STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
(5 MINUTES)

Tell students that they’re about to watch a video on the U.S. Constitution. Ask: What are the three branches of government the Constitution created? How has the document been changed over the years?

WATCH AS A CLASS
(3 MINUTES)

Have students watch the video as a class. Before viewing, advise them to pay special attention to information about the Constitution’s 27 amendments and some of the issues they covered.

CLOSE-VIEWING QUESTIONS
(15 MINUTES)

Have students write their answers to each question, or use these prompts to guide a discussion.

• SUMMARIZING: What were the three branches of government created by the Constitution? How does the Constitution make sure no branch is too powerful?
(The branches are the executive, legislative, and judicial. The Constitution allows each branch to check, or limit, the powers of the others.)

• EXPLICIT INFORMATION: What did the Framers make sure could be done to the Constitution if necessary?
(If necessary, the Constitution could be amended or changed.)

FEATURED SKILLS: CRITICAL THINKING/MEDIA LITERACY

Reinforce students’ critical-thinking skills by assigning the skills sheet Critical Thinking/Media Literacy: The U.S. Constitution. Give them time to read through the questions, then watch the video again, perhaps pausing at key moments so they can take notes for writing their answer the questions.

READING A DIAGRAM

Reinforce students’ knowledge about how the Constitution balances power between the branches of government by assigning the skills sheet Checks and Balances.