Presidential Powers

Teaching Theme of the Week

from Education World®

Students study the section of the Constitution that refers to the executive branch and write a proposal for a new power for the president of the United States.

Subjects: History, Langauge Arts

Grade Levels: 6-8, 9-12

Objectives
Students will:

• study and discuss the section of the Constitution that refers to the executive branch,
• write a new section or clause describing a new duty for the president of the United States,
• define the words power (as described in the Constitution) and proposal, and
• work together in cooperative groups.

Keywords
Constitution, president, United States, article, clause, section, amendment, power

Materials Needed

• copies of Article II of the U.S. Constitution from a library resource, textbook, or Congresslink: Constitution of the United States: Article II
• paper
• pens or pencils
• computer with Internet access and word processing program (optional)

Procedure

Suggestion:You may want to complete this activity in two parts.

Part 1

1. Have students study the powers of the executive branch from library, textbook, or online sources.
2. Discuss the meaning of the word power as it relates to the president of the United States.
3. Divide the class into small groups. Discuss the meaning of the word proposal.
4. Tell students to brainstorm ideas for a new power for the president. Tell each group to write the suggestion as a proposal for a new section or clause to the article that describes a new power for the president.
5. Give students one or more days to complete the assignment.

Part 2

1. Students present their completed proposals. Let students choose the ones they think are most viable and reasonable.

Extension: Have the class send their proposals to a U.S. senator or representative for a reaction.

Assessment
Evaluate students' proposals.

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