Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to identify and describe key aspects of the U.S. presidency and its role in government, as well as understand the importance of citizenship in a democratic society.

Materials and Prep

• Pen and paper
• Access to the internet for research
• No prior knowledge required

Activities

• Research Activity: Have the student choose a U.S. president and research their background, achievements, and impact on the country. Encourage them to create a visual representation or timeline of the president's life and presidency.
• Debate Preparation: Ask the student to prepare arguments for and against a hypothetical policy proposed by a president. This will help them understand the complexities of decision-making in government.

Tenth Grade Talking Points

• “The U.S. presidency is a key part of our government, with the president serving as the head of state and government.”
• “Presidents have the power to make important decisions that affect the entire country, such as signing bills into law and representing the U.S. in international affairs.”
• “Understanding the role of citizenship is crucial in a democracy, as citizens have the responsibility to participate in the democratic process by voting and staying informed about political issues.”
• “As citizens, we have the right to express our opinions and hold our leaders accountable, which is essential for maintaining a healthy democracy.”