Course Sample for Our Course for Elementary Homeschool Students, The Rights of Citizens for Third Graders
Rights of Citizens for Third Graders
By Stacy Dorais
Lesson 1: What is a Democracy?
There are different types of government under which people live and countries are defined. The United States had a revolution in its early history which led to changes in its form of government. Understanding different forms of government will help you value the system of government with the freedoms we enjoy today.
Read about democracy and other forms of government using World Book Online and then take the assessment at the end: https://www.worldbookonline.com/ socialstudiespower/lesson?lessonid=geo1-typesofgov-841132. (Social Studies Power >> Community and Government >> Types of Government)
Now, go to Congress for Kids, choose “Independence” and read “Introduction to Independence,” “Democracy,” and “Democracy vs. Autocracy.”
Answer the following questions:
- What type of government does the United States have?
- How long has the United States had this type of government?
- What are some defining traits of this type of government?
- How does the United States’ government differ from other types of governments?
Activities:
- Look up the different flag designs the United States has had over the course of the country’s history and choose one you like most. Draw it on an 8 ½” x 11” piece of paper and then color it.
- Gummy Bear Government
Supplies: You will need a bag of gummy bears, a paper plate, and freshly washed hands. Using your paper plate to create your scene, arrange gummy bears to reflect at least three different types of governments, one at a time.
- Voting is a very special right people have depending on their type of government. Many people never have the chance to vote. Please design a button or poster using a lot of detail and color to encourage others to vote. You may use just paper and colored pencils, or you may be more creative and do it on poster board, or use other materials. Use your imagination and creativity
