Share
September 17th has been designated as Constitution Day in hopes that future generations will gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of our nation's founding document. Use the activities, lesson plans and resources below to help you celebrate Constitution Day and Constitution Week.
The Annenberg Foundation
Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government for KidsLet Ben teach you how our government works and how to fulfill your civic responsibilities.
Bill of Rights Institute 
Center for Civic Education Lessons for Constitution DayThis page has many lesson plans for elementary age students (divided by grade level) – Each lesson plan is in PDF format.
Colonial WilliamsburgMultimedia, Slideshows, Video, Downloads, Podcasts & Audio, Daily Features & Blogs, Games, Puzzles, iPhone & Mobile, ePostcards, Online Exhibits, Games for Kids.
Colonial Williamsburg Electronic Field TripsExperience life in the 18th century at America's largest outdoor history museum.
Congress For Kids-ConstitutionThis page includes information about the writing the Constitution, the Great Compromise, the Constitution’s signers, the Bill of Rights, and the Amendments to the Constitution.
The ConstitutionA transcript of the constitution as well as high-resolution images of the actual document.
The Constitution CenterResources to help celebrate Constitution Day and develop habits of citizenship in a new generation of Americans, presented by the National Constitution Center.
Constitution Facts
The Constitutional Dictionary
Constitutional Rights Foundation
Constitutional Source 
Democracy ProjectGreat PBS Kids’ web site that allows the student to vote, become President for the day, and see how government affects them.
Free Examination MaterialsThe Center for Civic Education has teaching materials for grades4-5, Jr. High School, and Senior High School, called “We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution program”.
Gilder LehrmanThis page has specific resources for the Founding Era such as: podcasts, an online journal–“History Now”, curriculum modules, books, documents, and exhibitions.
iCivicsA web-based education project designed to teach students civics and inspire them to be active participants in our democracy.
Kids In the House (Website by the Clerk of The House of Representatives)This has a menu that includes different age levels for learning about our U.S. Government.
Library of Congress 
Library of Congress “Civics and Government” Constitution-related primary document collections and lesson plans from the Library of Congress.
Madison's Notes are Missing Travel back in time to the Constitutional Convention, ask questions of the Founders and report your findings in a news story.
National Center for Constitutional Studies National Constitution Center: Interactive ConstitutionAn Interactive Constitution based on The Words We Live By: Your Annotated Guide to the Constitution by Linda R. Monk.
Online Hyperlinked ConstitutionThis online constitution provides students with an easy-to-read version of the document in its entirety.
The Patriot PostIncludes great links to primary documents relating to philosophical foundations of the Constitution and other historic documents.
Social Studies for Kids
The Supreme CourtProvides a look at the legal system and allows you to follow Supreme Court cases, look at this site. Best for secondary students.
United States Constitution: Primary Documents in American HistoryLinks to materials digitized from the collections of the Library of Congress that supplement the study of these documents.
US HistoryVirtual Tour of Philadelphia's Historic District (Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, etc).
Utah's We the PeopleContains links to background information and other resources on the Constitution.
Youth Leadership InitiativeGreat resource with free login for teachers. Lots of lesson plans on Constitution and other related topics.
Quick Constitution Day Activities
The Constitution for Kids K-3
Information written for lower grade students explaining the importance of the Constitution, why it was written and other information students should be aware of. (Includes a link to some coloring pages.)
Information written for lower grade students explaining the importance of the Constitution, why it was written and other information students should be aware of. (Includes a link to some coloring pages.)
Schoolhouse Rock: Preamble (Lyrics)
Videos for Schoolhouse Rock can be found on TeacherTube and also on iTunes.
Videos for Schoolhouse Rock can be found on TeacherTube and also on iTunes.
In-Depth Lesson Plans
Matching Game with the U.S. Constitution (pdf)
This Kindergarten lesson introduces students to the Constitution. Students participate in a matching game to learn what the Constitution is and what it does for them. They will recognize key images related to the Constitution and its history.
This Kindergarten lesson introduces students to the Constitution. Students participate in a matching game to learn what the Constitution is and what it does for them. They will recognize key images related to the Constitution and its history.
The Constitution: The Country's Rules (pdf)
In this first grade lesson, students develop an awareness of the Constitution by exploring what it is and why it is important. Students examine their classroom rules poster as an introduction to the concept of rules and learn that the Constitution is the law of the United States.
