AP Style Questions that can be given at the end of the unit to assess students learning.

Two prompts that help students practice AP Exam style quesitons.

Multiple Choice Questions that can be given at the end of the unit to assess students learning.

AP Style Questions that can be given at the end of the unit to assess students learning.

Two prompts that help students practice AP Exam style quesitons.

Multiple Choice Questions that can be given at the end of the unit to assess students learning.

AP Style Questions that can be given at the end of the unit to assess students learning.

Two prompts that help students practice AP Exam style questions.

Multiple Choice Questions that can be given at the end of the unit to assess students learning.

This was the first governing document of the United States of America. It was adopted by the Second Continental Congress in November 1777 and ratified by the states in 1781.

After the Constitution was completed during the summer of 1787, the work of ratifying it (or approving it) began. As the Constitution itself required, 3/4ths of the states would have to approve the new Constitution before it would go into effect for those ratifying states.

In this Homework Help video, learn the story of the landmark Supreme Court case of Baker v. Carr. The case explores the question of a state’s right to control electoral lines otherwise known as gerrymandering. The case ruling concluded that the Supreme Court could hear cases pertaining to redistricting because of the Equal Protection Clause in the 14th Amendment through the process of incorporation which argues that states must adhere to the protections of guaranteed in the Bill of Rights. How did the ruling in this case contribute to the democratic principle of “one person-one vote”?

Does the Second Amendment prevent a city from effectively outlawing handgun ownership? In 2008, Otis McDonald attempted to purchase a handgun for self-defense purposes in a Chicago suburb. However, the city of Chicago had banned handgun ownership in 1982 when it passed a law that prevented issuing handgun registrations. McDonald argued this law violated the Fourteenth Amendment’s Privileges and Immunities Clause as well as the Due Process Clause. In a 5-4 decision, the Court ruled that McDonald’s Second Amendment right to bear arms was protected at the state and local level by the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

What are past and contemporary (modern) examples of federalism? How does federalism create tension across the levels of government?

How does this case study illuminate key concepts and processes in government and politics?

What checks and balances exist to ensure one branch of the federal government does not act without restraint? Explore the Watergate case, the power to declare war, and the Commerce Clause as examples that illustrate this principle.

A case study using the on landmark substantive due process Supreme Court case, Roe v. Wade.

Four primary sources that explore how Lyndon Johnson, George Bush, and Barack Obama approached federal education during their presidential terms.

Excerpts of the Twenty-First Amendment, 1933, the National Minimum Drinking Age Act, 1984, South Dakota v. Dole (1987) and the 2024 Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration budget that explore how the drinking age and federal highways have been connected over the last century.

Excerpts of the opinions of Griswold v. Connecticut (1965), Roe v. Wade (1973), and Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2022) that explore what each decision meant for federal abortion rights policies.

The Supreme Court case Citizens United v. FEC (2010) serves as the primary source for this case study, providing a pivotal ruling on campaign finance and the role of money in elections.

Narratives on the Civil Rights Act and Immigration Reform legislation that helps students understand the process of legislative consent building.

Case studies on landmark Eighth Amendment Supreme Court cases.

Case studies on landmark Second Amendment Supreme Court cases.

Case studies on landmark freedom of the press Supreme Court cases.

Case studies on landmark freedom of speech Supreme Court cases.

Case studies on landmark freedom of religion Supreme Court cases.

What examples exist of debates on limited government?

Suggested supplemental items to help build educator content knowledge to teach this topic.

Examine how candidates have used media and technology to shape their campaigns and connect with voters throughout history.

Examine the the role of money in American politics. 

Examine the history and controversy surrounding the Electoral College, analyzing its evolution and impact through key elections such as 1800, 1824, and 2000.

Three case studies that examine the use of Executive Orders across the presidencies of George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.

Help students understand how the primary system has shaped modern political dynamics.

Explore the expansion of the federal bureaucracy, examining how agencies regulate society and the economy. Students will analyze debates over bureaucratic power, with supporters emphasizing public protection and critics raising concerns about authority concentration and the separation of powers, offering insights into modern governance challenges.

How does the Declaration of Independence support the principles of individual liberty and self-government? In this rapid-fire episode of BRI’s Primary Source Essentials and Declaration of Independence summary, learn the arguments made by the American colonists as they sought to free themselves of British control.

