Major Departments in the Bureaucracy: Graphic Organizer
Help students research, analyze, and evaluate the roles of major bureaucratic departments and their impact on daily life and self-governance.
Organizer of the Major Departments in the Bureaucracy
In this activity, students will
- Research and differentiate the roles and responsibilities of various departments of the bureaucracy.
- Use this information to analyze how bureaucracy affects individuals and self-governance.
Directions: Various cabinet departments that are part of the bureaucracy are listed in the organizer below. After reading the descriptions of each department, research the primary function, goals, and responsibilities of each department, and complete the organizer. There is space for you to record any questions, comments, or notes you may have during your research. Then brainstorm some possible impacts of the department on the daily lives of citizens. Choose a current event that mentions your chosen department. In the space provided, answer the analysis questions about your chosen event.
Caption: The Pentagon, headquarters of the Department of Defense
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Agency/ Department Name |
Overview |
Student Notes/ Questions |
Possible Impact on Daily Life |
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Department of Defense |
The Department of Defense (DoD) is the largest government agency in the United States. The DoD’s main job is to protect the national security of the United States. This means defending the U.S. from outside threats and keeping citizens safe. The Secretary of Defense leads the department and is part of the president’s Cabinet. The secretary oversees managing and guiding the DoD. Below the secretary, other civilian and military leaders oversee specific parts of the department. |
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Department of Energy |
The Department of Energy (DOE) is an executive department overseeing America’s energy policies and managing different energy resources, including nuclear power and national security. Its influence spans from driving technological advancements to safeguarding critical nuclear assets. |
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Department of Homeland Security |
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is responsible for safeguarding the country against various threats, including terrorism, natural disasters, cybersecurity, and other emergencies. The DHS and its homeland security mission emerged in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. |
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Department of the Interior |
The Department of the Interior (DOI) is a federal agency overseeing the conservation of America’s natural and cultural heritage. Established in 1849, it is one of the oldest in the government. The DOI manages vast public lands, national parks, and wildlife habitats, covering about 20% of the nation’s territory. It also safeguards historic sites for future generations. The DOI prioritizes preserving biodiversity, restoring endangered species, and supporting Native American communities through agencies like the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Furthermore, it handles responsible resource management, including oil, gas, and minerals. The DOI balances economic growth with environmental protection, while also managing vital water resources in arid regions. |
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Department of State |
The Department of State, founded in 1789, manages U.S. global relations. Its main goal is to safeguard American interests worldwide. Led by the Secretary of State, it negotiates treaties, protects American interests, and engages in international relations. It stands for human rights and democracy at the United Nations and other international bodies. The department issues passports, aids U.S. citizens abroad, and manages visa services for foreign visitors to the U.S. |
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Department of the Treasury |
The U.S. Department of the Treasury prioritizes national economic strength and security. It attempts to help manage economic growth and helps safeguard the financial system. The Secretary of the Treasury advises the president, encourages growth, and oversees financial institutions. The Treasury Department manages critical systems like currency production, payments, revenue, and government borrowing. |
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Department of Veterans Affairs |
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a federal agency dedicated to serving America’s veterans. Established in 1930, it provides a wide range of services including healthcare, disability compensation, education assistance, and home loans. The VA operates a network of medical facilities across the country, providing veterans with healthcare. |
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Fill in your own chosen department |
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Fill in your own chosen department |
Directions: Choose a department to research further. Select a current event that involves your chosen department. In the space provided, answer the analysis questions about your chosen event.
Department:
Description of Current Event in Your Own Words:
Link to or Citation of News Source:
Current Event Analysis Questions:
- How did the department act during the event?
- What were its roles and responsibilities?
- Was it successful? Why or why not?
Activity Analysis Questions:
- In your own words, write a definition for “bureaucracy.”
- In your own words, write a definition for “self-governance.”
- Most workers in the bureaucracy are appointed officials or civil service workers who are not elected by the people. Based on these characteristics of the bureaucracy, what impact does the bureaucracy have on self-governance?