In this first grade lesson, students develop an awareness of the Constitution by exploring what it is and why it is important. Students examine their classroom rules poster as an introduction to the concept of rules and learn that the Constitution is the law of the United States.
Orb and Effy Learn about Authority (pdf)
This Kindergarten lesson introduces the study of authority. Children learn when people are exercising authority and when they are exercising power without authority. Children learn how and why authority is useful in society.
This Kindergarten lesson introduces the study of authority. Children learn when people are exercising authority and when they are exercising power without authority. Children learn how and why authority is useful in society.
Constitution Day Rap (pdf)
This 1st-2nd grade lesson introduces students to important facts about the Constitution and its history. Students create a thirteen-star flag and read or perform the Constitution Day Rap.
This 1st-2nd grade lesson introduces students to important facts about the Constitution and its history. Students create a thirteen-star flag and read or perform the Constitution Day Rap.
What Is Authority? (pdf)
This 1st-2nd grade lesson introduces the study of authority. Students learn important concepts: authority and limited government. Students also learn the importance of examining and choosing people for positions of leadership.
Lesson Audio (mp3) Teacher Audio (mp3)
This 1st-2nd grade lesson introduces the study of authority. Students learn important concepts: authority and limited government. Students also learn the importance of examining and choosing people for positions of leadership.
Lesson Audio (mp3) Teacher Audio (mp3)
What Basic Ideas Are in the Preamble to the Constitution? (pdf)
This 3rd-4th grade lesson explores some ideas in the Preamble to the Constitution. Students learn that the power to govern belongs to those who have created the government to protect their rights and promote their welfare.
This 3rd-4th grade lesson explores some ideas in the Preamble to the Constitution. Students learn that the power to govern belongs to those who have created the government to protect their rights and promote their welfare.
Resources
Videos
Constitution Day (12 minutes)
Grade K-4
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
Officially called Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, this is one holiday that celebrates two great things: our country's history and its citizens.
Grade K-4
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
Officially called Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, this is one holiday that celebrates two great things: our country's history and its citizens.
United States Constitution (25 minutes
)
Grade K-4
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
A recount of the story of the Constitution, the biographies of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, and the great seal of the United States.
Grade K-4
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
A recount of the story of the Constitution, the biographies of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, and the great seal of the United States.
Books
-
Little Hands Celebrate America! Learning about the U.S.A. Through Crafts and Activities, by Jill Frankel Hauser; ISBN: 1-885593-93-7
- We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States, by David Catrow; ISBN: 0142402761
Quick Constitution Day Activities
The Constitution for Kids 4-7
Information written for students in grades 4-7 explaining the importance of the Constitution, why it was written and other information students should be aware of. This site includes links to the National Archives as well as other sites with additional information on the Constitution.
Information written for students in grades 4-7 explaining the importance of the Constitution, why it was written and other information students should be aware of. This site includes links to the National Archives as well as other sites with additional information on the Constitution.
Congress for Kids: Constitution
The history of the Constitution of the United States. This site includes information about the writing of the Constitution, the Constitution’s signers, the Bill of Rights, the Amendments to the Constitution and what they mean to Americans, along with much more.
The history of the Constitution of the United States. This site includes information about the writing of the Constitution, the Constitution’s signers, the Bill of Rights, the Amendments to the Constitution and what they mean to Americans, along with much more.
Liberty’s Kids Website
A fun web site that has activities and games related to the animated TV series about the Revolutionary War and the Constitutional Eras. (Note – the TV series episodes can be found at UEN - Pioneer Library – eMedia.)
A fun web site that has activities and games related to the animated TV series about the Revolutionary War and the Constitutional Eras. (Note – the TV series episodes can be found at UEN - Pioneer Library – eMedia.)
Constitution Quiz
An online quiz testing knowledge of the Constitution. Gives information if an incorrect answer is given.
An online quiz testing knowledge of the Constitution. Gives information if an incorrect answer is given.
What Good is Government Anyway?
Students discover that the writers of the Constitution realized the important aspects of good government in writing the preamble to the Constitution.
Students discover that the writers of the Constitution realized the important aspects of good government in writing the preamble to the Constitution.
Madison's Notes are Missing
Travel back in time to the Constitutional Convention, ask questions of the Founders and report your findings in a news story.
Travel back in time to the Constitutional Convention, ask questions of the Founders and report your findings in a news story.
