Sept 25 – Gov – Constitution

Agenda: Quick-Write Notes: Constitution Intro Viewing Notes: Conflict,

Compromise and Participation

Franklin’s Closing Statements

Guiding Principles of Gov Searching for the Principles

HW: Read 42-50 and continue

SG

Take Out: Notebook Pen/Pencil

Goals: Understand the need for

the Constitutional Convention

Understand the compromises reached

Investigate the six principles of government and how they fit into the Constitution

Quick-Write

Why did the founding fathers come together and write the Constitution?

The Constitution… …was written in 1787. …was the second attempt at organizing the newly

independent states into a single nation. …was written by 55 men representing 12 different states

(Rhode Island did not participate in the convention). …represents that each delegate and state arrived at the

convention with different priorities and ideas for how the government should be structured.

…was a document of compromise, allowing for multiple perspectives and points of view to be shown.

This section of the film will introduce these differing points of view and show the compromise that was needed to create the Constitution.

Viewing Guide

As we watch the film, take notes on the CONFLICTS that were addressed, the COMPROMISES that were reached, and the PARTICIPANTS that were involved

Work with your neighbors to create a comprehensive list

Franklin’s Closing Remarks

Read and annotate Ben Franklin’s closing statement to the convention

How would the public have known about Franklin’s views?

How does Franklin address conflict?

Do you agree or disagree with Franklin’s statements?

How do you think that other delegates responded to his ideas?

Guiding Principles of Govt

Popular Sovereignty Because the government is created

by and for the people, power resides not with the government or its leaders, but with the people.

In a representative democracy, the people vote to elect leaders to represent their interests.

Guiding Principles of GovtRule of Law The people and their government must abide by a set of laws,

rather than by arbitrary rules set down by an individual or group.

The Founders believed in Limited Government Dilemma of wanting a more effective government but also a

limited government that did not become tyrannical. Constitutional government – govt only has those powers listed in

the Constitution There was little fear of state govts, but great fear of national

government

The constitution sets limits to governmental power and establishes how leaders who overstep their power can be removed.

Guiding PrinciplesSeparation of Powers and Checks and BalancesI. Separation of powers. To Madison, tyranny was govt. that controlled all 3 branches of govt. So

Powers and responsibilities are divided among three government branches to prevent any one person or group from having too much power • This system diffuses power instead of concentrating power.• Colonial experiences, e.g., excessive power in st. legislatures need for strong exec.

Danger of one branch combining forces with another branch ---> checks and balances.

II. Checks and balances.---> means of intentionally building inefficiency in order to prevent govt. abuse of power. System of restraints allows each branch to monitor and check the power of

the others to prevent any abuse of government power Political independence within each branch: no branch is dependent upon the other

two for election (exception: judges are appt'd by President) and continuance in office (life terms for judges ameliorate presidential influence).

Staggering of terms within each branch -> a majority of voters can gain control over one part of govt. at one time, e.g., midterm cong. elections can serve as a check on the exec.

Guiding PrinciplesFederalism Power is divided between the central government

and the individual state and local governments.

Independent Judiciary The judicial branch is established as an

independent entity, free of pressures and influences from the other two branches.

The Supreme court is the highest authority in the federal court system.

Individual Rights Individual rights and liberties are protected

against government encroachment. Bill of Rights as a safeguard against possible tyranny

from a new, strong, distant government.

Principles of the Constitution Get a computer (for you and your partner) Navigate to http://

www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_transcript.html

Searcht he contitution for the article, section and clause on your card

Identify which principle(s) it relates to, and explain HOW they are exemplified in the Constitution

When you finish one card, switch with another group

Be thorough!