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The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution ​​Preamble – Lesson Plan

Guiding Questions

  • How did principles shape the republican framework of the new constitutional government? 

Objectives 

  • Students will analyze the relationship between the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution by looking at key phrases from each document.  

Student Resources: 

  • The Golden Core: Framing America’s Founding Ideals Essay
  • An “Apple of Gold” in a “Frame of Silver” Picture Handout

Anticipate 

  • Before the day of this lesson, tell students to bring in a framed picture or a picture of a framed picture from home on the day this will be taught.  

Engage 

  • Have students share their framed picture with a partner or small group. What is this a picture or photograph of? Why is it framed? 
  • Bring the class together and ask students to consider the following questions: 
    • What purpose does the frame serve? 
    • How do the frame and picture work together for a common purpose? 

Explore 

  • Distribute The Golden Core: Framing America’s Founding Ideals Essay and An “Apple of Gold” in a “Frame of Silver” Picture Handout to each student.
  •  As students read, they should draw and fill out a picture activity for each of the principles outlined in the essay. Examples of depictions of each principle may include a group of people voting, scales of justice, etc.
    • Popular Sovereignty
    • Justice and Equality
    • Rule of Law

Assess & Reflect  

  • Have students display their pictures and allow the class to walk around the classroom to see each other’s work.  
  • As an exit ticket, have students write a paragraph response to the guiding question:  
    • How did principles shape the republican framework of the new constitutional government?