Bill of Rights Web Quest
A web quest for students to research the Bill of Rights and connect it to themselves.
A web quest for students to research the Bill of Rights and connect it to themselves.
National Constitution Center U.S. I.Q. Game
This quiz is best at the end of a Constitution lesson or unit.
This quiz is best at the end of a Constitution lesson or unit.
Schoolhouse Rock: Preamble (Lyrics)
Videos for Schoolhouse Rock can be found on TeacherTube and also on iTunes.
Videos for Schoolhouse Rock can be found on TeacherTube and also on iTunes.
Life Without the Bill of Rights?
This activity asks you to consider how life would change without some of our most cherished freedoms.
This activity asks you to consider how life would change without some of our most cherished freedoms.
In-Depth Lesson Plan
U.S. and Utah Constitution Comparison
This lesson is designed to be a compare-and-contrast reading activity using the Utah and U.S. Constitutions.
This lesson is designed to be a compare-and-contrast reading activity using the Utah and U.S. Constitutions.
What Basic Ideas Are in the Preamble to the Constitution? (pdf)
Students will learn that the power to govern belongs to the people who have created the government to protect their rights and promote their welfare.
Students will learn that the power to govern belongs to the people who have created the government to protect their rights and promote their welfare.
What Basic Ideas about Government Are Included in the Preamble to the Constitution? (pdf)
This lesson explores ideas in the Preamble to the Constitution. Students read the Preamble and develop definitions for the six key phrases in the document.
This lesson explores ideas in the Preamble to the Constitution. Students read the Preamble and develop definitions for the six key phrases in the document.
Resources
Web sites
The Signers of the Constitution
Includes a picture and information about each signer of the Constitution.
Includes a picture and information about each signer of the Constitution.
Constitution Day: EdHelper
This site has many resources from reading articles, games, to worksheets on a 4-5th grade level. You must be registered to download from this site.
This site has many resources from reading articles, games, to worksheets on a 4-5th grade level. You must be registered to download from this site.
Democracy for Kids
Interactive Online – This online learning module is to help students understand how democracy works and how they can get involved.
Interactive Online – This online learning module is to help students understand how democracy works and how they can get involved.
Liberty Kids
A fun web site that has activities and games related to the animated TV series about the revolutionary and the constitution eras.
A fun web site that has activities and games related to the animated TV series about the revolutionary and the constitution eras.
The Democracy Project
Great web site that allows the student to vote, become President for the day, and see how government affects them.
Great web site that allows the student to vote, become President for the day, and see how government affects them.
A Constitutional Timeline
Discover two hundred years of constitutional history, as told through a collection of stories and headlines spotlighting some of the people, events and issues that have shaped the Constitution.
Discover two hundred years of constitutional history, as told through a collection of stories and headlines spotlighting some of the people, events and issues that have shaped the Constitution.
Videos
A More Perfect Union America Becomes a Nation (2 hours)
Grade 5-6
A recreation of the summer of 1787. It chronicles how America became a nation. Short segments could be used to give 5th-6th grade students an overview of the Constitutional Convention. Download a Teacher’s Guidebook for this DVD.
Grade 5-6
A recreation of the summer of 1787. It chronicles how America became a nation. Short segments could be used to give 5th-6th grade students an overview of the Constitutional Convention. Download a Teacher’s Guidebook for this DVD.
The Constitution Video Quiz (35 minutes)
Grade 5-12
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Presents a comprehensive overview of the United States Constitution. The program documents the Constitution's various stages, from the drafting of the Articles of Confederation to the amendment and voting process.
Grade 5-12
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Presents a comprehensive overview of the United States Constitution. The program documents the Constitution's various stages, from the drafting of the Articles of Confederation to the amendment and voting process.
Liberty’s Kids: We the People (28 minutes)
Grade 5-8
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Show how our nation's Constitution and first government were forged during these trying times and laid the foundations for an innovative compromise on legislative representation.
Grade 5-8
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Show how our nation's Constitution and first government were forged during these trying times and laid the foundations for an innovative compromise on legislative representation.
Constitution Day (12 minutes)
Grade K-4
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
Called Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, this one holiday celebrates two important things: our country's history and its citizens.
Grade K-4
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
Called Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, this one holiday celebrates two important things: our country's history and its citizens.
United States Constitution ( 25 minutes)
Grade K-4
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
This program tells the story of the Constitution, included are the biographies of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.