What does the Constitution do? What are the principles of self-government in the Constitution? In this rapid-fire episode of BRI’s Primary Source Essentials and United States Constitution summary, learn how the US Constitution was framed as a stronger, yet limited, government built upon certain principles. The US Constitution Explained | A Primary Source Close Read w/ BRI: https://billofrightsinstitute.org/videos/the-constitution-explained-a-primary-source-close-read-w-bri

How does the Bill of Rights protect individual freedoms and limit government power? In this episode of BRI’s Primary Source Essentials, explore the history and purpose of the Bill of Rights. Learn how the first ten amendments to the Constitution safeguard freedoms like speech, religion, and the right to bear arms, while ensuring protections such as due process and trial by jury. Discover the debates between Federalists and Anti-Federalists that shaped these foundational amendments, and how they continue to protect natural rights, civil liberties, and state powers.

How did Federalist 10 allow the Founders to create a Constitution with a stable and lasting form of government? In this rapid-fire episode of BRI’s Primary Source Essentials and Federalist 10 summary, learn the arguments from James Madison, who wrote Federalist 10. Discover why the Federalists believed a large republic was key to the Constitution and other Federalist 10 main points. Primary Source Essentials Federalist 10 Handout: https://bri-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/PSE+Federalist+10+Handout.pdf

What were the essential characteristics of the executive branch according to Federalist 70? In this rapid-fire episode and Federalist 70 summary of BRI’s Primary Source Essentials, learn the arguments made by Alexander Hamilton, who wrote Federalist 70, in Federalist 70. Discover the Federalist 70 main points and why he believed in a strong executive branch to protect liberty and self-government.

What are the main Constitutional principles that help limit government? In this rapid-fire episode and Federalist 51 summary of BRI’s Primary Source Essentials, learn the arguments made by James Madison, who wrote Federalist 51, in Federalist 51. The Federalist 51 main points explain why he believed the constitutional checks and balances put in place would help create a limited government.

How do founding principles and civic virtues shape the United States? This video takes you on a journey through the foundation of the U.S. Constitution, where ideas like natural rights, limited government, and civic virtues form the bedrock of our society. Discover how these principles—rooted in equality, liberty, and justice—guide self-governance and empower citizens to protect individual freedoms. Learn about the separation of powers, federalism, and the vital role of civic virtues like integrity, respect, and courage in fostering a healthy civil society. From practicing prudence to upholding the common good, see how these ideals enable government accountability and ensure that "We the People" thrive.

What are the founding principles that shape the United States? This video explores the foundational ideas that guide American democracy. Learn about the core principles of natural rights, limited government, and the importance of individual liberty and equality, as described in the Declaration of Independence Learn how these principles are translated into the framework of the Constitution, including the separation of powers and the protection of individual rights

What does it take to build a thriving community and sustain self-government? This video explores the essential role of civic virtues in fostering a healthy civil society. Discover how practicing integrity, humility, and respect strengthens our connections and helps navigate the challenges of modern life. Learn how historical figures like Clara Barton, Elizabeth Eckford, and George Washington exemplified these virtues through acts of courage and prudence — and how their monumental impacts began with small, everyday choices.

How does federalism shape the way our government works and impacts our daily lives? From differences in road signs to how schools are run, the structure of the U.S. Constitution ensures that power is shared between national, state, and local governments. But why does this system matter, and how does it address the challenges of governing a geographically large and diverse nation? In this video, explore the principle of federalism, its role in balancing powers, and real-world examples of cooperation and tension among different levels of government. Whether it’s defending the country, managing public health, or ensuring local communities thrive, federalism allows us to tackle big issues together while staying responsive to local needs. This video ties into the Bill of Rights Institute's Government and Politics: Civics for the American Experiment curriculum, specifically Unit 2, which dives into the dynamic dialogue between government levels and the constitutional principles that make it all work.

What makes the U.S. Congress the cornerstone of our democracy? Dive into the Constitution's Article I, where the framers designed the legislative branch to safeguard liberty while balancing power and passion. This video uncovers the structure of Congress as a bicameral legislature, composed of the House of Representatives and the Senate, each with distinct roles and responsibilities. From shaping laws to tackling debates that influence your education, freedoms, and daily life, Congress is where reason meets passion. Learn how its design fosters deliberation, curbs oppression, and drives liberty in action. This video ties into Unit 3 of the Bill of Rights Institute's Government and Politics: Civics for the American Experiment curriculum. Explore the role of the legislature, the constitutional responsibilities of the House and Senate, and the Supreme Court cases that define representation and redistricting.

What makes the U.S. Congress the cornerstone of our democracy? The framers designed it to be the most powerful branch—closest to the people, representing their voices, and shaping the laws that govern our nation. But what does representation really mean, and why does it matter? Learn about the structure of Congress, the differences between the House and Senate, and the models of representation that guide lawmakers. From debate and deliberation to consensus-building, discover how Congress ensures diverse perspectives are heard and why its design is essential to protecting liberty and self-government.

