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"I Have a Dream" Mobiles

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s historic "I Have a Dream" speech with a mobile that inspires you to think about your own dreams.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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13th Amendment, Congressional Copy

This handwritten, Congressional Copy of the amendment that banned slavery is signed by President Lincoln, Vice-President Hamlin and over 150 members of Congress. This full color, two sided, 11"x17" mini-poster and discussion guide encourages students to examine this primary source and its impact on American society.

Abraham Lincoln’s Crossroads

In this online game, learn about Lincoln’s leadership by exploring the political choices he made.

Amendment Cootie Catchers

This clever twist on the classic cootie catcher tests your knowledge of the first 10 amendments.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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American Flag Pinwheels

Show your patriotic pride with this festive stars-and-stripes-covered pinwheel.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Articles of Confederation

Charter or first "Constitution" adopted by the 13 states following the American Revolution.

Bill of Rights

Help restore the Bill of Rights in this online game.

Grade: 6, 5, 4, 3, 2
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Bill of Rights

The first ten Amendments to the Constitution.

Bill of Rights Bingo

Get more familiar with the Bill of Rights with this simple bingo game.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Brown v. Board of Education Word Puzzle

Learn about a landmark Supreme Court ruling with this word puzzle.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6
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Centuries of Citizenship: A Constitutional Timeline

Centuries of Citizenship: A Constitutional Timeline is an online experience highlighting some of the key dates and events that mark more than 200 years of our constitutional history. These timeline entries, taken as a whole, tell the evolving story of the U.S. Constitution and the continuing role that it plays in our lives.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Constitution Hall Pass: Dollars and Sense: Tax Day

Learn how the Constitution was amended to allow the federal government to impose an income tax, and learn where those tax dollars go today.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5
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Tags: Government

Constitution Hall Pass: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: A Legacy of Service

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. saw himself as a servant of humanity, and he wanted his life to be remembered as a life of service to others. In this episode, we look at Dr. King’s legacy of service. We’ll explore how his use of nonviolence was not just a political tool, but a way to demonstrate service to others. Get ready to learn about some of the other activists who drew their inspiration from Dr. King. And we’ll even learn about ways that you can serve your community. Join us as we honor the memory of this great American by talking about service!

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5
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Constitution Hall Pass: Everything's Gone Green: The Story of Earth Day

In this popular episode, we explore the history of the environmental movement in the United States and the origins of the holiday we know as Earth Day.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5
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Tags: Civics

Constitution Hall Pass: Freedom of Expression (Constitution Day 2011)

In this episode of Constitution Hall Pass, take a look at why we needed a Constitution so badly—especially after some people expressed themselves with another rebellion! See and hear the story of creating that Constitution and the efforts it took to get it ratified, topping it off with a trip to New Hampshire to see where the Constitution went into effect. And learn about how the Constitution gave us a three-branched government to protect our rights and the freedom to express ourselves—out loud!

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5
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Constitution Hall Pass: History of Thanksgiving

Discover the real story of the first Thanksgiving and how the day became a national holiday during the Civil War.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5
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Tags: History

Constitution Hall Pass: The Bill of Rights

Explore the compelling story of our Constitution’s first ten amendments, from James Madison’s efforts to compile a list of essential freedoms, through the years when the document’s provisions were seldom applied, to present-day court cases that impact all Americans.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5
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Constitution Hall Pass: The Judicial Branch (Constitution Day 2010)

Celebrate the writing of the Constitution by going inside the Convention at the National Constitution Center’s Signers’ Hall! We’ll learn about the ideas behind the document as we see the life-size statues and get to know some of the most famous Founding Fathers. And we’ll talk about the system of government which the Constitution created and get an up-close look at how the balance of powers protects our freedoms as citizens. Join us as we meet the men of Signers’ Hall!

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5
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Constitution Hall Pass: The Presidency (Constitution Day 2012)

Just in time for the 2012 election, this engaging, interactive lesson traces the history of the American presidency and features a special introduction by ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos—former adviser and communications director for President Bill Clinton. Join constitutional experts and the Center’s education staff to explore why it was important for our young nation to have an executive branch, and why nevertheless some people were worried about giving it too much power. We’ll also take a trip to a very special location in America’s presidential history. We’ll be hailing to the chief as we ring in the Constitution’s 225th Anniversary!