Grade K-4
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
This program tells the story of the Constitution, included are the biographies of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.
We The People’s-America, the Beautiful Mosaic (4:55 minutes)
Grade 5-6
Available from US Courts
Excerpts from naturalization ceremonies conducted by federal judges across the nation show the diversity of America.
Grade 5-6
Available from US Courts
Excerpts from naturalization ceremonies conducted by federal judges across the nation show the diversity of America.
Creating the Constitution (A little over 2 minutes)
Available from TeacherTube
A good, quick overview video from the National Constitution Center. (Members of TeacherTube can skip the pre-roll ads.)
Available from TeacherTube
A good, quick overview video from the National Constitution Center. (Members of TeacherTube can skip the pre-roll ads.)
Shh! We're Writing the Constitution (31 minutes)
Grade 1-6
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
Learn how the Constitution came to be written.
Grade 1-6
Available for purchase from Library Video Company
Learn how the Constitution came to be written.
Books
- A More Perfect Union: The Story of Our Constitution, by Betsy Maestro; ISBN: 0688101925
- Government in Action, Language, Literacy, and Vocabulary series; National Geographic School Publishing, ISBN: 0-7922-4552-0 (Teacher’s Guide and Student Resource Guide available free online at http://www.ngsp.com/)
- How a Bill Becomes a Law, Easy Simulations, by Pat Luce and Holly Joyner Scholastic; ISBN: 0-439-62573-4
- . . . If You Were There When They Signed the Constitution, by Elizabeth Levy; ISBN: 0590451596
- “It Can’t Be Wrong!”: The Bill of Rights, by Carole Marsh
- Preamble to the US Constitution, by Douglas Rife; ISBN: 1-57310-129-X
- Shh! We’re Writing the Constitution, by Jean Fritz; ISBN: 0698116240
- “Sign on the Dotted Line! The US Constitution”, by Carole Marsh; ISBN: 0-635-02696-1
- So You Want to be President?, by Judith St. George; ISBN: 0399251529
-
The Bill of Rights, Documents of Freedom Series, Reading Expeditions; National Geographic School Publishing, ISBN: 0-7922-4552-0 (Teacher’s Guide available free online at http://www.ngsp.com/)
-
The Constitution, Documents of Freedom Series, Reading Expeditions; National Geographic School Publishing, ISBN: 07922-45555 (Teacher’s Guide available free online at http://www.ngsp.com/)
-
The Constitution (Cornerstones of Freedom), by Marilyn Prolman; ISBN: 0516466925
-
The Signers of the Constitution, by Robert G. Ferris and James H. Charleton; ISBN 0-936478-10-1
- The U.S. Constitution: And Fascinating Facts About It, by Terry Jordan; ISBN: 1891743007
- Understanding the US Constitution, by Mark Stange; ISBN: 1-58037-056-X
- U.S. Government & Presidents Know-The-Facts Review Game, by Scholastic; ISBN 0-439-37431-6
- We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States, by David Catrow; ISBN: 0142402761
- Words That Built a Nation, by Marilyn Miller; ISBN: 059029881X
Classroom Magazines
- Cobblestone Magazines (See the issue titles below.) Back issues are not time sensitive and can be ordered.
- Constitution: Celebrating
The events leading up to the convention, people who attended – or did not. The battle for ratification and plenty of obscure facts are revealed along with a helpful, four-page time line. Teacher's Guide, paperback 48 pgs. black & white, suggested for ages: 9-14, Product Code: COB8709 - Constitution: Meaning
The basic ideas that effect how we live today were set between the years 1776 with the Declaration of Independence and 1788, suggested for ages: 9-14, Product Code: COB8209 - Constitution: Road to a More Perfect Union
December 2007 issue, suggested for ages: 9-14, Product Code: COB0712 - Branches of Government
How does our federal government work? Who makes the rules?
Teacher's Guide, Paperback 48 pgs. Full color, suggested for ages: 9-14, Product Code: COB0301 - U.S. Government Set
Includes the following titles: Presidential Elections; Citizenship, American-style; U.S. Constitution: Constitutional Convention; Becoming President; Political Parties; U.S. Senate; Branches of Government; Important Supreme Court Cases; Vote! All About Elections, suggested for ages: 9-14, Product Code: COB40684 - Congress: Government of the People
The legislative branch, or Congress, which is divided into two houses - the Senate and the House of Representatives. January issue, paperback 48 pgs., Full color, suggested for ages: 9-14, Product Code: COB0601
- Constitution: Celebrating
Quick Constitution Day Activities
Bill of Rights Day Activities
President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated December 15 as a day to remember the Bill of Rights.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated December 15 as a day to remember the Bill of Rights.
