Our Constitutional Amendments

Designed by: Jeff Fouste School: Gibbes Middle School

Grade Level: 8th    Subject(s): SC / US History

Core Curriculum Objective(s):  Analyze the impact of the Bill of Rights and other selected amendments.  (8SC7-6)

Overview: Students will, using the Internet, research one of the Amendments to the Constitution of the United States of America and give an oral report on the selected Amendment. This will be accompanied by a student created visual representation (drawing or montage) of the essence of this Amendment.

Focus/Essential Question(s): 

1. What is the actual wording of your Amendment? 

2. In your own words; what does this Amendment mean to you? 

3. How does your picture / montage relate to your Amendment?

Time Frame: 2 to 3 class meetings

Resources/Materials:
-Access to Internet capable computers 
-Drawing paper 
-3x5 cards

Culminating Assessment: 

1. All Focus Questions are answered and placed on 3x5 card(s). 

2. A drawing which represents the students interpretation of their Amendment. 

3. An oral presentation of 3 to 4 minutes.

Instructional Activities: 

1. Students will draw an Amendment from the teacher's "hat". 

2. Students will research their Amendment using http://www.constitution.org/constit_.htm and answer the Focus Questions placing the answers on their 3x5 cards. 

3. Students will create either a drawing or montage that represents their interpretation of the Amendment.