SS.912.CG.3.5

In this lesson, students are presented with the problems facing the disposal of high-level nuclear waste produced at nuclear power plants along with the government agencies that regulate the nuclear waste. After learning about several disposal options, students research the pros and cons of one of these options and present their findings to the class. The class "votes" on which option they would choose if they were part of a government agency that regulated nuclear waste disposal and discuss current disposal options being debated among various government regulatory agencies.

Type: Lesson Plan

In this lesson students will examine the history of the Federal Communications Commission to include when the FCC was created, the legislation passed to create the agency, its purpose, how it has changed over the years and expanded as technology has advanced, and how it continues to be used today. Students will also create a billboard demonstrating their understanding of the F.C.C. and their role in society since its creation.

Type: Lesson Plan

This is Lesson 2 of a 3-lesson series on Biotechnology and Government. Students develop a deep understanding of the effect of biotechnology on the individual, society, and environment. Several examples of Genetically Modified Organisms are reviewed. Laboratory procedures for how GMOs are made are not included. Students have the misconception that Genetically modified organisms are not evaluated and monitored for safety. Students will learn the cooperative roles that the Food and Drug Administration, the US Department of Agriculture, and the Environmental Protection Agency have in approving a GMO. Lesson 1 – Introduction and scaffolding. **Lesson 2 – Deepening understanding and practice. Lesson 3 – Apply what has been learned.

Type: Lesson Plan

Students have the misconception that Genetically Modified foods are sold without an evaluation of safety, regulation, or monitoring.

Students will learn what Genetically Modified Organisms are. Specific examples of Bt Toxin and Herbicide Resistance genes are highlighted. Laboratory techniques are not discussed.

Students will analyze a graph showing Bt corn, Bt cotton, and Herbicide Tolerant corn, soybean, and cotton use has increased from 15 percent in 1996 to 90 percent in 2022.

Students will learn the need for regulating agencies, and where they fit within government organization. Students will learn that the Food and Drug Administration, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Environmental Protection Agency work together to evaluate GMOs and approve for use.

Type: Lesson Plan

In this interactive lesson, students will understand the concept of carbon footprint and its role in climate change. Students learn how to measure their carbon footprint using an online carbon footprint calculator. This tool allows them to assess the environmental impact of their daily activities. Students will explore some effective strategies and actions aimed at reducing their carbon footprint. They will be able to recognize the responsibilities of citizens and the government to help create a greener future.

Type: Lesson Plan

In this lesson plan, students will explore the interactions between the branches of the government, independent regulatory agencies, the American people, and industry.  

Type: Lesson Plan

In this lesson plan, students will learn about the federal bureaucracy and the ways the three branches of government can guide, check, and expand the bureaucracy.

Type: Lesson Plan

Students will learn about some applications of various biotechnology advancements by reading a series of scenarios. They will evaluate some ethical, legal, and moral implications of biotechnology, including if or how it can be regulated by the government in this integrated lesson plan.

Type: Lesson Plan

Learn about the history, purpose, and impact of the National Labor Relations Board with this interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

This Grades 9-12 Civics Family Guide provides some ideas and activities to support civics education when at home, out and about, and in the community. The activities provided align to the civics learning benchmarks within Standard 3 at these grade levels.

Type: Teaching Idea