.
-President’s Quiz – Place the 42 President’s of the U.S.A. in
order.
-Work on Discussion Board #28 – Ideal President – on Angel
*Compare your 2 favorite presidents
-Notebook #28 – Legislative Branch
*Work on it.
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #28 – President 2012
2) Notebook #28 – Legislative
Branch
April 5
-Objective: To take a look at the past and present Presidents of
the United States.
-President’s Quiz – Place the 42 President’s of the U.S.A. in
order.
-Work on Discussion Board #28 – Ideal President – on Angel
*Compare your 2 favorite presidents
-Notebook #28 – Legislative Branch
*Work on it.
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #28 – President 2012
2) Notebook #28 – Legislative
Branch
April 8
-Objective: Each student will become staff members for a newly
elected member of Congress and participate in an orientation for
new congressional staff to learn important aspects of being an
effective legislator.
-New Staff Orientation – Preparing a member of Congress – next
slide
1) Give a quick and brief lecture on key info – Next 3 slides
2) CD Track 11 – Explaining the process
3) Handout 11 – New Congressional Staff Orientation –
tape in
notebook
4) Each group should follow steps to complete notebook.
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #29
April 10
-Objective: Each student will become staff members for a newly
elected member of Congress and participate in an orientation for
new congressional staff to learn important aspects of being an
effective legislator.
-New Staff Orientation – Preparing a member of Congress – next
slide
1) Give a quick and brief lecture on key info – Next 3 slides
2) CD Track 11 – Explaining the process
3) Handout 11 – New Congressional Staff Orientation –
tape in
notebook
4) Each group should follow steps to complete notebook.
*Groups of 2 and 3
-Homework: 1) NONE
You and your partner are the staff members for a newly elected
member of Congress. You will now analyze information from eight
orientation packets to learn about different aspects of being an
effective legislator. When you receive a packet, place the placard
and the handout with the placard questions FACE UP on the
desk. Place the handout with the excerpt from Freshman
Orientation by Edward Sidlow FACE DOWN. Then follow these
steps:
Step 1 – Carefully analyze the information on the placard(s).
Step 2 – Discuss each of the placard questions
Step 3 – Turn the other handout face up, and carefully read the
excerpt from FRESHMAN ORIENTATION.
Step 4 – Discuss each of the reading questions.
Step 5 – Find the corresponding section of the Notes Handout.
Record AT LEAST 3 things you learned that will help your new
member of Congress be an effective legislator.
Step 6 – Organize the packet materials and exchange them for a
NOTES
1. U.S. Capital Building
A. House on left and Senate on Right with key offices
B. Offices include Office of Speaker of House, minority
whip
*In central portion = office of minority leaders of both
houses
*On right = office of Senate majority leader, Vice
Pres.
C. U.S. Capital & 8 buildings surrounding it.
D. House offices closer to House side & vice versa
2. Congressional Staff
A. Each member of Congress has several offices
ex. – Jeff Fortenberry in Fremont, Norfolk, Lincoln
B. Many people working for congressman
3. Committees
A. Each member of Congress serves on at least one
committee.
Committes in Congress
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/committees/
Bills in Congress in 110th Congress
During the 110th Congress, 11,059 bills were introduced. 7,335 were house
bills and 3,724 were Senate bills. Out of the 11,000+ bills, only 442 (4%)
became law. Most of these bills died as soon as they were referred to the
committees in the chamber the bill was introduced in.
NOTES
4. Caucuses
a. bipartisan & center on specific public policy areas
b. These allow House members to join to keep tabs on
particular issues they care about.
C. Different from nominating caucuses in a way
5. Legislation
a. Thousands of bills are introduced every year
b. Few actually pass
ex. – 2005 – 6,924 bills introduced & only 169
signed to law
6. Constituent Casework
a. Like Lydia Brasch, it is essential for Congress people to
research what their constituents want.
Ex. – Lydia Brasch is only going to answer emails
from her
district now because too many emails.
NOTES
7. Protecting your Constituents and District
a. It is important that legislator and district have similar
views
ex. – Ben Nelson signing off on “Obamacare” – now
not a
chance of reelection.
8. Reelection
a. Incumbents are those already in office
b. it is a huge advantage to already be in office – difficult to
defeat.
Ex. – Pres. Obama
April 11
-Objective: Each student will become staff members for a newly
elected member of Congress and participate in an orientation for
new congressional staff to learn important aspects of being an
effective legislator.
-New Staff Orientation – Preparing a member of Congress – next
slide
1) Each group should follow steps to complete notebook.
*Pass out Notebook #29
-Homework: 1) Notebook #29 - TUESDAY
April 12 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events
taking place at the national level of the United States
government
-Pass back papers
-Student Presenters – self evaluations
-Work on Notebook #29 or Discussion Board #29
-Homework: 1) Notebook #29
2) Discussion Board #29
April 15
-Objective: Each student will take on a role of a member the U.S.
House of Representatives as they are sworn into Congress.