Constitution Word Puzzle

Learn about basic terms from the Constitution with this word puzzle.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6
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Design Your Own Flag

As you learn about the symbolism and importance of our America's flag, you can design your own flag.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Earth Day Bingo

Get inspired about going green with this bingo game.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Tags: Civics

Earth Day Cootie Catchers

This clever twist on the classic cootie catcher offers ideas for being an eco-friendly, active citizen.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Tags: Civics

Election 2012 Student Guide

Follow this guide and see how your voice can be heard.

Emancipation Proclamation, Leland-Boker Edition, 1864

Enacted in 1862, this edition of the Emancipation Proclamation was auctioned to raise money for Union troops during the Civil War. It is signed by Pres. Abraham Lincoln and Secretary of State William Seward.

Founding Fathers Word Puzzle

Learn about the signers of the U.S. Constitution with this word puzzle.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6
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Tags: History

Headed to the White House

Here's your chance to run for President!

Lady Liberty Hats

Celebrate freedom by fashioning your own Lady Liberty hat.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Liberty Bell Sun Catchers

Make a dazzling sun catcher to commemorate the Liberty Bell and the constitutional ideals it symbolizes.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Lincoln Hats

Emulate our 16th president with your own version of his signature top hat.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Tags: History

Main Exhibition Student Guide: The Path to Responsible Citizenship

Explore the Center’s main exhibition and complete activities around the topic of responsible citizenship.

Mayflower Compact

Agreement drafted by the settlers of the first New England colony.

Model White House

Make a mini model of the home of the nation's president.

Patriotic Wreaths

Decorate and customize a wreath for Independence Day, Flag Day, Memorial Day, or Veterans Day.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Perspectives on the Constitution: A Republic, If You Can Keep It

by Richard R. Beeman Professor of History and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences University of Pennsylvania

Perspectives on the Constitution: Understanding Our Constitution

by Akhil Reed Amar, Professor of Law Yale University Law School and Douglas W. Kmiec, Dean, Catholic University Law School

Preamble Scramble

Have fun getting to know the phrases of the Preamble while you unscramble the puzzle.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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President Masks

Discover your alter ego as President Abraham Lincoln or George Washington as you decorate your own presidential mask.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Tags: History

Presidential Campaign Team

Your team is about to set off on a historic journey: running a presidential campaign!

Presidential Progress Report

This lesson allows students to research and assess the actions of the president.

Prohibition Era Dinner Party

Learn about the roles of historical figures during the Prohibition era by taking on their identities for a dinner party.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7
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Tags: History

Prohibition Pictionary

Use your skills to get classmates to identify and define which Prohibition era term you draw.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7
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Tags: History

Prohibition SMART Board Activity

Learn about Prohibition through informational slides and activities using the SMART Board platform.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7
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Tags: History

Ratifying States Word Puzzle

Learn about the states that ratified the Constitution with this word puzzle.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6
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Rhythm, Rhyme, Results: Eduational Rap Songs

Engage students through rap and hip-hop music with the Center’s partner, Rhythm, Rhyme, Results.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6
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Tags: Government

Tax Day Cootie Catcher

In honor of Tax Day, this cootie catcher offers helpful tips on managing your personal finances.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Tags: Government

Thank-A-Vet Postcards

Honor veterans for supporting and defending the Constitution and protecting our freedom by thanking them with a special postcard.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Tags: Civics

The Constitution Happened Here

This interactive resource celebrates constitutional and local history in Philadelphia and beyond through student-generated multimedia content.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5
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Tags: History

The Constitution Happened Here Lesson Plans

This innovative, interactive resource is designed to uncover the vast wealth of history in our local communities.

The Constitution of the United States: En Espanol

Spanish language translation of the U.S. Constitution

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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The Constitution of the United States: Fast Facts

Ten essential facts about the US Constitution

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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The Constitution of the United States: First Public Printing

The first public printing of the Constitution was printed on September 19, 1787.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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The Constitution of the United States: Original Image

Photo of the original U.S. Constitution

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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The Constitution of the United States: PDF

The Constitution of the United States as a printable PDF file.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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The Constitution of the United States: PDF Translations

PDF copies of the US Constitution translated into Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, and Simplified Chinese.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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The Exchange: Are the Principles of the U.S. Constitution Reflected in Your School?

This lesson encourages students to review principles of the Constitution and compare it to their school system.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9
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The Exchange: Can Government Prohibit Citizens from Owning Handguns?