Observing Constitution Day
Short four to six minute introductory game to be used in introducing the constitutional convention. Great class starter used to describe the discouragement or frustration of composing the constitution with the different experiences, opinions and ideas in the constitutional convention.
Short four to six minute introductory game to be used in introducing the constitutional convention. Great class starter used to describe the discouragement or frustration of composing the constitution with the different experiences, opinions and ideas in the constitutional convention.
The Country’s Rules (pdf)
Originally written for an advanced first grade level, this lesson is easily adaptable to a middle school level. A simple fifteen-minute lesson reinforcing the importance of the constitution as well as the organization of the government, rights granted to citizens, and expected responsibilities.
Originally written for an advanced first grade level, this lesson is easily adaptable to a middle school level. A simple fifteen-minute lesson reinforcing the importance of the constitution as well as the organization of the government, rights granted to citizens, and expected responsibilities.
Presidents and the Constitution
Presidents and the Constitution and ArticleII.org were created by the Bill of Rights Institute. The National Endowment for the Humanities made Presidents and the Constitution a reality by providing a generous grant through its We the People Program. This site has some great video intros and curriculum available. Best for grades 7-12.
Presidents and the Constitution and ArticleII.org were created by the Bill of Rights Institute. The National Endowment for the Humanities made Presidents and the Constitution a reality by providing a generous grant through its We the People Program. This site has some great video intros and curriculum available. Best for grades 7-12.
Constitution Day Rap (pdf)
Originally written for advanced first and second grade levels, this lesson can be adapted to a simple middle school level. This lesson is recommended as a twenty-minute lesson with a flag building activity. Recommended activity adaptations include student stars demonstrating grade level assessment of constitution and citizen rights.
Originally written for advanced first and second grade levels, this lesson can be adapted to a simple middle school level. This lesson is recommended as a twenty-minute lesson with a flag building activity. Recommended activity adaptations include student stars demonstrating grade level assessment of constitution and citizen rights.
In-Depth Lesson Plans
From King to Constitution
Lesson designed for teaching the necessary transition from a monarchy to a democracy. Excellent lesson designed for middle school level instruction including an activity defining the different forms of government.
Lesson designed for teaching the necessary transition from a monarchy to a democracy. Excellent lesson designed for middle school level instruction including an activity defining the different forms of government.
You Mean I’ve got Rights?
Lesson designed for middle school students instructing the rights guaranteed in the Constitution. Hands on activity in helping students connect rights found in the constitution to real-life situations.
Lesson designed for middle school students instructing the rights guaranteed in the Constitution. Hands on activity in helping students connect rights found in the constitution to real-life situations.
Wanted: A Just Right Government
Lesson plan describing the evolution of the US government from the Declaration of independence to the Constitutional Government. Included are PowerPoint presentations and activities.
Lesson plan describing the evolution of the US government from the Declaration of independence to the Constitutional Government. Included are PowerPoint presentations and activities.
Constitution Costs
A more in depth lesson, instructing students on the value of citizen’s rights, government provided services, and taxation responsibilities with several activity options helping students recognize these values.
A more in depth lesson, instructing students on the value of citizen’s rights, government provided services, and taxation responsibilities with several activity options helping students recognize these values.
The Citizen and the Constitution
A lesson describing the role of a citizen and how citizens should participate in a functioning government. Informative information with small group discussion activity. Recommended fifteen to twenty minute lesson.
A lesson describing the role of a citizen and how citizens should participate in a functioning government. Informative information with small group discussion activity. Recommended fifteen to twenty minute lesson.
Federal System Created by the Constitution (pdf)
Constitution Day specific lesson plan designed as a full lesson for middle school students. Explore the federal system of government as outlined in the Constitution. Compare to other forms of government.
Constitution Day specific lesson plan designed as a full lesson for middle school students. Explore the federal system of government as outlined in the Constitution. Compare to other forms of government.
The American Bill of Rights and Responsibilities
This lesson is intended to familiarize students with the Bill of Rights and what responsibilities accompany those rights. It emphasizes the importance of civic responsibilities.
