Lesson 1: Constitutionalism: The Legal Essence of the United States

Activity 1.3: Constitutionalism Forum

This will be first forum module of the MPCC Civics and Government Course. Be sure to follow the forum guidelines.

The time has arrived for you to demonstrate your knowledge In this lesson, you will interpret how the structure and ideals within the Constitution work to create limited government and an effective democracy through your active participation in a forum discussion.

Benchmark 9.1.2.3.1:

Analyze how constitutionalism preserves fundamental societal values, protects individual freedoms and rights, promotes the general welfare, and responds to changing circumstances and beliefs by defining and limiting the powers of government.

Learning Target:

I can...interpret how the structure and ideals within the Constitution work to create limited government and an effective democracy.

Essential Question:

How do the structure and ideals in the Constitution work to create limited government and an effective democracy?

To complete Activity 1.3 please follow the steps below:

STEP 1

Please follow the proper forum discussion policies: Internet Etiquette = Netiquette 

1)Be efficient in your posts and emails!
a. Stay on topic!

b. Write clearly, concisely with correct grammar and mechanics (proofread!)

c. Use formatting (bullets, paragraphs, numbering, indents, bolds, etc.) to improve understanding and readability.

d. Post only when you have something significant to contribute to the discussion

e. Avoid “empty” posts such as “I agree” or “cool.” Add to the discussion by explaining why you agree or why you think it’s cool.

f. Post links rather than long, copied passages

g. Use meaningful subject headers and thread topics


2) Maintain academic environment!

a. Use formal and informal styles appropriately

b. Disagree respectfully with the point, not the person

c. Address private disagreements or conflicts privately

d. DON’T USE ALL CAPS! IT’S SHOUTING!

3) Avoid misunderstandings!

a. Consider your audience – all of it

b. Give others the benefit of the doubt

c. Avoid sarcasm

d. Be extra careful with humor

4) Follow rules and laws!

FORUM QUESTIONS
After you post your responses, please continue the forum discussion by responding to two additional posts.

  1. Specifically, which parts of the Constitution promote the government’s power over the people? Provide excerpts of text to substantiate your response!

  1. Specifically, which parts of the Constitution limit the power of the government over the people? Provide excerpts of text to substantiate your response!

  1. The Constitution was originally written without the 10 amendments added to it by the Bill of Rights in 1791. In what ways would the Six Principles of the Constitution be affected had the Bill of Rights not been adopted?

  1. In your own opinion, in what ways is constitutionalism the essence of the United States legal system? In what ways is it not?

  1. In your own opinion, how do the structure and ideals in the Constitution work to create limited government and an effective democracy? Provide excerpts of text to substantiate your response!