Topic: Duties of Citizens to Preserve Democracy

 

Lesson Plan

Grade Level: 6-8

Subject: Social Studies

Topic: Duties of Citizens to Preserve Democracy

Learning Objectives:

• Students will be able to define the term "democracy."
• Students will be able to identify the duties of citizens in a democracy.
• Students will be able to explain why these duties are important for preserving democracy.

Materials:

• Image of the text "Define the duties of citizens that are necessary to preserve US democracy (e.g., become informed and active in a democracy-through jury duty, paying taxes, public forums (local, state, and/or federal), voting and conscription.)"
• Whiteboard or chart paper
• Markers or pens

Procedure:

1. Begin by asking students what they know about democracy. What does it mean to live in a democracy? What are some of the key features of a democracy?
2. Introduce the image of the text. Read the text aloud to students and ask them to think about what it means. What are the different duties that citizens have in a democracy?
3. Have students work in pairs or small groups to brainstorm a list of the duties of citizens in a democracy. Once they have created a list, have each group share their list with the class.
4. Write down all of the duties that students list on the whiteboard or chart paper. Once you have a complete list, discuss with students why each duty is important for preserving democracy.
5. Finally, have students reflect on their own civic engagement. Are there any ways that they can be more informed and active citizens? What are some specific actions they can take to preserve democracy?

Assessment:

• Observe students during the brainstorming activity and class discussion to assess their understanding of the duties of citizens in a democracy.
• Have students write a short reflection paper on their own civic engagement and how they can be more informed and active citizens.

Extension Activities:

• Have students research different ways to get involved in their community. This could include volunteering, attending local government meetings, or joining a civic organization.
• Have students create a public service announcement that encourages other people to become more informed and active citizens.
• Have students interview a local government official or community leader about their thoughts on the importance of civic engagement.

Differentiation:

• For students who need more support, provide them with a list of the duties of citizens in a democracy and have them choose a few to research in more depth.
• For students who are ready for a challenge, have them research the history of democracy and how it has evolved over time. Have them write a research paper on their findings.