This lesson is intended to familiarize students with the Bill of Rights and what responsibilities accompany those rights. It emphasizes the importance of civic responsibilities.
Bill of Rights Institute.org
Then click on “For Teacher” and download a pdf lesson plan about the first 5 Amendments to the Constitution for students in grades 7-12.
Then click on “For Teacher” and download a pdf lesson plan about the first 5 Amendments to the Constitution for students in grades 7-12.
Happy Birthday, Constitution!
An introduction to the U.S. Constitution that can be used in conjunction with Constitution Day (September 17).
An introduction to the U.S. Constitution that can be used in conjunction with Constitution Day (September 17).
Resources
Web sites
Constitution Primary Source Kit
Pictures of primary sources used to compose or play a role in the writing of the constitution.
Pictures of primary sources used to compose or play a role in the writing of the constitution.
Naturalization Test
Take an automated, ten question practice test taken from the actual citizenship test. Test your basic knowledge of the constitution and US Government.
Take an automated, ten question practice test taken from the actual citizenship test. Test your basic knowledge of the constitution and US Government.
Interactive Constitution Timeline
Discover the history of the constitution through an interactive timeline.
Discover the history of the constitution through an interactive timeline.
Videos
Field Trips to Yesterday: Historic Philadelphia (4 minutes)
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Short video showing the places of interest during the Constitutional Convention.
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Short video showing the places of interest during the Constitutional Convention.
My America. America In Its Own Words (22 minutes)
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Children interviews and interpretations of what America is and the freedoms granted it’s citizens
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Children interviews and interpretations of what America is and the freedoms granted it’s citizens
Liberty's Kids: Episode 40 ‘We the People’ (28 minutes)
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Animated dramatization of the Constitutional Convention
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Animated dramatization of the Constitutional Convention
Naturalization Video (5 minutes)
Short video clip on US Courts website showing naturalization ceremony and quotes from new American citizens.
Short video clip on US Courts website showing naturalization ceremony and quotes from new American citizens.
My America. Becoming an Active Citizen (23 minutes)
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Children interviews and interpretations of rights and responsibilities of US citizens.
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Children interviews and interpretations of rights and responsibilities of US citizens.
My America. What is a Democracy (23 minutes)
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Children interviews and interpretations of democracy. Creative display of different forms of government and the effectiveness of Democracy.
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Children interviews and interpretations of democracy. Creative display of different forms of government and the effectiveness of Democracy.
We The People’s-America, the Beautiful Mosaic (4:55 minutes)
Grade 5-6
Available from US Courts
Excerpts from naturalization ceremonies conducted by federal judges across the nation show the diversity of America.
Grade 5-6
Available from US Courts
Excerpts from naturalization ceremonies conducted by federal judges across the nation show the diversity of America.
Symbols of America. The Constitution of the United States of America (15 minutes)
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Constitution history and content overview in theatrical, documentary style.
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Constitution history and content overview in theatrical, documentary style.
Citizens Rule. Our Founding Documents (15 minutes)
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Live reenactments and descriptions of the constitutional conventions and the democracy process.
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Live reenactments and descriptions of the constitutional conventions and the democracy process.
Creating the Constitution (A little over 2 minutes)
Available from TeacherTube
A good, quick overview video from the National Constitution Center. (Members of TeacherTube can skip the pre-roll ads.)
Available from TeacherTube
A good, quick overview video from the National Constitution Center. (Members of TeacherTube can skip the pre-roll ads.)
A More Perfect Union America Becomes a Nation (2 hours)
Grade 5-6
A recreation of the summer of 1787. It chronicles how America became a nation. Short segments could be used to give 5th-6th grade students an overview of the Constitutional Convention. Download a Teacher’s Guidebook for this DVD.
Grade 5-6
A recreation of the summer of 1787. It chronicles how America became a nation. Short segments could be used to give 5th-6th grade students an overview of the Constitutional Convention. Download a Teacher’s Guidebook for this DVD.
The Constitution Video Quiz (35 minutes)
Grade 5-12
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Presents a comprehensive overview of the United States Constitution. The program documents the Constitution's various stages, from the drafting of the Articles of Confederation to the amendment and voting process.
Grade 5-12
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Presents a comprehensive overview of the United States Constitution. The program documents the Constitution's various stages, from the drafting of the Articles of Confederation to the amendment and voting process.
