This activity is part of Module 4: Constitutional Convention and Ratification from the Constitution 101 Curriculum.
In this activity, you will explore the key compromises reached at the Constitutional Convention.
In your small groups, identify the strengths and weaknesses of each compromise, as well as any opportunities and threats each would cause—this is known as a SWOT analysis.
Be prepared to discuss your analyses with the rest of the class.
- Example:
- The Connecticut (Great) Compromise
- Strengths- The compromise meant that both big states and small states would get something that they wanted.
- Weaknesses- No side got everything that it wanted.
- Opportunities- Making the U.S. House and Senate work together would slow down the legislative process and allow time for reasoned deliberation and compromise.
- Threats- With the Senate based on equal representation, there is the risk of people from smaller states having disproportionate power.
- The Connecticut (Great) Compromise
- Complete an SWOT for the following:
- The Electoral College
- The Three-Fifths Compromise
- The International Slave Trade Clause
