| Where Do Our Taxes Go? | In this lesson plan, students will learn that each level of government can tax. Students will then analyze the functions of government and explain how those taxes can support the continuation of those functions. Teachers will help guide students in researching how taxes work at each level of government - federal, state and local. While the research for all students will remain the same for federal and state, it is the local (county) government taxes where they may need some additional support in conducting research. |
| Federalism Interactive Chart | Students will define and identify examples of enumerated, concurrent, and reserved powers set forth by the U.S. Constitution. Each student will be provided a blank chart and a set of cards they will use to complete their charts. Each card contains either a definition or example of an enumerated, concurrent, or reserved power of government. In pairs or small groups, students will go through each card and discuss if they believe the power is held by the national government, state governments, or shared between the two. This lesson requires one chart per student, a set of cards to complete the chart, and approximately 30 minutes of class time. A PowerPoint lesson is included along with a completed chart for reference. |
| Whose Power Is It, Anyway? | Students will review the 10th Amendent and Article IV of the U.S. Constitution in order to determine how and why federalism is an important feature of the U.S. government. The teacher will present an interactive PowerPoint that includes a graphic organizer, discussion opportunities, and a formative assessment. After students complete the PowerPoint, they will have the opportunity to test their skills visually through a game of Pictionary. |