America Gets a Constitution (3:09 minutes)
Grade 7-12
Available from the History Channel
A short overview of the creation of the Constitution from the History Channel.
Grade 7-12
Available from the History Channel
A short overview of the creation of the Constitution from the History Channel.
Books
- …If you were there when they signed the Constitution. Levy, Elizabeth. Scholastic Paperbacks, 1992
- Shh! We’re Writing the Constitution. Fritz, Jean. New York: Putnam, 1989
- Unforgettable Americans:The Great Little Madison. Fritz, Jean. New York: Putnam, 1989
- We the People…the Citizen and the Constitution. Center for Civic Education, Ed., 1998
- The United States Constitution: A Graphic Adaptation. Jonathan Hennessey. Hill and Wang, October 2008
Quick Constitution Day Activities
Creating the Constitution
3 minute video overview of the Constitution. Ideal for sparking a brief discussion of the role and significance of the Constitution for 15 minute commemoration of Constitution Day. This video is part of the “To Sign or Not Sign” (pdf) lesson.
3 minute video overview of the Constitution. Ideal for sparking a brief discussion of the role and significance of the Constitution for 15 minute commemoration of Constitution Day. This video is part of the “To Sign or Not Sign” (pdf) lesson.
Why Celebrate Constitution Day
This lesson includes an editorial commemorating Constitution Day. The reading examines two competing schools of constitutional interpretation and explains the philosophical basis of the Constitution. Discussion questions follow the reading.
This lesson includes an editorial commemorating Constitution Day. The reading examines two competing schools of constitutional interpretation and explains the philosophical basis of the Constitution. Discussion questions follow the reading.
American Gets a Constitution
3 minute video clip that gives an overview of the Constitution and its place in history.
3 minute video clip that gives an overview of the Constitution and its place in history.
Constitution Treasure Hunt
Treasure hunt with items from the Constitution that students can use a copy of the Constitution to find the answers. From Constitutionfacts.com
Treasure hunt with items from the Constitution that students can use a copy of the Constitution to find the answers. From Constitutionfacts.com
Constitution Crossword Puzzles
Eight crossword puzzles of varying difficulty from Constitutionfacts.com
Eight crossword puzzles of varying difficulty from Constitutionfacts.com
The Founders’ Library: Thinking as a Founding Father
Lesson created for Constitution Day about the influences on the founders and writers of the Constitution.
Lesson created for Constitution Day about the influences on the founders and writers of the Constitution.
To Sign or Not to Sign (pdf)
Lesson created for Constitution Day focusing on the ratification and the importance of signing your name to a document.
Lesson created for Constitution Day focusing on the ratification and the importance of signing your name to a document.
The Constitution Game
Simulation activity to jump start a discussion about the beginnings of the Constitution and the Constitutional Convention.
Simulation activity to jump start a discussion about the beginnings of the Constitution and the Constitutional Convention.
Interactive Constitution Day Activities
This flash-based module contains three activities: Madison’s Notes are Missing, Constitution Crossword, and What did the Founders Say. Madison’s Notes are Missing requires students to listen to statements by 5-6 participants of the Constitutional Convention on several of the controversies that occurred in writing the Constitution, and then choose which position they agree with. Would work best for students working individually or in groups.
This flash-based module contains three activities: Madison’s Notes are Missing, Constitution Crossword, and What did the Founders Say. Madison’s Notes are Missing requires students to listen to statements by 5-6 participants of the Constitutional Convention on several of the controversies that occurred in writing the Constitution, and then choose which position they agree with. Would work best for students working individually or in groups.
Presidents and the Constitution
Presidents and the Constitution and ArticleII.org were created by the Bill of Rights Institute. The National Endowment for the Humanities made Presidents and the Constitution a reality by providing a generous grant through its We the People Program. This site has some great video intros and curriculum available. Best for grades 7-12.
Presidents and the Constitution and ArticleII.org were created by the Bill of Rights Institute. The National Endowment for the Humanities made Presidents and the Constitution a reality by providing a generous grant through its We the People Program. This site has some great video intros and curriculum available. Best for grades 7-12.
Bill of Rights Day Activities
President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated December 15 as a day to remember the Bill of Rights.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated December 15 as a day to remember the Bill of Rights.
