Classroom Constitution Activity
★ Civic Foundations • September 17
CONSTITUTION DAY ACTIVITY
Classroom Constitution Activity
Discovering how "We the People" establish rules, protect rights, and balance power.
Name:
Date:
The Preamble: "We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union..."
1787 • Philadelphia
1
Rules in the Room vs. Laws in the Nation
Rules guide our classroom community, while laws protect an entire city, state, or nation. Both ensure safety, fairness, and mutual respect. Complete the civic comparison chart below.
Classroom Rule
Example: Raise hand to speak and share materials fairly.
Why It Matters Here:
Community Law
Example: Stop at red lights and use pedestrian crosswalks.
Why It Matters for Everyone:
Your Civic Idea: Write one classroom rule that helps every student learn without fear of interruption.
2
The Two Sides of Freedom: Rights & Responsibilities
In a constitutional republic, every Right (a freedom protected by law) comes paired with a vital Responsibility (a duty citizens have to care for the community).
Right / Freedom Freedom of Speech (expressing thoughts openly)
Matching Responsibility Listening to others, telling the truth, and never causing danger.
Right / Freedom Right to a Clean & Safe School
Matching Responsibility Cleaning up shared spaces and respecting school property.
Right / Freedom Right to Vote & Have a Voice
Matching Responsibility Staying informed on key issues and voting thoughtfully.
Civic Scenario: If someone wants their voice heard in a debate, what responsibility must they show toward someone with a different view?
Page 1 of 2 Turn over for The Three Branches & Classroom Compact →
Checks & Balances System
The Three Branches of Government
Separation of Powers
Legislative
Makes the Laws
Who: Congress (Senate & House of Representatives).
Role: Writes, debates, and votes on bills; approves federal budgets.
School: Student Council
Executive
Carries Out Laws
Who: The President, Vice President, & Cabinet departments.
Role: Enforces laws, commands military, signs or vetoes bills.
School: Principal & Staff
Judicial
Evaluates Laws
Who: Supreme Court and Federal Judges.
Role: Interprets the Constitution, resolves disputes, decides if laws are fair.
School: Peer Mediation Team
Branch Challenge: Who Has the Power?
Label: Legislative, Executive, or Judicial
1. Decides whether a new national speed limit law agrees with the U.S. Constitution:
2. Writes and votes on a new bill to provide funding for clean national parks:
3. Signs a newly passed education bill so that government agencies can put it into action:
Our Classroom Compact • Ratification Pledge
Sign to Ratify!
Just as 39 delegates signed the original Constitution on September 17, 1787, write one guiding commitment you pledge to uphold for our classroom community this school year.
Article I: My Personal Pledge for Fairness, Cooperation & Respect
Delegate Signature
Date Signed
Official
Seal
Page 2 of 2 Celebrated annually on September 17 • Happy Constitution Day!