What makes the U.S. Congress the cornerstone of our democracy? The framers designed the legislative branch to be the most powerful—closest to the people, representing their voices, and shaping the laws that govern our nation. But how does the House of Representatives fulfill this role, and why does it matter? Explore the structure of the House, the differences between the House and Senate, and the unique powers that set it apart. From drafting legislation and overseeing the executive branch to ensuring representation through frequent elections, discover how the House reflects the will of the people and upholds the principles of self-government.

From committees and procedures to filibusters and cloture votes, Congress relies on a complex system of rules to manage debate, encourage compromise, and shape how laws are made. But how do these rules work in practice—and why do they matter? Explore how the House and Senate organize themselves, the different paths a bill can take, and why most legislation never becomes law. Discover how congressional rules have evolved over time, and how they balance the need for deliberation with the urgency of action in a representative democracy.

Every four years, the United States demonstrates a remarkable tradition: a peaceful transfer of presidential power. But what exactly are the president’s responsibilities, and how has the role evolved over time? Explore the origins of the presidency in the U.S. Constitution, why the Founders were cautious about executive authority, and the qualifications needed to serve as president. Discover the powers and responsibilities that shape both domestic and foreign policy—from commanding the military and making treaties to signing legislation and appointing Supreme Court justices. Learn how the modern presidency has expanded and why presidential decisions have a direct impact on your life and future.

What happens when earlier court rulings shape decisions in today’s most pressing legal battles? In this video, explore how the judicial branch uses precedent to interpret the Constitution and resolve real-life disputes that influence how we live, work, and learn. Learn how the principle of stare decisis—standing by things decided—guides judges in applying consistent standards, ensures fairness, and helps people and institutions rely on the rule of law. From landmark decisions like Mapp v. Ohio to Brown v. Board of Education, see how precedent can both preserve and reshape justice in a constitutional republic.

What happens when young people step up to shape their communities, states, and nation? In this video, discover the vital role civic engagement plays in a self-governing society—and how individuals of all ages can make a difference, even before they’re eligible to vote. Explore how participating in local boards, volunteering, communicating with representatives, and practicing civic virtues like responsibility and justice strengthen our constitutional republic. From town halls to national campaigns, your actions help uphold the promise of “We the People.”

What does it take to protect the rights of all citizens—and why does it matter? In this video, explore the foundations of civil rights in the United States and how individuals and institutions work together to uphold them. From constitutional safeguards like checks and balances and the Bill of Rights to landmark amendments and court decisions, this video unpacks how civil rights have been defined, defended, and expanded. Discover the role of civic virtues and citizen action in advancing justice, with powerful historical examples from the Civil Rights Movement and beyond.

Review the essential subjects and concepts students need to know for their AP Government tests.

All of our AP webinars in one place!

What are the origins of the Second Amendment, and how has it been interpreted throughout U.S. history? This Homework Help video explores the history of the Second Amendment as well as the Supreme Court interpretations of it that shape current discussions on the topic of gun control.

Why did the Founders believe so strongly that troops should not be quartered in the homes of citizens that they enshrined this protection in the Bill of Rights? The Third Amendment is rarely talked about, but studying its origins and purposes is important in order to understand our system of the relationship between civilians and the military. Learn more about the story of the Third Amendment with this Homework Help video.

What prevents the police from randomly searching our homes and possessions whenever they want? The Founders created the Fourth Amendment to protect the individual right to private property. Learn more about its origins and some landmark Supreme Court cases in our latest Homework Help video.

What protections does the Fifth Amendment provide, and why did the Founders believe them important enough to enshrine in the Bill of Rights? Our latest Homework Help video explores these questions and provides students with a succinct overview of the essential information regarding this amendment.

What protections exist for Americans accused of a crime? The 6th Amendment. What is the 6th Amendment? The 6th Amendment provides defendants with rights to a speedy and fair trial, an impartial jury, and more. Our latest Homework Help video explores the 6th Amendment and provides students with a succinct overview of the essential information regarding this amendment.

What is the 7th Amendment? What protections does the 7th Amendment provide if you are involved in a lawsuit? Explore the 7th Amendment simplified in our latest Homework Help video discussing this question and providing students with a succinct overview of the essential information regarding this amendment.

How do we determine the punishment for those accused or convicted of a crime? What is the 8th amendment? Our latest Homework Help video explores this question and provides students with a succinct overview of the essential information regarding the 8th amendment.