History-Social Science Framework Ch. 17, Grade 12: Principles of Democracy "Compelling Questions and Contemporary Issues"
History-Social Science Standard 12.10
Studetns formulate questions about and defend their analysis of tensions within our constitutional democracy and the importance of maintaining a balance between the following concepts: majority rule and individual rights; liberty and equality; state and national authority in a federal system; civil disobedience and the rule of law; freedom of the press and the right to a fair trial; the relationship of religion and governments.
Compelling Questions:
Affordable Care Act (link to lesson)
From C3Teachers.org
http://www.c3teachers.org/inquiries/affordable-care-act/
History-Social Science Standard 12.1.5 Describe the systems of separated and shared powers, the role of organized interests (Federalist Paper Number 10), checks and balances (Federalist Paper Number 51), the importance of an independent judiciary (Federalist Paper Number 78), enumerated powers, rule of law, federalism, and civilian control of the military.
Supporting Question: Who has the power?
Purpose: This inquiry leads students through an investigation of the perennial power struggle between federal and state governments to legislate. By investigating the compelling question “Who has the power?” students will consider the role of state government in initiating the best legislation for its citizens, even in cases where state law conflicts with federal law. In investigating evidence from historic and contemporary sources, students develop an interpretation of federalism and begin to evaluate both the historic and contemporary arguments and issues that are, in the words of Chief Justice John Marshall, “perpetually arising, and will probably continue to arise, as long as our system shall exist.”
CCSS Outcomes:
Education and the Environment Initiative (EEI)
http://www.californiaeei.org/curriculum/unit?unitid=83
History-Social Science Standard: 12.2.2: Explain how economic rights are secured and their importance to the individual and to society (e.g., the right to acquire, use, transfer, and dispose of property; right to choose one's work; right to join or not join labor unions; copyright and patent). 12.2.5 Describe the reciprocity between rights and obligations; that is, why enjoyment of one's rights entails respect for the rights of others.
Supporting Question:
Purpose: Students will explore California-specific laws, regulations, policies, and decision-making processes related to environmental decisions and individual rights.
CCSS Outcomes:
Current Events / Civics and Government
Houghton-Mifflin Harcourt
http://hmcurrentevents.com/civics-government/
Various lessons according to current events.