-Choosing Sides – Please wait to be seated.-Go over spoke
diagram in notebook
*7 Republicans
*5 Democrats (extras =
democrat)
-Video: The House of Representatives
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6LWHFVzjKY
-Choosing Scenarios & Leadership
1) Each student should select a role card that they will fulfill
2) Have each party select 3 leaders
3) Distribute “Party Caucus” notes to groups
4) Recreate the “Swear in” Ceremony
April 16
-Objective: Each student will take on a role of a
member the U.S. House of Representatives as
they are sworn into Congress.
-Collect Notebook
-Prepare for Visit to Lincoln
1) Review Medicaid bill
2) Go over questions and bills of Lydia
Brasch
-Homework: 1) WE LEAVE AT 7:15 TOMORROW
April 17
-Objective: Each student will take on a role
of a member the U.S. House of
Representatives as they are sworn into
Congress.
-Seniors in Lincoln
-Homework: 1) Notebook #29 - TUESDAY
April 18
-Objective: Each student will create a mock House of
Representatives to experience steps in the legislative process.
-Videos
1) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKvY0Q3tI6I&feature=relmfu
2) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxT7QjlvDqM
-Working in Committee Activity
1)Discuss & Debate bills – background checks for guns
2) Notes – Your task in the next 2 days – next slides
3) Set up House committee meeting areas
4) Follow steps on Information Master 12B
5) Begin writing amendments to bills
-Discussion Board #32 – visit to state capitol
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #32
Key
Info for
Project
Steps for a getting a bill
through
Congress
1. Bills are worked on in committee.
*There are 20 House Standing Committees
*There are 16 Senate Standing Committees
*There are 4 Joint Committees
2. Leadership in the House
Speaker of the House
-Majority Leader
-
Minority Leader
*Duty is to manage legislation on the
House floor
-Majority Whip
-
Minority Whip
and persuade
*Duty – to keep leadership informed
party members to vote
Key
Info for
Project
Steps for a getting a bill
through
Congress
3. Committee Meeting Setup
a. Senior member of majority party in middle
b. Senior member of minority party to right
c. Other committee members sit according to
seniority
4. Model of a bill
a. Each line of a bill is numbered – allows for Line
Item
Vetoes & easy removal or changing of
particular parts of a
bill without having to rewrite the entire
bill.
b. Thus, certain parts of a bill may be amended.
1. You will be discussing and amending a bill
in a bit.
2.You will also break up according to party to
make
amendments
3. Proposed amendments ---- committee
chair
Key Info for Project
Steps for a getting a bill through Congress (continued)
4. Model of a bill (continued)
c. Committee chair reads amendment proposal
outloud.
d. Main author has chance to explain
e. vote is taken in committee to approve or reject
proposal
f. Continue this process for all amendments
April 19
-Objective: Each student will understand the steps
involved in creating law
-Pass out Notebook #30 – Congressional Lawmaking
*Discuss
-Discussion Board #32
-Homework: 1) Notebook #30 – by TUESDAY
April 22 – Current Events Day
-Objective: Each student will understand the events
taking place at the national level of the United States
government
-Presentations & Questioning
-Student Presenters – self evaluations
-Work on Notebook #30
*Discuss
-Homework: 1) Notebook #30
April 23
-Objective: Each student will create a mock House of
Representatives to experience steps in the legislative process.
-Discuss & Collect Notebooks
-Get back into Committee circles
*Review Tuesday’s work
-Working in Committee Activity
1) Begin writing amendments to bills–Follow Info Master 12B
2) Mark up the bill – step 5
3) Report the proposed bill & vote on House floor – step 6
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #31
April 24
-Objective: Each student will create a mock House of
Representatives to experience steps in the legislative process.
-Study Habits Survey
-Making Congressional Law – Phase 3 – Information Master 12C
*Make copies of final amendments for ALL House members to
be able to read.
1) Sit in appropriate seats
2) Prepare for the floor debate
3) Hold the floor debate
4) Prepare for final House vote on the first bill
5) Hold the final House vote
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #32
2) Notebook #30 - TUESDAY
April 25
-Objective: Each student will experience a Senate filibuster
through the video Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.
-Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #31
April 26
-Objective: Each student will experience a Senate filibuster
through the video Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.
-Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #31
April 29
-Objective: Each student will create a mock House of
Representatives to experience steps in the legislative process.
-Current Event Presentations – Final Ones
-Watch end of “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington”
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #32 – TOMORROW
2) Notebook #32 – TOMORROW
April 30
-Objective: Each student will create a mock House of
Representatives to experience steps in the legislative
process.
-Notebook #32 & Discussion Board #32 - HANDOUT
*Discuss & Complete
-Homework: 1) Discussion Board #32 – THURSDAY
2) Notebook #32 – THURSDAY
May 1
-Objective: Each student will take part in the
presentation “Credit Card Blues”
-Credit Card Blues and College
-Homework: Notebook & Discussion Board
May 2
-Objective: Each student will understand the events taking
place at the national level of the United States government
-Go over Notebook & Discussion Board
-Finish “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington”
-U.S. Citizenship Test
*Grade in Class
-Collect Books
-Homework: NONE
May 3
-Objective: Each student will eat a cookie designed as a notebook
to symbolize their undying love and gratitude for their notebook
assignments.
-No more Notebooks and Current Events – Solemn Celebration
-Video Clip – “Hardball”
-Poem “Finish the Race”
-Homework: To live a live that “changes the world”
for the better!