Levels and Structures of Government

We all benefit from the services of government every day. Each layer of government – federal, state and local – provides a portion of the fabric of our services and safety nets for the public. Each of these layers forms part of the system of government in the United States known as “federalism” which is a system of shared, distributed power between federal, state and local government. Every form of government in the United States has its own separation of powers and checks and balances to minimize corruption, waste, fraud and abuse. For this challenge, you will write a research paper. First, you will choose two hot button issues that America is currently facing. Brainstorm which topic you enjoy more, and want to discuss. After you narrow your research down, you will research your chosen hot button issue and discuss the arguments surrounding them. You will then research the levels of government and find out what their responsibility is for controlling that issue. You will also research one court case, law, or executive order that deals with your issue. Do you agree with the outcome of this government action? In your paper, you should also discuss how the political decisions being made impact you and the world in which you live.

*Please follow the steps below to help guide you.

Your paper must discuss the following:

Choose 1 hot button political issues and fill out the graphic organizer

For help on this, explore the following Website:

http://www.procon.org/

Possible issues to choose from:

• Immigration
• Gay rights
• Gun control
• Drugs
• Civil rights
• Abortion

Use the PEE writing strategy to help you when writing your paper.

For each issue, write a paragraph about each that includes the following information:

• Define the issue.
• What is the argument surrounding the topic you have chosen.
• Your stance- do you agree with the outcome of the government action.
• Discuss how the political decisions being made impact you and the world in which you live.

ACTION PLAN

Step 1: Choose 1 on issues hot topic issues

and complete graphic organizer (for each issue)

Step 2: Conference with teacher

(*you must get approval from teacher before moving on, you need to bring and show your Graphic Organizer)

Step 3: Write Paper

Step 4: Revise paper

Step 5: Hand in final draft via Slate