In-Depth Lesson Plans
Fundamental Principles (pdf)
Lesson plan from the Center for Civic Education that explores how the framers of the Constitution debated fundamental principles and their connection to current debates over Liberty v. Order, Individual Rights v. Popular Sovereignty, etc…
Lesson plan from the Center for Civic Education that explores how the framers of the Constitution debated fundamental principles and their connection to current debates over Liberty v. Order, Individual Rights v. Popular Sovereignty, etc…
Wanted: A Just Right Government
Students learn how the U.S. Constitution came to exist by looking at the tensions and differences of opinion that existed among early American states and citizens. Students find out about the Articles of Confederation, why that first “constitution” didn’t work, and how compromise led to the Constitution.
Students learn how the U.S. Constitution came to exist by looking at the tensions and differences of opinion that existed among early American states and citizens. Students find out about the Articles of Confederation, why that first “constitution” didn’t work, and how compromise led to the Constitution.
Interpreting the Constitution: What does that mean?
Students learn that the rights in the Bill of Rights have no exact definition and are open to interpretation (by the Supreme Court, of course). Students look at real-life cases involving the 8th and 5th amendments and see whether they come to the same conclusion about each case as the Supreme Court did.
Students learn that the rights in the Bill of Rights have no exact definition and are open to interpretation (by the Supreme Court, of course). Students look at real-life cases involving the 8th and 5th amendments and see whether they come to the same conclusion about each case as the Supreme Court did.
Constitution Costs
Lesson begins with activity on the Preamble and the meaning of each phrase as it relates to government services. Lesson continues to an in-depth discussion of taxation and government benefits.
Lesson begins with activity on the Preamble and the meaning of each phrase as it relates to government services. Lesson continues to an in-depth discussion of taxation and government benefits.
Brainstorm the Bill of Rights
Students will examine, list, and understand the specific individual rights that are contained in the Bill of Rights and then answer the question, "How does this apply to me?"
Students will examine, list, and understand the specific individual rights that are contained in the Bill of Rights and then answer the question, "How does this apply to me?"
Bill of Rights Institute.org
Then click on “For Teacher” and download a pdf lesson plan about the first 5 Amendments to the Constitution for students in grades 7-12.
Then click on “For Teacher” and download a pdf lesson plan about the first 5 Amendments to the Constitution for students in grades 7-12.
Separation of Powers: What’s for lunch?
Students learn about the three branches of government and find out how the three branches interact with each another.
Students learn about the three branches of government and find out how the three branches interact with each another.
Resources
Web sites
Videos
A More Perfect Union America Becomes a Nation (2 hours)
Grade 5-6
A recreation of the summer of 1787. It chronicles how America became a nation. Short segments could be used to give 5th-6th grade students an overview of the Constitutional Convention. Download a Teacher’s Guidebook for this DVD.
Grade 5-6
A recreation of the summer of 1787. It chronicles how America became a nation. Short segments could be used to give 5th-6th grade students an overview of the Constitutional Convention. Download a Teacher’s Guidebook for this DVD.
The Constitution Video Quiz (35 minutes)
Grade 5-12
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Presents a comprehensive overview of the United States Constitution. The program documents the Constitution's various stages, from the drafting of the Articles of Confederation to the amendment and voting process.
Grade 5-12
Available from UEN’s eMedia
Presents a comprehensive overview of the United States Constitution. The program documents the Constitution's various stages, from the drafting of the Articles of Confederation to the amendment and voting process.
America Gets a Constitution (3:09 minutes)
Grade 7-12
Available from the History Channel
A short overview of the creation of the Constitution from the History Channel.
Grade 7-12
Available from the History Channel
A short overview of the creation of the Constitution from the History Channel.
Creating the Constitution (A little over 2 minutes)
Available from TeacherTube
A good, quick overview video from the National Constitution Center. (Members of TeacherTube can skip the pre-roll ads.)
Available from TeacherTube
A good, quick overview video from the National Constitution Center. (Members of TeacherTube can skip the pre-roll ads.)
We The People’s-America, the Beautiful Mosaic (4:55 minutes)
Grade 5-6
Available from US Courts
Excerpts from naturalization ceremonies conducted by federal judges across the nation show the diversity of America.
Grade 5-6
Available from US Courts
Excerpts from naturalization ceremonies conducted by federal judges across the nation show the diversity of America.
Books
- Miracle at Philadelphia. Catherine Bowen
- The Words We Live By. Linda Monk