Analyzing State Constitutions

Prompt #4

“What in God’s name do we do now?”

Upon the conclusion of the Revolution, each newly

independent state was very fearful of a powerful central government.

What did it remind them of?

Each state felt it was necessary to protect the rights of it’s own people and to treat itself as an independent nation.

What problems do you see with this?

Each state felt is should protect itself by writing their OWN Constitution.

What issues do you see with this approach to a National Government? (a government that governs an entire nation…not just a particular state)

Power to the States!Is this really a good idea?

How are you going to introduce your

constitution?

How are you going to mention popular sovereignty? The power of the people to make decisions.

How will your preamble include any mention of God, nature, or a higher authority?

The Preamble

How will your Constitution provide a section

on the rights of the people?

How will it provide a general description?

How will it provide specific rights?

Article OneThe Rights of the

People

The Legislative Branch (the law making

branch)

Do you want your Congress to have one or two parts? Why? Unicameral or Bicameral

How will you decide who can vote? Pennsylvania model said…?

South Carolina model said…?

Article Two

The Executive Branch

You wish to give the governor the power to make arguing sides come together

How will you do this?

Will the governor control the state militia? Will the governor control the power to veto (strike down) laws?

Will the governor have the power to make laws without the Legislative Branch?

Article Three

The Judicial Branch

Will you have a court system?

Will there be judges?

What will their responsibilities be?

Article Four

Read and highlight articles #1 and #2 Complete questions 1-3 for article 1 and

1-5 about article #2 Answer questions on the powerpoint

and place answers in the left hand section.

Complete any remaining work at resource or at home.

Tomorrow – Everyone will create their own Constitution.

Remaining Time