This research and deliberation activity encourages students to look at the issue of gun control from different points of view.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9
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The Exchange: Is the Constitution colorblind?

This research and deliberation activity encourages students to look at the issue of affirmative action from a variety of perspectives.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9
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The Exchange: Should a Year of National Service Be Required for All Americans?

This research and deliberation activity encourages students to look at the issue of compulsory national service from different points of view.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9
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The Exchange: Should Same-Sex Couples Have the Right to Marry?

This research and deliberation activity encourages students to look at the issue of same-sex marriage from different points of view.

Grade: 12, 10, 9
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The Exchange: Should Students’ Cyber Speech Be Protected Under the First Amendment?

This lesson encourages students to deliberate on the issue of cyber speech and the First Amendment.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9
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The Exchange: Should the Government Make Sure That Every American Has Affordable Health Insurance?

This research and deliberation activity is designed to encourage students to look at the issue of health care reform from different points of view.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9
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The Exchange: Should the United States Reduce Immigration?

This research and deliberation activity is designed to encourage students to look at the issue of immigration reform from different points of view.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9
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The Exchange: When Should Increased Security Measures Outweigh Your Privacy Rights in School?

This lesson encourages students to deliberate on the issue of balancing privacy and security.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9
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The Federalist Papers

A series of newspaper articles drafted by Alexander Hamilton along with collaborators John Jay and James Madison, urging ratification of the new Constitution.

The Reconstruction Amendments

Ratified in 1865 (13th Amendment), 1868 (14th Amendment), 1870 (15th Amendment). Also known as the Civil War Amendments. Amendments abolished slavery and guaranteed equal protection of the laws and the right to vote.

The Rise and Fall of Prohibition Essay

Learn about the background of the 18th Amendment, the players in the movement, and its eventual repeal.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7
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Tags: History

Town Hall Wall: "Under God" Under Debate

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should the phrase "under God" be removed from the Pledge of Allegiance?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: A Helping Hand?

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should the federal government expand its control over the economy to restore economic health?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: A Matter of Matrimony

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should same-sex couples have the right to marry?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: An Alien Notion

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should non-citizens have the right to vote in local elections?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: An Evolving Debate

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should "intelligent design" be taught in science classrooms alongside the theory of evolution?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: An Indecent Proposal

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should Congress stiffen the penalties for television and radio broadcasters who violate FCC indecency standards?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Armed Conflict

This Town Hall Wall asks: Do America's cities have the right to ban handguns?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Birth of a New Precedent?

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should we amend the Constitution to let foreign-born U.S. citizens become president?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Capital Crimes

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should the death penalty be abolished as cruel and unusual punishment?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Capital Gains

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should the District of Columbia be given a vote in the House of Representatives?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: College Exam

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should the Electoral College be abolished in favor of a popular vote for president?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Coming to America

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should illegal immigrants be allowed to become citizens?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Deficit Dilemma

This Town Hall Wall asks: Will additional government spending hurt or help the economy?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Definition of Marriage

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should the Constitution be amended to prohibit same-sex marriage?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Electoral Mandate

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should American citizens be required to vote?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Equal Measures

This Town Hall Wall asks: Is the U.S. Constitution colorblind?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Picture Perfect

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should states require voters to show photo identification to vote?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Primary Choices

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should states move up their 2008 presidential primaries to shorten the primary election season?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: Religious Test

This Town Hall Wall asks: Should American Muslims be allowed to build a mosque and community center near the site of Ground Zero?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: School Colors

This Town Hall Wall asks: Is racial balancing in public schools constitutional?

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Town Hall Wall: The Choice Is Yours

This Town Hall Wall asks: Tell us which party you'd like to control Congress after November's midterm elections.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8
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Uncle Sam Hats

Celebrate freedom by making your own Uncle Sam hat.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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Virginia Declaration of Rights

Drafted by George Mason, this declaration of rights later became a model for other state constitutions and the Bill of Rights.

Voting Rights Word Puzzle

Learn about the history of voting rights with this word puzzle.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, K
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We the Civics Kids

This series of lessons teaches students about the election process and encourages them to be active citizens in their community.

We the School

We the School is an innovative new form of student government created at Constitution High School in Philadelphia.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7
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Which Founder Are You?

Take this quiz to discover which Founder you're most like!

Who Said It? Quote Match

Learn about the differences between the Founders’ and Progressives’ beliefs about government by sorting quotes from each group.

Grade: 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7
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Tags: History